Disobedient Robots
December 10, 2024 • 2 min read
Exploring the fascinating world of autonomous robots and their potential as creative partners rather than mere tools.
Jan 2024 - Jun 2024 | Seattle, WA
As part of my university capstone project with TE Connectivity, I spearheaded machine learning application into their expander line process. Self-teaching myself machine learning through research, hands-on practice, and rigorous study, I applied my skills to real-world problems.
Leveraging tools such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, I implemented complex algorithms including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), specifically Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, to optimize the expander line process. These models resulted in a ~20% reduction in scrap material, significantly decreasing the dependency on operator intuition and saving hundreds of engineering hours.
Throughout the capstone project with TE Connectivity, I took ownership of implementing key machine learning solutions that directly impacted the expander line process. Working closely with their engineers, I ensured our collaboration was seamless, combining my technical expertise with their operational knowledge to drive meaningful results. I proactively guided my team, facilitating problem-solving discussions and setting a clear direction for integrating machine learning into existing workflows.
To further enhance operational efficiency, I developed a custom analytics dashboard using Python, Streamlit, and MySQL. The webpage provided real-time insights into machine parameters, integrating predictive machine learning models that anticipated key performance indicators. This reduced manual intervention, streamlining workflows by ~30%.
Throughout the project, I utilized my full stack knowledge—ranging from JavaScript for frontend components to Streamlit for deployment—to ensure a seamless integration of these AI-driven solutions. My ability to self-learn and independently apply machine learning to solve industry-specific problems significantly contributed to improving product quality and reducing operational costs.
By promoting a strong focus on quality and performance, I helped streamline operations, reduce material waste, and improve overall productivity. This collaborative effort not only showcased my technical contributions but also strengthened the relationship between our team and TE Connectivity, ensuring the successful delivery of innovative solutions.
Highlights:
GitHub | islamnurdin |
Islam Nurdin | |
@islamnurdin | |
Essays |
World Scholar's Cup 2017 | Gold Medal |
World Scholar's Cup 2016 | Silver Medal |
2022-2024 | Seattle, WA
BS in Electrical & Computer Engineering
Teaching staff for an ECE class at UW
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December 10, 2024 • 2 min read
Exploring the fascinating world of autonomous robots and their potential as creative partners rather than mere tools.
Between May and November, I had the unique privilege of being part of the Disobedient Robots project, led by Nicolás Kisic Aguirre at DXARTS at the University of Washington. What started as a radical idea—a robot that doesn't always listen—became a playground for art and problem-solving. This is a bit of that journey.
The project challenged how we see robots. Instead of tools following commands, could they act as collaborators? Inspired by Ernesto Oroza's idea of "technological disobedience," we asked ourselves: What happens when robots are given a sense of agency? This wasn't just about building robots—it was about reshaping their purpose. Our starting point was humble. The robots were controlled manually using RC radio transmitters. They moved, sure, but the vision was so much bigger: to make them autonomous and adaptable.
At first, the robots were controlled manually with RC transmissions. Our main task was to make them fully autonomous. We did this by using ROS2 for robot control and adding sensors like LiDAR and depth cameras. These tools helped the robots map their surroundings and avoid obstacles.
Creating an obstacle avoidance system was key for autonomy. We used real-time sensing to program the robots to detect and move around barriers. This required careful sensor calibration and algorithm adjustments for changing conditions.
The project also focused on artistic expression. We worked with Nicolás to ensure the robots were part of a story about autonomy and teamwork. This mix of art and engineering showed me that robots can be more than just machines; they can be part of a creative process.
Working on the Disobedient Robots project at UW changed how I see human-robot interaction. Traditional robotics aims for machines that follow instructions exactly, but what if we could make robots with their own creative input?