Mathematics for Autonomously Operating Machines

Robots are the great passion of Dr. Wendelin Feiten (57). By means of mathematical modeling and problem analysis, Feiten finds new ways to enable machines to operate autonomously in a broad range of applications such as propulsion, controlling, sensorics, and data processing.

One of his inventions is a guidance system for vehicles that are loaded with freight in harbors and container terminals. Previously, the truck drivers had to be guided into their precise positions under the loading cranes by means of hand signals from the dispatchers. That required a great deal of maneuvering on the part of the drivers. Feiten's system consists of a laser distance measuring device, a processor, and software that uses measurements and comparative analysis to find out what kind of vehicle is involved and exactly where the crane should set down the container. A signal light shows the driver when and exactly where — down to the centimeter — he has to stop the truck. Thanks to the system, the truck is moved into the right position quickly and safely. The system also includes a method of automatic calibration so that it can be adjusted to local conditions without any technical difficulties.

For inventions of this kind, Feiten, a mathematician, is responsible for the algorithms at the heart of the software. Through his work he has been involved in the development of products in a broad range of segments, such as train automation, package logistics, and medical technology. One example is an x-ray machine guided by a robot arm which Siemens was the first company to put on the market; another example is driver assistance systems for automobiles. In many cases, the solutions are based on mathematical models that describe the geometry and the movement behavior of the devices and their surroundings, as well as the characteristics of the sensors.

Feiten also likes to look beyond his special field; one example is the area of mechanical engineering. In one case, he developed a solution for the problem of tipping parcels out of a truck without damaging them. His inspiration came from watching children at play. In the process he developed, the spaces between the parcels are filled with plastic balls of the kind that just about every big furniture store has in its children's corner. The balls serve as buffers for the parcels. When the parcels are subsequently transported via conveyor belts, the balls are filtered out from the mixture of balls and parcels and can then be reused.

Feiten's enthusiasm for electrical engineering was born when he was an assistant at the Technische Universität Berlin. "I was responsible for teaching the math exercise courses of the electronics students," he recalls. "I was always thinking up examples that would clearly demonstrate the practical utility of my special field." After receiving his doctorate, Feiten decided to gain experience in industrial research and development — so he joined Siemens Corporate Technology in Munich 26 years ago. "Siemens was a lucky choice for me, because I was able to do research across the entire spectrum of the company's products," he says. In his present position as a Senior Research Scientist, he particularly appreciates the opportunities to share ideas with his colleagues. Instead of jealously hoarding one's knowledge, "everyone is self-confident enough to freely share his ideas," according to Feiten. He has registered a total of 89 inventions; to date, 50 of them have been granted individual patents in 60 patent families.

Feiten's hobbies are just as diverse as his professional interests. He loves to play the piano, appreciating freely improvised jazz just as much as precisely composed classical music. Together with his wife he enjoys Argentine tango dancing, which permits him to experience time and space in totally new ways. And he practices yoga for optimal relaxation.