FIRST LEGO League Innovation Project

Unearthed

Revolutionizing Archaeological Excavation Through Robotics

A comprehensive robotic system featuring REPS (Robotic Excavation & Preservation System), AER prototypes (Automated Excavation Robots), and ASD (Automatic Scanning Drone). Combining precision excavation, artifact safety protocols, subsurface 3D imaging, and advanced preservation technology to transform how we uncover and protect humanity’s ancient treasures.

LEGO Robotics Arduino uGoT Platform Ultrasonic Sensors AI Navigation
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Why Archaeology?

Archaeological excavation demands extreme precision and care. Ancient artifacts are often fragile, irreplaceable, and situated in complex soil matrices. Our robotic system addresses the critical challenge of safely extracting artifacts while preserving their integrity and surrounding context. By automating the excavation process with intelligent sensors and controlled movements, we reduce human error and physical strain while maintaining the meticulous standards required in professional archaeology.

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Advanced Technologies

Our system integrates multiple cutting-edge technologies: LEGO robotics hubs provide modular, reconfigurable hardware platforms; Arduino-based sensor modules deliver real-time environmental data; uGoT computing enables distributed processing and coordination; ultrasonic distance sensing creates 3D maps of excavation sites; precision servo tools perform controlled soil removal; artifact preservation chambers maintain stable conditions; and custom 3D-printed attachments allow tool customization for different artifact types and soil conditions.

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Our Mission

To create a complete, autonomous excavation workflow that transforms archaeological methodology. Our robots detect potential artifact locations using advanced sensor arrays, carefully extract artifacts with precision tools, immediately transfer them to controlled preservation environments, and safely transport them for analysis—all while documenting every step of the process. This system represents the future of archaeology: safer for artifacts, more efficient for researchers, and capable of working in environments too dangerous or difficult for human excavators.

4
Robots
12+
Sensors
±2 mm
Precision
FLL
Team

Our Robots

Four specialized robots working in coordination to execute safe, precise archaeological excavations.

Click any robot card to expand and view complete technical details.
APA - Autonomous Preservation Arm
Artifact Preservation Arm
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APM is an autonomous robotic arm dedicated to artifact preservation. Using AI-based detection and precision tools, it enables controlled handling and stabilization of artifacts after excavation.

The Artifact Preservation Mechanism (APM) is an autonomous robotic arm designed for direct artifact preservation. Using preservation tools and sensor-based detection, APM identifies artifacts with an AI-powered camera system trained through Edge Impulse and Teachable Machine. Its strong motors enable precise and controlled handling across a range of artifact types.

Key Features

  • Autonomous artifact detection
  • AI-driven identification and handling
  • Precision preservation with strong mechanical control
Technical Specifications
Robotic arm system AI-powered camera (Edge Impulse, Teachable Machine) + Integrated preservation tools + High-torque motors
ASR - Autonomous Scanning Rover
Autonomous Scanning and Precision Cleaning Rover
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ASR is an autonomous system built to locate, uncover, and clean artifacts directly at the archaeological site. By combining subsurface scanning with precise excavation, it enables careful discovery without unnecessary disturbance.

The Autonomous Survey Rover (ASR) is designed to redefine how archaeological sites are explored and handled. It navigates independently using ultrasonic distance sensing, scanning beneath the surface with ground-penetrating radar to identify differences in material density. When a potential artifact is detected, ASR carefully excavates the area and performs on-site precision cleaning, allowing artifacts to be revealed and stabilized directly where they are found.

Key Features

  • Subsurface density detection to identify artifacts
  • Autonomous excavation at the discovery site
  • Precision cleaning without artifact relocation
Technical Specifications
Autonomous mobility system + Ultrasonic distance sensor for navigation + Integrated ground-penetrating radar + Precision excavation and cleaning toolset
AER – Autonomous Excavation Rover
Autonomous Heavy-Duty Excavation of Archeological Sites
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The AER is designed to accelerate archaeological excavation through autonomous movement and high-efficiency digging. It focuses on uncovering artifacts quickly while maintaining visual control of the excavation process.

The Autonomous Excavation Rover (AER) is built for speed and efficiency in archaeological excavation. Equipped with a powerful scooper and a camera system, AER moves through excavation zones to uncover and retrieve artifacts rapidly while maintaining operational control and visual accuracy.

Key Features

  • Camera-assisted operational control
  • Rapid artifact retrieval
  • High-efficiency excavation capability
Technical Specifications
Mobile rover platform + High-power scooping mechanism + Integrated camera system
ISA - Intelligent Sorting Arm
Autonomous Robotic Arm for the Efficient Storage and Sorting of Artifacts
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ISA applies machine learning to the challenge of artifact reconstruction. By analyzing fragments and identifying how they fit together, it supports the reassembly and classification of archaeological materials.

The Intelligent Sorting Assistant (ISA) is a machine-learning-driven system built to reconstruct the past from fragments. Using a webcam and AI models powered by Edge Impulse, ISA analyzes artifact fragments to determine size, type, and compatibility—identifying which pieces combine to form complete pottery. Its strong grip enables secure handling throughout the sorting and assembly process.

Key Features

  • Fragment matching for pottery reconstruction
  • Classification by size and artifact type
  • Strong grip for secure fragment handling
Technical Specifications
Webcam-based vision system + Machine learning model (Edge Impulse) + Robotic gripping mechanism
ACR - Autonomous Carry Rover
Autonomous Rover for Efficient Carrying of Artifacts
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ACR handles the critical task of artifact transport across archaeological sites. Operating autonomously, it ensures artifacts are moved safely from excavation to preservation and storage areas.

The Autonomous Carry Rover (ACR) serves as the logistical backbone of the archaeological workflow. Operating autonomously, it navigates the site using ultrasonic distance sensing to safely transport artifacts from the excavation area to preservation zones, and then onward to storage for transport.

Key Features

  • Safe artifact transportation
  • Autonomous site-to-storage logistics
  • Reduced handling risk during transfer
Technical Specifications
Autonomous navigation system + Ultrasonic distance sensor + Artifact transport platform