TALON BRINKMAN

Custom Transformer Language Model

Python, PyTorch

Developed a custom transformer-based language model implementing a 24-layer architecture with 16 attention heads and 1024-dimensional embeddings for robust text generation.

Engineered a custom tokenizer handling vocab sizes up to 50,000 tokens while preserving semantic relationships in the input space.

Implemented a training pipeline with sequence truncation, AdamW optimization, and cross-entropy loss to ensure reliable convergence.

Built an interactive inference system with temperature-controlled sampling and top-k filtering for tunable generation quality.

Spotify API Based Multiplayer Web Game

HTML, CSS, JavaScript

Engineered a real-time multiplayer game using Spotify’s REST API, implementing low-latency, high-concurrency architecture with optimized data handling.

Implemented a WebSocket-driven real-time networking system, improving state-sync reliability and supporting scalable multiplayer concurrency.

Cut client-side render/update jitter by ~25% through optimized event batching and reduced rendering contention.

Developed a responsive, mobile-first frontend using adaptive design patterns to guarantee cross-platform compatibility and optimal performance.

Articulating Robotic Arm

Embedded, Python

Engineered a 3-DOF robotic arm with MG996R servos and a PCA9685 PWM driver, using embedded systems programming on a Raspberry Pi Pico.

Increased servo response consistency by ~15% through optimized PWM timing and control loops.

Designed and 3D-modeled all mechanical components, applying precision tolerance control and iterative prototyping for smooth actuation under load.

Integrated manual and automated command modes, supporting scripted movements and real-time control input for flexible operation.

KSP KerboScript Boostback Landing

kOS, KerboScript

Engineered a comprehensive KerboScript autopilot that automates flight phases from ascent to landing in Kerbal Space Program.

Designed a telemetry-driven ascent algorithm using control-system logic to dynamically adjust throttle and pitch, improving trajectory accuracy and efficiency.

Implemented a boostback routine using trajectory-prediction algorithms to synchronize thrust and steering for accurate return-to-launch-site maneuvers.

Developed an entry burn and aerodynamic guidance system with real-time pitch/yaw corrections to align the vehicle for atmospheric re-entry.

Engineered an on-the-fly control-loop landing algorithm that computes stopping distances and modulates throttle for controlled suic ide-burn landings.

Improved landing accuracy to within ±0.25 m of target coordinates (simulation testing).

Autonomous Vehicle Autopilot Software

Lua, Simulation

Developed autonomous-driving logic in a simulation environment, implementing real-time path planning, rule-based navigation, and obstacle avoidance.

Implemented sensor-based object detection and collision-avoidance routines, enabling adaptive, real-time route decisions.

Designed a lane-following algorithm employing PID-like control to compute steering corrections from telemetry, enabling smooth navigation.

Boosted control-loop rate from 15 Hz to 60 Hz through optimized raycasting and motor update logic for smoother real-time steering and obstacle detection.

Gaming Neural Network

Python, PyTorch

Captured low-resolution RGB frames from a dedicated TF2 window and synchronized them with keyboard/mouse recordings to build a state-action dataset.

Engineered a high-throughput data pipeline that preprocesses frames and encodes inputs into model-ready tensors for efficient training.

Improved training throughput by ~40% by reducing preprocessing time from ~120 ms to ~70 ms per frame.

Trained a supervised-learning neural network to map game visual states to player actions, iterating on architecture and hyperparameters for stable imitation performance.

Simple Cypher

C++

Developed a C++ command-line encryption tool using fundamental cryptography techniques, including configurable Caesar shifts and XOR byte transforms.

Implemented efficient character-rotation logic and an optimized XOR routine with an 8-bit key, outputting hex for non-printable support.

Reduced runtime by ~45% through simplified character-rotation and loop optimizations for typical inputs.