Overview
AIR (Askeri İnsansı Robot — Humanoid Military Robot) is a design and simulation project exploring a remotely operated humanoid robot for deployment in environments too dangerous for humans. Developed under the TÜBİTAK 2204-A "Technological Design" track, the project covers the robot's complete conceptual architecture — from component selection and block diagrams to a working virtual prototype built and tested in a Roblox-based simulation environment programmed in Lua.
The robot is operated from a remote control room by a trained team. A first-person (FPS-style) camera system, inspired by gaming interfaces, gives operators a real-time view from cameras placed on the robot's head and body, while a custom operator interface displays battery level, compass heading, and a live GPS map. The design also specifies the supporting hardware: a main control microcontroller, limb servos, GPS transmitter, audio input/output for communicating with people near the robot, gyroscope-assisted balance correction, and thermal monitoring.
Key Aspects
- Full humanoid robot concept with remote operation architecture and wireless control link
- Working virtual prototype built in a Roblox simulation environment, programmed in Lua
- FPS-style camera system giving operators real-time first-person situational awareness
- Custom operator interface with live battery indicator, compass, and GPS satellite map
- Modular arm mounts designed to accept different equipment with minimal modification
- Proposed production method: SLM (Selective Laser Melting) metal 3D printing for durable, cost-effective manufacturing
- Simulation-verified functions: movement in all directions, 360° maneuverability, equipment handling, GPS tracking, and compass-guided "blind navigation" when cameras are unavailable
Testing & Findings
The team defined a set of operational questions — movement range, direction-finding, and function reliability — and answered them through experiments in a purpose-built simulation platform. The tests confirmed the robot's omnidirectional movement, equipment integration, FPS camera behaviour, GPS positioning, and compass functions, each verified individually through observation in the simulation. The report openly notes that simulation results cannot guarantee real-world field performance, and identifies cybersecurity hardening and AI-assisted perception as priority directions for future development.
Beyond Defense: Disaster Response
A significant part of the project explores adapting AIR for civilian disaster management — particularly earthquakes. With modified sensors, the robot could help locate survivors trapped under rubble, assess structural damage, deliver medicine and medical supplies, and operate alongside aerial drones in coordinated search and rescue operations — protecting both victims and rescue workers.
Program Context
Developed for the TÜBİTAK 2204-A High School Students Research Projects Competition in the Technological Design main field, under the National Technology Initiative thematic area. The full project report includes market analysis of autonomous robotics, component specifications, and an ethics discussion on the use of remotely operated systems.