Riding a unicycle is deceptively simple in form, yet profoundly complex in execution. A unicycle is inherently unstable and requires accurate perception, continuous control and exceptional agility, which in our opinion makes it a highly compelling robotics problem.
We are building a highly versatile and dynamic robot that balances by using it’s hip and arms and does not rely on gyroscopes. Additionally, we want our robot being able to jump over obstacles to achieve a more dynamic and smoother driving. By using a perceptive balancing policy, our robot will be remotely controlled to locomote in uneven terrain and forest environments.
To showcase our robot’s capabilities and also as an overall goal of this focus project, we in the end want to drive down the Allmend Trail at Uetliberg.
We are a group of engineering students from ETH Zürich and ZHAW, motivated by a shared fascination for robotics. With backgrounds including mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, we bring various skills to help us solve the complex challenges of building a robotic unicycle.
After two years of study, we are eager to translate theory into practice. Learning, experimenting and pushing our limits as we bring a one wheeled balancing robot to life.
We are generously supported by our coaches from the Robotic Systems Lab at ETH Zurich, which allows us to benefit from their knowledge in design, control and project management. Fun fact, many of them were part of a previous focus project themselves.
Realizing such an ambitious project requires resources. This is where you and your company can step in. In becoming a partner, you will be an integral part of this project and help us advance mobile robotics.
Here we share the highlights of our project and key milestones as we build a unicycle robot. From early prototypes and internal reviews with our professors to lots of testing, successes and failures, follow along as we roll from the lab to the mountain bike trails.
