1 Year: MRes Project: Movement Stability Control for Quadruped Mobile Robots

The development of quadruped mobile robots had experienced rapid progress in recent years and also increase in their usage in research and applications. Some applications involve the quadruped robot in an indoor environment, making the movement navigation more predictable. However, for such the robot working in an uncertain terrain such as low-friction surface, uneven ground, loose scree and other challenging scenarios, it will be less straightforward for the movement and navigation. 

This project will explore the current quadruped robot development and evolving technologies to investigate the vulnerability of the quadruped robot movement in uncertain terrain and propose a solution that focuses on developing software and hardware to mitigate the challenging environment.

The work will be based on our existing Unitree Go1 quadruped robot research platform for the hardware solution implementation. Modelling and simulation of the robot will be carried out as part research work for initial analysis and understanding.  

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in robotics, automation & control, electrical & electronics with a good fundamental knowledge of microcontroller programming, quadruped robot control, sensor measurement & instrumentation or Master degree in the same subjects.

English Language Requirement:

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each of the four components), Other equivalent English language qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential Attributes:

• Experience of fundamental microcontroller implementation and programming, smart sensor and instrumentation
• Competent in hardware implementation, robotic system simulation and practical implementation
• Knowledge of quadruped robotic operating platform, Matlab Simulink software
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management

The application must include: 

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
• Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
• Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.

Applications can be submitted here. To be considered, the application must use:

• the advertised title as project title