Integrated Mechanical Design, and Locomotion Control of a Bipedal Robot

Format: On Campus
Number of Interns: 2
Duration of the Internship: 06 June 2026 – 07 August 2026 (Tentative)
Start Date: 06 June 2026
Finish Date: 07 August 2026
Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
Project Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Barkan Uğurlu

Project Description: This project addresses the design and development of a bipedal robotic system through a clear separation of mechanical design and control-oriented activities. One workstream focuses on CAD-based mechanical design and analysis, including detailed modeling of the robot’s structure, joints, and assemblies, actuator integration, mass distribution, manufacturability, and validation through motion studies and preliminary structural analyses. A parallel workstream concentrates on simulation modeling and control, developing kinematic and dynamic representations of the robot and implementing control strategies for balance and locomotion. Simulation outcomes are used to evaluate system behavior and guide iterative improvements to the mechanical design. Together, these efforts establish an integrated mechanical and control framework for a functional bipedal robotic platform.

Research Intern Responsibilities:

Role 1: Mechanical Design and CAD

Responsible for the mechanical design of the bipedal robot. This role requires a strong mechanical engineering background with excellent CAD skills. Key responsibilities include developing detailed 3D models and assemblies, integrating actuators and structural components, ensuring proper mass distribution and manufacturability, and conducting basic mechanical analyses such as motion studies and load assessments. Preparation of clear design documentation and fabrication-ready drawings is expected.

Role 2: Simulation and Control

Responsible for modeling, simulation, and control development. This role requires a strong background in robotics and linear algebra, proficiency in a Linux environment, and solid C/C++ programming skills. Key responsibilities include developing kinematic and dynamic models, implementing control algorithms for balance and locomotion, and running simulations to evaluate system performance and guide design refinements.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Mechanical Design and CAD

• Background in mechanical engineering or a related field
• Excellent proficiency with CAD tools and mechanical assemblies
• Understanding of basic mechanical analysis, kinematics, and manufacturability

Simulation and Control

• Strong background in robotics, linear algebra, and control theory
• Proficiency in C/C++ and development in a Linux environment
• Experience with kinematic/dynamic modeling and simulation tools

Expected Learning Outcomes:

1. Practical experience in designing and developing a bipedal robotic system
2. Proficiency in applying CAD tools and mechanical analysis to real-world robotic designs
3. Hands-on experience with kinematic and dynamic modeling of articulated systems
4. Improved understanding of control strategies for balance and locomotion
5. Experience integrating mechanical design, simulation, and control into a cohesive robotics workflow

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