Engineering Senior Design - Florida State University

EngineeringSenior Design 2021

Taking the Pandemic in StrideOUR GRADUATING SENIORS typically complete their one-year senior design projects in the spring semester of their final year. This year’s class has had to deal with the pandemic, which severely limited their ability to meet in person. This required significant accommodations and flexibility on the part of the students and the senior design instructors. In the process, instructors made sure that the capstone learning outcomes were not compromised, but that students would be able to complete their project assignments with the resources that were available to them in the midst of social distancing and other pandemic constraints. I want to thank our seniors for being very upbeat about this difficult situation. I am very proud of the senior design teams this year, and congratulate our students for their great work. You will get a glimpse of the teams in this book—including some entrepreneurial projects, an increasing number of socially-conscious projects such as a device to keep medications cold during a power outage, and a design to restore an historic square in Apalachicola. There are, of course, many high-tech projects, including several around human lunar landing, blockchain use in manufacturing and optimizing staffing and services within a pandemic. We are grateful to the many organizations that sponsored our projects and mentors who advised the teams. It is invaluable for our students to be exposed to projects and mentoring from these real-world organizations.

J. Murray Gibson, Ph.D.Engineering Dean

CHEMICAL & BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERINGChemical Engineering Design Project: Modular Distributed Ammonia Synthesis .............................. 3112: Design, Construction and Operation of a Chem-E-Car 7113: Team OxBox ................................................................ 8114: Movement-to-Sound Converter (MSC)......................... 8115: BAMS .......................................................................... 9116: Is This Stool Taken? ..................................................... 9117: HOCUS POCUS ........................................................ 10118: MoDex ...................................................................... 10119: Sugar Rush ............................................................... 11120: Rocket Socket ........................................................... 11

CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING201: Apalachicola Historic Squares Restoration ................ 13202: Center for Advanced Power Systems (CAPS) Research Building .................................................. 14203: Residential Amenity Campus ..................................... 15204: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Building C Site Design ........................................................................ 15205: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Pedestrian Access and SWMF Remediation .................................................... 16206: Pedestrian Crossing on West Tennessee St. .............. 17207: Hudson Heights Development ................................... 18208: City of Midway Sanitary Sewer Collection System ...... 18209: Graceville Fire Department ......................................... 19210: Railroad Avenue Reconstruction Project .................... 20211: SR 97 Over Little Pine Barren Creek Bridge Replacement ..................................................................... 21212: Wakulla County Trails and Recreation Facility ............. 22213: Bald Point State Park Campgrounds ......................... 23214: Intersection Improvement, US-231 & 19th Street ....... 24115: Zillah Pedestrian and Street Safety (PASS) Project ..... 25216: Lake City Trade School .............................................. 26217: Avery Park Subdivision .............................................. 26218: Irrigation House and Pond Restoration ...................... 27219: City of Palatka Water Treatment Plant ........................ 28

ELECTRICAL & COMPUTER ENGINEERING301: FPL Pole Health Detection ......................................... 29302: Superconducting Reversible Logic ............................. 30303: Software Defined Radio ............................................. 30304: FPL ATS Training Application ..................................... 31305: Haptic Feedback Controller ....................................... 32306: Leon County Energy Improvements ........................... 33307: SDR Scope – A Narrow Band “Oscilloscope” for High-Power Tuning of NMR Probes ................................... 34308: COVID Temperature Scanner ..................................... 35309: Sprinter Optimization ................................................. 36

310: Autonomous Car ....................................................... 36311: Material Handler Robot .............................................. 37312: Delivery Robot ........................................................... 38

INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING401: Staffing Response to a Pandemic .............................. 39402: Vegetative Waste Stream Optimization ....................... 40403: Improving Infusion Chair Usage ................................. 41404: New Facility Layout and Process Standards .............. 41405: Healthcare Supply Chain ........................................... 42406: Ensuring Quality of Super Plastics in Airplanes ........... 42407: Pressure Data-Mapping for Prosthetics...................... 43408: Automated Ground Vehicle Localization Improvement ..................................................................... 43409: Manufacturing Reconfigurability for a Pandemic ......... 44410: Blockchain and Additive Manufacturing ..................... 44411: Rugged Electronic Box for Fiber Optic Measurements ................................................................... 45412: AquaFarm – The Future of Farming ............................ 46

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING501: Return Sample of Hypothesized Surfaces (End-Effector) .................................................................... 47502: Return Sample of Hypothesized Surfaces (Storage) ... 48503: Environment-controlled Compressor Test Stand Chamber ........................................................................... 48504: Aftermarket Workflow and Process Creation and Implementation .................................................................. 49505: Robotic Pole Inspection Collar ................................... 50506: Material Handling Robot ............................................ 50507: SAE Aero Design (Aero-propulsion) ............................ 51508: SAE Aero Design (Geometric Integration) ................... 52509: NASA Human-Powered Vehicle ................................. 53510: Indoor Air Quality of Hotspots .................................... 54511: Reducing Hardtop Weight ......................................... 54512: Low-Cost HOTAS Design for Pilot Training Devices ... 55513: MathWorks Engine Controller .................................... 55514: Hydrogen Pre-Heater for Nuclear Rocket Simulation .. 56515: Reusable Shock Absorber for the Next Lunar Lander 56516: Human Lander System Self-Leveling Legs ................. 57517: Lunar Landing Payload Crane .................................... 58518: Light Weight UAV....................................................... 58519: Football Shoulder Pads ............................................. 59520: Improve Air Quality and Efficiency .............................. 60521: Sprinter Data ............................................................. 61522: Vision Impaired Technology ....................................... 61523: Temperature Sensitive Medication Storage During Natural Disasters ............................................................... 62

