Hanson Chang

Online Sound Wave Learning and Detection

August 2023 - Present

• Implement an online frequency transform algorithm by integrating a Kalman based filter. This real-time algorithm enables continuous monitoring of sound waves, dynamically adapting to changing frequencies, and providing efficient online analysis.
• Leverage the duality of nonlinear filters to enhance the research's efficacy, particularly in finding optimal control parameters. This application allows for the online learning, detection, and recognition of intricate frequency patterns associated with music notes. The incorporation of this methodology contributes to improved accuracy and adaptability in online sound wave analysis.

Modeling, Control and Estimation of Soft Robotics

July 2019 - Present

• Apply energy-based control algorithms and develop a muscular model to simulate octopus arms, utilizing Cosserat Rods as a fundamental framework. Successfully showcase the versatility of these algorithms by orchestrating a spectrum of manipulations, particularly excelling in mimicking dynamic movements such as reaching, fetching, and grasping. This innovative approach contributes to a deeper understanding of biomechanics and soft robotics.
• Expand the application of energy-based control and estimation algorithms to physical soft actuators, incorporating pneumatic artificial muscles. This groundbreaking work underscores the considerable potential for real-world applications in fields such as soft robotics and biomechanics, promising advancements in flexible and adaptable robotic systems.

Robotics Engineer Intern

May 2023 - August 2023

MVP Robotics, VT, USA

• Develope a gunshot zone detector, a sound wave classification machine learning model, using single microphone installed inside the shooting plastic dummy. The model achievs a 98% accuracy rate and its model structure and usage have been filed as a patent.
• Collaborated seamlessly with interdisciplinary teams to successfully apply this innovative approach to a diverse range of applications, including but not limited to firearms training, security, and safety. These efforts have culminated in the successful commercialization and sale of the developed product, showcasing its practical applicability and market viability.

Instructor: ME360 Signal Processing

Janurary 2023 - May 2023

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA

• Lecture on the fundamentals of signals and systems to a class of over 60 students. This includes creating engaging and interactive lectures that cover key concepts such as signal processing, system dynamics, and control theory.
• Develop practical-based assignments, projects, and exams that allow students to apply their class-acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios, such as JPEG compression, car damping system modeling, and surface flatness sensor control.

Technician Intern at Department of Laboratory Medicine

September 2016 - June 2017

NTU Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan

• Build an advanced alarm system within the medical laboratory, incorporating cutting-edge collection tube traffic sensors. This innovative system features a radar distance sensor meticulously designed to validate the completeness of the collection tube testing process. To further elevate its functionality, the system includes alarm notifications that deliver both visual and audio feedback to technicians upon the successful completion of testing.
• Enhance the efficiency of the extensive blood sample inspection process by 15%, achieved through collaborative efforts with clinical specialists. This breakthrough approach not only streamlines the inspection process but also ensures accuracy and precision, significantly contributing to the overall operational effectiveness of the laboratory setting.

Research Intern: Motor Controller Design & Analysis

July 2016 - August 2016

Syntec Technology, Hsinchu, Taiwan

• Apply notch filters on a digital signal processor to mitigate resonance issues on loaded machine tools. This elevates electric motor performance by enabling operation at higher command frequencies without compromising precision.
• Conduct an in-depth investigation into the stepping-motor out-of-step phenomenon through comprehensive analysis of experiments and simulation results. This contributes to the advancement of motor control strategies.

Graduate Research Assistant

September 2018 - Present

Mehta Research Group (research website link),

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA

• Engage in collaborative research across diverse disciplines, working alongside experts in neuroscience, robotics, manufacturing, and high-performance computing simulation to formulate cutting-edge models, control strategies, and estimation algorithms for soft and slender actuators.
• Participate in the research process by contributing to the planning, design, and hands-on execution of experiments. Additionally, demonstrate strong leadership by mentoring and guiding undergraduate researchers through all stages of experimentation, including experiment setup, precise data acquisition, and thorough data processing.
• Shoulder the responsibility of managing the project timeline, ensuring alignment with the established proposal schedule. This comprehensive approach assures that the project consistently resides at the forefront of innovation and development. The combined roles in both research and project management guarantee the smooth operation of the initiative, reinforcing its position as a pioneering force in the field.

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Janurary 2022 - December 2023

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA

• Provide students with in-depth tutoring and guidance, emphasizing both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of complex analysis, linear algebra, and ordinary differential equations, specifically tailored to real-world engineering challenges.
• Organize and conduct regular office hours, offering personalized support to both individuals and groups. This proactive approach ensures that students are thoroughly prepared for their coursework and equipped with the necessary skills to apply mathematical concepts in engineering applications.

Teaching Assistant

August 2017 - July 2018

National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan

• Demonstrate the critical role of understanding kinematics, dynamics, and systems in the design and optimization of machinery across fields like robotics, manufacturing, and automotive engineering.
• Provide students with hands-on guidance, equipping them with essential resources to successfully complete projects. This approach cultivates a practical learning experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge and enhance their engineering skills, all while understanding the practical relevance of these concepts in real-world engineering applications.

Independent Research

September 2015 - July 2017

National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan

• Undertake an independent project with a primary focus on the classification of surface electromyography (sEMG) signals, achieving a 95% accuracy rate in discerning between five distinct hand gestures by employing Indipendent Component Analysis (ICA) for the processing of multi-channel sEMG signals.
• Engage in close collaboration with a team composed of fellow students and graduate researchers in a dedicated project centered on the development, manufacturing, and control of a prosthetic robot arm featuring pneumatic artificial muscles. I contributed to the control and estimation aspects, including the implementation of PID control and the Extended Kalman filter algorithm.

Ph.D. in Mechanical Science & Engineering

August 2018 - Present

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA

• 2023 Robert E. Miller Excellence in Teaching Award, hosted by Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, UIUC
• 2022 Outstanding Teaching Assistant, hosted by Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning, UIUC
• 2021 National Fellowship Award to Study Abroad, hosted by Ministry of Education, Taiwan (25.8% of acceptance rate)
• 2018 Gauthier Fellowship Award, hosted by Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, UIUC (1 recipient out of 53 Ph.D. admissions)

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

September 2013 - June 2017

National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan

• 2017 Chain-Tsuan Liu Scholarship Award, hosted by Department of Mechanical Engineering, NTU (1 recipient out of nearly 700 undergraduates)
• 2017 Presidential Award, hosted by NTU (recipients rank in the top 5% of their class)
• 2016 Distinguish Oral Paper Award, hosted by ISME International Conference
• 2016 National Funding of College Project, hosted by Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan