PROJECTS:
Safe Project
For my capstone project in the Robotics & Engineering shop, I designed and built an electronically controlled safe from the ground up. I created a full CAD model of the outside and the internal components, 3D printed structural parts such as the hinge and wall mounts, laser-cut the PCB housing, and milled and soldered the PCB myself. I learned to operate a waterjet to cut sheet metal, which was then welded into the shell. After assembling the circuitry, I programmed the locking mechanism and control logic to ensure reliable operation. This project required iterative testing and refinement to align the mechanical precision a safe requires with electronic functionality.
Arcade Machine
Over two years, I designed and built a fully functional arcade cabinet centered around a video game I developed using the Unity Engine. I programmed the game logic, mechanics, AI logic, and user interface. I also created original character animations and assets using digital illustration software. The game includes multiple modes, minigames, distinct playable characters, abilities, and custom-designed maps. During my senior year, I designed and fabricated the cabinet from birch plywood, routed and assembled the structure, wired the control panel, carefully painted the outside, and integrated the electronics with the software system. This project required long-term planning, hardware-software integration, and sustained iteration across design and functionality.
Sumo Robot
In collaboration with a classmate, I designed and built a competitive Sumo Robot that won first place in our school’s Sumo Robot competition, finishing undefeated. I contributed to the mechanical design, weight distribution strategy, and component integration to optimize traction and pushing force within competition constraints. I also designed and 3D printed custom exterior elements, such as the face which was modelled after a classmate and close friend of mine. The project emphasized strategic design under limitations, rapid testing, and iterative refinement based on performance outcomes. I also learned how to integrate knowledge from different areas of my life with projects that may seem unrelated. In designing the front ramp, I took inspiration from how football lineman maximize force by keeping a lower center of gravity.
Light Box
As my first project in the Robotics & Engineering program, I designed and fabricated a programmable acrylic light box with multiple color modes controlled through a single push button. I designed and laser-cut the acrylic panel, milled and soldered the PCB, wired the LED system, and programmed the microcontroller to cycle through preset lighting configurations. This project introduced me to circuit design, basic programming logic, and fabrication tools, laying the foundation for more complex builds in subsequent years.
