Braxton Makai

Controls / Robotics / Embedded Systems

I build and control unstable systems. Rockets, robotics, and real-time hardware that actually flies.

Student engineer in Southern California focused on aerospace + autonomy. I design controllers, ship firmware, and close the gap between simulation and the real world.

TVC rocket launch from AeroFusion project archive
View projects Work with me on something difficult

Featured Projects

Projects sorted by technical depth and system-level impact.

TVC Rocket

Simulink tuning and control analysis visual

Built a full thrust-vector-control stack for an inherently unstable rocket across changing flight regimes.

  • PID/LQR
  • Teensy firmware
  • IMU + baro
See case study

Flight Simulator Cockpit

Motion and actuation test sequence

Designed a multi-axis motion system that maps simulation states to physical actuation with low-latency control.

  • Motion control
  • Real-time loop
  • System integration
See case study

Payload Drop Assist

Embedded flight hardware and payload control electronics

Built a targeting assist pipeline for precision payload drops with controllable error bounds.

  • Targeting logic
  • Automation
  • Field testing
See case study

Core Stack

Control systems PID/LQR Stability analysis Embedded systems Real-time sensing + actuation C/C++ Python MATLAB/Simulink Sensor fusion IMU + barometer integration System-level engineering Simulation to hardware validation

About

I work on systems that fail unless every layer is designed with intent. My focus is architecture, control, and real-world iteration under constraints. I am currently targeting controls, robotics, and embedded engineering internships and research opportunities.

Contact

Looking for internship, research, and high-difficulty build opportunities.

braxton.herold@gmail.com LinkedIn GitHub