Professional Research Experience Program
Post-baccalaureate

PPRS: Robotics and Perception Systems Engineer

Project PREP0005239 · NIST sponsor Prem Rachakonda

Overview

The Intelligent Systems Division at NIST is investigating the performance of 3D vision systems for various manufacturing and automation applications. The research will focus on conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand the performance of these systems. This will support the development of performance metrics for these systems for various industrial applications.

Qualifications

Not all the qualifications below are required.

  • Education: Engineering majors with bachelor’s/master’s degree, or in final or penultimate years of bachelor’s/master’s degree.
  • Experience with working on robotic systems such as robot arms, mobile manipulators, etc.
  • Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks
  • Experience using MATLAB and Python.
  • Basic understanding of using PyTorch, TensorFlow
  • Programming experience in one or more of the following computer languages: C++, Java
  • Experience using 3D printers.
  • Basic understanding of 3D sensors such as LiDAR or RGBD cameras
  • Basic understanding of the Unix/Linux operating systems
  • Working knowledge of 3D point cloud data processing techniques, CloudCompare, or other similar tools

Research Proposal

  • Conduct experiments to realize several existing and novel test methods for 3D vision systems.
  • Research the effects of various physical properties of an object and sensor settings on the test metrics.
  • Program collaborative robot arms for conducting various automation tasks.
  • Use metrology systems (e.g., laser trackers, CMMs, etc.) for establishing reference measurements.
  • Use analysis software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Spatial Analyzer, Polyworks, Excel, etc.) to interpret results and produce visualizations.
  • Write reports and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
  • Work with commercial bin-picking systems.
  • Assist in the development of demonstrations for trade shows and conferences.
  • Assisting in performing market research for purchases required for the laboratories.
  • Using CAD software to design parts, end-of-arm tooling, and fixtures.
  • Working with NIST and/or external resources to have parts fabricated.
  • Recording knowledge and best practices to help improve efficiency and productivity.
  • Write reports and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
  • Work schedule: On-campus (Gaithersburg, MD), Full-time (40hrs/week)