About Me
Hi! I'm Vishnu Mandala, a Robotics Engineer and recent graduate from the University of Maryland, College Park with a Master’s in Robotics Engineering. My expertise lies at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems, focusing on perception, planning, and control.
I have developed intelligent robotic systems using ROS/ROS2, designed deep learning-based AI solutions, and implemented reinforcement learning algorithms for navigation and decision-making. My experience spans mobile robotics, manipulators, autonomous navigation, and industrial automation, with a strong foundation in robot modeling, simulation, and embedded systems.
My work has been instrumental in projects such as autonomous robot navigation, industrial automation, AI-driven perception systems, and adaptive control algorithms, leveraging tools like PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV, and SLAM frameworks. I am passionate about building efficient, scalable, and intelligent robotic solutions that push the boundaries of automation and real-world deployment.
Tech Stack Usage Across Projects
Robotics Frameworks
Essential frameworks for robotics development, simulation, and computer vision.
Timeline
Robotics Intern
March 2025 — Present
RoBuildX Inc. (Remote)
Developed parametric URDF/XACRO models for the Roofie wall-panel placer, integrated MoveIt2 pipelines, and achieved sub-10 mm placement accuracy in Gazebo simulations
Ported Gazebo sensor and actuator plugins to ROS2 and built automated test frameworks to validate trajectories, safety interlocks, and refine control parameters — cutting commissioning time by 30%
Designed an upper-rail–mounted gripper control and payload attachment kit for a purchased 500,kg AMR; integrated CANbus I/O, e-stop circuitry, and HIL tests, then fused LiDAR + IMU + AprilTag data with Nav2 planners for reliable dynamic navigation
Liaised with clients, project managers, and AMR vendors to scope deployments, customize platforms, and author quick-start and troubleshooting guides for Tier-3 support
Graduate Teaching Assistant
August 2023 — December 2024
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland
Delivered hands-on instruction in SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor to over 600 students, improving design accuracy by 25% through advanced CAD lectures, targeted feedback, and collaboration with faculty on grading and assessments
Assistant Operations Manager
June 2023 — December 2024
Conferences and Visitor Services, University of Maryland
Directed linen operations across 120+ programs, implementing a custom database to maintain 100% inventory tracking accuracy, achieve a 50% cost reduction, boost efficiency by 30%, and supervise a team of 25 members
Master of Engineering in Robotics
January 2023 — December 2024
University of Maryland, College Park, MD
GPA: 3.91/4.0
Coursework: Perception and Planning for Autonomous Robots, Robot Modeling and Controls, AI and Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Manufacturing Robotic Systems, Rehabilitation Robotics
Bachelor of Technology in Mechatronics
July 2018 — July 2022
Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Technology, India
GPA: 7.84/10
Coursework: Kinematics and Dynamics of Machinery, Robotics and Automation, CAD/CAM, Finite Element Methods, Motion Control Design, Switching Theory and Logic Design, Microprocessors and Microcontrollers, Fundamentals of IoT, MEMS, Material Science, Automotive and Manufacturing Processes, Automobile Engineering, Operations Research
Activities
- Vehicle Prototype Developer – QUADTEK RACING, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Technology (FMAE BAJA 2021)
- Designed an off-road prototype vehicle in SolidWorks and ANSYS, ensuring compliance with FMAE and SAE BAJA standards
- Designed and optimized a BAJA off-road prototype in SolidWorks and ANSYS—refined chassis, suspension, and roll-cage via FEA and field tests, cutting frame weight 12% while meeting FMAE/SAE safety factors > 2.0
- Engineered custom PCB-based electrical architecture integrating sensors and actuators for real-time data logging and control
Certifications
