Engineers
This section of my website is designed to show off the most recent technical challenges that I have overcome.
Recently, most of my attention has been focused on my V2 LaxBot prototype. There have been a lot of challenges I have faced when designing, fabricating, and programming this prototype, however I will be focusing on the mechanical design and mechatronics aspects of this project as the programming contains sensitive data and intellectual property.
If you want to learn more about any of these topics, challenges, or solutions, or just want to chat, feel free to reach out at kshvodian@gmail.com.LaxBot: a robotic training partner for lacrosse
Problem: Lacrosse players lacked a robotic training partner that could intelligently aim passes.
Solution: I created LaxBot, a lacrosse training robot powered by computer vision and dual-motor control.
I created LaxBot, the world’s first lacrosse training robot. It’s like a pitching machine or a tennis serving machine, but designed specifically for lacrosse and powered by computer vision algorithms to intelligently aim at the user.
This project showcased my skills in CAD, embedded systems controls, design for manufacture, circuit design, and 3D printing, while also demonstrating my software development abilities through a custom iOS app built in native Swift and a specialized YOLO model trained to detect lacrosse sticks.
The robot was based on a modified standard pitching machine with dual-motor control systems for horizontal and vertical aiming, enabling LaxBot to calculate trajectories and lead moving players with accurate passes.
My project earned the coveted UCSB CNSI Innovation Grant ($3,000), which is typically reserved for graduate students. I also competed in UCSB’s New Venture startup competition, where I learned how to develop a viable business model.
Finally, through this project, I was able to hone my leadership abilities as I directed a team of four mechanical engineers to successfully execute my plans and design specifications. If you want to see our V1 prototype, then check out my projects page. Here's a look at what we have so far for our V2 prototype!