Nipuni Perera—Teaching robots self-reliant navigation
In the ever-evolving field of robotics, the quest for precise localisation is paramount. This becomes even more critical when robots venture into unpredictable and rugged outdoor environments, such as forests or mountainous terrains.
Nipuni Perera, a dedicated PhD candidate at the Paihau—Robinson Research Institute, is at the forefront of this challenge. Under the expert guidance of Dr Fiona Stevens McFadden and Dr Christopher Hollitt from the Te Kura Mātai Pūkaha, Pūrohiko—School of Engineering and Computer Science, Nipuni’s research delves into the localisation and navigation challenges of mobile robots.
Nipuni's study addresses a gap in current robotics research, which predominantly focuses on controlled indoor or structured outdoor settings. However, real-world applications demand more. As she explains, “Imagine a robot navigating through a dense forest. Under the canopy, GPS signals are unreliable and can be blocked.”
This research is pioneering in its aim to develop robust methods for maintaining accurate location tracking without sole reliance on GPS. The implications are vast, spanning economic efficiency, safety, and technological advancement.
Economic and business impact
The potential applications of Nipuni’s research are transformative. Autonomous robots capable of navigating diverse environments without frequent human intervention could revolutionise industries such as forestry management and disaster response.
In forestry, robots could monitor and maintain difficult terrains, improving safety and efficiency. In disaster scenarios, such as earthquakes or floods, adaptable robots could save lives by assisting in search and rescue operations, reducing risks to human responders.
Nipuni's journey and passion
Nipuni's journey to the Paihau—Robinson Research Institute is as compelling as her research. “I’m from Colombo, a bustling city full of life in Sri Lanka. But I actually did my master’s studies in Thailand at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) before coming here,” she recalls.
Her passion for robotics was ignited during her master’s project, which involved localisation in urban areas. She noticed significant challenges when robots transitioned from open to obstructed environments. “This sparked my curiosity about how these systems could adapt to even more complex settings like forests or uneven terrains, where traditional GPS fails,” she explains.
Balancing science and creativity
Beyond her research, Nipuni finds solace and creativity in writing fantasy and science fiction. “Writing is a wonderful outlet for me; it allows me to create entire worlds and explore complex characters. It's challenging to balance with my research, but it's also a great way to unwind,” she shares. This blend of scientific rigour and creative exploration epitomises her holistic approach to problem-solving and innovation.
As Nipuni looks to the future, her aspirations are broad and ambitious. “Robotics is a growing field, and the opportunities are vast. I'm open to exploring roles in academia to continue research and teaching or stepping into the industry where I can apply my expertise to practical challenges,” she says.
The best place to study and navigate to the future
Reflecting on her experience at the institute, Nipuni appreciates the incredible support and the welcoming, diverse culture. “For anyone passionate about robotics and seeking a collaborative and innovative research environment, this is a wonderful place to be,” she affirms.
Nipuni Perera's research is not just a step forward in the field of robotics but a leap towards a future where robots can navigate and adapt to the complexities of the natural world. Her work ensures that these autonomous systems are as resilient and adaptable as the environments they are designed to navigate, marking an advancement in our quest for technological harmony with nature.