A student team from Zhengzhou University's (ZZU) School of Mechanical and Power Engineering won a gold medal at the China International College Students' Innovation Competition on Oct 15. Their project, "Ao Bing" — an intelligent subsea pipeline inspection robot inspired by the movement of sea snakes — topped the undergraduate creative group in the higher education track.
The image of "Ao Bing" subsea pipeline inspection robot. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]
During 16 months of dedicated effort, the team tackled numerous technical challenges, including developing a rigid-flexible coupling structure and a dual anti-corrosion system, to ensure the robot's stable performance in deep-sea conditions. This problem-solving process strengthened team cohesion and prepared them for higher-level evaluations.
Collaboration across disciplines was key to the project's success. It brought together students specializing in mechanical design, electronic control, and business management, presenting a complete value chain covering industry, academia, research and application.
ZZU's student team wins a gold medal at the CICSIC. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]
The team benefited from ZZU's structured innovation support system. Faculty advisors provided comprehensive guidance, from underwater robotics expertise and metal 3D printing training to funding coordination and industry networking.
Although the competition has concluded, the "Ao Bing" team continues to refine the robot's technology and explore practical applications. Their journey reflects ZZU's commitment to nurturing student innovation and supporting creative projects from concept to realization.
The image of "Ao Bing" subsea pipeline inspection robot. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]