Durgesh Kumar

I'm working Project Associate Department of Mechanical Engineering Indian Institute of Science Bangalore-560012, INDIA Under the supervision: Professor Ramsharan Rangarajan Department of mechanical engineering Project: QZS (Quasi-Zero Stiffness) Vibration Isolator is an advanced mechanical system designed to minimise or block low-frequency vibrations while maintaining high load-carrying stability. It achieves superior vibration isolation by combining positive and negative stiffness elements to create an ultra-low effective stiffness near the equilibrium position. ( LabVIEW-Based Static Testing and 3D printing fabricated Design Simulation of QZS Vibration Isolator: Designed and simulated a Quasi-Zero Stiffness (QZS) vibration isolator to achieve ultra-low effective stiffness for enhanced low-frequency vibration isolation. Developed a LabVIEW Virtual Instrument (VI) for static load–displacement testing, effective stiffness evaluation, and equilibrium point identification. Modelled the coupled behavior of positive stiffness (linear spring) and negative stiffness (pre-compressed nonlinear mechanism) to realize near-zero stiffness around the operating point. Implemented real-time visualization of force–displacement characteristics, effective stiffness variation, and stability regions within the LabVIEW environment. Conducted parametric studies by varying preload, spring constants, and geometric parameters to validate isolator performance and stability. Applied the design toward precision instrumentation, aerospace payload isolation, and vibration-sensitive mechanical systems.)

I’m very happy to share that I successfully completed my B.Tech Aerospace Engineering thesis at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru under the guidance of Dr. Prosenjit Das, Materials Department. The project focused on materials development, metallurgy, and property identification, combining experimental research with practical aerospace applications. This work provided me with in-depth exposure to advanced metallurgical processes and their significance in high-performance aerospace systems. During my research, I gained hands-on expertise in a wide range of laboratory techniques, including material preparation and furnace operation for alloy and metallurgy development. I worked on foam casting and die casting for prototype manufacturing, as well as cutting, etching, and micro-imaging for microstructural and metallurgical characterization. My testing experience included hardness testing, thermal testing, and stress–strain analysis, along with shock wave testing to evaluate the dynamic response of materials under extreme conditions. This project provided practical exposure to the complete cycle of metallurgy processes—from material synthesis and casting to microstructural analysis and performance evaluation. The experience strengthened my foundation in experimental metallurgy and materials engineering and prepared me to contribute effectively to aerospace, defense, and high-temperature engineering applications. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Advanced Manufacturing & Materials Processing Laboratory (AMMPL) for providing a positive, collaborative, and supportive research environment. I am especially thankful to Ravi Kumar (Ph.D. Scholar), Dr. Shambhu Kumar Manjhi (Postdoctoral Fellow), and Dr. Bishub Choudhury (Postdoctoral Fellow) for their guidance and support throughout my research.

Organized Astronomy Workshop and Hobby Club – Telescope Making and Sky Observation Duration: November 2022 – October 2024 Successfully organized and led a student-based telescope hobby club. Conducted workshops on telescope design, assembly, and night sky observation. Engaged students in hands-on learning of optics and astronomy basics. Promoted scientific curiosity and practical skills through regular events and stargazing sessions. I Organize Month in which 3 days all weak Saturday Sunday I make two Telescope one Reflector and second Refractor

Summer Internship: This internship was provided by (IIT BHU) Banaras. “Completed a Four-Week summer internship) Project: “Synthesis of a straight-line mechanism, synthesis of aileron movement: Synthesis of a Straight-Line Mechanism The synthesis of a straight-line mechanism involves designing a mechanical system that converts rotational or oscillatory motion into precise linear motion. Such mechanisms are essential in applications requiring accurate straight-line movement without the use of sliding guides. The process includes determining link lengths, pivot positions, and motion paths to achieve the desired straight trajectory. Common examples include Watt’s linkage and Peaucellier-Lipkin mechanism. This synthesis involves kinematic analysis and optimization to ensure minimal deviation from the ideal straight line. These mechanisms find use in engines, robotics, and precision instruments where constrained linear motion is critical. Synthesis of Aileron Movement The synthesis of aileron movement focuses on designing control linkages that translate pilot inputs into precise aerodynamic surface deflections. Ailerons control an aircraft’s roll by changing the lift distribution across wings. Synthesis involves determining the correct geometry and linkage arrangement to ensure smooth, accurate, and responsive aileron deflection with minimal play or backlash. This process considers factors like mechanical advantage, input-output motion relationships, and force transmission efficiency. Accurate synthesis enhances flight control, stability, and maneuverability, making it vital in aircraft design and control systems. It balances pilot effort with aerodynamic effectiveness for optimal performance.

