Mechanical engineering graduate student Lawrence Smith.
Where are you from?
Campbell, CA.
What schools have you attended?
Cal Poly SLO and CU Boulder.
What do you like to do in your free time?
3D printing, cooking, billiards and running.
Please share about your research.
I am researching efficient simulation of solid mechanics problems for the purpose of automated design of soft robotic systems. This involves running many simulations using finite element analysis and alternative numerical modeling techniques. I also research additive manufacturing of soft systems.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I have a home workshop with a pegboard that covers a whole wall. Every tool I've ever wanted hangs there, labeled and with a perfect outline drawn onto the pegboard. There are separate corners of the workshop dedicated to casting, 3D printing, machining, welding and pottery. I have a hammock somewhere outside with Wi-Fi access. Hopefully, I'll have a fulfilling job in the field of medical device engineering, but I'll also leave work in time to cook dinner.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I've gotten addicted to playing pool while living in Boulder for the last two years. Once the quarantine is over, meeting my friends to play 8 ball is at the top of my list.