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Alan Argondizza, B.S., Mechanical Engineering '11

A really small McKibben muscle.

1. What research are you working on?

I'm working on semi-distributed reduced weight hydraulic systems with Professor Garcia. We're trying to develop hydraulic systems that work well with small robots. Current hydraulic systems are too large to effectively use in smaller robotic applications, and micro-fluidic hydraulic systems are too small. We're trying to make hydraulic systems that are sized somewhere in between. Currently we have a Ph.D. student working on spool valve design and system modeling, an M.Eng student working on pump systems and magneto-rheological fluid valves, and I am working on adapting McKibben air muscles for use with water. I'm also making some really really small McKibben muscles, and comparing their capabilities with commercially available air muscles. 

2. How did you get involved?

I saw a poster advertising this research earlier in the semester, and I emailed Professor Garcia to see if I could work on it. It's been fun so far; I hope to get some good results out of the McKibben Muscles. 

3. Do you have any advice for other students considering research in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering?

Definitely be persistent. Professors get a bunch of emails every day, and it may take two or three tries to get through to them. Also, just do it. It's tons of fun and it's a unique technical experience you won't get in classes. 

4. Why did you choose to study Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell?

I chose to study mechanical engineering because I like to make stuff with my hands, and I'm a visual thinker. I get to do a lot of both in mechanical engineering, and more. I chose to come to Cornell because it's got a lot to offer; there are really too many classes I want to take that won't fit in the time I have here. 

5. What do you do for fun?

For fun, I listen to music (blues, jazz, rap, all kinds), I skateboard, I make music (blues... no jazz or rap), and I make skateboards. Every now and then I make little electronics toys out of microcontrollers.

From the Lunch with ASME series.

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