Paul Birkner

Responsible for design of complex optomechanical 3D Vision systems from prototyping to production.

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Cognex I am responsible for the design of small optomechanical assemblines from concept to final release to manufacturing for high-volume low cost smart cameras.

As Senior Mechanical Engineer at IVA corporation I was responsible for the mechanical design and production of complex electro-mechanical systems. I modeled parts using Solidworks, determine d toolpaths via CAM software and machined plastic and metallic parts using CNC equipment. I prototype parts and got my hands dirty. I am also responsible for programming firmware for small electronic devices, creating, testing and debugging electrical prototypes, sourcing electrical and mechanical components and documentation.

I worked as a Quality Assurance Engineer where I dealt with customer returns and internal problems with parts.

As a summer intern I designed, machined and assembled a pan-tilt camera using SolidWorks. I also designed camera lens holders and the enclosure for a drug abuse tester. My other responsibility was drilling, tapping, cutting, finishing and assembling small metal and plastic parts using both hand tools and a CNC milling machine. I was also responsible for selecting and ordering parts.

I obtained my MS from USC as part of a progressive Degree Program. I took Master's classes throughout my undergraduate career and was able to obtain my Master's degree early.