Robotics Software Engineer - Autonomous Navigation, Perception (AMR) KioTek Digi Networks LLC, USA Feb 2024 - Present | 4 mo

About this role:
Lead Robotics Engineer in Autonomous Mobile Systems. Specialize in developing and optimizing advanced machine learning algorithms, control systems, perception systems, and motion planning and navigation techniques for general-purpose mobile robots. Leverage state-of-the-art technologies to enable robots to operate autonomously in complex and dynamic environments. Drive the development of innovative solutions to challenging robotics problems, enhancing the capabilities of autonomous mobile systems across various industries. Contribute to the advancement of robotics by pushing the boundaries of machine learning, control theory, and perception to create intelligent and reliable autonomous robots.

Key Contributions & Impact Created:

• Developed a lightweight, one-stage TensorFlow object detection system, enhancing real-time scene understanding, detection and localization of surrounding objects in autonomous vacuum cleaners, significantly reducing computational load.
• Implemented advanced SLAM technologies for real-time environmental mapping and localization, ensuring comprehensive area coverage by the cleaning robot through high-speed spatial awareness systems like ScanSLAM.
• Engineered sophisticated motion planning algorithms, including state-of-the-art global and local planners. These optimizations enable smooth autonomous navigation by optimizing trajectories, handling multiple safety and kinodynamic constraints, and establishing boundaries around surrounding objects to ensure collision-free operation.
• Thrived in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple project timelines to meet stringent product development deadlines, demonstrating exceptional organizational skills and delivering high-quality solutions.

Autonomous System Researcher - Mobile Manipulations (AMR, AMMR) School of Engineering and Applied Sciences University at Buffalo, New York Jan 2023 - Jan 2024 | 1 Year

Supervised by: Dr. Vojislav Kalanovic - Director of Robotics, President of Flexible Robotic Environment, SUNY Professor of Practice
Specialized research in: Autonomous Mobile Manipulation Robot (AMMR)

About this research role:
Autonomous Systems Researcher in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, focusing on pioneering research in Autonomous Mobile Manipulation Robots (AMMR). This research role involved leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and sensor fusion to develop high-accuracy scene understanding and object localization systems. The research aimed at advancing the capabilities of mobile robots to navigate dynamic environments and perform precise manipulation tasks, contributing to the future of autonomous systems and mobile manipulations.

Key Contributions & Impact Created:

• Conducted hands-on research on a custom-made autonomous mobile manipulation robot known as HK-BOT, focusing on autonomous navigation and object manipulation in dynamic, unknown environments.
• Engineered high-accuracy object detection systems using state-of-the-art deep learning algorithms like YOLOv9, YOLOv8, and RCNN, enhancing real-time perception for scene understanding, object detection, and object localization in the 3D world, significantly improving task accuracy.
• Integrated advanced motion planning algorithms to adapt to dynamic and static obstacles, facilitating complex path planning and obstacle avoidance tasks.
• Leveraged octomap-based 3D mapping to enhance environmental modeling and real-time navigation, and used MoveIt configuration for object manipulation, achieving efficient spatial awareness and precision in block manipulation tasks with a succession of 90%.
• Implemented Kalman and particle filters for robust sensor fusion, providing high-fidelity data integration that enhanced the localization and tracking accuracy of autonomous operations.

Multimedia Content Creator, Artist & Manager University at Buffalo, New York Aug 2022 - Dec 2022 | 6 mo

Supervised by: Jennifer Kern - Assistant Director for Marketing, Media & Retail, UB Recreation

About this role:
Multimedia Content Creator, Artist & Manager for UB official page content creator, focusing on professional video production and creative storytelling. This role involved leveraging expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, lighting techniques, scriptwriting, and storyboarding to produce high-quality video content. Responsible for enhancing the digital presence and engagement of UB Recreation through strategic content creation, contributing to the overall vision of impactful and visually compelling media.

Area of Expertise:
Professional video production, fluent motion editing, creative storytelling, expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, lighting techniques for video, scriptwriting and storyboarding, digital content strategy, social media content creation.

Key Contributions & Impact Created:

• Successfully increased student participation in sports at the University at Buffalo (UB) Recreation by producing compelling videography content.
• Created and launched a dynamic video campaign for the Team Bulls Shop, the official sports apparel store of UB Recreation. This campaign effectively communicated the brand's value and appeal, leading to a marked increase in sales and enhancing the shop's market position.
• Achieved a substantial surge in profile views and engagement metrics on UB Recreation's social media accounts through the strategic use of videography and photography.
• This increase in digital visibility has fostered a stronger online community and enhanced the reach and impact of UB Recreation's messaging.

