Gabriel D
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Expertise
urban sensing, computer vision, micro-controllers, Internet of Things, data analytics, machine learning, intelligent systems,
Bio
I picked up my expertise in urban sensing while earning my PhD at the University of Michigan. While I was involved with a variety of urban sensing projects my primary focus was on social infrastructure (public parks, squares, markets, bus stops, libraries, etc.). How can we use urban sensing modalities to better understand how people move through and interact with these spaces and derive benefits from them, and moreover, how can we use this data to better design and manage these spaces? I developed a computer vision platform which ingests image feeds from surveillance cameras that detects and tracks persons as they move through the space while also classifying their social behaviours and activities. The platform was deployed and extensively tested along the Detroit Riverfront park spaces and in downtown Detroit. I am outgoing and extroverted. I have a wide array of interests and hobbies. For the Outdoors, I enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and slack lining. I currently live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan which has world class mountain biking trails and a plethora of waterfalls. I aim to start snowboarding this winter - there is a ski hill 5 minutes from my house! For the Indoors, I enjoy gaming (video games and board games) and watching movies. I also frequent indie/alternative music festivalsProject ideas
Increasing school ground accessibility with sensing technologies
How accessible is your school? How are specific design choices impacting the experience of those with mobility challenges? In what ways could sensing help? In this project you will explore sensing technologies to both help understand and identify problems and to also potentially provide solutions. You will gain skills in critical thinking, custom circuit board design, coding, and prototyping.
Smart sustainable gardening and agriculture
Think of a small home garden. How can sensing automate gardening processes? Can it help you improve yield or quality? Additionally, beyond simple automation, could sensing impact or improve sustainable practices? Could something you implement in your home scale to larger farms and other agricultural projects? You will gain skills in critical thinking, custom circuit board design, coding, and prototyping.