I work in the area of robust control theory which focuses on the impact of model uncertainty on systems design. My research mainly focuses on the use of models for the design of control systems. This has applications to the design of autopilots on aircraft, the operation of wind turbines, and other engineered systems. The models are often developed from a combination of physical laws and data collected from the system. Uncertainty in the resulting model can propagate to a poorly design control algorithm leading to catastrophic effects for the engineered system. I develop theory and algorithms to analyze the impact of this model uncertainty and also design control algorithms that are robust, i.e. insensitive, to this uncertainty.
What makes you excited about your data science and AI research?
A canonical example of a feedback system is the cruise control on a car. The driver specifies the desired speed and this is compared to a measurement of the actual speed. The control algorithm is designed to modulate the engine throttle in response to the difference between the desired and measured speed. This is the basic feedback mechanism: react to the difference between the desired and measured system behavior. Feedback is pervasive in many systems to ensure reliable, safe, and repeatable operation. The field of control has historically relied on models of the physical system in order to design these feedback algorithms. Data has been used to identify the models but the full power of AI/ML techniques is still being explored in the field of control. I’m excited to explore how modern trends in data science can be used for the design of control algorithms.
What are 1-3 interesting facts about yourself?
1. I have been a faculty in three different engineering departments: a) Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, b) Aerospace Engineering & Mechanics, and c) Electrical Engineering & Computer Science. I think this speaks to the generality of feedback control within engineering.
2. I worked at the Honeywell Labs from 2004-2008 and was part of the team that developed the flight control electronics for the Boeing 787 aircraft.
3. I ran and completed the Leadville 100 mile race.