Vaibhav Gurunathan

Instructor Assistant - SLAM and Autonomous Robotics

This summer, I'm serving as a teaching assistant for SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) and Autonomous Robotics courses at the University of Michigan. This role combines my passion for robotics education with practical experience in mentoring and technical problem-solving.

Course Overview

The courses I assist with cover fundamental and advanced topics in autonomous systems:

  • SLAM Fundamentals: Mathematical foundations of localization and mapping
  • Sensor Integration: Combining data from cameras, LIDAR, IMU, and GPS
  • Path Planning: Algorithms for navigation in complex environments
  • Control Systems: PID controllers and advanced control theory
  • Real-world Applications: Case studies from industry and research

Lab Development Responsibilities

I was tasked with creating comprehensive lab exercises from scratch:

  • Lab Design: Developing structured learning objectives and assessment criteria
  • Hardware Setup: Configuring robotic platforms and sensor systems
  • Software Frameworks: Setting up ROS environments and simulation tools
  • Documentation: Creating detailed instructions and troubleshooting guides
  • Safety Protocols: Establishing lab safety procedures for robotics work

Student Support and Mentoring

Office hours and lab sessions involve helping students with:

  • Debugging: Identifying and resolving code and hardware issues
  • Concept Clarification: Explaining complex robotics algorithms
  • Best Practices: Teaching efficient coding and testing methodologies
  • Project Guidance: Helping students design and implement their projects
  • Motivation: Encouraging students through challenging robotics problems

Technical Challenges Solved

Common issues I help students resolve:

  • Sensor Calibration: Ensuring accurate data from multiple sensors
  • Coordinate Frame Issues: Debugging transformation problems between frames
  • Real-time Performance: Optimizing algorithms for embedded systems
  • Hardware Reliability: Troubleshooting motor controllers and communication issues
  • Simulation Accuracy: Bridging the gap between simulation and real-world performance

Educational Impact

This teaching role has enhanced my own understanding:

  • Deepened Knowledge: Explaining concepts reinforces my own understanding
  • Communication Skills: Developing ability to convey complex ideas clearly
  • Problem-Solving: Learning multiple approaches to the same problem
  • Patience and Empathy: Understanding different learning styles and paces

Lab Exercises Created

Some of the labs I developed include:

  • Basic SLAM: Implementing extended Kalman filter for localization
  • Visual Odometry: Camera-based motion estimation
  • Obstacle Avoidance: Reactive navigation algorithms
  • Multi-Robot Coordination: Swarm robotics principles
  • Sensor Fusion: Integrating IMU, GPS, and vision data

Tools and Technologies

The robotics lab utilizes cutting-edge tools:

  • Robotics Platforms: TurtleBot, Husky, and custom robotic systems
  • Software Frameworks: ROS 2, Gazebo simulation, OpenCV
  • Programming Languages: Python, C++, MATLAB
  • Development Tools: Git, Docker, continuous integration
  • Testing Equipment: Motion capture systems, sensor calibration tools

Student Success Stories

Seeing students succeed is the most rewarding part:

  • Project Completion: Helping students finish complex robotics projects
  • Concept Mastery: Witnessing "aha" moments when students understand difficult concepts
  • Career Inspiration: Guiding students toward robotics careers
  • Research Opportunities: Connecting students with research labs

Future Teaching Goals

This experience has inspired me to pursue teaching as part of my career:

  • Curriculum Development: Creating more comprehensive robotics courses
  • Industry Integration: Bridging academic learning with industry needs
  • Diverse Learning: Supporting students from varied backgrounds
  • Research Mentoring: Guiding undergraduate research projects

Serving as a teaching assistant has been an incredibly rewarding experience that combines my technical expertise with my passion for education. It's reinforced my belief that teaching others is one of the most effective ways to deepen your own understanding and contribute to the field.