Table of Contents

E N G I N E E R I N G S E N I O R D E S I G N 2 0 2 1 32 F A M U - F S U C O L L E G E O F E N G I N E E R I N G

Chemical & Biomedical Engineering

Chemical &Biomedical Senior

Design

Chemical Engineering Design Project: Modular Distributed Ammonia Synthesis

Anhydrous ammonia is commonly used as a nitrogen fertilizer and is responsible for 40% of the world’s food supply. Currently, ammonia is produced using the Haber-Bosch process, which relies heavily on a methane (natural gas) feed stock as the source of hydrogen as well as energy for the process. In the U.S., these chemical plants are located along the Gulf of Mexico due to the Gulf ’s abundance of refining facilities and thus availability of inexpensive methane. These plants are currently built on an extremely large scale to increase their economic viability through economies of scale. The Haber-Bosch process has been in industrial use since 1910 and is responsible for 3% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, 5% of the world’s natural gas consumption, and 1-3% of the world’s energy consumption. Detaching ammonia production from the fossil fuel industry is pivotal for both the obvious environmental considerations but also future economic considerations as the price of natural gas continues to increase.

The goal of this Chemical Engineering Senior Design Project is to investigate an alternative to the current Haber-Bosch ammonia production process using modular manufacturing. Modular manufacturing is a method in which manufacturing processes are designed into a form in which the process or process components can be built off-site and then shipped to their final location. This would imply many smaller facilities located

closer to the consumers rather than the current situation described above. Because ammonia is most heavily used in areas such as the Midwest and the cost of transportation is high due to the need for pressurized vessels and an extreme explosion hazard, a modular manufacturing approach could be particularly advantageous. Modular manufacturing allows for easy integration of process intensification concepts, allows chemical plants to have a lower carbon footprint, can reduce shipping costs, and utilizes the concepts of numbering up for scaling. With the advent of advanced modeling software, engineers are now able to quickly analyze the feasibility of various smaller scale process designs which incorporate emerging technologies.

To tackle this problem, alternative process designs are considered that utilize reactants readily available in the Midwest along with alternative forms of hydrogen gas production to synthesize a more environmentally friendly version of ammonia that is also economically viable. This ‘green ammonia’ can be generated by incorporating various ideas such as using renewable energy as fuel, producing carbon free hydrogen gas through electrolysis or methane capture from manure, as well as incorporation of a modular design to optimize the economics and environmental impact of the process.

TEAM MEMBERSSee next page

ADVISORRobert Wandell, Ph.D.

SPONSORFAMU-FSU Engineering

CHEMICAL ENGINEERING SENIORS split into 11 teams to design a solution for the same design “problem”: a modular distributed ammonia synthesis system. Faculty chose the winning solution from among the teams and recognized Team 106 with the winning design. Above (L to R) are the members of the team: Corey Fuller, Jamarl Parker, Georgi Cowan and Adrian Martinez (not pictured).


Chemical & Biomedical EngineeringChemical & Biomedical Engineering

TEAM 101: Sidney CameronZion HaynesJohn HogartyAnh Van

TEAM 102: Maylu BurrowsKelly Liliana Ceci CastilloJacnel GraterolLinh Vu

TEAM 103: Roderick Campbell Thomas IusoMeghan LegerShane ReedJason Sleboda

TEAM 104: Matthew DinanRebecca HessUsman MughalChristopher Pettit

TEAM 105: Collin BeanSean BeanMichael Parkhurst

TEAM 106: Georgi CowanCorey FullerAdrian MartinezJamarl Parker

TEAM 107: Shamur Oliver

Emily RiniSage Smith

TEAM 108: Hunter Hayes

Tanner RhymesHannah Roberts

TEAM 109: Ella Berkwits*

David KyserAlexis MojicaRahul Nana*

Madison Orlowski

TEAM 110: Nicholas Gerdak

Axel LewisJerome Rivas

Derek Rodriguez

TEAM 111: Cartreal Davison

Alwell NwachukwuAdebayo Oshinusi

Gabrik Vera

*not pictured


112: Design, Construction and Operation of a Chem-E-Car

The human race faces many challenges, but perhaps the most detrimental long-term threat to mankind is global warming. It is widely acknowledged that CO2 emissions are the leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming. The human race’s overdependence on fossil fuels and combustion-based processes for transportation and power generation must come to an end, and soon.

