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Energy

AUTOMATION AND AUTONOMY OF MOBILE ROBOTS

 

Why This Course?

Robotic systems are extensively used across multiple industries today, from manufacturing, to energy, to space exploration. Being familiar with the electrical and programming fundamentals of robotics, as well as some of the tools commonly used by industry and academia, can provide a considerable edge for students looking to pursue careers or research in many fields.

This course will first cover some of the electrical and embedded system basics. Afterward, the basics of the Robotics Operating System, widely used for robotics applications, will be covered. Using ROS, the student will learn about and apply SLAM, an almost ubiquitous robotic navigation technique. Finally, the students will put together a mobile robot kit and program it to take part in a competition.

Who should attend?

  • Undergrad students looking to get into robotics or expand their knowledge
  • Grad students that want to refresh knowledge and gain more experience with SLAM and ROS
  • Recent graduates that want to strengthen their job prospects

Learning Outcomes

  • Solid comprehension of electrical and programming foundations of robotics
  • Familiarity with ROS and its environment
  • Understanding of robotic navigation and how to implement SLAM
  • Practical experience with robot building and pro
 

Schedule

Subject to Change

  • March 28th: Electrical Foundations Review (Dr. Unwala)
    • Sensors and Actutators
    • Embedded Systems
    • Post-Lecture Speaker: Joshua Sooknanan (NASA)
  • April 4th: Robotics Software (Dr. Nguyen)
    • Linux Architecture
    • Intro to ROS
    • Post-Lecture Speaker: Carol Fairchild (UHCL) and Kimberly Hayes (Valkim Technologies)
  • April 11th: SLAM and Navigation (Dr. Nguyen)
    • Sensor Fusion
    • Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), and Navigation
    • Post-Lecture Speaker: Hasan Danaci (Schlumberger)
  • April 18th: Robot Car (Dr. Nguyen and Miguel Pagan)
    • Car Kit Assembly
    • Car Programming and Competition
    • Post-Lecture Speaker: Chirag Dhoka Jain (Northeastern University)

Class each session begins at 9am and end at 1pm at the University of Houston Clear Lake campus in the Delta Building, 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058. 

Instructors

  • Dr. Luong Nguyen

    Associate Professor of Computer Engineering
    UHCL

  • Dr. Ishaq Unwala

    Associate Professor of Computer Engineering
    UCHL

  • Miguel Pagan

    Lecturer of Computer Engineering
    UCHL

Guest Speakers

  • Joshua Sooknanan

    NASA/JSC

  • tao-cheng.jfif

    Kimberly Hayes

    Co-Founder of Valkim Technologies

  • Carol Fairchild

    UHCL

  • Hasan Danaci

    Schlumberger

  • Chirag Dhoka Jain

    Northeastern University Graduate Student

Credentialing Overview

A digital badge will be issued after successfully completing this course.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can register for the program by visiting the registration link and completing the application form. The registration link will be available once course enrollment opens.  
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and electronic payments. If you require alternative payment options, please reach out to our business office. 
Courses are offered online, in-person, or hybrid formats, depending on the specific course, allowing students to engage with course materials through live lectures, pre-recorded modules, interactive discussions, or hands-on projects. 
Yes. Assessments are required to successfully complete the program and earn your micro-credential. Details on grading criteria and passing scores will be provided at the start of the course.  
Depending on the program structure, you may have access to recorded sessions or alternative assignments. Please review the attendance policy or contact your instructor for specific arrangements. 
Refunds are not available if you withdraw from the course.