GITAM students’ innovations take spotlight at TEP exhibition
A wide range of student-built engineering prototypes drew attention at GITAM Deemed-to-be University’s Technology Exploration and Product Engineering (TEP) exhibition held on Thursday, highlighting the growing emphasis on hands-on learning in technical education.
Organised by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the event brought together over 150 projects developed by 15 student teams. A panel comprising industry professionals and academicians evaluated the entries, with 25 prototypes shortlisted for the final showcase.
The models reflected strong interdisciplinary learning, with students combining microcontrollers, sensors, motors, and actuators with modern fabrication methods such as 3D printing and laser cutting to build working systems.
Among the highlights were a robot exoskeleton designed to assist physical rehabilitation, a mechatronic eye replicating human ocular movement through electronics and optics, and a smart vacuum cleaner capable of autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance. Other projects included a rope-walking robot designed for stability on suspended lines and an inclusive gaming system created for wheelchair-bound children, aimed at enabling accessible and empathetic interaction.
University officials said the exhibition underlined students’ ability to translate classroom concepts into real-world solutions. Prof. Bharani Chandra Kumar, Director of the GITAM School of Technology and Core Engineering, said the projects reflected readiness for evolving industry demands.
Dr. Rejeswara Reddy, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, praised the participants for their technical competence and innovative spirit.