I'm WJ

A Robotics Engineer’s Quest for his Ikigai

levitating me

Hi 👋

I’m WJ, a Robotics Engineer hailing from the charming town of Penang in Malaysia 🇲🇾. My passion for engineering and robotics is what led me to pursue this career and build innovative and practical solutions to real-world problems.

Aside from my professional pursuits, I have a plethora of interests and hobbies that keep me grounded and entertained. I love to explore new places, document my experiences through photography and videography, and indulge in good food, often trying out new recipes and cuisines. In my free time, I enjoy playing the piano as a form of stress relief and have a persistent thirst for knowledge, constantly seeking to expand my skills and understanding through new experiences.

Overall, I strive to lead a balanced life, merging my passion for engineering and creativity, and continuously seeking new challenges and experiences. Through my website, I hope to share my insights and adventures with you, and hopefully, inspire you to live life to the fullest.

Cycling around Shikoku 1000km Kamikochi camping SUP @ Biwako
Some of my adventures around Japan

Work Experience

  • Robotics Engineer + Project Manager @ Vstone Co.,Ltd. - 2021 ~ 2023
    • Designed and implemented efficient code for motor control, sensors, and communication on ESP32 (I2C, SPI, UART), achieving 50% latency reduction through onboard processing.
    • Built and maintained modular ROS 1 and ROS 2 packages, boosted developer adoption by 30% with ROS 2 integration, and tackled complex software issues, reducing downtime by 25%.
    • Successfully navigated the challenges of developing and launching 2 robotics projects (humanoid robot, mobile manipulator), encompassing diverse technologies, and consistently exceeding client expectations.
    • Proactive problem-solving led to the development of a software solution that streamlined testing procedures, resulting in improving overall production flow.
    • Forged strong client partnerships through active listening and iterative prototyping, delivering tailored robotics solutions that ensured repeat business.
    • Produced technical manuals and provided expert technical support to end-users.
    • Designed and prototyped mechanical components and assemblies for robot systems using 3D CAD software and 3D printing and CNC milling.

Education

Skills / Tools

  • Software: C++, C, Python, ROS1/2, Linux(Ubuntu), Gazebo, MoveIt, Git, Docker, MATLAB
  • Microcontrollers: ESP32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi
  • Soft skills: Project management, Cross-functional collaboration, Adaptability, Problem solving, Technical support
  • Microcontroller: ESP32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi
  • Mechanical & Electrical: Fusion 360, CNC machining, 3D printing, soldering, oscilloscope
  • Languages:
    • Native: Chinese
    • Full Professional: English, Japanese, Malay

Awards & Recognition

  • Outstanding Performance Award, Department of Control Engineering (NIT Nara College)
    • Awarded for exceptional academic performance within the program.
  • Excellent Student Award (INTEC College)
    • Recognized as one of the program’s most accomplished individuals.
  • Monash Bridge Building Competition: Champion (Regional & National)
    • Led the team to first place victories in both competitions, showcasing innovative engineering and bridge design. See the impressive final test to failure video here.
  • Malaysian Computing Competition
    • Earned a Gold Award both in individual and team categories with a perfect score.
  • Asia-Pacific Mathematical Olympiad
    • I was among the 10 national representatives for Malaysia in the competition.

Publications

  • Effect of Robotic Pile-Up Mechanism on Cooperative Transportation for Versatile Objects - Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics, Aug 2023
    • Reimagining swarm robotics, our novel system empowers multiple robots to strategically stack and transport challenging objects. Analyzing stability conditions and meticulously tested in real-world experiments, this transformative approach unlocks enhanced versatility and flexibility for cooperative manipulation across diverse domains.