After graduating as a System Engineer in 1995, I pursued my academic journey and received a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Materials Design and Manufacturing Program from Istanbul Technical University (ITU). During my time at ITU, I focused on the design and manufacturing of an innovative SMA-actuated smart robotic hand, known as the ITU Robot Hand, utilizing NiTi shape memory alloys. This project formed the basis of my Master’s thesis and allowed me to develop profound expertise in shape memory alloys, specifically in processing-microstructure-mechanical property relationships, cyclic thermomechanical responses, and their applications in robotics. To further expand my skills in the field, I pursued a Ph.D. in Material Engineering from Yildiz Technical University in 2005. Throughout my doctoral studies, I extensively worked on the production of as-cast NiTi SMA-based robotics components using advanced manufacturing techniques such as vacuum arc remelting and vacuum induction melting. Additionally, I conducted different studies on the heat treatment and mechanical characterization of the manufactured as-cast NiTi SMA plates, further enhancing my understanding of these materials. Subsequently, I embarked on a postdoctoral research position at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering from 2009 to 2010. During this period, my focus was primarily on micro and meso-scale digital image correlation (DIC), mechanical testing, and thermomechanical properties of smart materials. This opportunity allowed me to deepen my expertise in characterizing and analyzing the behavior of smart materials at various scales. In 2012, I served as an adjunct faculty member in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Akron, Ohio, USA. During my tenure, I actively participated in a NASA-funded project focused on modeling and experimentation of shape memory alloy-based actuators within the Subsonic Fixed Wing Program. This experience broadened my perspective on the practical applications of shape memory alloys in aerospace systems. Since 2015, I have been leading the Mechatronics Engineering Department at Istanbul Gedik University, where I hold the position of head. Within this role, my research primarily revolves around experimental investigations in the field of robot welding, additively manufactured sensor and actuator components for smart robotic end effectors and pneumatically-actuated soft robotics systems. A significant aspect of my additive manufacturing research involves collaborating with Prof. Ola Harrysson (Director of the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics at the North Carolina State University) and my Ph.D. student, Gözde Peduk, on the fabrication of NiTi shape memory alloys using Electron Beam Melting (EBM)-based additive manufacturing. This partnership has allowed us to explore the potential of additive manufacturing techniques in shaping the future of shape memory alloy applications. Moreover, my expertise extends to the realm of welding engineering, holding welding engineer diploma from IIW (International Institute of Welding) and EWF (European Welding Federation). Presently, I am actively engaged in the field of robotic wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) at Istanbul Gedik University, where I also serve as the director of the Robot Technology Research and Application Center.
For further information, please visit my webpage at www.adaptronics.tech, where you can find more details about my research and contributions in the field of mechatronics and additive manufacturing.