The story of Evan Budz and his remarkable creation, BURT, is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential that lies within young minds. This 15-year-old's journey, from a simple observation on a camping trip to building an AI-powered robotic turtle, is a fascinating tale that deserves a closer look.
The Birth of an Idea
It all started with a glimpse of a snapping turtle gracefully moving through the water. Evan's curiosity about the turtle's stealthy movement led him to envision a unique application for underwater science. Within months, this idea took shape as BURT, an autonomous robot inspired by the swimming mechanics of sea turtles.
A Turtle-Inspired Design
Most underwater drones rely on propellers or water jets, which can disrupt delicate ecosystems. Evan aimed for something more subtle. By studying sea turtle locomotion, he learned how their front flippers propel them forward while the rear limbs steer. This insight guided the design of BURT's four flippers, ensuring efficient and gentle movement.
Building BURT
The creation process was a blend of technology and creativity. Evan designed BURT using SolidWorks, a 3D CAD software, and then 3D-printed the components himself. The robot's body, an acrylic tube, houses a Raspberry Pi microcomputer, managing AI detection models, data recording, and transmission. External sensors control depth, navigation, and obstacle detection, while a front camera feeds visual data to the onboard system.
Performance and Features
BURT's performance is impressive. It can swim at a turtle's typical pace of 0.5 mph for up to eight hours on a lithium battery, with a solar panel extending its range. Evan has also equipped BURT with lights and an ultrasonic transducer for murky waters, and developed a holographic imaging device to detect and classify microplastics.
Testing and Development
Most of BURT's development occurred in Evan's grandparents' backyard pool, where he created a simulated coral reef and programmed the robot to recognize coral bleaching and invasive species. Later, he tested BURT in Lake Ontario, refining its capabilities.
Awards and Recognition
Evan's hard work paid off with first place at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in 2025, along with a €7,000 award. He had previously won Best Project (Innovation) at the 2025 Canada-Wide Science Fair. His success continued a trend of Canadian students dominating at this prestigious competition.
A Philosophy of Environmental Stewardship
What makes Evan's project truly remarkable is his philosophy. Inspired by his parents' teachings, he designed BURT to gather data without causing harm, a stark contrast to conventional underwater technology. His goal is to deploy a fleet of these robots to monitor aquatic environments, addressing threats like coral bleaching, invasive species, and microplastics.
The Future of Underwater Science
Evan's work opens up exciting possibilities for the future of underwater science and conservation. His innovative approach, combined with his passion for environmental stewardship, sets a powerful example for young scientists and innovators worldwide. BURT is not just a robotic turtle; it's a symbol of the potential for positive change that lies within each of us.
