Pharma LPRC - Robotics. Contact-Physics Mobile Picker
This student team will focus on cutting-edge pharmaceutical research in the robotics area, aiming to advance global healthcare and to benefit patients worldwide. The team will have access to advanced research technologies and will develop tools and protocols to address critical research inquiries while working with faculty affiliated with the Eli Lily and Company and Purdue University Research Alliance Center (LPRC).
Faculty Advisor:
Description:
Build a small mobile robot that picks and places parts without grippers or suction by experimenting with unconventional contact methods - think gecko-style dry adhesion, electrostatic ideas, micro-spines, pressure-sensitive films, or any new concept you invent. The bot will navigate between simple "work cells," detect parts, and practice controlled attach/release motions. Students will rapidly prototype end-effectors, compare materials and release strategies, and run a short factory-style demo. The emphasis is on creative grasping concepts + reliable navigation rather than perfect hardware.
Prerequisites:
- Introductory robotics or mechatronics (CS, ECE, or ME background)
- Familiarity with programming in Python or C++
- Basic knowledge of ROS (Robot Operating System) preferred but not required
- Interest in mechanical design, CAD, or rapid prototyping (3D printing, laser cutting)
Relevant technologies:
- Mobile robots (Clearpath, TurtleBot, or equivalent)
- ROS/ROS2 navigation stack and mapping
- CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape)
- Sensors (RGB-D camera, LiDAR, bump switches)
- Prototyping tools: 3D printers, laser cutters, and simple mechanical actuators