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HI! I'M EDUARDO GRIFO

EDUARDO GRIFO

ROBOTICS AND SOFTWARE ENGINEER

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ABOUT ME

I'm Eduardo Grifo, an experienced Robotics Engineer with over 6 years of hands-on experience in both research and industry. I specialize in C/C++ and Python programming languages and have extensive experience with computational mathematics and hardware and software development, including lidar-based systems, signal processing, automation, control, rigid body dynamics, custom Linux environments, and embedded sensing systems. I possess valuable insights from over 3 years as a research engineer at Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS and almost 4 years as a Senior Robotics Engineer at BladeInsight. I consider myself a team player and someone passionate about learning and leveraging that knowledge and skills to create solutions in the engineering and technology fields.

Photo of Me

I'm a multifaceted engineer with a knack for diving into complex challenges and emerging as a key contributor. My toolbox counts with the presence of languages and technologies like C/C++, Python, Bash, Git, ROS, Linux, and has been my constant companion in crafting innovative solutions. I am someone highly focused on providing high quality code by applying tools like static checkers, unit testing (gtest), continuous integration and deployment, all while adhering to best coding practices. At Fraunhofer AICOS Portugal, I had the opportunity to work in projects related with embedded systems and IoT applications working with tools such as Q format numbers and Yocto. In my role as a Senior Robotics Engineer at BladeInsight, I further expanded my skillset with specialized tools like the PCL library, the Ceres optimizer, Orocos and others. I believe my professional journey has been a path of continuous learning and growth and I'm eager to contribute this accumulated knowledge and experience to any future endeavor.

I'm really good at:

Robotics

Robotics

Embedded

Embedded Systems

Embedded

Software and Hardware Development

Embedded

SW & HW Development

Linux

Linux

Cpp

C/C++

Python

Python

Bash

Bash

Math

Computational Math

Math

Math

"Eduardo demonstrated an impressive level of skill, dedication and professionalism that made him an invaluable member of our team. (...) He is a flexible and organised person that often exceeds expectations."
"Eduardo demonstrated an impressive level of skill, dedication and professionalism that made him an invaluable member of our team."
Filipe Sousa - Head of Connected Things at Fraunhofer AICOS
"I can only recommend Eduardo Grifo as an exceptional problem-solver and an inspiring team member to work with. He's the one who made it through many times when others said it was not possible. I am confident that he will bring immense value to any future organization, as he did at BladeInsight."
"I can only recommend Eduardo Grifo as an exceptional problem-solver and an inspiring team member to work with. He's the one who made it through many times when others said it was not possible."
Illia Sheremet - Head of Robotics at BladeInsight
PORTFOLIO

