{mosimage}The two aspiring engineers – Oliver Schober completed his A-levels in Hungen, Sascha Pankow his Fach a-levels in Frankfurt – are in their eighth semester studying mechatronics at the University of Applied Sciences in Friedberg. In the robotics lab of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Materials Technology, headed by Prof. Dr. Klaus Brillowski, they dedicated themselves to a development project. Their goal was to make the robot's microcontroller-based control system receptive to acoustic voice commands, thereby enabling precise control of its gripping function, for example. Currently, industrial robots are not yet equipped with such systems. However, there are many situations where contactless operation can be crucial. If a robot is used under extreme environmental conditions, such as in a radioactive facility, an additional interface for voice control can increase its operational flexibility. Voice-controlled robots can also provide valuable assistance to people with disabilities, expanding their range of activities. For example, a robot attached to a wheelchair could handle objects that its owner cannot grasp and hold himself, based on acoustic instructions.
Laboratory director Prof. Brillowski commended the two students for their exceptional expertise and high level of motivation in implementing the project. He noted that the Friedberg University of Applied Sciences boasts a number of outstanding mechatronics students who have demonstrated their abilities in similarly practical projects. He cited the development of control systems for a four-wheeled robotic vehicle and an innovative parallel robot as further examples. Oliver Schober and Sascha Pankow are convinced they chose the right course of study. They emphasized that the relatively new discipline of mechatronics, which combines elements of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, is perfectly suited to their professional interests, enjoyable, and offers excellent career opportunities. They now intend to complete their diploma theses promptly and apply their knowledge in industry.
To further enhance the practical relevance of the studies, Prof. Brillowski is aiming for increased cooperation with regional companies: "We naturally want to expand our collaboration with businesses in the region. There are many possibilities. Companies can work directly with students, support outstanding student projects, or even assist with laboratory operations."
