At Circle Optics, we pride ourselves on a culture built around Innovation, Know-how, and Synergy. These values are reflected in a team with deep expertise, drawing from some of the most iconic names in imaging, including IMAX, Navitar, Kodak, and Carestream. Among them is Bob Stanchus, Senior Mechanical Engineer, whose passion for design and problem-solving began in childhood. From his early days sketching forts to his groundbreaking work at Kodak and Circle Optics, he has spent nearly four decades mastering the art of innovation. Stanchus’ expertise spans from pioneering film cameras to developing cutting-edge technology like the Hydra 360-degree imaging system. Known for his thoughtful approach and technical precision, he ensures every design achieves seamless integration, bringing balance and innovation to each project.
CTO Allen Krisiloff has this to say about working with Stanchus, “Development of new products requires both discipline and creativity. Bob has a disciplined approach to the design process. He first confirms that he understands the use-case and the specifications for the device under development. Many of his decisions about the form, fit, and function of components will depend upon how someone is expected to use and interact with the product. Bob thinks about the targeted cost of manufacture. He thinks about the way in which the components will be assembled. These considerations inform his creativity. Bob effectively draws upon his experience on previous projects to innovatively meet the requirements of each new design challenge.”
This article highlights Stanchus’ career journey, his contributions to Circle Optics, and his reflections on the collaborative process that drives innovation and excellence in engineering.
A Career Built on Design and Innovation
Stanchus’ fascination with design began early in life, drawing and building with whatever materials were at hand. His passion led him to Alfred State, where he honed his skills in drafting and mechanical design. His first major role was at Kodak, where he worked on iconic projects such as the Advanced Photographic System (APS). While APS wasn’t a commercial success due to the rise of digital photography, it pushed Bob and his team to innovate.
“We had to take risks and design with redundancies to make things fail-safe,” Bob recalls. “It wasn’t just about designing something on a computer; it was about rethinking how we approached challenges, from concept to production.”
Shaping Circle Optics’ Innovation
Since joining Circle Optics, Stanchus has played a critical role in advancing the company’s innovative panoramic imaging systems. He was instrumental in the development of Hydra, a 360-degree camera system, where his focus was on precise alignment and integration.“My main role with Hydra was to accurately nest and hold all 11 cameras together so that they were perfectly aligned,” Stanchus explained. “It was about creating coherence in the system, ensuring that every component worked seamlessly together.”
Stanchus’ design philosophy has also shaped Circle Optics’ broader approach to innovation. During the company’s early branding discussions, Stanches shared an insight that has informed our behavioral design model: “I need to know the forest, the trees, and the branches on the trees.” This metaphor underscores his commitment to balancing the big picture with the smallest details—a mindset that has influenced the company’s values of innovation, know-how, and synergy.
Mentorship and the Art of Collaboration
Reflecting on his career, Stanchus credits his growth to the mentorship and collaboration he experienced, particularly during his time at Kodak. “I was surrounded by experts and capabilities.” “One project involved designing a part that required a $200,000 mold, and the mold designer sat right next to me. Watching him work taught me not just how to design, but how to think about the entire manufacturing process.”
At Circle Optics, Stanchus continues to foster this spirit of collaboration. “It’s about having a servant attitude toward your team,” he says. “When you design with the intent to serve, everything works better. It’s not just about handing off your work; it’s about ensuring it truly supports the next person in the process.”
Advice for the Next Generation
Stanchus’ advice to young engineers reflects the wisdom he has gained over decades:
- Know When to Break the Pencil: “As engineers, we can get caught up in perfectionism. At some point, you have to move on to the next stage and let the design evolve.”
- Ask the Right Questions: “The quality of your design depends on the quality of your questions. Don’t just take a sketch and run with it—dig into the details, ask what’s really needed, and make sure the solution serves the bigger goal.”
A Legacy of Precision and Purpose
Stanchus’ career is defined by his ability to transform ideas into reality, bridging creativity and utility. Whether designing cutting-edge optical systems or mentoring the next generation of engineers, Stanchus continues to lead with intention, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the details.
“At the end of the day, I don’t create from nothing,” Stanches reflects. “I innovate with what’s given, finding ways to bring coherence and utility to the world around us. That’s what drives me.”