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Professional career

Master Thesis: Development of a Software Framework for Indoor Mini Drone Applications || In my master thesis, conducted in partnership with Fraunhofer AICOS, I focused on developing a software framework to facilitate the creation of applications utilizing mini drones in indoor environments. The project involved customizing the Crazyflie 2.0 platform, making it suitable for this specific application. The goal was to provide a tool that would simplify the process for developers to integrate mini drones into diverse indoor settings using a monocular visual odometry algorithm and sensors like a camera and IR distance sensors. One of the key applications demonstrated in this project was the use of drones in a retail environment. This illustrated the practical utility and versatility of the framework in a real-world scenario. The portfolio includes an image showing the modified Crazyflie 2.0 platform on my hand, along with a screenshot depicting the drone's use in a retail setting. For a detailed insight into the project, the complete master thesis is accessible <a href='https://hdl.handle.net/10216/107646' target='_blank'>here</a>. This project marked my initial foray into and provided a substantial learning opportunity in areas such as visual odometry, SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), drone hardware, and state-of-the-art drone technologies.
Development of Kallisto - A Versatile IoT Hardware Platform || During my tenure at Fraunhofer, I was involved in the development of Kallisto, a low-consumption, low-profile IoT hardware platform. This project, in collaboration with Sensry, focused on creating a highly adaptable device tailored for a wide range of IoT applications. Kallisto stands out for its integration of diverse sensors, including an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) and various ambient sensors like a barometer. Moreover, it features specifications such as wireless charging, making it a cutting-edge solution in the IoT space for its size. My role extended beyond the development of the hardware and firmware; I was instrumental in devising multiple use case applications. These applications not only showcased the platform's capabilities but also served as a foundational platform for other projects and clients. The versatility of Kallisto allows for its direct application or customization according to specific IoT needs, highlighting its utility in various scenarios. For more detailed information about Kallisto's specifications and capabilities, the product description can be found at <a href='https://sensry.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/SY020-PCB-FLY001.pdf' target='_blank'>Sensry's Kallisto Platform Overview</a>. My contribution to this project reflects a blend of technical expertise and practical application in the field of IoT technology.
GoLiveClip Project: Development of Activity Monitoring Algorithms || In collaboration with Gociety, I contributed to the development of the GoLiveClip, a wearable device designed primarily for elderly users, but also suitable for a broader audience. The GoLiveClip is a multifunctional wearable that provides functionalities like fall detection, emergency alerting, activity monitoring, and fall risk estimation. My specific role in this project involved the development of the activity monitoring algorithms. The primary challenge was optimizing these algorithms for minimal battery consumption and ensuring they delivered accurate results on a hardware platform with limited capabilities. Notably, the device lacked floating-point arithmetic, adding complexity to the task of creating efficient yet effective algorithms. For more information on the GoLiveClip and its features, the product description can be accessed at <a href='https://www.goliveclip.eu/solutions/goliveclip/' target='_blank'>GoLiveClip by Gociety</a>. My work on this project showcases the application of algorithm development skills in a real-world context, particularly in optimizing performance for constrained hardware environments.
Custom Linux Distribution for Tekon Electronics' Duos Gateway || During my time at Fraunhofer, I engaged in a notable project involving the development of a custom Linux distribution using the Yocto Project. This specialized distribution was designed for the Duos gateway IoT, a product of Tekon Electronics, detailed at <a href='https://www.tekonelectronics.com/pt/produtos/sistemas-sem-fios/sistema-sem-fios-duos/duos-gateway-iot-tekon-electronics-/' target='_blank'>Tekon Electronics - Duos Gateway IoT</a>. The primary objective of this initiative was to create a tailored operating system that would seamlessly integrate with the Duos gateway IoT's hardware capabilities and requirements. The project extended beyond the development of the custom Linux distribution. A significant aspect of my work involved creating several software modules that were integral to the functionality of the gateway. One such module was designed for cloud connectivity, ensuring the gateway could efficiently communicate with cloud-based services. This was vital for enhancing the gateway's capabilities in data management and remote accessibility. My role in this project highlights the application of software development and system integration skills in creating customized solutions for specific hardware platforms. The success of this project demonstrates the importance of bespoke software development in enhancing the capabilities and performance of dedicated hardware like the Duos gateway IoT.
Development and Launch of BladeExplorer 3D, an autonomous drone solution for high-quality external blade data || In a significant robotics project spanning nearly four years, I played a pivotal role in developing an autonomous UAV-based solution for inspecting wind turbines. Joining the team during its proof-of-concept stage, I contributed substantially through to its successful product launch. This solution, now operational in over 10 countries, has serviced 958 turbines, encompassing 48 unique models, within just a year of its launch. My expertise was particularly instrumental in critical field missions, where I was often recognized as the go-to specialist. My deep understanding of the system was crucial in resolving issues quickly and ensuring smooth operation. A notable achievement was the successful deployment of our solution in offshore environments, demonstrating adaptability and competence in high-pressure, challenging conditions. My technical contributions encompassed developing advanced perception and navigation algorithms for the UAVs, utilizing sensors like LiDAR, cameras, and IMUs. My work involved leveraging knowledge in areas such as forward and inverse kinematics, optimization, collision-free motion planning, control system design, rigid body dynamics, geometry, and linear algebra. I was also responsible for ensuring the reliability of the code through extensive validation processes, including Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) simulations, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) strategies, static code analysis, and profiling. My approach to maintaining code quality involved peer-reviewed processes via pull requests, with a keen awareness of compile times. During this project, I expanded my technical repertoire by learning and implementing third-party tools like PCL, OMPL, Orocos, and the Ceres solver. The details of the UAV wind turbine inspection solution I worked on can be found at <a href='https://www.bladeinsight.com/inspection-solutions.html#A' target='_blank'>BladeInsight Inspection Solutions</a>. My time on this project not only contributed to its success but also significantly enhanced my expertise in robotics and autonomous systems.

