Hackathons

A collection of hardware and software hackathons where I worked in fast-paced, multidisciplinary teams to prototype real-world engineering solutions under tight time constraints.

MakeCU Hackathon

Columbia University · 2025–2026

Team: CUPu
Project: Computer-vision-based robotic trash and recycling sorter

Inspiration

Environmental sustainability is a growing global challenge. Our team wanted to create a system that makes sustainable behavior easier and more accessible, leading to the concept of an automated garbage sorting robot.

What We Built

A robotic system that detects when an object is placed in front of it, classifies the object as trash or recyclable using computer vision, and mechanically directs it into the correct bin.

Final Product Demo

How We Built It

Hardware

• Raspberry Pi as the main controller
• Camera and ultrasonic sensor for object detection and positioning
• Servo motor and driver for mechanical sorting
• 3D-printed platform and electronics mount designed in SolidWorks
• Carbon-based bin and funnel structure

Software

• Computer vision model trained on a labeled Kaggle dataset
• Python-based image processing and inference pipeline
• Real-time classification of recyclable vs. trash items

Challenges

• Unreliable Raspberry Pi networking over mobile hotspot
• Long model training times with limited bandwidth
• Hardware failure requiring rapid redesign and reprogramming
• Limited access to batteries and 3D printers during the event

Accomplishments

• Trained a computer vision model achieving ~96% accuracy
• Successfully integrated hardware and software into a working prototype
• Delivered a functional system under extreme time and resource constraints

Skills & Tools

• Programming: Python, NumPy, OpenCV, PyTorch
• Hardware: Raspberry Pi, GPIO, Sensors, Servos
• Design: SolidWorks, Rapid Prototyping
• Skills: Teamwork, Debugging, Time Management

More Hackathons Coming Soon

This page will be updated with additional hackathons as I continue participating in competitive, fast-paced engineering events. Next: (Jan 17th NexHacks)