What it does
Nomad tackles exploration in harsh or inaccessible areas, from Mars to contaminated sites. Its modular design, AI navigation, and ROS2 integration enable tasks like soil analysis, mapping, and object manipulation, adapting dynamically to challenges.
Your inspiration
Inspired by Mars missions and terrestrial challenges, Nomad addresses the limitations of traditional rovers. I sought to merge modularity, AI, and industrial standards. The goal: a rover that excels in both space and industrial applications, fostering innovation in robotics education.
How it works
Nomad operates as a highly adaptable rover by combining modularity with artificial intelligence. Its mobility relies on four independent wheel modules, each powered by BLDC motors and planetary gearboxes, ensuring exceptional maneuverability in rough terrain. The rover’s AI capabilities are driven by an OrangePi with a neural processor, enabling real-time decision-making, terrain analysis, and object recognition. A key feature is the MODUCARD system, which follows the EuroCard standard, allowing seamless integration of additional modules like sensors or our custom 6-DOF robotic arm. For precise navigation, Nomad uses a suite of sensors including lidar for 3D mapping, a 360° camera for full environmental awareness, and RTK GPS for centimeter-level positioning. The software backbone is built on ROS2, ensuring reliable communication of all subsystems, while a custom C++ library running on STM32 microcontrollers manages hardware components like motors and sensors.
Design process
The development of Nomad began with a clear focus on modularity and AI to address the limitations of traditional rovers. The first prototype tested basic mobility and module communication, revealing challenges in bus integration that were later resolved. The second iteration introduced environmental sensors and an upgraded communication system, which was rigorously tested in simulated ROS environment. By the third prototype, AI was integrated for autonomous navigation, allowing the rover to handle unstructured terrain with minimal human input. The current version represents a significant leap forward, featuring a fully realized MODUCARD system for effortless module swapping, optimized power management for extended missions, and support for multiple communication interfaces like USB and Ethernet. Each stage of development involved iterative testing, from lab environments to Mars-like terrains, ensuring reliability and performance under real-world conditions.
How it is different
Nomad distinguishes itself through its unparalleled modularity and adherence to industrial standards. Unlike conventional rovers with fixed designs, Nomad’s MODUCARD system allows users to add or replace components quickly, even in field conditions. Its compatibility with EuroCard standards ensures seamless integration of third-party hardware, which is a feature rarely seen in similar platforms. The rover’s AI-driven autonomy, powered by ROS2 and custom software, enables it to adapt dynamically to new tasks, setting it apart from less flexible competitors. Additionally, Nomad is designed to meet strict industrial norms (EN 62680, IEC 60297-3), making it suitable for both space exploration and harsh terrestrial environments. The project’s academic roots also brings a unique educational perspective, enabling cutting-edge research with practical engineering challenges.
Future plans
The next phase for Nomad includes refining its AI algorithms to enhance autonomous decision-making and interaction with complex environments. My aim is to conduct field tests in collaboration with space agencies to validate its performance in Mars-like conditions. Commercial applications are also a priority, with adaptations planned for rescue operations, mining, and hazardous industrial inspections. Further miniaturization of modules will expand its versatility, while ongoing participation in competitions like ERC and URC will serve as benchmark of my progress.
Awards
Nomad was a Finalist in Robotic Tournament 2024 in Freestyle category and took part in ENRICH 2025 competition.
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