Field of studies Automatic Control and Robotics (studies in English) - Poznan University of Technology (Politechnika Poznańska), PP (Poznań) - Study Bachelor's and Master's in English in Poland

1. An industrial robot cell meets its cycle time, but the arm vibrates at the end of each move. How do you approach it?

I model the arm’s dynamics, identify the resonance and redesign the trajectory or the controller to damp it. I reduce the speed a little and see whether it helps. If it meets the cycle time, I leave it alone.

2. How comfortable are you with state-space models, stability analysis and optimal control?

Very – I want to go further into advanced methods such as model predictive or robust control. I know the basics from my first degree, but I’d need to revise a lot. I didn’t enjoy control theory and I don’t want to go deeper.

3. You’re asked to choose a research topic for your thesis. What appeals to you?

Something open-ended, such as motion planning for mobile robots or learning-based control, where I can test my own approach. A topic the supervisor suggests, as long as it’s clearly defined. I’d rather not do research at all.

4. A mobile robot has to navigate a warehouse full of moving people and pallets. Which part of the problem interests you most?

All of it – sensor fusion, mapping, localisation and planning a safe path in real time. Maybe one piece, as long as I can rely on existing libraries. None of it – it sounds too complicated.

5. Your simulation works perfectly, but the real robot behaves differently. What do you do?

I identify the gap between the model and reality, add the missing effects and validate the controller step by step on the hardware. I tweak the parameters by trial and error until it looks acceptable. I present the simulation results and skip the real tests.

6. The programme is taught in English and your project team includes engineers from several countries. How do you feel about that?

Positive – I’m comfortable discussing technical details in English and I value different engineering approaches. It’s fine for reading papers, but leading a discussion in English would take some getting used to. I’d rather study in my own language, with people from my own country.

7. How do you feel about reading recent scientific papers on robotics and control?

I read them regularly and like trying to reproduce the results or apply the ideas to my own work. I read the abstract if a lecturer recommends a paper. I don’t read them – they’re too theoretical for me.

8. You’re asked to lead a small team integrating a vision system, a robot arm and a PLC. How do you handle it?

I define the interfaces, split the tasks, set test milestones and make sure the whole system is documented. I take care of my own part and let the others sort out theirs. I’d rather not be responsible for coordinating anyone.

9. A new autonomous machine must be certified as safe before it can work near people. What’s your attitude?

I see safety analysis and fail-safe design as an essential part of engineering, and I want to understand the standards involved. I accept it’s necessary, but I’d leave it to specialists. It’s just paperwork that slows down real engineering.

10. What motivates you most to pursue a Master’s degree in Automatic Control and Robotics?

The chance to design advanced autonomous systems, lead engineering projects or move into research and development. A higher qualification and a better position in the job market. I’m not sure it’s for me

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