Q&A: The Underwater ROV Team’s Journey to International Competition
As Wentworth Institute of Technology students prepare their underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) for competition next month, we chatted with Assistant Professor Saurav Basnet about his role in advising the team.
We delve deeper into the team's discoveries, their camaraderie, and problem-solving skills, as well as their achievements with the ROV. We also explore the upcoming competition and the unique experiences awaiting students interested in robotics at Wentworth.
Greg Abazorius: What's the most exciting or unexpected discovery you all made during the process of building and operating the ROV?
Saurav Basnet: The dedication of IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) President Tedi Qafko (Electrical Engineering ’24) leading the team. He has developed a remarkable drive in the whole group, contributing toward more than just underwater exploration.
Throughout the engineering process of WUROV (Wentworth Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle), students faced even greater challenges than they had imagined. Their research discovered the continuing issue of pollution, with plastic waste, chemical contaminants, and oil spills posing significant threats to marine life. They encountered the challenge of the accumulation of plastic debris and the harm they inflict onto marine animals. They saw how chemical pollutants disrupt ecosystems and harm human health throughout the world, how climate change exacerbates challenges upon bodies of water by causing rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and altered weather patterns. They also discovered the warming of ocean waters and how that threatens coral reefs and the multitude of species that depend on them.
The findings during their project raised a sense of urgency to combine efforts to contribute to underwater exploration and support the environment with technology that can minimize harm to oceanic species and pollution. The team is more motivated than ever to refine their ROV annually and raise awareness of these issues for not only our university but also other students, engineers, and companies throughout the world. They’re excited to join forces to raise awareness with other students and compete in the MATE (Marine Advanced Technology Education) ROV World Championships.
Abazorius: Can you talk a little more about that camaraderie among the students?
Basnet: These students bring unique skills and perspectives to the table, creating a diverse and dynamic team. Through effective communication, they share ideas, problem-solve together, and support one another. This collaboration enhances their problem-solving capabilities. The bond formed through camaraderie strengthens their motivation. Together, they celebrate achievements, provide encouragement during setbacks, and share the workload, ultimately achieving remarkable things.
Abazorius: How did the students' problem-solving skills evolve throughout this project?
Basnet: They learned to approach problems systematically and analytically, breaking them down into manageable parts. Collaboration played a key role in their development...they embraced diverse perspectives and engaged in constructive discussions to find innovative solutions. The students became more skilled at finding root causes and considering multiple approaches. They learned from setbacks, adapting their strategies and showing resilience.
Abazorius: As the faculty advisor, what are you most proud of when it comes to the students' work, both in terms of their technical skills and personal growth?
Basnet: I take immense pride in the remarkable achievements of these students. The design and construction of a functional underwater remotely operated vehicle is a testament to their unwavering dedication, perseverance, and meticulous attention to detail. Witnessing the evolution of their technical competence throughout the project has been truly impressive.
Equally inspiring is their personal growth, exemplified by their exceptional problem-solving abilities, embrace of teamwork and collaboration, and their unwavering commitment to continuous learning and personal development. I would also like to acknowledge the instrumental role played by Tedi Qafko in reviving the student IEEE organization and the WUROV project after the challenges posed by COVID-19. Their achievements are a true reflection of their character, resilience, and drive, and I couldn't be prouder as their advisor.
Abazorius: Tell us more about the upcoming competition.
Basnet: It’s happening in St. Vrain Valley School District’s Innovation Center in Longmont, Colorado. The dates for the World Championship competition are June 20th-June 24th. The alumni of the group previously working toward the competition continue to assist the group through their collaboration and support from their companies and connections.
Abazorius: Why should a student interested in robotics come to Wentworth? What kind of experience will they have?
Basnet: Through a curriculum that integrates classroom instruction, lab work, and project-based learning, students gain a deep understanding of robotics principles, programming, and applications. They can immerse themselves in a diverse array of clubs such as IEEE and the Robotics Club.
Wentworth's strong industry connections further enhance the educational experience by providing students with valuable co-op opportunities. These real-world settings enable students to apply their skills. This journey prepares them for successful careers in robotics.