Innovation often begins with curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to tackle difficult problems. Through Vantor's partnership with Linköping University in Sweden, master's students have the opportunity to apply academic research to real-world challenges while contributing to technologies that may shape future products and capabilities.
This year, Mikael Lundgren and Edvard Wetind joined Vantor's Linköping office to complete a thesis project focused on geolocalization from low-altitude imagery. Working with Gustav Tapper, Manager, Software Development, and Gustav Häger, as supervisor, the students explored machine learning approaches for determining the position of a drone using forward-facing camera imagery captured near ground level.
The project was closely tied to the Raptor program and addressed a complex challenge: helping autonomous systems determine their location without relying on predefined starting coordinates. The team's work evaluated whether machine learning could provide an initial position and orientation estimate for drones operating in environments where traditional positioning methods may be limited.
The results proved promising.
The students brought positive energy, curiosity, and an effective approach to problem-solving throughout the project. Their work demonstrated the potential for future applications that could help autonomous systems operate more independently across large geographic areas.
Mikael Lundgren
Edvard Wetind
Mikael Lundgren
Mikael is pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering at Linköping University. He was initially drawn to the opportunity because of its focus on computer vision, machine learning, autonomous systems, and the chance to work on a challenge with real-world applications.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was seeing the project evolve from an uncertain research question into a solution that demonstrated meaningful potential.
"The most exciting thing we achieved was the optimistic outlook our supervisor had when he first got to see our results," Mikael said. "As the project went on, it seemed more and more plausible that it could result in some exciting new technology."
Outside of engineering, Mikael is a longtime fan of sumo wrestling. While studying abroad in Tokyo, he joined Keio University's sumo club and even competed in amateur tournaments.
Edvard Wetind
Edvard, also pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering at Linköping University, was attracted to Vantor because of its reputation for meaningful thesis projects and strong collaboration with the university.
For Edvard, one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was becoming part of the local team and learning directly from experienced engineers and researchers.
"It was fun to integrate into the team and learn from coworkers," Edvard said. "Being able to discuss the research field with experienced colleagues and immediately apply that knowledge to the thesis made the experience especially rewarding."
The experience also opened the door to the next stage of his career. Following graduation, Edvard will continue his journey with Vantor as a full-time employee.
Building the Future Through Partnership
Partnerships between industry and academia create opportunities for students to contribute to meaningful research while helping organizations explore emerging technologies and future capabilities.
For Vantor, the Master Thesis Program provides access to fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. For students like Mikael and Edvard, it offers the opportunity to apply years of academic study to real-world challenges while contributing to research that may influence future technologies.
Their work demonstrates how collaboration, research, and emerging talent can help drive innovation forward.