Problem Solver
Manfred Geier
Areas Manfred Geier is Knowledgeable in:
Development and design of apparatus and detection systems, statistical data analysis, algorithm development, scientific research and product development in the intersection of mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineering
Techniques Manfred Geier Uses:
Regardless of the problem, the first step is to understand what the problem actually is. This means analysis in order to identify crucial aspects of the problem is necessary. I find it beneficial to gain understanding through questions. Specifically when solving problems as a team, it is beneficial to brainstorm for questions (rather than for solutions). Depending on the problem, generation of solutions may involve abstraction and translation to other (unrelated) systems, which opens ideas for adapting solutions from those systems. In many cases, also solutions found in natural, evolutionary, systems provide a path to solutions for a problem at hand. In my experience, a combination of lab/bench-scale experimentation and numerical simulations using problem-specific models that capture relevant phenomena provide quick route to learn and solve a technical problem in a robust manner.
Manfred Geier's Problem Solving Skills:
- Ability to concentrate, focus on details while keeping the big picture in mind, spot the unusual, analyze, and generate ideas
- Design and construction of test equipment, laser-optical diagnostics systems, scientific apparatuses
- Design and planning of experiments and tests
- Develop multi-component hardware solutions and chemically reactive processes (aerosols, high-temperature gas flows)
- Conceptualization of electronic sensor and data acquisition systems
- Experimentation, hands-on data collection
- Statistical data analysis
- Scientific research, analysis, documentation, communication
- Computer programming (Matlab, R, C/C++, Fortran)
- Numerical modeling and simulations (FEM, Monte Carlo techniques, application specific programs)
- Modeling of physical processes (fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer, reaction kinetics, electromagnetic fields)
Manfred Geier's Problem Solving Experience:
- I've devised a novel 4-channel polarization-LIDAR system and investigated its performance by interrogating a mathematical model of light transmission through the optical, polarization-sensitive, system components.
- I've conceptualized, designed, and built a lab-scale, transparent, circulating fluidized bed reactor for visualization of particle flow patterns. The system featured a pneumatically operated L-valve in the recirculation branch and included instrumentation to electronically measure the pressure distribution in the reactor during operation. The device was used for instructional purposes for Chemical Engineering students.
- I've conceptualized and built an electrospray-based atomizer to disperse nonvolatile precursor solutions in a flame reactor to produce refractory metal oxide nanoparticles. Based on initial tests, I've refined the system and proposed a setup to increase production rates with tightest possible control of the particle size distribution.
- I've constructed a diffraction-based particle sizer to enable optimization of ceramic spray-drying processes. My work included assessment data inversion approaches and programming a numerical procedure for reliable particle sizing.
- I've designed and built a premixed burner for scientific studies of nanoparticle synthesis in the flame. The device featured a porous metal disk as the gas outlet port and flame arrestor, and provided premixed reactant flow surrounded by inert gas flow to prevent air entrainment. A water-cooled jacket enabled controlling the arrestor's surface temperature.
- I've designed a modification to an existing lab-scale rotary kiln to enable continuous feeding of solids and controlled addition of inert or reactive gas mixtures.