In light of the recent attention towards creating more environmentally friendly technology, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) introduced in 1999 the annual Chem-E-Car Competition® among undergraduate chemical engineering students around the world with sustainability in mind. In this competition, students design a fully-functional car that is entirely propelled and stopped using chemical reactions. Each car then competes in a competition against other universities in the hope of being able to accurately pilot their car a specified distance while carrying a specified mass. The distance and mass are not provided to the teams until the day of competition, so each car

must be optimized so that its operation can be controlled by the concentrations and volumes of initial reactants.

This year, the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering team decided to propel our car with thermoelectric generators powered by a hot-side and a cold-side reaction. The hot-side reaction was composed of an acid-base neutralization reaction and the cold side was composed of an isopropyl dry ice bath. In order to stop our car with a high degree of accuracy, we utilized an iodine clock reaction.

Our team’s goal was to develop a car capable of driving 15-30 meters over the duration of two minutes. Additionally, the car would need to carry a load of 500 ml of water. To achieve this goal, a reactor was built that powered thermal electric generators (TEGs), which use a temperature differential to produce voltage that can power a motor. To create this temperature differential, a simple acid base reaction of NaOH and HCl provided heat while an isopropyl dry ice bath provided our cold side.

When bringing this concept to life, many design decisions were made in order to optimize efficiency and safety.

For example, through different electrical configurations of the TEGs we could obtain better outputs of voltage and amps based on our car’s requirements. We also implemented safety features by including a gas waste collection bag on the vent of our reactor.

For the iodine clock reaction stopping mechanism, we used hydrogen peroxide, potassium iodine, hydrochloric acid, sodium thiosulfate and starch. The reaction has two steps: the first step generates iodine molecules, and the second step consumes the iodine very quickly. After the second step reaches completion, the iodine molecules are free to form a complex with the starch. This turns the solution a very dark blue/black color. The color change was sensed by a phototransistor which stops the supply of power to the motor. The propulsion, stop and integration steps in our Chem-E Car design and construction yielded environmentally-friendly, disposable waste products and no carbon emission into the atmosphere.

TEAM MEMBERS (L to R)Kelly Liliana Ceci CastilloJacnel GraterolHunter HayesTanner RhymesHannah Roberts

ADVISORRobert Wandell, Ph.D.





113: Team OxBox

Team OxBox created a device to help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) manage their disease by aiding in decision support through an integrated sensor system. The OxBox system combines respirometry and pulse oximetry to assess the patient’s lung performance in one simple and inexpensive package. By promoting self-management of COPD, the OxBox system will reduce the reliance of patients on the overloaded healthcare system in the U.S.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Rafael Barragan Brittany LemkeVanessa Nocent

ADVISORSStephen Arce, Ph.D.Charles Lamantia


114: Movement-to-Sound Converter (MSC)

The movement-to-sound converter (MSC) is a sensor glove intended to help pediatric patients with cerebral palsy interact and communicate. These patients often have difficulty speaking and their mobility may also be limited to small hand gestures. Because of these obstacles, children may have difficulty communicating and/or they may lack essential comprehension skills. Team MSC created a glove device that allows patients to trigger pre-recorded audio messages that play with only simple hand gestures, such as making a fist or pointing a finger. With the device, children can interact with their caregivers and communicate simple messages like ‘yes,’ ‘no’ and ‘I want.’

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Nathan Barnett-BishopCharlie BrennerBrandon GreeneClaudia Mibelli

ADVISORStephen Arce, Ph.D.


115: BAMS

Next-generation therapeutic devices will combine biologic components and engineered materials to provide site-specific drug delivery. BAMS created a tissue model that mimics the interstitial space within the body to help researchers study flow and diffusion patterns using microfluidics. At this stage of development, BAMS is supporting the translation of these types of new technology by providing an accurate tissue-model apparatus that can validate the function of implantable biologic combination devices.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Andrea AguileraAndre Burbano Elizabeth Meinert-SpykerAlonso Mendoza

ADVISORSStephen Arce, Ph.D.Cesar Rodriguez, M.D.


116: Is This Stool Taken?

Disbiosis is characterized by an imbalance of or unhealthy microbiome in the intestinal track. Team ITST furthered the development of an enteric (intestinal) microbiome sampler system by optimizing the timing of a protective gelatin outer layer and designing the internal components of the system. A two-layer filter design, together with the timed-dissolution of the outer layer, allows the small device to capture bacteria and other organisms in the small intestine using an osmotic chamber to pull in digestive fluids. This sampling system can help researchers understand how the gut microbiome affects human health using a non-invasive and inexpensive technique.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Danielle DominiquePanos KiratzisAlyssa SantanaRaheem Thomas





117: HOCUS POCUS

The goal of HOCUS POCUS is to improve image quality in current point-of-care ultrasound scan (POCUS) technology. POCUS, a portable imaging modality, benefits healthcare providers and patients—especially those in low-resource/accessibility areas, including lower costs (start-up and maintenance), increased convenience and greater efficiency. However, when compared to other imaging modalities, it lags in image quality and resolution, resulting in lower efficacy and clinical use. This team developed a feasible solution to significantly improve the image quality of POCUS scans that especially benefits physicians and technicians in unique settings such as emergency sites, patient homes and low-resource areas. It can be used as an additional clinical tool to use in treatment, diagnosis, and monitoring.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jarrett AmodeoLauren DaleyNathan McDonaldMaKenna Sebastian

ADVISORStephen Arce, Ph.D.Charles Fleischer, M.D.