Personal projects

Custom-Built Electric Skateboard || This project involved building an electric skateboard for my daily commute. I started by crafting the board itself, cutting and gluing the wood to create the base. For the mobility components, I selected appropriate trucks and wheels and purchased the necessary electrical parts. The skateboard is powered by two 8Ah batteries arranged in series and features a battery monitor for effective power management. It's driven by a 250 kV motor, paired with a programmable VESC (Vedder Electronic Speed Controller), which allows for customizable control over the skateboard's speed and acceleration. I managed to test the skateboard up to a speed of 20 km/h, although it's capable of higher speeds. For protection and aesthetics, I also made a custom plastic cover for the skateboard using a thermoforming machine. This project was a hands-on experience in electric vehicle assembly, combining woodworking, electronics, and mechanical skills to create a fun commuting solution.
DIY Portable Bluetooth Speaker || This personal project involved building a portable Bluetooth speaker from scratch. The speaker's enclosure was handcrafted, with the main body made of pine and the front and back panels from plywood. It houses two 5W drivers and is powered by a single 18650 cell battery, which provides about 5 hours of usage at full volume. In the design, I implemented a 1:1 transformer to separate the power and logic systems, helping to reduce feedback sounds. While the sound quality is decent, it's clear that there was no extensive sound dynamics analysis during its construction. This was my first attempt at building a speaker, so while it has imperfections in audio quality, its continued functioning after 7 years speaks to its durability. This project was as much a learning experience as it was about building a usable product. In retrospect, there are several aspects I would improve, especially in sound quality and material choice. The idea of creating a second, improved version of this speaker is something I'm considering for the future.
Building the TEDx University of Porto Stage Logo || For the TEDx event at the University of Porto, I undertook the task of constructing the stage logo. The logo was crafted from several foam sheets, which were glued together and then covered with cardboard for additional structure and stability. The final step in the construction process involved painting the assembled logo in the traditional TEDx colors. In order to cut the foam sheets. I created a homemade cutting device using a heat wire extracted from a hair dryer, which was then powered by a transformer from an old laptop. This setup effectively heated the wire, allowing it to cut through the foam with precision. Apart from the construction of the logo, I was also involved in the broader organizational aspects of the TEDx event.
DIY drones, both fixed-wing and a multirotor || I dedicated some of my free time to building two types of aircraft for personal enjoyment: a fixed-wing model and a multirotor. The fixed-wing aircraft, known for its straightforward and stable flight pattern, was a project that allowed me to explore traditional aviation design and aerodynamics. The multirotor, on the other hand, offered a different experience with its agility and flexibility in flight. Both projects required careful assembly of parts, balancing, and setting up control systems. This hobby was not just for fun but also an application of my skills in areas like aerodynamics and remote control technology. Flying these aircrafts provided a hands-on understanding of flight mechanics and the satisfaction of piloting something I built myself.

CONTACT

WHERE I WORK

Porto, Portugal
+351 919 151 132
eduardo@grifo.io
linkedin.com/in/egrifo/