Robotics Engineer, President & Educator The Robotics Club - SNIST, India Jun 2016 - Aug 2020 | 4+ Years

About: The Robotics Club-SNIST, a respected non-profit robotics organization, where I embarked on a transformative journey. Starting as a trainee in the first year, I quickly progressed to mentor a team, evolving into a robotics tutor. My commitment and passion for robotics led me to win national and international competitions, contributing significantly to my growth. I also played a pivotal role in conducting robotics events across India. Over 4+ years, this journey culminated in my election as the president of the organization, a testament to my leadership and dedication to the field of robotics.

President
Jan 2019 - Aug 2020 | 1yr 8mos

• Orchestrated a member base of over 1500, optimizing resource allocation and departmental collaboration, which resulted in a 30% improvement in event turnout and enhanced the clubs reputation through major events and workshops. Demonstrated strategic planning in load, stress, and time management, enhancing operational efficiency across all organizational activities.
• Championed the implementation of cutting-edge robotics technological workshops and fostered an innovative learning environment, significantly raising the technical proficiency of members, encouraging early leadership roles, and cultivating a pipeline of future leaders, positioning the club as a leader in robotics education nationally.
• Masterminded finance strategies that increased annual funding and secured long-term sponsorships by 25%, ensuring sustained growth and operational excellence. Demonstrated exceptional adaptability and decisiveness during unforeseen challenges to maintain high standards of member satisfaction.
• Elevated club sponsorship revenues and enhanced financial stability through strategic partnerships and innovative funding strategies, directly contributing to expanded operations and solidifying the club's status in the national robotics community, while also streamlining stress and time management processes to support continuous improvement.

Head of National Robotics Event, Roboveda 2019
Sep 2019 to Sep 2019 | 1 mo

• Led Roboveda'19, a national-level robotics event in 2019, expertly orchestrating operations and participant management across the nation to ensure seamless event execution. Managed complex logistics, including prize money distributions and participant coordination during the event.
• Collaborated closely with team leaders to streamline event management and efficiently resolve disputes, enhancing smooth operations. Skilled in conflict resolution, which ensured fair and positive outcomes for all participants.
• Developed and executed strategic finance and marketing plans, securing vital sponsorships and efficiently managing prize allocations. Implemented engagement tactics that significantly increased participant interaction and event visibility.
• Fostered a collaborative atmosphere, promoting innovation and community among participants and team members. Leveraged these interactions to contribute substantially to the events growth and established it as a milestone in the national robotics community, reinforcing its reputation for excellence and collaborative success.

Technical Head, Robotics Instructor, Tutor & Educator
Jan 2018 to Dec 2018 | 1 yr

• Spearheaded the development and delivery of an intuitive, differentiated robotics curriculum, enhancing learning outcomes for 30-40 teams annually. Applied personalized and experiential learning techniques, which led to a noticeable 40% increase in technical proficiency and engagement of the members of the club.
• Organized and led hands-on instruction sessions using ROS and robotic components, incorporating active and cooperative learning strategies. This approach significantly increased problem-solving skills and prepared members for national and international competitions, improving their performance outcomes and event wins.
• Conducted bi-weekly classes in a large auditorium setting, enhancing public speaking skills and effectively using my method of intuitive learning where I connect real-world examples to robotics, ensuring that concepts connect to the brain with a spark and that students are never bored.
• Mentored diverse teams, integrating culturally responsive teaching and scaffolding to foster a collaborative and innovative environment. My mentorship led teams to achieve higher levels of creativity and success in robotics competitions, establishing the organization as a hub for emerging robotics talents.
• Delivered compelling, motivational talks at various universities, focusing on advanced robotics and autonomous systems. Utilized explicit instruction and visualization techniques to enhance understanding and inspire innovation, contributing to a marked increase in student enrollment in advanced robotics courses.
• Conducted robotics workshops both inside and outside the organization, aligning with the organizations mission to make robotics accessible in both urban and rural areas where educational resources are limited. These workshops aim to inspire and educate a broader audience, bridging the educational divide and fostering a widespread appreciation for robotics technology.