118: MoDex

The cost of living for families of children with cerebral palsy (CP) is significantly higher and providing an option that can provide therapy in a remote setting can help them tremendously. MoDex built a combination therapy system consisting of a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) component and a mechanical tensioning glove to allow patients with CP to build strength and dexterity in their hands. Successful therapy has the potential to provide children with CP more independence and self-reliance by helping them communicate and interact with their caregivers and the outside world.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jacob AtheyAudra BarnesStephano Tsutsumi



119: Sugar Rush

The goal of Sugar Rush is to provide an affordable, non-invasive way for diabetic patients to monitor their blood glucose levels. The team has developed a hydrogel patch system that detects glucose in perspiration using a colorimetric reaction. A custom image processing algorithm converts the color signal into an accurate glucose level, allowing the patient to simply take a picture of the patch to get a reading. This provides the patient with the ability to monitor their glucose without the need for expensive or invasive monitoring systems.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Sergio AranaColin BurrowesHassana O’ConnorHarshal Patel

ADVISORSStephen Arce, Ph.D.Christina Holmes, Ph.D.


120: Rocket Socket

When limb volume decreases, prosthetic devices no longer function properly due to improper fitting and the uncomfortable/painful redistribution of weight. The Rocket-Socket is a Total Surface-Bearing Socket Device intended to help trans-tibial amputees manage the volume changes of their residual limb throughout the day. The Rocket Socket features an adjustable internal air bladder to maintain the fit and comfort of the Socket, enabling patients to be more active and avoid the inconvenience of constant removal and readjustment of their prosthetic limb.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Amro AbdelaalMaria CanoniccoMatthew SaboYazmeen Torres

ADVISORSStephen Arce, Ph.D.

SPONSORHanger Clinic, Matthew Dunford


201: Apalachicola Historic Squares Restoration

Apalachicola is a harbor town located on Florida’s panhandle. The city uses a plan first developed in the 1500s by the Spanish, comprised of a rectangular grid of blocks, alleys, streets and squares. Chapman Square is one of the six areas in Apalachicola intended for town squares. There is an intersection at Chapman Square that directs traffic into the city grid system, but this existing infrastruc-ture does not serve the intended purpose of the city-owned land to its full extent. The Historic Apalachicola Foundation believes that turning Chapman Square into a true town square can strengthen the sense of community and the town’s historic identity. The scope of this project is to develop a concept that restores the intent of Chapman Square in a way that is trasferable to the city’s other original squares.

The proposed design is both innovative and safe for the use of vehicles and visitors to Chapman Square. The current roadway is replaced with a square-shaped roundabout with a one-way traffic flow. The project goals include increased recreational space, thru traffic access and realizing the client vision. By maximizing the land use at Chapman Square, our team incorporates a roadway plan including curbing, travel lanes, a sod lining and a sidewalk. The primary function of this design is to open up space in the center to allow for safe pedestrian passage, a renewed inviting public space and a useful area for the citizens of Apalachicola. In addition to opening up this central space, a historic touch, such as a statue or fountain, would be chosen by the community to further promote a sense of heritage among the residents.

TEAM MEMBERS (L to R)Jessica CavalieriMeghana ChachraShelby GrazianiCamilo Romero

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECB, Mark Lleweyn Sr., P.E.

SPONSORHistoric Apalachicola Foundation, Inc., Diane Brewer, Marie Marshal, Halff Associates, Inc., Mark Llewellyn, Sr., P.E.

Civil & Environmental Engineering

Civil &Environmental Senior

Design

Image via WFSU


Civil & Environmental Engineering Civil & Environmental Engineering

202: Center for Advanced Power Systems (CAPS) Research Building

The Center for Advanced Power Systems (CAPS) needed a new lab facility to provide more research in power electronics and thermal management. The new facility will also expand their education program, giving students more learning opportunities.

The new lab facility must be able to move heavy materials and house specialized equipment. It needs to provide an excellent workspace for full-time staff, while also accommodating student learning for aspiring professionals. The facility also needs to handle daily operations, be able to receive shipments, and function while abiding by state, municipal and university codes.

Our multi-disciplinary team produced a plan that includes site development, geotechnical surveying and design, water resources management, structural and foundation design, construction management and scheduling operations.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Brian CooganMichelle GrandGrant GroomRyan LovingFreeman Sanders

ADVISORS. Martin, P.E., SECB

SPONSORDHM Melvin Engineering, Jamie Graham, P.E. and Paul Davidson, P.E.

203: Residential Amenity Campus

A small community in Naples, Florida requested the development of a small residential amenity campus. The project scope included a club house, pool area, sport courts and a parking lot. Safety, quality, cost, and scheduling were large factors in deciding between design alternatives.

