Hey, I'm Gavin
silly ideas irl

About me
a perpetual work in progress
Mechatronics Engineering (Class of 2028) at the University of Waterloo.
I work with: IoT, 3D mechanical design, robotics, and all things hardware.
I like tinkering to understand how things work; a side effect of curiosity. Everything I do is a learning experience, and I want to share that with the world. Whether it’s for fun, for school, or for work, I want to share my process with the world.
“i could lowk make that” π₯π₯π₯

My Work
A collection of my projects and contributions
PLEASE CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO LEARN MORE
Please click on the images to learn more

ποΈ Other Hand
ποΈ Other Hand
- Developed embedded C++ firmware for wearable BLE device with dial and keyswitch inputs during HackTheNorth 2025, implementing state machine architecture for reliable user interaction
- Built full-stack web application using Python Flask, JavaScript, and Bootstrap with drag-and-drop module system for customizable hardware input mapping
- Designed and 3D-printed custom enclosure with integrated circuit design, including LiPo battery and charging support for hackathon competition
WATonomous Humanoid Robotics
WATonomous Humanoid Robotics
- Building robotic arms (6DoF) with tendon driven anthropomorphic hands (20DoF each), aiming for VR teleoperation
- Developed software interface to bridge high-level ROS2 commands to low-level embedded systems over a CAN bus
- Containerized ROS2 system in Docker, mounting CAN transceivers to enable communication between subsystems
- Designed URDF models to define the transform TF tree for RL simulation and training in NVIDIA Isaac Sim.
- Built visualization infrastructure connecting Gazebo simulations to Foxglove for real-time debugging and data analysis.
- Assembled PCBs with 0.5mm pitch SMD components, soldered by hand, reducing assembly costs by 30%

bAIRiatric Supports
bAIRiatric Supports
- Developed IoT-enabled inflatable positioning aids to reduce pressure injuries for bariatric patients, using Arduino and WiFi connectivity
- Created comprehensive healthcare solution including mobile web app with Flask backend and SQLite database for nurse-controlled patient management
- Advanced to top 8 finalists among 50+ teams in healthcare innovation challenge through clinical interviews and prototype validation

FlexiTrack: Health Tech Innovation Challenge
FlexiTrack: Health Tech Innovation Challenge
- Awarded 'Grand River Hospital's Most Innovative Project' for AI-powered patient mobility system using computer vision and gamification
- Developed cross-platform healthcare application with SwiftUI frontend, Flask backend, and MediaPipe pose detection for real-time movement tracking
- Designed adjustable 3D-printed camera mount system in SolidWorks to accommodate diverse patient mobility levels and prevent hospital delirium

Instrumented Knee Crutch
Instrumented Knee Crutch
- Developed instrumented knee crutch with embedded strain gauges for real-time weight-bearing measurement during rehabilitation therapy sessions
- Conducted undergraduate research at University of Waterloo IDEAS Clinic, applying biomedical engineering principles to assistive device innovation
- Solidworks CAD modeling and FEA simulation to ensure structural integrity and ergonomic design of the crutch

Feedback Loops: Adaptive Cruise Control
Feedback Loops: Adaptive Cruise Control
- Developed adaptive cruise control system using feedback control theory with multi-scenario autonomous vehicle navigation capabilities
- Implemented lane-keeping algorithms and safe distance maintenance protocols for dynamic traffic environments with cutting-in vehicles
- Applied control systems engineering principles for real-time vehicle speed and distance regulation

Self-Balancing Unicycle
Self-Balancing Unicycle
- Built a simulator from scratch using C++ and CMake, integrating OpenGL to create a custom physics environment
- Developed a CartPole-inspired control system focused on wheel torque control
- Implemented cascading strong>PID to control: balancing and achieving precise position tracking

Dishwasher Magnets π§Όπ½οΈ
Dishwasher Magnets π§Όπ½οΈ
- Designed magnetic status indicator system using SolidWorks CAD software with embedded neodymium magnets for dishwasher organization
- Implemented advanced 3D printing techniques including pause-and-insert for embedded magnets and strategic layer orientation for durability
- Solved household communication problem through user-centered design approach, replacing temporary solutions with permanent magnetic mount system

Custom Tamagotchi
Custom Tamagotchi
- Developing portable IoT virtual pet device with round GC9A01 TFT display (240x240px) and ESP32 microcontroller for interactive gaming
- Integrated photogrammetry 3D scanning using Polycam mobile app to create custom virtual pet models from physical stuffed animals
- Implemented embedded GIF animation playback with IMU sensor integration for motion-responsive pet interactions and rotary encoder controls

