The fourth edition of the E2TOP program brought the presentation of the autonomous robot ‘It’s a TRAP!’, while the fifth opened the door to research on sustainable recycling of wind turbine blades.
On March 17, 2026, a meeting was held to summarize the fourth edition of the E2TOP program, during which the participants presented the results of their work. In this edition, Mr. Kacper Frankowski, a sixth‑semester student of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, developed a mobile robot project titled “It’s a TRAP!” – Tetrapodic Robotic Autonomous Platform. The goal of the project was to create an autonomous robot inspired by canine behavior, built using ready‑made LEGO modules. The design combined elements of mechatronics, mobile robotics, and control algorithms, demonstrating how advanced solutions can be achieved using modular educational components. On the same day, the fifth edition of the E2TOP program was launched, featuring Ms. Laura Kosińska, a second‑semester student of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. As part of her project, “Nature‑Made Blades: A Second Life for Wind Energy,” she will identify and study materials that enable more efficient recycling and disposal of wind turbine blades, addressing current challenges related to sustainable development and the circular economy.
Both projects are supervised by Dr. Eng. Michał Lipian, who supports students in carrying out their ambitious research initiatives and ensures the high academic quality of their work. His involvement enables participants to develop engineering skills, gain project experience, and pursue ideas that go beyond the standard curriculum.
These projects perfectly reflect the mission of the E2TOP program, which supports the development of young talent, enables the implementation of innovative concepts, and encourages students to take a creative approach to engineering. The E2TOP program (Excellence in Engineering: Talents in Research with Opportunities Programme) is a prestigious initiative of Lodz University of Technology aimed at supporting the most talented students in their scientific, research, and professional development. Participants have the opportunity to work individually with a mentor, use specialized laboratories, receive financial support in the form of grants and scholarships, and take part in international trips. Although the program is primarily intended for first‑year students, editions dedicated to second‑cycle students are also carried out.