Some of the immediate challenges with this project were site development and grading. Deciding on appropriate drainage measures of the site greatly influenced the overall grading. The physical location and its proximity to FEMA flood zones as well as hurricane zoning impacted the final decisions. Parking lot layout also affected the drainage and grading of the overall site as it is the biggest impervious area in proposed designs.

For the sport courts, there was a lot of flexibility in the potential design. Some of the courts considered included, tennis, volleyball, bocce ball, basketball and roller hockey. The next step was to decide between asphalt, post tension slab, or reinforced concrete, as well as the type of finish we wanted to seal it with. Clubhouse placement and pool design were minor considerations as the client requested something aesthetically appealing.

Lastly, the cabanas on the pool deck needed to be designed for self weight as well as hurricane wind loads which helped narrow down the choice of materials.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Noah BowerJulia BurroughsJulia DennisConnor Kloby

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECBM. Dulebenets, Ph.D., P.E.

SPONSORWaldrop Engineering, Nik Kasten, P.E.

204: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Building C Site Design

The goal of our project is to deliver a complete site design for a new Building C on the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering campus. Our proposed site for Building C is the barren landscape north of Building B. Currently, this space is mostly grass with the exception of two beach volleyball courts and a few solar panels.

Building C will be a state-of-the-art facility serving as a focal point for the college. We will help accomplish this goal through our detailed site design, which includes site-development, stormwater, transportation, utilities and construction management. Each component of our design will revamp the campus. Students, faculty, and staff will be inspired to work here for many years to come.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Brandon Bolware (not pictured)Christian CapperDock Luckie IIIJoseph McCullyQuaid VanHuss

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECB

SPONSORFAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Donald Hollett



205: FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Pedestrian Access and SWMF Remediation

The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering provides the necessary learning facilities and equipment to hundreds of engineering students every semester. The campus consists primarily of two main buildings and is rapidly growing. Because of this growth, the campus is in constant need of improvements.

Our improvement project encompasses three main goals: 1) to remediate the retention pond next to building B, 2) design and construct a new sidewalk and 3) create and build an outdoor study area for both the faculty and the students.

The retention pond remediation returns the pond to its original state by dredging and adding buffer vegetation around the perimeter Currently, the campus lacks safe pedestrian access between the A.M.E. (Aero-Propulsion, Mechanics and Energy) Building and the main engineering campus. A proposed sidewalk connects the two safely. A gazebo will serve the college community with a location to relax or study. This project requires several field reviews, permit facilitation, plan design and community awareness implementation. Our design follows standards set by the county, state, ADA, and FDOT.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Sarah CookKishoon GreerOlivia Perryn


SPONSORFAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Donald Hollett

206: Pedestrian Crossing on West Tennessee St.

Pedestrian injuries and fatalities continue to occur along West Tennessee Street, in Tallahassee. We analyzed various traffic data provided by Florida Department of Transportation and City of Tallahassee, including from car crashes involving pedestrians, locations of these crashes and traffic flow. This helped us understand where the areas of concern are, and what options we have to fix them. Requirements concerning crossings and locations were evaluated during this process.

For the area between the intersections of W. Brevard St. and West Tennessee St., we assessed the area and evaluated different approaches to develop a safe outline of construction development.

Our design features a crosswalk, bridge and tunnel design. The final design was chosen as a safe, economic, and aesthetically-pleasing pedestrian crossing. Our project construction development timeline includes working lane-by-lane closures to construct cut-and-cover tunnels along the span of the project.

We estimate this process—from locating and relocation of utilities to backfilling and final touching with paint—to take six months (six-phase plan). This tunneling design meets all ADA compliance codes, includes Blue Light emergency systems and leaves room for more features to be explored.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Liwa ArigboIndia BaggaleyBrian CalandraJack Walter

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECBR. Moses, Ph.D, P.E.

SPONSORFAMU-FSU College of Engineering



207: Hudson Heights Development

The Hudson Heights development project is intended to be a low-cost community for young professionals and students alike. The major aspects of the plan are as follows: The project will feature the design of a retention pond that will keep a water level throughout the year for aesthetic purposes and will maintain a grade such that no fence is required around it. Ultimately, the site and the retention pond will be designed so that all stormwater that falls onto the property will flow in a manner so that the water will not puddle or bunch in undesired locations. Rather, the water will flow to the design retention pond on the property. This will be done by grading the site and developed area in a manner that water flows desirably.

The multi-family dwelling building will be three stories and will feature community amenities on the first floor. It will be primarily built using timber while featuring steel beams on the first floor; it will also showcase a stem wall as its foundation. The parking lot will be graded per ADA requirements while providing ample drainage and plenty of drive aisle space. The parking lot will provide plenty of parking for residents, and ADA parking will be provided according to code. The driveway leading to the site shall be a two-lane, low-speed road that provides ample sight distance and will drain via pipes to the same retention pond as the building and parking lot. All site design will adhere to the Florida Building Code and Leon County Code of Ordinances.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)M. Bonner BucknerMitchell HudsonHaidyn OwensKevin Pham

ADVISORS. Martin, P.E., SECBL. Spainhour, Ph.D., P.E.

