Latest news with #AOFR
Muscat Daily
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Muscat Daily
Omani students win award in US for robotic oil change invention
Muscat – An Omani student team has secured third place in the Engineering Projects Competition at Middle Tennessee State University in the United States, earning international recognition for its invention called 'Lio and AOFR' – an automated system that replaces engine oil and filters without the need to lift a vehicle. The invention combines a smart robotic unit, AOFR, with an oil change mechanism, completing the entire maintenance task in under ten minutes. The system is designed to operate without human intervention, offering an efficient, clean and safe alternative to traditional vehicle servicing methods. Equipped with sensors, a touchscreen interface and spill-prevention technology, the system monitors temperature and performance in real time. The AOFR robot uses a high-powered wrench, a precision torque lever, surveillance cameras and obstacle-detection tools to remove and replace oil filters beneath the vehicle. The accompanying oil change machine supports multiple engine types and eliminates the need for cranes or hoists. Farid bin Sameer al Alawi 'Our goal was to develop a practical tool that would facilitate maintenance operations and reduce human error,' said team member Farid bin Sameer al Alawi. 'Winning this competition represents an important step towards marketing this technology and developing it for commercial use.' The team spent several months designing and refining the system, which now stands out for its innovation and potential real-world applications. Project supervisor Dr Elisa Ladou said the students showed a strong grasp of engineering principles. 'Their innovation is a smart solution to a real-life problem facing many,' she said. The project has drawn praise for its practical design and contribution to environmentally conscious maintenance practices, and is being viewed as a benchmark for how engineering education can be applied to solve everyday challenges.
Observer
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Observer
Omani students win award for smart auto-maintenance robot
MUSCAT: In a breakthrough achievement reflecting the technical ingenuity of Omani youth, a team of students from the Sultanate of Oman has secured third place in a high-level engineering innovation competition at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), USA. The students were honoured for developing an integrated smart system that automates vehicle maintenance. Their project, combining two innovative technologies — 'Lio', an automatic oil-changing machine, and 'AOFR', a robotic unit that replaces car oil filters — delivers full service in under ten minutes, without lifting the vehicle. The invention is distinguished by its precision, efficiency, and hygiene. Fully automated and sensor-enabled, the system eliminates the need for human intervention, reduces the risk of oil spills, and enhances overall safety. A user-friendly touchscreen provides real-time feedback on temperature and operation, helping maintain clean and environmentally sound conditions. The AOFR robot slides beneath the car and performs filter replacement with high accuracy, using a torque-controlled wrench, a micro-lift system, dual monitoring cameras, and remote-control functionality. It is also equipped with obstacle detection technology. Meanwhile, the Lio unit provides clean and efficient oil change services compatible with various engine types, all without the use of hydraulic lifts. 'We worked on this project for many months with the goal of creating a practical tool that simplifies maintenance and minimises human error,' said team member Fareed al Alawi. 'Winning this competition is just the beginning. Our ambition is to further develop and commercialise this technology.' Project supervisor Dr Elissa Ledoux expressed her admiration for the team's achievement: 'The students demonstrated a deep understanding of applied engineering and modern technology. Their innovation offers a smart and effective solution to a real-world challenge.' Dr Ken Currie, Dean of the College of Engineering at MTSU, also commended the team: 'This type of breakthrough reflects the spirit we cultivate in our students. The Omani team has delivered an outstanding example of turning engineering knowledge into practical application.' The award highlights the growing prominence of Omani youth in global innovation forums. It reinforces their ability to compete internationally and make meaningful contributions to the fields of science, technology, and engineering — in line with Oman Vision 2040's commitment to human capital development and advanced research.
Muscat Daily
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Muscat Daily
Omani students win award in US with robotic oil change invention
Muscat – An Omani student team has secured third place in the Engineering Projects Competition at Middle Tennessee State University in the United States, earning international recognition for its invention called 'Lio and AOFR' – an automated system that replaces engine oil and filters without the need to lift a vehicle. The invention combines a smart robotic unit, AOFR, with an oil change mechanism, completing the entire maintenance task in under ten minutes. The system is designed to operate without human intervention, offering an efficient, clean and safe alternative to traditional vehicle servicing methods. Equipped with sensors, a touchscreen interface and spill-prevention technology, the system monitors temperature and performance in real time. The AOFR robot uses a high-powered wrench, a precision torque lever, surveillance cameras and obstacle-detection tools to remove and replace oil filters beneath the vehicle. The accompanying oil change machine supports multiple engine types and eliminates the need for cranes or hoists. Farid bin Sameer al Alawi 'Our goal was to develop a practical tool that would facilitate maintenance operations and reduce human error,' said team member Farid bin Sameer al Alawi. 'Winning this competition represents an important step towards marketing this technology and developing it for commercial use.' The team spent several months designing and refining the system, which now stands out for its innovation and potential real-world applications. Project supervisor Dr Elisa Ladou said the students showed a strong grasp of engineering principles. 'Their innovation is a smart solution to a real-life problem facing many,' she said. The project has drawn praise for its practical design and contribution to environmentally conscious maintenance practices, and is being viewed as a benchmark for how engineering education can be applied to solve everyday challenges.
