Max McGill

Software Developer, Robotics Engineer

Work

Misty Robot

Overview

Misty is a multi-functional pre-built robot that I have been programming to achieve multiple objectives:

  • 1 | Receptionist - I have created a program that allows Misty to use her camera to identify QR codes, answer questions from guests, and check guests into a database.
  • 2 | Following People - Using the example programs, Misty is capable of detecting and following people whether that's by driving towards them or just turning in place so she can see them.

Misty has been presented at two events within Newcastle, where this program was shown-off as well as her other capabilities as provided by the example programs from her manufacturer.

Features

  • QR Code Detection and Reading
  • GPT-Based Text Synthesis
  • Text-to-Speech
  • Speech-to-Text
  • Following Humans

Roller Coaster Automation

This project involved automating a roller coaster ride using a combination of sensors, actuators, and control systems. The goal was to create a seamless and safe experience for riders while optimizing the ride's performance.

An STM microcontroller was used to monitor and control the braking system so that is safe for users. It allows a user to input physical parameters such as weight, speed, brake force, brake time, and pulse distance through a serial terminal during startup. These values are stored and used by the system to simulate or manage braking behaviour. The system operates using a structured state machine, ensuring the device moves through defined operating modes such as initial setup, manual control, automatic operation, and safe mode.

Storyboard

Brief

Storyboard is a work in progress project that I have been working on to create a game engine capable of rendering and animating 3D scenes in real-time. The engine is built using C and Vulkan, and it supports features such as lighting, shadows, and texture mapping.

Overview

Storyboard is designed to be a flexible and powerful tool for game developers, allowing them to create complex and immersive gaming experiences. The engine is built on top of the Vulkan API, which provides low-level access to the GPU and allows for high-performance rendering.

C was chosen for its performance and low-level control over system resources as well as my familiarity and enjoyment of it.

Spec

  • Real-Time 3D Rendering
  • Lighting and Shadows
  • Texture Mapping
  • Cross-Platform Support
    • Windows
    • Linux
  • Modular Architecture
    • Custom Scripts for game logic so that different genres and styles of games can be created.

About

Hi, my name is Max McGill. I am a software developer and engineer with a passion for Robotics.

GitHub Frog

Education

  • Distinction in Engineering - Newcastle Stafford College Group (NSCG)
  • Expected First in BSc AI and Robotics - Staffordshire Uni (Stoke)

Certifications

  • Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Skills

Programming Languages

  • C
  • C++
  • C#
  • Python

Frameworks & Tools

  • Vulkan
  • Git

Areas of Expertise

  • Robotics
  • Software Engineering

Soft Skills

  • Problem Solving
  • Adaptability
  • Teamwork

Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering

Software Development

  • Object-Oriented Programming
  • Software Design Patterns
  • Version Control
  • Agile Methodologies

Robotics

  • Sensor Integration
  • Actuator Control
  • Computer Vision
  • Path Planning

Operating Systems

  • Windows
  • Linux

AI

  • Machine Learning
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Natural Language Processing

Technical Skills

  • AutoCAD
  • Soldering
  • Mechanics
  • Electronics
  • Product Design
  • Business
  • Project Management
  • Team Management
  • Design
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
  • Embedded System Programming
  • AI
  • Reinforcement Learning

Interests

  • Robotics
  • Game Development
  • AI and Machine Learning
  • Open Source Software
  • Electronic Hardware

An example of a project that I am currently working on is a robotic arm. This originated as a hobby of mine which I was able to pursue further in my studies as a final year project. Not only did this allow me to expand my available resources and refine my knowledge, but it required plenty of the skills I have developed over the past 7 years. This included my ability to problem solve and my in-depth understanding of software development interlinked with mechanical engineering. When combined, this produced a design that is functional, budget friendly with simple assembly without sacrificing dexterity or mobility.

Having started this project a few years ago, it required me to adapt and learn to use different resources and tools that I had little experience in. Programming in C++ and 3D modelling were two of the skills that I learnt in order to help achieve my end goal. Overall, pushing myself to complete this project lead me from basic knowledge to a much greater understanding, not only of the resources I use to develop my ideas into reality, but also of my ability to adapt and learn skills necessary for whatever I am faced with.

Contact

Email: max.mcgill.speaking@outlook.com

LinkedIn: Max McGill

GitHub: KasuranCodes

Instagram: max.mcgill.nexus