SPONSORBarkley Consulting Engineers Inc., Douglas R. Barkley, M.S., P.E., S.I.

208: City of Midway Sanitary Sewer Collection System

This project is a public sewer system for the Rustling Pines Subdivision in Midway, Florida. The City of Midway needs a public sewer system to replace the current failing septic systems. The main option proposed is a traditional gravity system to reduce the cost of maintenance and provide a reliable system in the event of power outages. A second option is a low-pressure sewer system, having a lower initial cost and higher maintenance and individual cost to the users.

The City of Midway chose a gravity system due to reliability and low operational cost. The proposed design will allow for future additions. Construction and design will follow the Department of Environmental Protection and Ten State Standards to ensure safety and compliance of the system. We provide a basic design, with final details to be added in the future after funding has been acquired. This design includes seven pump stations with force mains and around 10 miles of collection pipe.

The project is a major improvement to the city infrastructure, providing reliable wastewater removal to the neighborhoods currently facing septic failure.

TEAM MEMBERS (L to R)Dylan JonesBryan Martinelli (not pictured)Joshua Rakestraw (not pictured)Carlton Walker


SPONSORFlorida Rural Water Association, Sterling L. Carroll, P.E., M.P.A.

209: Graceville Fire Department

This project is a fire station design for the City of Graceville, Florida on three acres located at 951 Prim Avenue in Graceville. This site is densely wooded with pine trees and underbrush, requiring significant tree removal.

The Graceville Fire Department asked us to design structural components for the new fire station that would be sufficient to house four drive-through garage bays for fire engines, along with living quarters, a restroom and a kitchen. Site design includes parking areas and a retention pond to prevent both flooding and water ponding on the developing site.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Robert MillerDimitrije PejicBradley ProctorMark Vause

ADVISORSSean Martin, P.E., SECBKamal Tawfiq, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE

SPONSORDHM Melvin Engineering



210: Railroad Avenue Reconstruction Project

Railroad Avenue is a roadway located in Tallahassee, Florida. This road travels between Gamble Street and West Pensacola Street. The area surrounding Railroad Avenue has seen many improvements in recent years and biggest of these are the reconstruction projects of both FAMU Way and West Gaines Street. Hotels and retail stores have also been added in the area. Due to this development and the increased traffic it has caused, Railroad Avenue needs major improvements. To address this, our team developed a plan that includes a full reconstruction of Railroad Avenue.

Reconstruction spans about 1,000 feet between FAMU Way and West Gaines Street and includes a wide range of upgrades, including lane redesign to improve traffic flow and driver visibility. Widened sidewalks, additional crosswalks and better signage improve pedestrian traffic flow and safety.

To address the impacts of this project, we developed a plan for stormwater drainage and erosion mitigation. This project features landscaped medians and brick crosswalks to improve the visual appeal of the roadway.

The redesign not only improves the traffic flow and visuals of the roadway, but also allows Railroad Avenue to match the existing improvements to FAMU Way and West Gaines Street. This will encourage further development in the area and lead to a better driving and pedestrian experience for both the local community and visitors to the area.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Daniel Aries Jake DionChandler HatcherAndre MercierDominick Tressler

ADVISORS. Martin, P.E., SECBRen Moses, Ph.D., P.E.

SPONSORCity of Tallahassee Underground Utilities & Public Infrastructure, Roger Cain, P.E.

211: SR 97 Over Little Pine Barren Creek Bridge Replacement

State Route (SR) 97 is a south-north two-lane highway in Escambia County, Florida. It is a heavily trafficked highway and a hurricane evacuation route for the residents of Pensacola and the surrounding area. This project involves replacing a structurally-deficient bridge spanning Little Pine Barren Creek located north of Walnut Hill, Florida and west of Century, Florida. The bridge, built in 1940, is a five-span, 75-foot-long concrete slab bridge on concrete piles and caps.

In its most recent bridge inspection, the structure scored a sufficiency rating of 33.6, and a health index of 49.6. There is a vertical misalignment of the deck in two spans due to settlement of one of the bents. The span exhibits a noticeable bounce under heavy live loads. The vertical posts near the two spans exhibit misalignment and separation due to the settlement of the bent as well.

The bridge replacement on SR 97 involves constructing a temporary bridge and roadway diversion on the east side of the existing bridge. Traffic will be redirected onto the temporary diversion during the demolition and reconstruction project.

Our team focused on the superstructure design of the bridge, coordinating with district agencies to reduce wetland impacts and performing drainage analysis for the project.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Tasha AcostaMelissa MolinaGriffin ReillyAndrew Zubowicz

ADVISORSC. Clark II Ph.D., P.E.S. Martin, P.E., SECBL. Spainhour Ph.D., P.E.,

SPONSORHNTB Corporation, David Crombie, P.E., Sadie Dalton, P.E., and Travis Lloyd, P.E.



