Nathanael Smith
Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineer
Mechatronics Engineering Student · Adelaide, Australia
I build multidisciplinary engineering systems across embedded software, control, physics-based modelling, simulation, optimisation, and mechanical design—using models to expose trade-offs before hardware exists.
From physics to implementation. Projects are carried from physical constraints and first-principles models through simulation, optimisation, software, and design.
Coupled-domain modelling. Mechanical, hydraulic, control, and software effects are treated as interacting parts of one system rather than isolated tasks.
Evidence before claims. Results are cross-checked against analytical benchmarks, physical limits, and numerical uncertainty before they are presented.
Flagship Project — Results at a Glance
Ownership, project scope, and key quantitative results are surfaced here first. The full case study carries the modelling, assumptions, verification, and supporting artefacts.
Hydraulic Radial Piston Motor Design and Optimisation
Physics-informed design and optimisation of a radial piston hydraulic motor for mining-duty conditions, coupling cam geometry, compressible hydraulic dynamics, structural analysis and harmonic torque-ripple behaviour.
Revised after submission — mathematical derivations and optimisation results expanded for portfolio clarity.
Reference / design condition: 450 bar
Dimensionless cycle metric
Lead Systems Engineer
2-student team
Domain Depth Profile
A view of how deeply the flagship project exercises each engineering domain. With one published system, depth is more informative than a cross-project matrix.
Multi-Physics Simulation
Co-simulation across multiple physical domains (fluid, thermal, structural).
Mechanical Design & Sealing
CAD modeling, tolerance analysis, and mechanical interface design.
Fluid Power & Hydraulics
Hydraulic circuit design, fluid dynamics, and system-level power transmission.
Structural Analysis & FEA
Finite element analysis, stress validation, and fatigue life prediction.
Algorithmic Optimization
Parametric optimization, genetic algorithms, and gradient-based search methods.
Control Systems & Automation
PLC logic, closed-loop control design, and system automation architecture.
This profile describes the published case study only; broader portfolio interests and skills are listed on the About page.