First steps

The first semester is known to be focused on mathematics and foundations of engineering. Algebra, analytic geometry and mathematical analysis allowed us to look into the world of numbers and equations. On a programming course we improved our skills in C language, creating a programm to process images (imposing effects on them). We learned how to use LaTeX, which is recommended at our faculty for making assignments. To complete the circle, philosophy, engineering ethics and intellectual property law showed us the humanistic aspect of our future job and broadened our horizons.

Second thoughts?

Why second thoughts on the second semester? Because this is the moment people decide whether they want to change their field of studies. Some people get scared by semiconductor theory (with elements of quantum physics) or by classical physics, some feel discouraged by the probability theory, continuation of mathematical analysis or infinitesimal calculus, while others enjoy their studies and keep going. This is also the time students clash with laboratory classes, especially with measurement techniques. The best part of this semester is - in my opinion - object programming in C++: we worked half a year on preparing a drone simulation in gnuplot, making movement possibilities, animations, obstacle detecting etc. I have also completed two language courses - English B2.2 and Spanish A2.

Third time lucky

When someone reminds me of the third semester, I feel all the sleepless nights coming back to me. It wasn't about learning content but mostly about the amount of assignments we were supposed to prepare. Laboratory classes from signal processing, continuation of physics, models of dynamic systems and electrical engineering with electronics were very demanding. Analytic mechanics, statistics and telecommunication were challenging as well but every cloud has a silver lining - we for sure became familiar with Matlab and the art of preparing assignments. I was also one of the lucky people who got accepted to a German course sponsored by Capgemini company so I have completed German A2 dedicated for IT profession.

The fourth horseman of my studies

Because of the worldwide pandemic, completion of the fourth semester was more problematic than it was supposed to be. Almost all lab classes were transformed into projects so we had plenty of work to do by ourselves. We have programmed AVRs, designed a computer network and implemented different algorithms in C++ (sorting functions, Dijkstra, MINMAX , DFS and A*). We've been introduced to a variety of tools connected with automation e.g. LOGO Soft Comfort, TIA Portal (with ladder logic programs for Siematic S7-1200) and InTouch. Electronic aspect wasn't forgotten - a course of analog and digital systems acquainted us with operational amplifiers, stabilizers, timers 555, voltage converters and other common elements. As a continuation of Capgemini sponsored course I have completed German B1. Moreover, I have taken one course from 6th semester in advance - databases. The aim was to create a database application using Python with Kivy framework and MySQL. You can find more about this project in section "Projects".

Fifth element

Erasmus in the pandemic times not possible? It depends only on your approach. On my 5th semester I had a pleasure to taste the academic life at University of Zagreb during one, whole semester! Apart from standard courses, I could perform a small research in the Laboratory for Autonomous Systems and Mobile Robotics. More on that semester, including the assignments reports, can be read on the separate page.

Big hero six(th)

With a total of five projects, this semester was a real challenge. Sensoric data visualization, robots embedded controllers, mobile robotics, operating system and neural networks were the objectives covered during these four months. I had to learn Qt framework, become familiar with PyTorch, Hardware Abstraction Layer on STM32, Roboguide for Fanuc robots and Yocto project. Detailed descriptions on the most projects can be found in the Projects section. Courses in industrial robot programming and discrete systems control complemented the semester's work, making it a really intensive time with highly satisfying effects.

The lucky seven

The final semester provided classes only for three months, giving more time for thesis defense preparation. In the meantime, we had courses in advanced programming methods, robotics laboratories and specialization project on control algorithms for both EDDA manipulator and platform (2,0). My Bachelor thesis on Robotization of the cappuccino preparation process with computer vision feedback was recognized as the best Bachelor thesis on the faculty, received a recognition award at a national competition "Young Innovative" and provided me the highest possible mark on the graduation. That sealed the end of my studies at Wrocław University of Science and Technology :)