TSTC students build GIS rover

HARLINGEN — What started out as a golf cart has transformed into a mobile unit that will map points for the Geographic Information Systems and Global Positioning System.

The machine, named Earth Rover, is a learning tool for students that can collect and survey points to create maps of potentially anywhere on the planet.

The Earth Rover recently completed its first successful test run on the campus of Texas State Technical College.

Student volunteers have been working on the project in their free time since June, Hector Yanez, department chair for the Computer Drafting and Design Technology program, said.

“We are only scratching the surface with the Earth Rover,” Yanez said. “It’s unlimited.”

The unit, which runs on six batteries, is currently 60 percent complete. Solar panels will be added to charge the batteries, Yanez said.

The Earth Rover carries an on-board computer, antenna and other equipment to record and measure the latitude and longitude of any spot.

Samuel Piano, who teaches the GIS/GPS civil engineering class, said the Earth Rover project covers a variety of subjects and fields. Students from different classes can learn how to draw models for the vehicle as well as create prototypes and work on the vehicle itself.

One student, Abram Oliver, was working on the conceptual model of the Earth Rover in 3ds Max, a three-dimensional modeling, animation and rendering computer software program.

Before this machine, students went on foot with tools in a backpack to hand-plot points. Each semester, students plot locations over the entire campus, Pizano said.

Yanez said the Earth Rover is like the Google car that takes photographs but is more precise and can provide greater detail. Using the example of a fire hydrant, the Earth Rover, with accompanying technology, can provide information about when it was installed, what brand it is, and its exact location.

Yanez said TSTC has already received inquiries from municipalities and from the private sector seeking assistance from the Earth Rover. Yanez said the unit currently is only for use at TSTC, but they hope to expand that.