212: Wakulla County Trails and RecreationFacility

Our team worked alongside Northwest Florida Water Management District and Wakulla County to create a nature park with amenities for the residents of Wakulla County, Florida. The property is located in the Wakulla Springs area and occupies 131.5 acres of land. We designed multi-use trails, roadway access for the trails and a parking lot, along with a variety of park facilities. Our hope is that this will provide all nearby residents with as many recreational opportunities as possible.

The nature park will have two entrances. The main entrance at the Southeast end will provide accessibility to vehicular traffic and is also connected to an existing road. The road will lead to the main parking lot that contains roughly 15 spaces and a restroom facility. The plumbing and electrical lines for this area will be bored from the neighboring property to the east.

The property has a residential area to the west and rural communities surrounding the north, south, and east. Secondary access will be close to the west neighborhood. The multi-use trail paths will provide pedestrian access and direct connection to the surrounding community. The trails in the park will be unpaved and approximately six feet wide throughout.

Low-impact buildout techniques will be used to preserve the beauty of the park’s natural features. Our design creates a family-friendly park environment for patrons of all ages to enjoy. Our goal is to make this park one of the most eco-friendly and beautiful nature parks in Wakulla County.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Trevor ObalRichard ElmoreRichmond BowenClint CapleMerve Ozer


SPONSORNorthwest Florida Water Management District, Brett Cyphers and Jim Lamar, P.E.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Bond CantrellTrace HunterXhoja JosephSteven Owusu

ADVISORDouglas R. Barkley, M.S., P.E., S.I.S. Martin, P.E., SECB

SPONSORFlorida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Recreation and Parks, Michael W. Foster Jr., P.E.

213: Bald Point State Park Campgrounds

The Bald Point State Park Campgrounds is intended to be a mid-sized campground with both space for tent and RV camping as well as cabins. These will be built around a small ring road with a central bathhouse. Bald Point State Park is home to many plants and animals, including some endangered species such as the Bald Eagle, where the park gets its name. Most of the park is nearly at sea level and has many wetlands, or areas that are covered by water for a portion of the year. It is very important that these wetlands are not disturbed as they play a large part in the ecosystem of the park.

Bald Point is difficult to develop, mostly because of how important it is to keep the natural beauty of the park both for visitors and the wildlife that call the park home. The runoff from the campsite must not affect the environmentally precious areas of the park but it also cannot stay and puddle on the campsite. This will be achieved by building the campsite on high ground and constructing areas where water will naturally collect and seep back into the ground around the site. We will also reduce the amount of runoff from the campgrounds by keeping areas that water cannot pass through to a minimum.

Some other challenges we face in the project are that the campground is also very near the coast, and there is some danger of flooding as well as high wind speeds from storms. To raise the buildings out of harm’s way from the water, the structures will be constructed on piles. All buildings on the site will also be engineered to withstand wind speeds of up to 150 MPH.


ZILLAH STREETFROM BAHAMA DRIVE TO PAUL RUSSELL ROAD

(not to scale)

10'

25' ±

10' 10'6' - 8'

2' 3'

5'

25' ±VARIES

28'

10'18'

EXISTING SIDEWALKTO BE REMOVED

FILL EXISTING DITCH ANDREMOVE CONCRETE DITCH

PAVEMENT PROPOSED STORMWATER PIPE

EXISTINGMULTI-USE TRAIL

TO REMAIN

EXISTING GROUND

EXISTING GROUND

EXISTING POWER & LIGHT POLETO REMAIN

RESURFACE EXISTINGTRAVEL LANES

EXISTINGRIGHT-OF-WAY

EXISTINGRIGHT-OF-WAY

PROPOSEDSIDEWALK

COUNTY OWNEDRIGHT-OF-WAY

PROPOSED SODPROPOSED LANDSCAPING

214: Intersection Improvement, US-231 & 19th Street

In Bay County, Florida, the intersection of US-231 (SR-75) and 19th street is problematic. In the years leading up to its redesign, there have been 53 reported accidents within a half mile of this intersection. Of these accidents, more than half of them occurred during the heavy commuting hours of the early morning and late afternoon.

This location is also significant because US-231 is along the designated “Hurricane Evacuation Route” for the area, thus holding high importance to the public eye. KLDM Design worked on a design that focused on improving the intersection of US-231 and 19th street.

Currently, US-231 is a four-lane highway, two-lanes traveling in each direction, with a two-way turn lane dividing them. We found several limiting factors during the design process, but it was clear that adding a right turn lane for southbound traffic on US-231 would be the most optimal improvement, making the road safer for drivers.

While there are many ways to design this improvement, road widening had the most economical and local positives. We also included new mast arms and traffic signals. We believe this will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion and accidents near this intersection.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)David CarbajalKyle McMullenLogan MercadoMarcus Stanton

ADVISORS. Martin, P.E., SECBS. Jung, Ph.D.

SPONSORChipola Engineering Group. Nick Grosso, P.E. & Blaine Varn, P.E.

