Compelling and highly technological challenge for the students of the fifth classes (5F and 5F1) of the Articulation Automation of the Cattaneo-dall’Aglio who, making use of the collaboration of the 5G of the Computer Science and Telecommunications department and the 4D class of the Nelson Mandela Institute, are building a bridge between men and machines, but also between different human capabilities, making the world of games, and perhaps the largest one external to it, a little more reachable for everyone. In fact, they participate inAutomation Olympics” by Siemensa national contest that lays the foundations for questioning the future of automation and robotics in the recreational and educational fields.
Automation Olympics: a stage for the future
Organized by one of the largest multinationals in the sector, the Automation Olympics are recognized by the Ministry of Education and Merit in the ‘National program for the enhancement of excellence’ and as a valid activity for the ‘Paths for transversal skills and orientation’ (PCTO). The competition is not only a competition, but a real theater of experimentation for the brightest minds in our country. The main objective is to offer students and teachers of technical and vocational schools the opportunity to engage with the world of automation and Industry 4.0. This not only enriches their educational path, but also allows a deep immersion in the technologies that define the concept of Industry 4.0, promoting an advanced understanding and practical application of the same. It is here that students are called to measure themselves with the reality of the technological world, testing their innovation and problem solving skills in a highly competitive and stimulating context.
Chess and robotics: when gaming meets engineering
This year, the guys went further, creating a robot capable of playing chess. The project includes a chessboard equipped with cameras and sensors, and a robotic arm programmed to respond to the moves of human opponents. In describing the project, Professor Nicola Carpanonisupported by colleagues Mirco Casini and Andrea Gaetaniunderlined how the project also has inclusive implications: “We regularly participate in these competitions. Two years ago, we focused on an access control system with mask and Green Pass. This year, we decided to combine our interest in chess with robotics, developing an interface that would also allow those with physical limitations to play, facilitating use through simple commands on touch or even voice devices.”
Challenges and collaborations: an ambitious project
Professor Andrea Gaetani, contact person and head of the automation laboratory, together with Professor Mirco Casini, adds details, illustrating the evolution of the project: “We have a history of successes behind us, with excellent placings in recent years. This year , our goal was particularly ambitious, aiming to integrate collaborative robots that can interact safely with humans in a gaming context.” These robots are programmed with sophisticated software barriers that prevent any risk during interaction.
“A new development that has just been developed is the introduction of a system of artificial vision which allows the robot to ‘see’ and react to chess moves without the need for human command,” continues Gaetani. “This is not just a technical exercise, but a real programming and systems integration challenge that our students have tackled with enthusiasm, also working from home.”
“The two institutes, as well as the students from their own homes, were able to work together on the project and access the equipment physically located in the Automation Laboratory (for example the robotic arm seen in the photo) thanks to the infrastructure based on the SINEMA network” he adds Professor Casini.
Beyond technology: an educational and community commitment
For the mechanical professional side of Mandela, the project contact is prof. Fabio Vasiraniwhile for the telecommunications class, the contact person is the prof. Fabrizio Silvetti. Gaetani proudly highlights the interaction between the institutes, a strong point of the project. “We have established a synergy with the Mandela Institute, which contributed with components made through 3D printing, thus demonstrating that, even if competition is important, By working together we can achieve superior results than any individual could achieve alone.”
“We are extremely proud of our kids. It’s not just about studying for a diploma, but about learn to enrich and enhance yourself. This has led to a personal satisfaction that goes beyond academic results, reaching a level of personal fulfillment that is rarely achieved through school alone” concludes Professor Gaetani.
The deadline for submitting projects is May 10, with the results to be announced at the end of the month. Our greatest good luck to them.
