A Journey to Retaining the Champion Crown IRC 2024
January 31, 2023
8.00 PM
Embarking on a journey marked by innovation and perseverance, the team behind Nala Proteus 2.0 navigated through months of meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and relentless refinement. From the initial stages of arena production and electrical wiring to the culmination of autonomous trials for various missions, each step was a testament to their dedication and ingenuity. As they prepare to showcase their cutting-edge technology on an international stage in Florida, USA, the anticipation builds, echoing the excitement of a grand unveiling and the promise of groundbreaking achievements ahead.
NOVEMBER 2023
WEEK 1
Evaluation
The initial step is to assess the performance of the previous Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV), Nala Proteus, and identify its weaknesses. By doing so, we can enhance its design, functionality, and reliability for future challenges.
WEEK 2
Planning & Strategy
At this stage the teams discussed plans for IRC 2024, both technical and non-technical. This activity is crucial in order to unify the views of all team members regarding what strategies will be carried out in this competition.
After evaluating the previous competition, We decided to upgrade our concept to modularity 3.0. We began the manufacturing process of making frames for the new deck design and researching new algorithms on the ship.
WEEK 3
Assembly & Endurance Test
After all plans and strategies are determined, all sketches are actualized in 3d-design which then analyzed using a lot of software to get various kinds of data. we assemble and carry out durability tests for the ship latest frames. In the electrical section we do board design and research for microcontrollers.
WEEK 4
Material & Arena Preparation
We plan the arena design and buy the materials for the arena production process. For the ship, we test the programs that we have already researched.
DECEMBER 2023
WEEK 1
Arena Production & Electrical Wiring
After the planning phase is completed, we proceed with the production of the arena, starting from navigation missions, channels, to docking and octagon assembly. Additionally, electrical components are being produced, including boards and wiring for all electrical components on Nala Proteus 2.0.
WEEK 2
Crane System Production & Dry Test
To fulfill the collection octagon and delivery octagon missions, we utilize a crane system capable of retrieving ducks or balls from the collection octagon and placing them in the delivery octagon. The production of this system underwent several changes until we found the most suitable and efficient crane scheme for Nala Proteus 2.0. Additionally, we began conducting dry tests on the ship to check the installed electrical systems.
WEEK 3
Remote Trial (Manual)
Following successful dry tests, we proceed with the roboboat trial in water using manual mode (remote control) to ensure smooth operation before transitioning to auto mode.
WEEK 4
Autonomous First Trial
This week, we conduct the first trial of autonomy on the ship after several changes and improvements. In this initial trial, we encountered some challenges that need to be addressed, and adjustments are still required for the autonomous control system on the ship.
JANUARY 2024
WEEK 1
Autonomous Trial (Navigation Channel, Follow the Path, and Speed Challenge)
We kick off the new year with renewed enthusiasm. At the beginning of this year, we start conducting autonomous trials for navigation channel missions, following the path, and speed challenges. During these trials, we begin adjusting the roboboat controls to perform missions effectively..
WEEK 2
Autonomous Trial (Docking & Duck Wash Mission)
We continue with autonomous trials for docking and duck wash missions. During these trials, we need to adjust the roboboat controls to perform holonomic movements to support the roboboat maneuver when entering the dock and testing the water spraying system of Nala Proteus 2.0.
WEEK 3
Autonomous Trial (Collecting Octagon & Delivery Octagon)
The final autonomous trial we conduct is for the octagon missions (collecting & delivery). During this trial, we test to obtain the best algorithms and controls for the ship to complete these two missions. We also perform tests to retrieve and place ducks or balls using the crane system that Nala Proteus 2.0 possesses.
WEEK 4
Preparation Goes to Florida, USA
The competition day is approaching, and we need to prepare all necessary requirements in Florida, USA. This includes accommodation, lodging, and, of course, packing the items we will bring. We also hold a grand launching event for our ship, Nala Proteus 2.0, in front of the rector of the Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology and other external media.
"Nala Proteus 2.0, where artificial intelligence meets the open sea, crafting a narrative of autonomy and exploration."
