Angran Xiao

Georgia Institute of Technology, New York City College of Technology, City University of New York

Papers

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About

Angran Xiao is a researcher whose work bridges the gap between digital design tools and tangible manufacturing, with a core focus on web-based distributed systems, collaborative design for manufacturing (DFM), and mechatronics education. His most influential contribution is a pioneering framework for a "Web-Based Distributed Product Realization Environment" (2001, 44 citations), which addressed critical failings in earlier systems by creating a platform-independent software architecture to integrate heterogeneous resources for open product design and manufacturing. This work laid early groundwork for cloud-based engineering collaboration. Xiao further advanced design methodology by applying collaborative, multidisciplinary decision-making to DFM (2007, 23 citations), offering a systematic approach to reduce costly trial-and-error iterations in mechanical part design. Demonstrating a commitment to hands-on learning, he also contributed to the "MAKER" movement by designing engaging educational robots, including the "Candy Crane Robot" and the "Twisted Sister Rover" (2015). These projects showcase his ability to translate complex mechatronics principles into accessible, fun learning experiences for students, blending his deep expertise in CAD/CAM with a passion for automation and tangible product creation.