Abstract
Some areas of knowledge require the application of new learning methods in order to motivate and involve the students in the learning process. This paper describes the rapid prototyping of mobile robots with the flexible, modular and educational LEGO™ Mindstorms platform, supporting activities on some mobile robotics topics like control, positioning estimation and reconfiguration. The diversity of involved areas (mechanics, electronics, control,...) illustrates quite well the inter-disciplinarity of robotics. Those who are taking their first steps in robotics, specially in mobile robotics, need tools that allow them to learn some introductory concepts. Copyright © 2006 IFAC.

Abstract
This paper describes a humanoid robot simulator supporting joint trajectory optimization, following accurately the real robot characteristics. The simulator, based on a rigid body simulator (Open Dynamics Engine) and an OpenGL based graphics librmy (GLScene), provides instant visual feedback and realistic dynamics. It allows to design and test behaviours and control methods without access to the real hardware, preventing damages in the real robot in the earlier stages of development. Having in mind the energy consumption minimization, the low level trajectory planning is discussed and experimental results are presented. The proposed methods arc shown to minimize the total energy assuming two intervals of constant acceleration. Copyright © 2008 by World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd.

Abstract
This paper describes a robust localization system, similar to the used by the teams participating in the Robocup Small size league (SLL). The system, developed in Object Pascal, allows real time localization and control of an autonomous omnidirectional mobile robot. The localization algorithm is done resorting to odometry and global vision data fusion, applying an extended Kalman filter, being this method a standard approach for reducing the error in a least squares sense, using measurements from different sources.

Abstract
This paper describes the sensor and actuator modeling of a realistic wheeled mobile robot simulator The motivation of developing such simulator is to produce a personalized versatile tool that allows production and validation of robot software reducing considerably the development time. The mobile robot simulator was developed in Object Pascal with its dynamics based on the ODE (Open Dynamics Engine), allowing to develop robot software for a three wheel omnidirectional robot equipped with Infra-Red distance sensors and brushless motors.

Abstract
The authors present the Learning Based on Effective Solutions that derives from Project-Based Learning, but applied to real problems in order to build effective solutions. The emphasis is placed on effectiveness in the assumption that encourages greater involvement and commitment on the part of students, ensuring a context that is intended to be more attractive and closer to what will be the professional reality of students. Effectiveness is measured by the functionalities considered essential for the full resolution of the problem, but also by the feasibility of the application being effectively used, without the need for continued student involvement. Empirical evidence points to a clear increase in the acquisition of skills, in the number of students approved and in the improvement of the grades. It was also possible to find a strategic positioning of cooperation with the local community, in which everyone wins (students, teachers, institution, local and regional entities and, employers).

Abstract
This paper is devoted to present the most recent results regarding the ongoing work carried out in the scope of the STC 4.0 HP project, which aims to automate the finishing process of ceramic tableware at the GRESTEL S.A. industry, focusing on non-circular shaped plates. A collaborative robot is in charge of handling the tableware and making it go around its entire perimeter through a sponge, to perform the finishing. An array, with the distances from the center to the different points of the plate, is applied as data to trace the path that the robot must follow. The final goal of this prototype is to obtain an even finish while maintaining a constant force along the entire perimeter of the ceramic tableware. After carrying out a series of tests, it was possible to conclude that the current approach was able to manipulate 3D-printed tableware made for testing and travel its perimeter to carry out the finishing.