About Us
UM::Autonomy is an award-winning, student-led team at the University of Michigan dedicated to designing and building autonomous robotic boats. Established in 2007, we provide a welcoming environment with low barriers to entry, ensuring that any student with a passion for innovation can join our team and contribute to our awesome projects. Our team comprises students from a wide range of schools and disciplines, including engineering, computer science, naval architecture, robotics, business, and art & design.
We believe that diversity fuels innovation. By bringing together students from various backgrounds and areas of expertise, we foster a multidisciplinary approach that enriches our projects and pushes the boundaries of autonomous maritime technology.
What is RoboBoat?
RoboBoat is an international competition organized by RoboNation where students design, build, and compete with autonomous surface vessels (ASV's). The competition challenges teams through a series of autonomous tasks that mimic real-world maritime scenarios, such as coastal rescue and ocean cleaning projects. These tasks test the boats’ abilities in navigation, obstacle avoidance, and mission-specific operations, providing students with hands-on experience in tackling maritime and autonomous vehicle industry challenges.
Recent Achievements:
In the most recent RoboBoat Competition, UM::Autonomy achieved outstanding results:
- 🏆 1st Place Overall in Design Documentation
- 🏆 1st Place in the Technical Design Report
- 🏆 1st Place in the Design Presentation
- 🤖 4th Place in the Autonomy Challenge
- 🌐 2nd Place Website
- 🎥 5th Place in the Video Presentation
- 🗣️ 4th Place in Judge's Pit Assessment
Our Goal for RoboBoat 2025
We are determined to reclaim the First Place Overall title at RoboBoat 2025, a position we last held in 2012. To achieve this, we aim to raise $3,000 to fund our journey. Your support will help us cover:
- Materials and Equipment: Upgrading our ASV with the latest technology to tackle the competition’s challenging tasks.
- Competition Fees: Ensuring our participation in this prestigious international event.
- Travel Expenses: Allowing all team members to attend without financial strain, maintaining our commitment to inclusivity and having ZERO barriers to entry.
By reaching this goal, we will enable every passionate member to contribute fully, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder innovation and participation. Funds provide essential resources for real-world, multidisciplinary learning experiences that extend beyond the lecture halls.
With your support, the Wolverines can take home another championship this season! Thank you for your support!
Team Photos
