I'm a PhD student in computer science at the University of Toronto's Dynamic Graphics Project (DGP) lab, working under the supervision of Aaron Hertzmann.
My research spans the areas of computer graphics and robotics, focusing on building better physically-based models of motion. This includes designing methods that ease dynamic character animation/control and understanding how machine learning and optimal control techniques can be leveraged to create human-like motion.
From 2000-2005, I worked as Technical Lead, Architect, and Manager, at Boston Dynamics. There I played a leading role in designing, implementing, and overseeing software development for human simulation tools and robotics projects, including: Digital Biomechanics, BigDog and LittleDog. Prior to joining Boston Dynamics, I received a Master's of Electrical Engineering degree (2000) from McGill University, working with Martin Buehler at the Ambulatory Robotics Lab. I also hold Bachelor degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science (1998) from the University of Western Ontario.
A more detailed description of my work experience and qualifications can be found here.
Publications
- M. de Lasa and A. Hertzmann, "Prioritized Optimization for Task-Space Control", International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS), St. Louis, MO, Oct. 11-15, 2009.
- A. Layon, M. de Lasa, R. Playter, S. Talebi, M. LaFiandra, "Validation of a Load Carriage Simulation", SAE Digital Human Modeling for Design and Engineering Symposium, Rochester, MI, June 15-17, 2004.
- T. Yamamoto, M. Fujita, M. de Lasa, S. Talebi, D. Jewell, R. Playter, M. Raibert, "Development of Dynamic Gaits for the AIBO Entertainment Robot: Teaching a New Dog Old Tricks", Proceedings CLAWAR 2001, pp. 695-702, Karlsruhe, Germany, Sept.24-26, 2001.
- M. de Lasa and M. Buehler, "Dynamic Compliant Quadruped Walking", Proceedings ICRA 2001, pp 3153-3158, Seoul, Korea, May 21-26, 2001.
- M. de Lasa and M. Buehler, "Dynamic Compliant Walking of a Quadruped Robot: Preliminary Experiments", Proceedings CLAWAR 2000, Madrid, Spain, Oct 2-5, 2000.
Miscellaneous
- Hoop Dreams: An animated short made for a character animation class.
How to Contact Me
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| Office: |
Bahen Center, BA5247 40 St. George St. Toronto ON, M5S 3G4 map |
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University of Toronto, Department of Computer Science 10 King's College Road, Room 3302 Toronto, ON M5S 3G4 |