Autonomous EV charging robot

Project Overview

As a co-founder of VoltVogel, I had full technical autonomy and led the complete development of an autonomous electric vehicle (EV) charging robot. This project encompassed the full spectrum of product development—from initial concept through prototyping to successful paid pilots—integrating hardware, software, AI/ML, and business development to create a mobile, automated charging system.

Key Responsibilities

Product Definition & Risk Assessment

• Defined comprehensive product requirements, aligning with user needs and regulatory standards.
• Conducted thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards and ensure safety compliance.
• Developed technical documentation tailored for investors, customers, and regulatory bodies to support compliance and funding efforts.

Hardware Architecture & Development

• Designed the mechanical architecture and 3D models using Fusion 360, facilitating rapid prototyping and iteration.
• Developed electronic schematics and PCB layouts with KiCad, integrating components such as Raspberry Pi, motor controllers, and sensors.
• Sourced components and managed supplier relationships to ensure timely procurement and quality assurance.
• Led hardware testing protocols, including sensor calibration and system commissioning, to validate performance and reliability.

Software Architecture & Development

• Built complete OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) client and server system along with other charging stack components, enabling standardized EV charging communication.
• Developed ROS2-based robotic system with simulation capabilities using Gazebo, implementing autonomous navigation and docking procedures.
• Trained computer vision models for charging data detection from camera feeds, enabling automated identification and positioning of charging ports.
• Developed energy prediction models for renewable generation, optimizing charging schedules and grid integration strategies.
• Created wireframes and user interface designs to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.

Team Management & Business Development

• Managed team of 3 external engineers, coordinating technical development, code reviews, and project milestones while maintaining hands-on involvement in critical components.
• Built and maintained company website, handled IT administration tasks, and developed technical pitch decks for investors and customers.
• Conducted customer interviews to gather requirements, validate product-market fit, and refine feature roadmap based on real-world feedback.
• Led technical pitches and demonstrations, successfully deploying 5 paid pilot programs and demos, validating product concept and generating early revenue.

Deployment & Operations

• Established deployment pipelines and operational protocols to streamline testing and field deployment.
• Utilized tools such as Notion and Miro for project management and collaborative planning.
• Managed version control and collaborative development through GitHub, ensuring code quality and team coordination.

Technologies & Tools

• Programming Languages: Python, C++, JavaScript
• Frameworks & Platforms: Flutter, ROS, Gazebo
• Hardware Components: Raspberry Pi, motor controllers
• Design & Simulation: Fusion 360, KiCad, Blender
• Networking & Communication: WebSockets, OCPP 1.6
• Project Management: Notion, Miro, Google Workspace
• Version Control: GitHub

Outcomes & Impact

• Successful Pilots: Deployed 5 paid pilot programs and demos, validating product concept and generating early revenue.
• Technical Leadership: Managed team of 3 external engineers while maintaining hands-on technical involvement across all system components.
• Business Development: Conducted customer interviews, built technical decks, and led pitches, demonstrating full-stack startup capabilities.
• Complete System: Developed functional prototype with OCPP integration, ROS2 navigation, computer vision, and energy prediction models.
• Operational Excellence: Built and maintained company infrastructure including website and IT administration.