Junior's development follows an iterative process of design, fabrication, integration, and testing. Designs are evaluated, tested, and refined as the vehicle progresses toward full-system operation and RobotX readiness.
The team uses a tiered testing strategy that progresses from analysis and component testing to full vehicle integration and field testing. This approach allows systems to be evaluated before they are incorporated into the complete vehicle and provides opportunities to refine the design throughout development. Junior's development progresses through four primary stages: computer-aided analysis, bench testing, platform integration, and field testing.
The team uses a staged testing process to evaluate Junior before, during, and after integration.
Computer-Aided Analysis
CAD, engineering analysis, buoyancy calculations, and circuit simulations are used to evaluate designs, interfaces, packaging, and expected performance before fabrication.
Bench Testing
Components and subsystems are tested individually before integration. Additive manufacturing is also used to quickly prototype parts and evaluate fit, interfaces, and functionality.
Platform Integration
Validated hardware and software are progressively integrated into Junior. Mechanical, electrical, communication, sensor, and software interfaces are checked before field testing.
Field Testing
Testing progresses from controlled environments to open-water operation. Each test is planned around specific objectives and success criteria, with results used to guide the next development iteration.
Before major water tests, an in-lab vehicle shakedown is used to verify recent hardware and software changes, including propulsion, communications, vehicle code, and system operation. During autonomous testing, an RC driver remains ready to take control.
Junior's development has included multiple design, fabrication, integration, and testing cycles. This blog highlights major milestones and changes throughout the vehicle's development.
Junior completed a full test day to evaluate vehicle systems and identify areas for improvement.
New pontoons and crane mounts were manufactured.
The updated pontoons were installed and Junior returned to the water for testing. Results from the test helped guide continued development and integration.
Vehicle controls were tuned to improve Junior's response and handling during operation.
Junior completed a proof-of-readiness test to evaluate the vehicle's preparation for upcoming testing and competition operations.
Vehicle controls were tuned to improve Junior's response and handling during operation.
Field Test.
Field Test.
Field Test.
Field Test.
USV packing day!
Junior is packed up and headed to Singapore for RobotX 2026. See you in Singapore!
