David.
I research and develop solar power plants with main focus on the control.
About Me
I studied Automatic Control at the RWTH Aachen and currently I am doing my PhD at the Institute for Solar Research at the German Aerospace Center (DLR). My expertise primarily lies in control engineering, with a specialization in model predictive control and nonlinear optimization. Over the last 5 years, I have developed a strong foundation in Python and C++.
Through various jobs at my university, an internship at the Bayer AG, the Bachelor and Master thesis as well as my PhD, I have gained experience in different programming languages and in teaching and working scientifically as well as on a business level. In total, I have over 5 years of experience in the field of control engineering and programming. To manage the complex models and their validation, I have developed a strong foundation in Python and C++, with a focus on software architecture to keep the code maintainable and extendable.
My leadership capabilities are influenced by my experience with supervising numerous student theses. This role has accustomed me to guiding others through their projects, from the initial stages of familiarization to maintaining motivation and addressing challenges. My approach is hands-on, ensuring I am actively involved in helping students navigate the complexities of their thesis or project while keeping track of their progress.
Control Engineering
With a robust background in control engineering, I specialize in model predictive control and nonlinear optimization. My experience includes designing and implementing control algorithms for a variety of systems across multiple projects.
Software Development
I possess extensive experience in software development, especially with Python and C++. My work has involved developing complex models, optimization algorithms, and control systems using these programming languages.
Teaching and Mentoring
I have a solid track record in teaching and mentoring students in control engineering and programming. I have supervised numerous theses and projects, guiding students through the process and providing comprehensive support.
Here are a few technologies I've been working with recently:
Python
90
I have over 3 years of experience working with Python. I have used it mainly for control tasks and data analysis. I am familiar with the most common libraries such as numpy, matplotlib, pandas, dataclasses, pathlib, typing as well as more specific libraries for model predictive control and non-linear programming such as do-mpc and casadi.
C++
80
I have over 4 years of experience working with C++, mainly on implementing a complex template based water model, extending an optimization algorithm and implementing a controller for solar towers. During the time I attended two courses from Klaus Iglberger on Advanced C++ and Modern C++ Software Design.
Git
80
I have over 4 years of experience working with Git. I am familiar with the most common commands and workflows as well as using GitHub and GitLab.
MATLAB
70
I have over 2 years of experience working with MATLAB. I have used it mainly for control tasks and data analysis. I am familiar with the most common toolboxes such as Simulink, Control System Toolbox, Optimization Toolbox, Machine Learning Toolbox and Parallel Computing Toolbox.
HTML
70
I gained insight in the basics of HTML by creating this website.
CSS
40
I gained insight in the basics of CSS by creating this website.
I believe that a well-rounded individual is not defined solely by their professional achievements but also by their interests and passions outside of work. In my case, I am a firm believer in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and I actively pursue a variety of hobbies to keep life exciting and fulfilling.
As a strong advocate for teamwork and collaboration, I enjoy engaging in group activities that allow me to connect with others and enhance my communication skills. Beach Volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, and Badminton are some of my favorite team sports. I find these activities not only physically invigorating but also mentally stimulating as they require quick thinking, strategizing, and teamwork to achieve success on the field.
On the flip side, I also relish moments of solitude and independence. I am a passionate boulderer, constantly seeking new challenges in rock climbing, and I find solace in conquering these feats on my own. The thrill of conquering difficult routes and pushing my limits is an exhilarating experience that fuels my sense of self-discovery.
Another independent pursuit that I am passionate about is kite surfing. The freedom of harnessing the wind and waves while kite surfing allows me to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. It’s a sport that constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone and teaches me resilience and adaptability.
In addition to my active hobbies, I also prioritize mental well-being and self-reflection. Meditation plays a significant role in my life, and I follow the Vipassana meditation technique. This practice helps me find inner peace, maintain focus, and cultivate mindfulness, which contributes extreme positively to both my personal and professional life.
Overall, my diverse range of hobbies and interests reflects my commitment to personal growth, balance, and the pursuit of excellence, both individually and as part of a team. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also contributed to my ability to adapt, collaborate, and thrive in various aspects of my life.
Experience
I am currently working as a PhD student at Institute of Solar Research. I investigate and implement a model predictive controller to control heliostat field and mass flow of the open-volumetric receiver in Jülich during cloud disturbances.
Thesis: Development of Control Strategies for Heliostat Aiming in Solar Power Tower Plants
- Creating a simple control logic in the B&R Automation Studio for a filtration unit with C code
- Creating simulation models of a filtration unit with Simulink.
- Connecting sensors and actors to a PLC from B&R
- Creating a visual HMI in B&R Automation Studio
- Establishing an OPC connection between Simulink and the B&R Automation Studio to run a simulation
- Connecting and establishing a Profibus-DP connection between two PLCs
- Designing P&IDs for a greenhouse test bench
- Learning about SysML and designing a state machine model for a stamping machine
- Support of the project “Gemeinsam ans Ziel” (visual and performance management project)
- Assisting and optimizing the internal archiving of data
- Support and analysis of a perl wet mill
- Support and analysis of an extruder system
- Feasibility and economy analysis of a barrel heater
- Training employees how to use an internal excel program
Education
2018 - 2020
Master of Science in Automatic Control
RWTH Aachen University, Germany
Grade:
1.1 (passed with honors)
- Thesis: Development of Control Strategies for Heliostat Aiming in Solar Power Tower Plants
2013 - 2018
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
RWTH Aachen University, Germany
Grade:
1.4 (very good)
- Specialization: Process Engineering
- Thesis: Artificial Neural Networks for Identifying Nonlinear Dynamic Systems
High School
Friedrich-Ebert-Oberschule
Grade:
1.6 (good)
Get in Touch
My inbox is always open. Whether you have a question or just want to say hi, I’ll try my best to get back to you!