LAR (Automation and Robotics Laboratory) from Universidade do Minho, participated with two teams in the National Robotics Festival that took place last weekend in Tomar, and had an excellent performance getting the qualification to participate in the RoboCup 2023, one of the biggest robotics events in the world, that will take place in Bordeaux, France, from 4th to 10th of July.

The MSL (Middle Size League) category team achieved second place in the competition, with 5 autonomous mobile robots playing football. Each robot weighs around 30 kg, moves at 2m/s, uses vision to see the field, the ball and the opponents, and communicates with the other team members by wireless network.

The RoboCup@Home category team got third place with the CHARMIE robot. This robot moves around a house, recognises vocal commands and responds through speakers, has an arm to pick up objects, and aims to perform domestic tasks.

This result of two podium places is especially remarkable, since it was the first time that these LAR students participated in these competitions.

Now these robots will participate in the RoboCup, this event being a unique opportunity for robotics teams to show their skills and compete at a global level. Moreover, it is an event that allows the teams to improve their performance by comparing themselves with other teams in the same scientific area, learn about the latest technologies and advances in robotics and represent their institutions (School of Engineering of the University of Minho) and countries.

The School of Engineering of the University of Minho has a strong presence in the field of mobile and autonomous robotics and these achievements are a testimony of the hard work and dedication of these students. We hope that these teams continue to achieve excellent results and contribute to the advancement of robotics in Portugal and in the world.

The School of Engineering congratulates all the LAR team for the success of this participation and for qualifying for Robocup 2023!

SOURCE: LAR