Heather Kerrick

Title: Heather Kerrick: Innovating Robotic Assembly Solutions in Oakland, CA

Introduction

Heather Kerrick is an accomplished inventor based in Oakland, California, with a remarkable portfolio of 24 patents. Her innovative work primarily focuses on advancing robotic assembly technologies, providing significant contributions to the field of automation and manufacturing.

Latest Patents

Among her latest patents, one notable invention is the "Robotic assembly of a mesh surface." This technology involves a robotic assembly cell designed to create a physical mesh made up of polygons, guided by a simulated mesh of triangles. The system utilizes a control application that orchestrates the assembly process, allowing a positioning robot to accurately place physical polygons on a physical mesh, followed by a welding robot that secures the polygons in place. The control application also updates the simulated mesh based on the actual positioning data collected, utilizing a multi-objective solver for geometrical consistency and design criteria adherence.

Another significant patent is "Techniques for CAD-informed robotic assembly." This invention entails an assembly engine that generates motion commands based on computer-aided design (CAD) assemblies. By analyzing the CAD assembly, the engine determines the sequential order of physical components while generating paths for their incorporation into the final product. These commands guide the robot in efficiently assembling the components, marking a considerable advancement in robotic assembly techniques.

Career Highlights

Heather currently holds a prominent position at Autodesk, Inc., where she applies her extensive knowledge of robotics and automation to develop innovative solutions. Her career is characterized by a deep commitment to improving manufacturing processes through technology, and her patents reflect her dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in robotic assembly.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Heather has collaborated with talented colleagues such as Evan Patrick Atherton and David Thomasson. These partnerships have allowed for an exchange of ideas and collaborative problem-solving, further enriching the innovative experience at Autodesk.

Conclusion

Heather Kerrick continues to be a leading voice in the robotics and automation industry. With her 24 patents and groundbreaking innovations, she exemplifies the spirit of creativity and technological advancement, paving the way for the future of robotic assembly systems.