Technical Deputy for National Robotics Event, Roboveda 2018
Sep 2018 to Sep 2018 | 1 mo

• As Technical Deputy and Head of Eight Events at Roboveda, a prestigious national-level robotics symposium, I was responsible for developing and finalizing challenging problem statements for each of the eight unique robotic competitions. This role required a deep understanding of robotic systems and the ability to devise problems that tested various aspects of robotics engineering, from sensor integration to algorithmic efficiency.
• I designed intricate and innovative challenges that not only set the competitive stage for participants but also raised the bar for what is expected in robotics competitions. My role extended beyond problem design; I was also in charge of overseeing the coordination and management of event logistics, team allocations, and meeting the technical requirements essential for conducting each competition seamlessly. My efforts ensured that participants had a meaningful and enriching competitive experience, fostering skills in problem-solving and technical proficiency.

Robotics Engineer & Mentor
Jan 2017 to Dec 2017 | 1 yr

• Experience in diverse robotics development, skilled in engineering a variety of robots, from mobile to legged types, utilizing Arduino and Raspberry Pi boards. Expertly integrated microprocessors and sensor systems to enhance functionality and performance.
• Hands on mechanical design expertise and proficient in the application of mechanical components, gears, and mechanisms, leveraging hands-on experience to design and implement innovative robotics solutions tailored for effective problem-solving.
• Good knowledge in electronic design and fabrication, including proficient soldering, wiring, and the implementation of various sensor technologies. Skilled in working with a range of electronic components such as different types of wires and bulbs, essential for constructing and robotic systems.

Jr. Robotics Member & Trainee
Jun 2016 to Dec 2016 | 7 mo

• Qualified the entrance exam and just entered the organization as a member.

Class Representative & Leader School of Electronics and Communications SNIST, India Sep 2016 - Jun 2020 | 4 Years

About: I have been dedicated to refining my team management and leadership skills, a pursuit that led me to serve as the Class Representative for Section G during my undergraduate studies. For four consecutive years, I held this esteemed position, having been elected by my peers from the School of Electronics and Communication.

Key Contributions & Impact Created:

• This role was pivotal in honing my abilities to effectively communicate, organize, and lead, ensuring the seamless flow of information between the faculty and my classmates. I acted as the primary liaison for my fellow students, fostering a supportive and productive educational environment.
• Organized weekly meetings with the Head of Department (HOD) and Directors to discuss the performance of class members, and relayed updates and announcements from the department to my classmates in a timely manner.
• Resolved disputes and handled queries among class members, while managing classroom resources for effective teaching to ensure a conducive learning environment for both professors and students.

Electronics and Sensor Systems Intern National Small Industries Corporation, India May 2016 - Jun 2016 | 2 Months

About: At NSIC, my internship was a deep dive into the world of control algorithms, sensory data interpretation, and signal processing, essential for the development of robotics and autonomous systems. My work focused on exploring and implementing advanced sensory technologies to enhance the perception capabilities of autonomous systems. This experience expanded my technical skills on control algorithms, sensory data interpretation, and signal processing underpin the functionalities of robots and autonomous machines, ensuring their efficient and safe operation in real-world scenarios.

Key Contributions & Impact Created:

• Contributed to efficient and safe operations of autonomous machines in real-world scenarios through expert knowledge of digital electronics and sensor technology. Utilized platforms such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and Adafruit boards, and worked on wireless technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for seamless communication and control.
• Gained hands-on experience with state-of-the-art sensors for motion, orientation, vision, imaging, manipulation, positioning, and navigation in autonomous systems, and conducted experiments with distance & ranging technologies like radar, lidar, stereo, and depth cameras, essential for enhancing perception.
• Worked extensively with various types of motors, including stepper, servo, and DC motors, to create robotic arms. Experimented with concepts like PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), PID control (Proportional-Integral-Derivative), and H-bridge circuits to control these motors effectively and ensure precise movement and operation.
• Refined sensor calibration using both target-based and targetless methodologies and applied advanced robotic filtering techniques such as Kalman and particle filters, significantly enhancing sensor accuracy, reliability, and autonomous navigation capabilities, achieving over 80% operational effectiveness while improving non-linearity handling, environmental prediction, and robustness to ambiguities.

Master of Science in Robotics

January 2022 to January 2024

University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication

August 2016 to June 2020

Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology, India