Robotic Exploration Unit for Exploration of Abandoned Mine Wildlife
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Major
Mining Engineering
Research Advisor
Bristow, Douglas A.
Awuah-Offei, Kwame, 1975-
Advisor's Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Second Advisor's Department
Mining Engineering
Funding Source
Missouri S&T Opportunities for Undergraduate Research Experiences (OURE) Program
Abstract
To protect and understand the endangered species of bat, Myotis sodalist commonly known as the Indiana bat, accurate population counts must be obtained. Current population counts require humans to enter dangerous environments like abandoned and collapsing mines. This research works to develop a method to robotically explore abandoned mines and count the endangered bat populations in these dangerous areas. Specifically, efforts were made to further knowledge within the areas of robotic communication, transport, and data management. A method to communicate wirelessly with a robotic platform was developed. Analysis was performed to find the optimal method of transportation. Proofs of concepts were performed to prove ideas presented. In providing analysis and preliminary designs, this research provides the basis and recommendations for the development of a final robotic platform.
Biography
Matthew is a junior in Mining Engineering at the Missouri University of Science and Technology who is currently working on defense research and fragmentation analysis of sandstone under the advisement of Dr. Jason Baird. Matthew has worked in underground mines and is part of the Missouri University of Science and Technology’s black mine rescue team. These experiences have made him familiar with the hazards and conditions of underground mining operations.
Research Category
Engineering
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Ozark Room
Presentation Date
06 Apr 2011, 9:00 am - 9:30 am
Robotic Exploration Unit for Exploration of Abandoned Mine Wildlife
Ozark Room
To protect and understand the endangered species of bat, Myotis sodalist commonly known as the Indiana bat, accurate population counts must be obtained. Current population counts require humans to enter dangerous environments like abandoned and collapsing mines. This research works to develop a method to robotically explore abandoned mines and count the endangered bat populations in these dangerous areas. Specifically, efforts were made to further knowledge within the areas of robotic communication, transport, and data management. A method to communicate wirelessly with a robotic platform was developed. Analysis was performed to find the optimal method of transportation. Proofs of concepts were performed to prove ideas presented. In providing analysis and preliminary designs, this research provides the basis and recommendations for the development of a final robotic platform.
Comments
Joint project with Emily Briggs and Luke Jones