Rover Games: Cybersecurity Sandbox & Robotic Hackathon

The Rover Games began as a complex capstone project at UW Bothell, combining mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering students in a hands-on cybersecurity sandbox. Teams designed, built, and programmed four Wi-Fi enabled stair-climbing rovers, each equipped with a robotic arm and camera, to compete in a hacking challenge involving puzzle boxes, traps, and cyberattacks.

The object of the game: rovers overcome obstacles, use their robotic arms to photograph puzzle pieces, and race to collect all 16 pieces to solve the final image. All systems run on Wi-Fi and are vulnerable to hacking, with teams defending and attacking in real time—practicing operational cybersecurity in a safe, competitive environment.

Technical Highlights:
- Designed and developed four stair-climbing robots in SolidWorks.
- Programmed PWM motor controls in Python and C++ for precise movement and navigation.
- Engineered a power delivery system for multi-voltage robotics.
- Built puzzle boxes with traps and obstacles, requiring teamwork and creative problem solving.
- Implemented Wi-Fi networking and cybersecurity defense/offense.
- Late nights in Discovery Hall 270 fostered a community of collaboration and innovation.

Quotes & Experience:
“This is the first time I’ve really built and designed my own functional circuits. I’ve fried stuff, and I’ve seen smoke come out of the rover, and I’ve burned my hands with solder. It’s super rewarding when it finally works in the end.” – Alnur Elberier
“It’s just a great experience to work together and achieve success.” – Kuber Motgi

Skills & Tools: Python, C++, SolidWorks, Embedded Systems, Robotics, Power Electronics, Wi-Fi Networking, Cybersecurity
Education: University of Washington, BS Computer Engineering & Mechanical Engineering, 2019