Muscat – A research team at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) is developing an autonomous robotic system capable of inspecting multi-storey buildings without the need for human assistance, smart infrastructure or IoT connectivity. Funded by SQU’s Deanship of Research and College of Engineering, the project is led by Dr Gulam Dastagir Khan, with Dr Muhammed Bilal […]
Muscat – A research team at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) is developing an autonomous robotic system capable of inspecting multi-storey buildings without the need for human assistance, smart infrastructure or IoT connectivity.
Funded by SQU’s Deanship of Research and College of Engineering, the project is led by Dr Gulam Dastagir Khan, with Dr Muhammed Bilal Waris and Dr Taha bin Mubarak al Saadi serving as co-investigators. It brings together researchers from the departments of electrical and computer engineering and civil engineering.
In its first phase, the team designed and tested a quadruped robot capable of operating standard lifts and navigating between floors using only onboard technologies. The robot uses a YOLOv11-based vision system, AprilTag markers for spatial alignment, and a robotic arm with four degrees of freedom to interact with elevator panels. Trials conducted in a four-storey building on the SQU campus demonstrated consistent sub-centimetre navigation accuracy.
In the next stage, the robot will be equipped to carry out detailed building inspections. It will autonomously assess structural elements such as walls, ceilings and door frames, as well as safety infrastructure including fire alarms, extinguishers, sprinkler systems and electrical panels. The robot will also detect issues like leaks, cracks and insulation defects.
Muscat – The State Council convened on Tuesday for its eighth session of the second ordinary term, during which it reviewed several key legislative proposals and strategic studies aimed at enhancing Oman’s legal and economic frameworks. The session, chaired by H E Sheikh Abdulmalik Abdullah al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council, discussed the Real […]
Salalah – The Dhofar Governorate Police Command has arrested three citizens following the circulation of video footage showing them engaging in reckless driving and performing stunts with their vehicles in Salalah. According to the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the individuals disturbed public order and caused a traffic accident as a result of their actions. Legal […]
Muscat – Researchers at the National University of Science and Technology (UTAS) have developed an innovative and environmentally sustainable method to repurpose used aluminum foil into aluminum oxide nanoparticles, offering promising applications in healthcare, agriculture, and industry. The study, led by Omani researcher Reem Hilal al Maamari from the UTAS, demonstrates how discarded aluminum foil […]
Muscat – Activities of the Innovation Forum 2025 began on Tuesday in Dhahirah governorate, bringing together more than 100 innovators from across the sultanate. Organised by the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED), the two-day forum features 32 teams showcasing innovative projects spanning various sectors. The event aims to empower young talents to […]
Muscat – Muscat Municipality announced the winners of its international architecture competition for a landmark multi-use building in Bausher on Tuesday, with Germany’s KSP Engel securing first place. Launched earlier this year, the competition was held to select a design that reflects Omani identity while serving modern civic needs. The winners were revealed at a […]
Salalah – As part of the khareef season celebrations, Dhofar Municipality has launched the much-anticipated ‘Children’s Time’ activities at Awqad Public Park in Salalah, offering a blend of entertainment and education tailored for young visitors and families. Running from July 1 to August 31, the event transforms the park into an immersive environment designed to […]
State Council discusses draft laws and income diversification study
ROP arrests three for reckless driving in Salalah
Omani researchers develop eco-friendly method to combat bacteria
Innovation forum 2025 kicks off in Dhahirah
KSP Engel of Germany wins Muscat Municipality design contest
‘Children’s Time’ brings fun-filled learning to Salalah during khareef