Dubomini, an autonomous underwater vehicle developed by BRAC University’s student robotics team BRACU DUBURI, has won the Best Project Award at the 2026 Project Showcasing Competition organised by the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB).
The competition, held at the IEB headquarters in Ramna, Dhaka, on June 13, brought together engineering projects from leading universities and institutions across Bangladesh. The event provided engineering students with a platform to showcase innovative research and technological developments, said in a press release.
The BRACU DUBURI team represented BRAC University at the competition. The university has been supporting students in advanced research and the development of underwater robotic systems with practical applications since 2017.
Dubomini is an autonomous robotic submarine capable of operating underwater without direct human control. The vehicle can move in multiple directions and orientations, enabling it to navigate confined spaces and carry out tasks with precision.
The system is powered by batteries and uses an independent power management architecture that separates motor operations from the onboard computing system, helping maintain stability if one system experiences power fluctuations.
The underwater vehicle is equipped with cameras and sensors that enable it to monitor depth, direction and surrounding conditions. Its onboard software processes data to identify objects and obstacles and determine appropriate responses during operation.
According to the university, these capabilities allow Dubomini to perform tasks such as navigating through underwater gates, avoiding obstacles and identifying targets with a high degree of autonomy.
The award highlights BRAC University’s ongoing investment in student-led research and engineering innovation, particularly in emerging technologies with practical and real-world applications.
The university said the achievement also reflects its commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.
