SPEAR (Space Exploration Alberta Robotics) is an engineering club at the University of Alberta, focused on designing and building Mars-style rovers for space-inspired competitions. Composed of students across various engineering disciplines, SPEAR takes part in international competitions like the Canadian International Rover Challenge (CIRC) and the University Rover Challenge (URC). Through hands-on experience, collaboration, and innovation, the team works on real-world engineering challenges, contributing to advancements in robotics and representing the University of Alberta on the international stage.

Our Teams

Software

In the evolving landscape of robotics, the Software Team at SPEAR are at the heart of innovation. Tasked with the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge algorithms and systems, we're responsible for bringing our rover to life. From autonomous navigation to real-time data processing, our expertise in programming languages and frameworks like Python, C++, and ROS enables SPEAR to compete at the highest levels. Collaborating closely with one another, we turn theoretical concepts into functional realities, ensuring the rover's seamless operation and success in challenges like CIRC and URC.

  • The drive system is an intricate blend of mechanics and software, responsible for the rover's mobility. Our members work with PID controllers, motor encoders, and real-time feedback loops to develop algorithms that control actuators and motors. The focus is on precise navigation, adaptability to various terrains, and seamless integration with the rover's mechanical components.

  • Navigation is the critical intelligence of our rover, enabling autonomous movement through complex environments. This sub-team works with technologies such as LiDAR, GPS, and IMUs, implementing path-planning algorithms, obstacle detection, and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping). The goal is to provide the rover with the ability to analyze, adapt, and navigate with accuracy and efficiency.

  • Quality assurance and validation ensure the reliability and performance of the rover's software. This involves rigorous methodologies such as unit testing, integration testing, and continuous integration, utilizing tools like Git. The team focuses on code quality, performance optimization, error handling, and system validation, adhering to stringent standards that prepare the software for real-world challenges.

  • The Arm System sub-team is dedicated to the development and control of the rover's 6Degrees of Freedom (DoF) robotic arm. This involves designing kinematics algorithms, implementing precise control systems, and coordinating with sensors for tasks such as object detection and manipulation. The 6-DOF design provides the flexibility and accuracy needed for complex interactions with the rover's environment, enabling functions like picking, placing, and tactile exploration.

  • The Networking sub-team ensures robust communication within the rover system, working with Wi-Fi and potentially radio technologies. Responsibilities include designing and managing wireless communication protocols, real-time data transmission, and network security. The team focuses on building efficient and resilient connections between the rover, control stations, and other devices.

Mechanical

At SPEAR's Mechanical Team, we are the creative minds behind the rover's physical design and innovation. Our rocker-bogie suspension system enables the rover to navigate various terrains with unprecedented stability and flexibility. One of our proudest achievements is the 6 DoF arm, nearly entirely conceived and fabricated by us, providing human-like precision and control. This blend of mechanical artistry and rigorous engineering is more than a technical endeavor; it's a passion that turns visionary ideas into tangible realities, setting our rover apart in both form and function.

  • The Rocker-Bogie sub-team is responsible for the innovative suspension system that enables our rover to traverse diverse terrains with unparalleled stability and adaptability. Utilizing a unique linkage mechanism, we ensure continuous ground contact, allowing the rover to overcome obstacles and uneven surfaces with ease. Our design emphasizes both functionality and robustness, providing the foundation for the rover's exploration capabilities.

  • The 6 Degrees of Freedom (DOF) Arm sub-team focuses on the design and in-house fabrication of a highly advanced and precise robotic arm. Utilizing advanced kinematics and control algorithms, we enable human-like dexterity and manipulation. Our 6-DOF design allows for complex interactions with the rover's environment, making it an essential tool for tasks like picking, placing, and tactile exploration.

  • The End Effector sub-team is responsible for the design and implementation of the component that interacts directly with the rover's surroundings. Working closely with the 6-DOF Arm team, the team ensures that the end effector can grasp, manipulate, and engage with objects and surfaces in a controlled and effective manner. Our work involves material selection, mechanical design, and integration with sensors to provide a versatile and responsive tool for the rover's operations.

Electrical

SPEAR’s Electrical Team plays a crucial role in powering innovation. Responsible for the design, implementation, and management of the rover's electrical systems, we ensure that every component, from motors to sensors, receives the precise power it needs. Our work involves creating custom PCBs, managing power distribution, and integrating various subsystems to achieve optimal performance and efficiency. Collaborating with other teams, we form the vital link that connects software with hardware, turning theoretical designs into functional machines.

