Eric Levi Email & Phone Number

Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States

RipeLocker has developed a patented system to manage the atmospheric conditions within its vacuum chambers, drastically improving the quality of perishables being shipped and stored around the world. As System Engineer, I have been responsible for the design and assembly of control systems, which individually manage the atmospheric conditions within our vacuum chambers. I have used my multidisciplinary skill set to quickly prototype in the early stages of trials, down select sensors, design safe and reliable power-distribution systems, and integrate customer feedback along the way.

State College, Pa

I was hired by the department to lead the mechanical design and manufacture of a facility class spectrograph used in the detection of earth-mass planets orbiting nearby M-dwarf stars. I was responsible for designing and conducting extensive stress analyses of the vacuum chamber to ensure structural integrity during instrument operation (Solidworks). Thermal stability is a key attribute of the system, and I performed extensive Solidworks thermal analyses to gain insight into the thermal control system, designed for millikelvin stability. Components that I designed and manufactured ranged from precision optical mounts to detector support interfaces.Roughly two years into my appointment, the team responded to a call-for-proposals put out by NASA, for a similar, but significantly more precise facility class spectrometer. As lead mechanical engineer on the ~15 person team, Penn State (with several affiliates) went on to win the $10M NASA/NSF grant, and began building hardware immediately. In a very short period, complete part and weld-assembly drawings were finalized, and sent directly to the vendor (extensive use of GD&T). I took on the design of the optical mounts (mass ranging from 1 kg to 60 kg), and again was responsible for complete shop drawings. I have continued supporting the PSU team through my phase-out, in more of a consultation role, until a full-time replacement hire is made.

Cherry Hill, Nj

I worked as part of a 4 member team in the Applied Sciences Lab. The majority of my time was spent developing a control API (Application Programming Interface) to be used in the control of a semi-industrial table-top robot. Writing the control API allowed me to interface with other pieces of hardware, which was crucial to the project. I reported directly to senior engineers and the lab director, giving frequent presentations and updates on progress.

Falmouth, Ma

While living on board a 137 foot classic tall-ship as a student for my fall 2008 semester abroad, I developed a deep appreciation for the amount of diverse and valuable experience there is to be gained aboard a tall-ship. I longed for the opportunity to be on board again, and soon I was starting a contract as assistant engineer. While living in Mexico, as part of a 4 man engineering crew, we carried out refit projects including motor mount replacement, diesel generator and engine maintenance, and extensive plumbing and electrical work. After a standard 4 week leave, I joined the ship in Honolulu, HI and sailed for 8 weeks to Tahiti, French Polynesia. During the voyage, the chief engineer and myself were solely responsible for all mechanical and electrical systems. We carried out preventative maintenance routines, and upheld all shipboard functions (included refrigeration system, sewage treatment facility, Reverse Osmosis water makers, three diesel engines, etc.) Working under the programs chief engineer of 8 years, I was given opportunities to show my independence, resourcefulness, and complete comfort in a team setting. He came to respect my consistently strong work ethic and dedication, acknowledging the difficulties associated with working and living in such close quarters. By the end of the trip, he offered me the position of first mate on board his personal 36 foot Seafarer Ketch in South Carolina, as well as the opportunity to aid in the restoration process.

State College, Pennsylvania

In December of 2010, I began planning the construction of a bicycle frame made primarily of bamboo. I developed detailed drawings in order to ensure all geometric specifications were met. I purchased materials, and with minimal resources, successfully built a structurally sound bicycle that became my primary mode of transportation. I was approached by an individual who noticed the parked bicycle, and was intrigued by the craftsmanship and attention to detail. He acknowledged the amount of thought and diligence put forth into the project, and asked if I’d be interested in custom manufacturing. I came to learn that he produces eddy current scanning systems, instruments used to detect flaws in conductive materials, and in this case, turbine blades. I began work that very day, wiring the lighting and electrical system for the two story shop. I installed and wired all lights and outlets, ensuring proper power supply to industrial lathes, mills, etc. I manufactured custom components required for assembly of the eddy current inspection systems. Used detailed design drawings to produce custom steel and aluminum components using both industrial machinery and hand tools to perform precision drilling and fabrication. Incremental assembly was done on site, ensuring that all components satisfied specifications.

Bachelor Of Science (Bs), Mechanical Engineering, 3.6 Junior/Senior Gpa

Study Abroad

In the Fall of 2008, I enrolled in a study abroad program, based on board one of the most sophisticated sailing research vessels.