For an entire week leading up to October 20, 2024, students from both institutions worked intensively with cutting-edge technologies like robotics and virtual reality (VR). According to the event organizers, dr hab. inż. Grzegorz Granosik and dr hab. inż. Dorota Kamińska from Lodz University of Technology, mid-week project presentations already highlighted the students’ hard work, creativity, and the wide range of ideas. These projects also attracted significant interest from parents of children with ASD, heightening anticipation for the final presentations.
The hackathon's closing event was closely followed by a panel of experts, including the Vice-Rector for Development, Professor Paweł Strumiłło, specialists in the field, and parents of children with ASD. ‘The presentations reflected a high level of student commitment, attention to graphic design, and technological sophistication,’ said the organizers, ‘The strong cooperation and cross-cultural exchange of ideas were also evident throughout the event.’
After careful evaluation by both experts and peer reviewers, three standout projects emerged: Cyber Dragons (1st place), Japonica Polonica Robotica (2nd place), and Seaboat (3rd place).
The students’ academic tutors explained, ‘The winning team, Cyber Dragons, developed a dragon-shaped robot that offers new avenues for interaction and development for children with autism. The robot, equipped with a camera that streams live video to VR goggles, allows users to remotely control its movements. However, this isn’t just standard remote control – users must engage with the virtual environment through physical gestures, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. What makes this project especially noteworthy is its ability to promote motor development and encourage natural interaction, tailored specifically to the needs of children with ASD. By integrating VR technology, the robot offers an exciting and accessible way for children to engage in meaningful activities that may better motivate them.’
The projects aligned perfectly with the hackathon’s theme: encouraging physical activity among people on the autism spectrum. Experts emphasize that a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly enhance motor coordination, concentration, cognitive abilities, and help reduce anxiety and hyperactivity. Involvement in physical activity and team sports can also foster the development of social skills in individuals with ASD.