Calendar Compare π
Calendar Compare π
- Won 'Best Adobe Express Hack' at HawkHacks 2024 with Google Calendar API integration web application for group scheduling optimization
- Implemented OAuth authentication and Google Calendar API integration using Python Flask framework for real-time calendar comparison
- Developed algorithm to analyze multiple users' calendars simultaneously and identify optimal meeting times for group coordination

C++ shitpost vid
C++ shitpost vid
- Explored C++ programming concepts through creative video storytelling, combining technical education with entertainment for broader audience engagement
- Produced educational programming content using Adobe Premiere Pro with advanced editing techniques and motion graphics for YouTube platform
- Analyzed content creation workflows and digital media production processes

Autonomous LiDAR Navigation
Autonomous LiDAR Navigation
- Developed C++ ROS2 nodes to convert LiDAR data into a 2D costmap for obstacle detection and perception
- Generated a world model from costmap and odometry data to represent the current environment
- Implemented A* algorithm to compute obstacle-aware paths through the mapped environment

mathemati.co
mathemati.co
- Developed computer vision-based math learning platform using hand recognition for interactive educational experiences at DeerHacks 2024
- Implemented MediaPipe hand landmark detection to enable touchless mathematical visualization and problem-solving interfaces
- Created accessible learning tool combining computer vision technology with educational pedagogy for enhanced mathematical comprehension

Blink Twice If You Need Help
Blink Twice If You Need Help
- Designed a computer vision IoT wearable using OpenCV for real time eye tracking, triggering immediate emergency calls
- Leveraged VoIP with Python for automated emergency calls, reducing response time
- Built real-time eye blink detection system for hands-free emergency communication

Mechanical Engineering @ Sheartak Tools
Mechanical Engineering @ Sheartak Tools
- Designed custom spiral cutterhead upgrades for client planers and jointers using SolidWorks CAD software and mechanical engineering principles
- Developed automated product visualization workflow using Photoshop actions and created comprehensive user manuals for woodworking machinery
- Built internal Python inventory management tool and produced instructional YouTube content for machine troubleshooting and maintenance

Ri3D Crescendo @ University of Waterloo
Ri3D Crescendo @ University of Waterloo
- Completed intensive 'Robot in 3 Days' challenge at University of Waterloo, designing and building functional FRC-style robot under extreme time constraints
- Engineered drivetrain and gearbox assembly while managing electronics integration and firmware flashing for autonomous robot operation
- Fabricated custom components using 3D printing and rapid prototyping techniques to meet specific mechanical design requirements within 72-hour deadline
HackTheNorth 2023 Psych Tracker
HackTheNorth 2023 Psych Tracker
- Mental health tracking app built at Canada's largest hackathon
- Simple metric system to log and analyze daily well-being patterns
- 36-hour weekend development sprint with team collaboration

Python Code Jam 2023 Benevolens
Python Code Jam 2023 Benevolens
- Automatic secret code translation tool using OCR and steganography
- Implements text ciphers and XOR image manipulation techniques
- CLI interface for quick encoding/decoding of handwritten messages

Skills Ontario 2023 Hockey Robot
Skills Ontario 2023 Hockey Robot
- Developed embedded C/C++ Arduino program to drive 3-phase motors and bluetooth controls
- Designed custom protoboard assembly using TH soldering, saving 30% chassis space
- Directed efficient recovery efforts as a collaborative leader, swiftly restoring the robot's functionality post failure, meeting strict deadlines

VTuber 3D Printed Fanart
VTuber 3D Printed Fanart
- Designed and 3D printed custom VTuber figurine using CAD software
- Applied multi-stage painting and finishing techniques to achieve professional-quality collectible appearance

IoT Light Switch Bot/Mount
IoT Light Switch Bot/Mount
- Designed a 3D-printed mount with an integrated web app for remote light switch control
- Implemented an Ubuntu Linux web server, enabling remote HTTP access to room lights globally
- Innovatively enhanced safety by designing a physical light switch mount, eliminating high-voltage work

Rapid React 2022
Rapid React 2022
- Collaborated to design an intake mechanism using SolidWorks for large tennis balls, contributing to our qualification for the FIRST Robotics Worlds championship
- Leveraged CNC machining to craft a wooden prototype, uncovering the opportunity to enhance chain engagement by 10% through optimized linkage placement
- Optimized tight corner performance, improving the robot's maneuverability and efficiency during competitions

