In February 2024, the Faculty of Engineering launched its Robotics Club, providing students with a hands-on platform to explore the exciting world of robotics. Six months later, under the mentorship of Prof. Marvin Bugeja, a team from the club participated in the IEEE Region 8 Robot Championship 2024 and earned an impressive second place overall.
This blog reflects on their journey, the challenges they faced, and the valuable lessons they gained.
Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
Our team, made up of first-year, fourth-year, and recent-graduate students, faced early hurdles. The varying levels of knowledge and experience, along with different time commitments, made collaboration complex. However, these differences turned out to be our greatest asset.
We divided tasks based on individual strengths and availability, creating a balance that fostered productivity. Open communication and mutual respect allowed us to leverage each member’s unique perspective. For example, while some focused on the mathematical design of the robot, others challenged ideas and proposed practical alternatives. This collaborative process resulted in a stronger, more innovative design.
How Engineering Prepared Us
Our engineering degree course provided a solid foundation for tackling this challenge. Through our studies, we developed critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills essential for transforming ideas into functional designs.
The course emphasized teamwork and communication—skills that became crucial as we analysed the competition’s requirements and constraints. By systematically applying our knowledge, we created a robot capable of not only meeting but exceeding expectations.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Building a robot from scratch gave us practical experience that extended beyond theoretical concepts. It also honed our project management and communication skills. Additionally, the project allowed us to network with industry professionals, broadening our perspectives and connections.
Balancing the demands of the project with our academic responsibilities required careful planning. A Gantt chart helped us map out tasks in phases:
February to June: Game analysis, initial design, and resource research.
Summer: Hands-on work, including 3D modelling, material procurement, manufacturing, assembly, and testing.
Weekly meetings ensured we stayed aligned and made consistent progress despite the tight timeline.
Inspiration and Lessons Learned
Our robot’s design drew inspiration from the competition’s unique challenges and a Robot Wars competitor from a decade ago. Its simplicity and durability provided valuable insights for our own creation.
If we could offer advice to our past selves, it would include creating a more detailed timeline, anticipating delays, and increasing the frequency of in-person meetings. We also learned the importance of securing sponsorships early to support the project financially.
Why Join the Robotics Club?
For anyone passionate about engineering, the Robotics Club is a must-join. Robotics is a multidisciplinary field that combines electrical, mechanical, and software engineering with problem-solving and innovation. It’s a space where ideas come to life, and you gain hands-on experience in turning concepts into reality.
Beyond technical skills, you’ll develop teamwork, critical thinking, and resilience—qualities that are essential for any engineer.
What’s Next for Us?
Placing second in our first competition was a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning. We plan to compete in more challenges, including international competitions, with the goal of taking first place.
We also hope to inspire others to join the Robotics Club and contribute to the exciting world of robotics. By sharing our experiences and mentoring new members, we can help foster a community of innovation and creativity.
With the guidance of Prof. Marvin Bugeja and the collective passion of our team, the future looks bright.
Ready to be part of the next robotics success story? Join us and help shape the future!
Anyone interested in joining the Robotics Club should contact Prof. Marvin Bugeja via marivn.bugeja@um.edu.mt
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