Towards a Fleet of Autonomous Mobile Mechatrons

Abstract The philosophy of the Mechatronics Group at the University of Waikato is to produce autonomous mobile robotic devices for both research and educational purposes. These devices have steadily evolved from competition winning micromice through to today where our fleet boasts a submersible Remote Operating Vehicle, a multi-terrain mechatron, a pair of tricycle based cooperating robots, and an intelligent wheeled security device that has featured in national newspapers and on prime-time television news. This paper will outline the evolution of the construction and generic control of these new mechatrons and their place in our education program.