Roof Gutter Rain Mount
Roof Gutter Rain Mount
- Designed custom 3D-printed gutter adaptor using Fusion360 CAD software to connect dual parallel downspouts to drainage tubing
- Executed precision measurement and modeling techniques using calipers for accurate fitting of complex water management geometry
- Successfully solved residential drainage problem through cost-effective additive manufacturing, preventing lawn damage from concentrated runoff

Find Me Arrow Key Holder
Find Me Arrow Key Holder
- Reverse-engineered novelty arrow key holder from Norwegian website using Fusion360 CAD modeling and dimensional analysis
- Executed complex 3D printing with support structures and post-processing techniques including acrylic paint finishing for aesthetic accuracy
- Demonstrated creative problem-solving by recreating commercial product through digital fabrication and color-matching processes

Automated Lamp
Automated Lamp
- Simple LED lamp with automation capabilities
- Breadboard prototype transitioned to perfboard design
- Arduino-based control system for smart lighting

Quadratics Solver
Quadratics Solver
- Developed comprehensive quadratic equation solver using Python with matplotlib visualization for standard and vertex form conversions
- Implemented mathematical algorithms for calculating roots, vertex coordinates, and axis of symmetry using quadratic formula principles
- Created interactive graphing tool with object-oriented programming design for educational mathematics problem-solving applications

My Sticker/Clothing Store Cravin' Vinyls
My Sticker/Clothing Store Cravin' Vinyls
- Launched a dynamic multi-platform e-commerce retail venture, specializing in sticker decals, and clothing, driving revenue growth through strategic marketing
- Elevated brand visibility through social media marketing, leveraging platforms such as Instagram, resulting in a 30% increase in online sales and a 20% growth in follower base within 3 months
- Optimized financing, budgeting, and pricing strategies to achieve an 80% sales increase

COVID-19 Screening Bypass
COVID-19 Screening Bypass
- Developed Python automation tool using Selenium WebDriver to streamline daily COVID-19 screening form completion for educational institutions
- Implemented email automation system with SMTP integration to distribute screening confirmations to contact lists automatically
- Utilized web scraping techniques with XPath element identification for reliable form interaction and screenshot documentation

Remote-controlled LED
Remote-controlled LED
- Developed Arduino-based RGB LED control system with IR remote functionality using IRremote library and PWM output
- Implemented random color generation algorithm with button debouncing logic to prevent signal interference and ensure reliable operation
- Created embedded systems project combining hardware programming, infrared communication protocols, and analog signal processing

Motion Sensor
Motion Sensor
- Built Arduino-based motion detection system using PIR sensors for automated lighting control
- Programmed embedded C++ code to process sensor signals and trigger LED responses
- First hands-on introduction to Arduino programming and hardware interfacing

YouTube Viewbot
YouTube Viewbot
- Developed automated YouTube view generation system using Python Selenium for web browser automation
- Implemented multi-tab cycling algorithm to simulate organic viewing patterns and avoid detection systems
- Researched YouTube's anti-bot detection mechanisms and experimented with proxy integration for IP masking

Typeracer Python Bot
Typeracer Python Bot
- Developed automated typing bot using Python Selenium and PyAutoGUI libraries to achieve 170+ WPM performance on TypeRacer platform
- Implemented web scraping techniques to extract plaintext from HTML DOM and convert into automated keyboard input sequences
- Discovered rate limiting mechanisms in web automated interactions

Sashiko Hitomezashi Stitching
Sashiko Hitomezashi Stitching
- Developed Python random pattern generator for traditional Japanese Hitomezashi embroidery, intersecting computational thinking with cultural art forms
- Created digital tool to generate binary grid patterns for STEAM-based creative problem solving during high school innovation challenge
- Executed traditional embroidery techniques following computer-generated patterns, demonstrating algorithmic creativity in handcraft applications

This is my Wooden CO2 Car
This is my Wooden CO2 Car
- Designed and fabricated wooden CO2-powered race car using traditional woodworking tools including drill press, band saw, and manual sanding techniques
- Developed technical drafting and measurement skills through precise cartridge slot machining and complex curved profile cutting

GuhBot Discord Bot
GuhBot Discord Bot
- Developed a verified Discord bot using Python and Discord.py, serving multiple servers with 24/7 uptime and automated hosting
- Implemented AI chatbot functionality, meme generation, moderation tools, and COVID-19 statistics API integration
- Designed user-friendly interface with minimal setup requirements, enabling seamless server integration for beginners