Research Assistant (PhD Thesis), January 2009 - present
Advisors: Perry Y. Li, PhD and Arthur G. Erdman, PhD
- Researched and designed a novel robotic, hydraulic, multi-articulated surgical platform for use with various forms of surgical procedures.
- Designed a novel hydraulic valve capable of low-flow rate, high-pressure operation within restrictive size constraints.
- Planned and fabricated prototypes for various components of the proposed surgical platform for validation and testing design effectiveness.
- Developed analytical and numerical models to describe system kinematics and test operation.
Research Lab Assistant, Bone and Joint Biomechanics Laboratory, May - August 2008
Advisor: Heidi-Lynn Ploeg, PhD
- Conducted an experimental study evaluating the accuracy, precision, and repeatability of an Optotrak motion capture camera system.
- Prepared computer models of human bones and joint implants using image processing software, Mimics.
- Performed data analysis, interpreted results, and summarized findings in preparation for submission to a peer-reviewed journal for publication.
Undergraduate Researcher, Neuromuscular Biomechanics Laboratory, January - May 2008
Advisor: Darryl G. Thelen, PhD
- Designed and fabricated mounting plates to rigidly attach a three-dimensional load cell between a bicycle saddle and seat tube.
- Conducted an experimental study evaluating the dynamic loads and moments to which the saddle is subjected during normal operation of the bicycle.
- Analyzed resulting data and prepared an internal report to validate previous findings obtained using pressure sensitive mats to measure saddle pressure distributions.
Thermal and Fluid Sciences Intern, Research and Development, January 2007 - May 2008
Supervisor: Z. Gerald Liu, PhD, PE
- Collected and analyzed chemical speciation data from diesel engine emissions.
- Interpreted experimental results and prepared manuscripts for both internal report and external publication.