CatiaV-5: CATIA V5 (Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) is a powerful multi-platform CAD/CAM/CAE software developed by Dassault Systemes. Widely used in aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and industrial equipment industries, CATIA V5 enables users to design, simulate, analyze, and manufacture complex products in a collaborative environment. CATIA V5 is modular, meaning it consists of different workbenches for specific tasks. Key workbenches include: Part Design: For 3D solid modeling of individual parts using features like pads, pockets, holes, ribs, and fillets. Assembly Design: Allows users to assemble parts and define mechanical relationships (constraints) between them. Sketcher: A 2D drawing environment used to create profiles that serve as a basis for 3D features. Generative Shape Design (GSD): For advanced surface modeling, especially useful in automotive and aerospace designs. Drafting: Converts 3D models into 2D technical drawings with dimensions, annotations, and views. CATIA V5 supports parametric modeling, enabling the creation of intelligent, reusable designs that update automatically when dimensions are changed. It also includes simulation tools for stress analysis (FEA), kinematic simulation, and product lifecycle management (PLM) integration. One of CATIA’s strengths is its scalability and ability to handle very large assemblies with high precision, making it ideal for designing complex systems like aircraft, cars, and satellites. It is widely adopted by companies like Airbus, Boeing, BMW, and NASA. Learning CATIA V5 requires understanding its interface, tree structure (specification tree), and mastering various tools within each workbench. It remains a top choice for engineers and designers looking to create high-quality, innovative products in a digital 3D environment.

Docking and Battery Swapping Device for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (DoBass UAV) Designed a docking and battery swapping system for UAV. This competition was organized by the Aeronautical Society of India. (August-November 2023) (link) • To increase the inflight time or reduce the battery swapping time, a battery swapping station installed at a particular height on the aerostat can be used. • We designed a docking battery swapping system for V-TOL-capable UAV. • We worked on the initial design phase of this competition. (Aeronautical Society of India, IIT Bombay Under / Guidance Professor Dr. Rajkumar Panth)

Summer Internship: (this internship was provided by (IIT BHU) Banaras: “Completed a Four-Week Summer Internship, Project: Focused on Mach-Zehnder Interferometer Sensors."): The Mach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) is an advanced optical sensor used for detecting minute environmental changes such as temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index variations. It works on the principle of wave interference and phase shift, making it highly sensitive and accurate. Working Steps: Light Source: A coherent laser emits a stable light beam. Beam Splitter: Splits the light into two beams. Sensing Arm & Reference Arm: The sensing arm interacts with the environment. The reference arm stays isolated. Phase Difference: Environmental changes affect the optical path in the sensing arm. Interference Pattern: The beams recombine, and the phase difference causes a shift in the interference pattern, which is analyzed for measurement. Key Applications: Structural Health Monitoring: Detects stress and strain in infrastructure. Telecommunications: Enables signal modulation in fiber optics. Chemical/Biological Sensing: Identifies gases or biomolecules. Temperature/Pressure Monitoring: Provides precise environmental tracking. Future Developments: Silicon Photonics Integration: Miniaturized, chip-based sensors for mass deployment. Graphene & 2D Materials: Enable ultra-sensitive detection of molecular changes. Wearable/Implantable Devices: Real-time monitoring of health parameters. Quantum-enhanced MZIs: Push sensitivity beyond classical limits for high-end scientific research. MZI sensors are vital tools in modern sensing technologies with a strong future in smart systems, healthcare, and quantum technologies.

Project: Emergency Rapid Deflation Device for Aerostats (ERDD) Participate in an international-level competition organized by the Aerospace Engineering Department of (IIT Bombay) India Institute of Technology, Bombay. (31st January–20th May 2023) • Aerostat are lighter than air systems generally tethered to the ground. Used for surveillance to hold communication equipment at height. • We designed and fabricated a deflection device for aerostat, which helps in their safe landing in case of emergency conditions or tether breakage. • Used tools like SolidWorks, Catiav5, and Ansys for initial design analysis. • Qualified the initial design stage and showcased the working prototype at IIT Bombay.

Digitalization in Space Research: Digitalization in space research refers to the integration of advanced digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data analytics, digital twins, cloud computing, and automation—into space science, exploration, and engineering. It is revolutionizing how missions are planned, executed, and analyzed, leading to faster innovation, greater efficiency, and reduced costs. One of the key applications is in satellite design and operations, where digital twins (virtual replicas of physical systems) allow engineers to simulate, test, and monitor spacecraft in real-time before and after launch. This minimizes risks and improves mission success. AI and ML algorithms are also used to optimize navigation, predict system failures, and process large volumes of data from space telescopes and planetary missions more accurately and quickly. In space exploration, digitalization supports robotic missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond by enhancing autonomous decision-making. Rovers and landers can analyze terrain, identify hazards, and perform scientific tasks with minimal human intervention. Moreover, digital tools improve communication systems, enabling more reliable deep-space data transmission and real-time collaboration among global space agencies. Ground-based facilities also benefit from digital transformation. From mission control centers to research labs, cloud computing enables secure, distributed data storage and sharing, supporting international cooperation and faster scientific discovery. Overall, digitalization is not just enhancing current space missions but is also key to realizing future goals like human settlements on Mars, asteroid mining, and real-time Earth observation. It marks a new era where data-driven technology accelerates the progress of space science and exploration.

Introduction this course provided University of Michigan, offered through Coursera Introduction to Thermodynamics: \ Introduction this course provided University of Michigan, offered (Introduction to Thermodynamics): Thermodynamics is a branch of physics that studies the relationships between heat, work, temperature, and energy. It explains how energy is transferred and transformed in physical and chemical processes. Governed by four fundamental laws, thermodynamics describes how energy flows within a system and its surroundings. These principles are crucial in the design and operation of engines, refrigerators, power plants, and other engineering systems. Understanding thermodynamics also reveals the behavior of gases, liquids, and solids under various conditions, enabling engineers and scientists to develop more efficient and sustainable technologies across multiple industries.