  • The Power Systems sub-team is the lifeblood of our rover, ensuring that every component receives the precise energy it requires. We design and manage the entire electrical power distribution, from battery management to voltage regulation. Our work involves balancing efficiency, reliability, and sustainability, providing a stable power supply that fuels the rover's exploration and performance. The integration of renewable sources, energy storage, and real-time monitoring underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in electrical engineering.

  • The Embedded Systems sub-team plays a vital role in the seamless operation of our rover, bridging hardware with software. We work with microcontrollers, sensors, and real-time operating systems to create intelligent control and communication networks. Our tasks include programming, debugging, and optimizing embedded software, ensuring synchronization and responsiveness across various subsystems. Through meticulous design and integration, we enable the rover to perform complex tasks with agility and precision, reflecting the cutting-edge of embedded technology in robotics.

Science

The Science Team at SPEAR, composed of diverse backgrounds, focuses on developing soil collection and testing methods. We conduct Earth Sciences research, analyzing soil characteristics like pH, heavy metal content, and organic matter in the samples we collect. Our innovations include a Raman spectrometer and a mechanical soil collection system designed to work with the rover's arm. From chemical and optical methods, to ongoing improvements in reliability and repeatability, our work represents an exciting blend of science and engineering. We're constantly exploring new avenues to enhance our capabilities, including the development of a more robust system for rocky surfaces.

  • At SPEAR, soil testing is a vital part of our research. We analyze soil characteristics such as pH, heavy metal content, and organic matter using methods like our in-house Raman spectrometer. Our focus on reliability and repeatability drives continual improvements. As we look to the future, we're excited about the potential to bring on-board soil testing capabilities to our rover, pushing the boundaries of exploration and analysis.

  • Soil collection at SPEAR is a blend of mechanical ingenuity and practical design. Our system, created to work with the rover's arm, navigates various terrains for effective sampling. We're continually improving the end effector to enhance its capabilities and adapt to different environmental conditions. Future developments include designing a more robust system with an auger, allowing us to explore and collect samples from rocky surfaces with greater precision.

Marketing

The Marketing Team at SPEAR is the voice and image of our innovative pursuits. Tasked with managing all our communication platforms, they ensure that our achievements, updates, and insights reach a wide audience. Through strategic outreach, they connect with potential collaborators, sponsors, and enthusiasts, building a community that shares our passion for robotics and space exploration. Beyond social media and outreach, the Marketing Team is also responsible for creating engaging content, organizing events, and developing promotional materials. They play a vital role in showcasing SPEAR's mission, values, and successes, helping us inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. Their creativity and dedication are key to enhancing our presence both locally and on the global stage.

  • Our Social Media Management team is the digital voice of SPEAR. They handle all social media platforms, sharing updates, achievements, and insights. Through engaging posts, videos, and interactive content, they keep our followers informed and excited about our projects. Our goal is to build a vibrant online community that resonates with our passion for robotics and space exploration.

  • Outreach at SPEAR goes beyond just spreading the word; it's about creating meaningful connections. We engage with schools, universities, industry partners, and the general public, promoting interest in STEM fields and showcasing our work. Whether it's presenting at conferences, collaborating with sponsors, or inspiring future engineers, our outreach efforts lay the foundation for lasting relationships and mutual growth.

  • Content Creation at SPEAR is focused on visual storytelling through our social media accounts. They craft engaging posts, videos, and graphics that capture the excitement and innovation of our projects. Our Instagram content serves to educate, inspire, and connect with a broad audience interested in robotics and space exploration. Looking to the future, we're exploring the potential of expanding our visual reach to platforms like TikTok, keeping pace with evolving social media trends and reaching new audiences.

FAQs

  • No, prior knowledge in robotics is not required. We welcome hardworking and committed individuals who are eager to learn. You can learn and grow with the team as you go!

  • You'll need to commit to an hour and a half for general and workshop meetings, along with additional time outside of the meetings as needed for ongoing projects and collaboration.

  • No, being in engineering is not a requirement. We welcome individuals from various disciplines who share an interest in robotics and are eager to contribute to the team.