Please introduce yourself and your research to us.

I am Tae Ji Lee, an undergraduate student at the Department of Convergence of IT Engineering (CiTE). I presented ExFlOver (Exploration Robot with Flip-Over Locomotion) and was placed second in 2024 Introducing My Research. My research started when I thought it would be fun to make a robot that moves in an interesting way. Then I added my interest in developing robots that help people to this idea, which led me to explore ways to make these robots more affordable for use in hazardous areas. This is how I decided on ExFlOver, a flipping motion robot designed for exploration and search-and-rescue operations.

I tried to use the least number of actuators (motors) as possible to reduce cost while maintaining superior mobility compared to conventional robots. I succeeded in making a robot that uses a flipping mechanism to move. ExFlOver could traverse obstacles better than wheeled robots, such as climbing higher steps or crossing wider gaps, while using only three motors.

What difficulties did you face while participating in Introducing My Research?

In order to realize ExFlOver’s flipping mechanism, I had to go through numerous simulations and prototypes. It definitely was a process full of trial and error. Transitioning from virtual models to physical prototypes came with various problems such as structural imbalances, errors in 3D printing, and the motors not being as strong as expected. The hardest part overall was learning simulation tools and adapting to them which I had no prior experience using whilst overcoming these errors. However, it was very rewarding to see the robot finally function as intended. 

Summarizing my research into a three-minute presentation was harder than I anticipated because as the developer of ExFlOver, I had so much I wanted to say about my creation and the process I went to. I decided to focus on the robot’s intriguing movements and its potential applications, rather than going into heavy technical details. I used simple and fun analogies, like comparing the robot’s flipping motion to natural movements such as the flipping motions of babies and crocodiles, to make it relatable. 

What are your thoughts on this experience?

Seeing the other finalists’ impressive topics was very inspiring and helpful. I learned a lot from other finalists in how they proceeded with their research as well as their presentation skills. I discovered various spaces for improvement in my presentation in the future from their presentations. 

I am also thankful that the judges appreciated my presentation for being engaging and accessible, which I think helped me win. Beyond the award, I was thrilled that the audience and judges genuinely enjoyed my research. Before participating in this event, I did not think that my research was special or especially distinguished from prior research. Watching the positive feedback from the judges and audience with my own eyes helped me gain confidence in my research and motivated me to try other research. A professor even expressed interest in my research and wanted to hear more about it, which I am very excited about. 

I would strongly recommend participating in this event to my colleagues. The event helped me understand how the public perceives my work differently from how I view it as a researcher. By focusing on what resonates with the audience, I learned how to better communicate my ideas. This is an invaluable experience for any researcher.