Rohit Menon
Robotics and autonomous systems
Hometown: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Graduation date: Spring 2024
MORE | Spring 2024
Remote Control of an Off-Road Automated vehicle over a 5G Network for Agriculture Applications
This project harnesses the power of 5G technology to control an off-road Jeep Grand Cherokee remotely, offering the precision and robustness of being directly behind the wheel, even from miles away. By integrating the vehicle’s systems with cutting-edge hardware and software, including a camera and a joystick, the researcher achieves unparalleled safety and efficiency in challenging terrains. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential for remote exploration, emergency response, and autonomous missions, opening new possibilities for vehicle operation. Future efforts will focus on improving 5G reliability in diverse environments and expanding this technology to a broader range of vehicles and scenarios, promising exciting advancements in remote vehicle control.
Mentor: Yan Chen
It’s hip to be square.
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Featured project | Spring 2024
Robotics and autonomous systems graduate student Rohit Menon was drawn to ASU in part because of the opportunity to work on groundbreaking research, particularly in the field of robotics. His degree program at ASU and the MORE program have given him a unique opportunity to apply his passion for robotics in hands-on robotics projects. In his research with faculty mentor Yan Chen, an assistant professor of engineering, Menon is using the 5G communication network to create a system that can control an off-road vehicle, a drive-by-wire Jeep Grand Cherokee donated by Kubota North America, remotely with high precision.
What made you want to get involved in MORE?
My motivation for getting involved in the MORE program stems from a deep-seated passion for engineering and a desire to contribute to cutting-edge research. The opportunity to work closely with esteemed faculty members and engage in hands-on lab experiences presents a unique chance to apply my academic knowledge to solving real-world problems.
I am particularly drawn to the program’s emphasis on innovation and its supportive environment for exploring novel ideas and solutions. Additionally, the prospect of enhancing my technical skills, while also gaining valuable research experience, aligns perfectly with my career goals. The MORE program not only offers a pathway to achieving academic excellence, but also prepares me for a future of impactful contributions to the engineering field.
Why did you choose the project you’re working on?
I chose this project because it aligns perfectly with my passion for pushing the boundaries of vehicle control systems and leveraging cutting-edge technology to solve complex challenges. The opportunity to work on creating a control system for a Jeep Grand Cherokee that integrates various advanced components like the drive-by-wire system, MicroAutoBox II, and global navigation satellite system via CAN communication is both exciting and intellectually stimulating.
Moreover, the prospect of developing a comprehensive human-machine interface that provides real-time data and status updates to both onboard drivers and remote operators adds another layer of innovation to the project. By incorporating dual-display functionality and leveraging the power of 5G network connectivity, we can ensure efficient decision-making and seamless communication in diverse operational scenarios.
The integration of multiple cameras on the vehicle for precise maneuvering is a key innovation, enabling enhanced situational awareness and control accuracy. This capability is crucial for the precise maneuvering of the vehicle using a joystick connected to a laptop for remote teleoperation, highlighting the project’s commitment to high-level performance in remote vehicle control. The aspect of remote vehicle control through a laptop-connected joystick, enabled by the instantaneous response of the 5G network, opens up a myriad of possibilities for applications in remote exploration, emergency response and autonomous missions. The incorporation of these cameras for real-time monitoring further enhances precision control and situational awareness, demonstrating the project’s holistic approach to integrating technology for advanced vehicle management.
On the software front, the combination of MATLAB and Simulink, the Robot Operating System, and the Embedded C-based control framework, along with specialized software tools, provides a robust foundation for seamless integration and communication between the vehicle’s components.
Overall, this project not only allows me to contribute to advancing the field of remote vehicle control but also presents opportunities to explore new avenues for application and further innovation. I am excited about the potential impact this project can have and look forward to extending this technology to more vehicle types and scenarios, thereby driving significant advancements in remote vehicle operations.
How will your engineering research project impact the world?
My engineering research project aims to revolutionize off-road transportation by enhancing safety, efficiency and accessibility through the integration of 5G technology with autonomous vehicle systems.
How do you see this experience helping with your career/advanced degree goals?
This experience will provide me with a strong foundation in cutting-edge technology and research methodologies. It will significantly enhance my technical skills and innovation capabilities, which are crucial for advancing my career in engineering and supporting my pursuit of an advanced degree.
Why should other students get involved in MORE?
Other students should get involved in this program to gain hands-on research experience, work closely with faculty and develop skills that are critical for success in both the job market and academia.
