Zack WoodruffPhD StudentAdviser: Kevin Lynch
My research is in the area of motion planning and control for robotic locomotion and manipulation while accounting for dynamics. I am focusing on uncertain hybrid systems that make and break contact with their environment and have uncertainty in actuation, state, parameters, or the dynamic model.
Hybrid Manipulation Planning and Control
My undergraduate research spanned the areas of harnessing waste heat from computers for use in buildings and characterizing the power production of wind turbines.
I am additionally interested in the areas of medical robotics, agricultural tech, renewable energy/sustainability, and human-centered design.
PhD Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern University (2020)
MS Mechanical Engineering, Northwestern University (2016)
BS Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame (2013)
Teacher
Cotaught Designing Product Interactions, a course in the design department on leveraging human centered design, specifically focusing on the five senses, to design and physically prototype more engaging products and experiences. Fall 2017.
Volunteer teacher for Northwestern Splash education program
- Rise of Robotics: April 2014
- The Science of Sound in Nature, Engineering, and Art: April 2017
TA
ME449: Robotic Manipulation, Fall 2018
ME333: Introduction to Mechatronics, Winter 2015
Grader
ME449: Robotic Manipulation, Fall 2014