Track 1 Late Morning
Fail-Safe Design: Mastering Safety and Reliability in Electrical and Battery Powered Systems
Abstract
Autonomous technology relies on the safety and reliability of its electrical systems and batteries. In this talk, we’ll explore practical tools and techniques like Failure Mode Analysis and Fault Analysis to help you identify and mitigate potential failures. You'll gain valuable insights into applying these safety and reliability principles to real-world products.
For systems that incorporate batteries, we’ll break down key safety concerns such as thermal runaway and examine how Battery Management Systems (BMS) help prevent risks and maintain battery health. We’ll also cover charging and discharging parameters, along with the industry standards that guide battery design.
This talk is essential for anyone involved in designing safe, reliable autonomous systems and products. Whether you're a graduate student, an aspiring engineer, or an industry professional, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to build safer, and more dependable systems. Don't miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills in product integrity, functional safety, and reliability.
Speakers
Dr. Hossein Kouhani
Hardware Electrical Engineer
Amazon
Dr. Hossein Kouhani is a hardware electrical engineer specializing in system integrity, with a background spanning biomedical devices, forensic engineering, and consumer electronics. His industry expertise encompasses risk analysis, failure investigation, and the development of innovative technologies with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability. In academia, he conducted advanced research in BioMEMS, designing electronic wearables and implantable devices for applications including glaucoma treatment, optogenetics, and bionic vision systems. This foundational work laid the groundwork for his interdisciplinary approach to engineering challenges.
He later joined Exponent, where he supported clients across industries through product inspections, recall analyses, and litigation consulting, applying rigorous engineering principles to ensure product safety and compliance. Currently at Amazon, he focuses on system integrity within consumer electronics, where he leads efforts in design review, risk mitigation, and root cause analysis. His work evaluates the thermal and electrical safety and reliability of next-generation devices, aligning technical innovation with Amazon’s high standards for operational excellence and long-term value.
Bryan Holmdahl
Senior Battery Integrity Engineer
Amazon
Bryan Holmdahl is a Senior Battery Integrity Engineer at Amazon in the Devices and Services Organization, with 15 years of industry experience and academic research. His expertise spans many areas of engineering including; materials science, battery engineering, failure analysis, and reliability engineering. Bryan’s current focus is in the area of cell design, degradation modes, safety, and battery modeling.
