To combat the ever increasing amount of space debris, especially relating to the many small satellite constellations currently entering LEO, soft detumbling and capturing systems for small satellites are crucial. During my semester in Japan,, I worked on the end-effectors of a dual-arm-robot on an air-floating testbed. Here, I created a compliant 3 planer DOF mechanism, ensuring soft contact between chaser and target satellite. This mechanism enables non-destructive detumbling and capturing, whilst and reducing requirements on controller accuracy and speed.
In EVA-suits used by astronauts, hand mobility is a common issue, having led to many injuries. We were tasked with improving the glove of the EVA suit, finding our inspiration in nature using the ACCREx method.
Using nature as a source of inspiration, different concepts were drafted, a final concept and design were worked out and a working principle was built. We completed the course with a grade of 8.5.
I worked on the guidance mechanism subsystem of the next generation of EUV lithography machines, commissioned by ASML.
I also functioned as one of the system engineers to bring the different subsystems together, and in the end our team of about 20 people was crowned to have the best overall design.
During my second year, I joined a new robotics team set up by classmates. I contributed in the the control system design and kinematic analysis of the robot, which now operates at FESTO.
With two other students and an organiser from the VU, we developed a 4 day masterclass, in mechanics, manufacturing and design for secondary school students. I co-hosted all sessions with my peers and created parts of the lecture content. Our goal was to enthuse them for engineering education, are glad to see it back in the passion the students had.
During my second year of study, I was asked to be a Teaching Assistant for new students in the MATLAB course. I was responsible for creating course content, checking students work and supporting the learning process.
I helped develop a sustainable energy project: “Making Amsterdam self-sufficient” for the ME bachelor. I was tasked with data collection re-writing of the technical assignment, as well as general organization and student support during the project.
I create learning and practice content for an online tool, helping secondary school students study for physics exams.