T8 HANDS-ON: Biomimetics Laboratory, Auckland Bioengineering Institute and FER, University of Zagreb

People can highly benefit from robots, especially in underwater GPS – denied environments where localization and navigation of the diver become quite challenging tasks. Using robot as a diving buddy can severely ease the localization process. Using inertial, acoustic and other sensors mounted on the diver buddy, robot can estimate the location of the diver. In order to make that estimate, we are also estimating divers velocity with IMU suit that is consisted of many IMU sensors position on different parts of divers legs and fins. Along with velocity estimation, range between a robot and underwater beacons is being measured continuously using acoustic modems.

On the other hand, the field of biomimetics seeks to use insights from nature for the creation of new materials, devices, and systems. From this perspective the Auckland Bioengineering Institute Biomimetics Laboratory focusses on new soft sensors, actuators, and smart materials. On this tutorial, you will be able to see diver-buddy robot in action along with diver wearing IMU suit and acoustic modems used for improving the location estimate, as well as wearable underwater sensor technology for diver-robot communication and the monitoring of diver health.. Diver-buddy will be presented and explained with all of its components and sensors as well as the main challenges met during robot production. The tutorial will demonstrate a smart dive glove with integrated wearable sensors and electronics for recognizing discrete hand motions in real-time, that are then converted to commands or messages transmitted acoustically through the water to a buddy diver or robot. A wetsuit with integrated sensors for monitoring and communicating diver kinematics and health will be demonstrated on divers in real time and results analyzed.