Beachlab returns to Aberystwyth seafront with robots and computer fun

Beachlab 2024

Aberystwyth University’s popular Beachlab event makes its return at the end of the month, bringing quirky robotics and the latest technology to the seafront.

The event, now in its 15th year, will see the likes of self-driving vehicles, the University’s iconic steampunk R2D2 and drones on display at the Aberystwyth Bandstand on 31 May from 10:00 until 15:30.

Visitors will be able to use remote control robots and take part in activities such as exploring how smart AI can be, seeing how circuits work and trying out a variety of programming tools. They will also be shown how they can continue their own robotics journey via online resources, including a new student created educational game.

Some of the Department of Computer Science’s robotic vehicles will be on display such as self-driving offroad buggies and beach rovers. There will also be some larger robots with Doris the Dalek and K9 from Doctor Who making an appearance.

Dr Patricia Shaw, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science at Aberystwyth University, said: “Beachlab is one of the highlights of the Department of Computer Science’s calendar and we are delighted to be back at the Bandstand to show off our work and bring some robotic fun to the seafront.

“This year we want to show people how robotics starts from the tiniest of sensors right through to the vehicles and robots they will see on display.

“Computer science is an extremely important subject and can improve many aspects of our lives. We have a smart home lab on campus, which explores how the latest technology can assist in social care, and we are involved in the forthcoming ExoMars mission to Mars, as well as other research into the likes of artificial intelligence and healthcare.”

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