Hey, I'm Gavin
tinkerer / dev
About me
a perpetual work in progress
As a mechatronics engineering student from the University of Waterloo, I work on 3D mechanical design, embedded programs, IoT, robots, and all things nerd. I like to keep this portfolio updated with various projects I work on.
Honestly, I’m just a guy who likes to tinker with things and see how they work. These skills and experiences are just a side effect of my curiosity. When someone asks for my hobbies, I usually say that I like to build things.
Also, I have a YouTube channel where I post videos about projects and things I have tinkered with that are not on this site. It contains snippets of small projects that just aren’t worth making dedicated pages for. Go check it out below!
Quick Note: My YouTube channel and Resumé are honestly probably more up to date than this site depending on when you’re viewing this.
My Work
My projects and contributions
PLEASE CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO LEARN MORE
Please click on the images to learn more
🖐️ Other Hand
🖐️ 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 🧼🍽️
Dishwasher
Magnets 🧼🍽️
- 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 📅
Calendar Compare 📅
- 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