215: Zillah Pedestrian and Street Safety (PASS) Project

Zillah Street is a residential street, spanning between East Paul Russell Road and Tram Road in Tallahassee, Florida. It is located in the Multimodal Transportation District and is home to Fairview Middle School and Pace High School. Due to its location, many people utilize this street.

Over time, the condition of the roadway and sidewalks has deteriorated and facilities have become outdated. On the west side of the street, sidewalks have notable spalling, rutting and cracking. The roadway’s steep grade, along with open ditches, results in poor drainage on the street. These open ditches also reduce the amount of walkable space and present a danger for drivers and pedestrians. Overgrown trees and bushes obscure pedestrians from view and reduces their safety.

Due to these issues, we planned a full demolition and reconstruction, along with additions for improvement. The gradation of the roadway will be brought to current standards through reconstruction, and curb and gutter will be added. Drainage pipes will be added to the open ditches before they are completely filled in, improving drainage and allowing for the addition of wide sidewalks on the east side of the roadway. All existing sidewalks will be reconstructed.

A four-way crosswalk and stop signs will be added at the Bahama Drive-Omega Avenue intersection. Landscaping will be added using principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. These improvements will increase driver and pedestrian safety, and the design will improve the street’s sustainability, functionality and appearance.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jenna CutroneJavar Pascoe Jarad PatschThuraia Sargeant

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECBChristian Wireko, Ph.D.

SPONSORCity of Tallahassee, Roger Cain P.E.


BEFORE

AFTER


216: Lake City Trade School

Our project is the site development for a new trade school building in Lake City, Florida. Our plans include a new building foundation and structure, utilities, stormwater management and site layout.

The proposed school building is one-story with ample natural lighting. The building includes restrooms, offices, meeting rooms, and classroom and lab space for five trades: plumbing, electrical, IT, carpentry, and masonry. Outdoor work areas are accessed by roll-up bay doors. Without public transportation in Lake City, the parking lot will need to accommodate all faculty and students. These requirements are all met by our design.

We prioritized sustainability throughout the project and used creative methods to handle stormwater on the site. Therefore, our roof draining system will include a cistern to collect roof runoff. This water will then be used for plumbing and irrigation purposes. In addition, our site design includes a stormwater pond that incorporates retaining walls to decrease the overall size of the stormwater structure. Our design utilizes permeable pavement, limiting runoff from the parking lot and providing a sustainable drainage solution.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Nicholas JungersHugh Merryday Antoinette Velazquez Jared Wolber

ADVISORS. Martin, P.E., SECBK. Tawfiq, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE

SPONSORCommunity & College Partners Program, Michael Burns, P.E.

217: Avery Park Subdivision

The Avery Park Subdivision is a new development created from two adjacent parcels. These parcels consist of residential and mixed-use commercial/residential land. Our team created the site design layout and grading, sewer/storm water facilities, utilities, and a structural design for the single family attached homes. This proposed design layout maximizes the number of homes without sacrificing important natural features such as protected trees.

We designed an ICPR model for the stormwater pond located at the lowest point of the land and site grading to capture runoff from the proposed development and redirect flow away from the homes in the area. In addition, we designed a storm sewer system leading to the stormwater pond.

For the structural side of the project, we designed a truss system for the roofs of the single-family attached homes.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Samuel AllenMichael Giglio Kathryn Sammons Gabriel Sanz Isaac Veenstra

ADVISORSean Martin, P.E., SECBMichelle Roddenberry, P.E., F.ASCE

SPONSORWilliam Colbert, P.E.,Urban Catalyst Consultants

218: Irrigation House and Pond Restoration

Our project restores a one-acre agricultural pond that struggles to hold water during dry periods of the year. This pond, built in 1952, has trees growing in the dam and has not been maintained. The tree roots cause the dam to leak water and they must be removed through a dam restoration process.

Because of the leaking, the pond cannot maintain a fish population or be used for irrigation. One way we help the pond retain water is through a well-to-pond fill system. We designed an irrigation house to hold agricultural equipment, the well pump system used to fill the pond and a pond-sourced irrigation system for a nearby peach orchard. This pole barn will also be important for holding pond recreation and fish-stocking equipment, including fish food, water treatment materials and fishing equipment.

We conducted an environmental study to ensure that the irrigation system and well-water pH balance allow for a sustainable fish habitat. This is also defined by a healthy ecosystem of fish populations, like grass-eating carp to help control algae. A TR-55 runoff study and the peach orchard irrigation demands were important hydraulic calculations that needed to be balanced. We used these figures to define this pond’s ability to supply the peach orchard without damaging its own environmental sustainability.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jack BingemannJake BleierJonathan BottomyKayla Edwards

ADVISORSS. Martin, P.E., SECB

SPONSORKim Bottomy, P.E., KB Engineering LLC


Pole Barn:

Peach Tree Orchard:

Inflow:

Overflow:

Dam:

Pond:

Well Pump:

1.5” Sprinkler Tower:

Pond Fill Sprinkler Range:

Underground PVC: Access Path:

Underground Power:


219: City of Palatka Water Treatment Plant

This project focuses on improving the water treatment plant used by the City of Palatka, Florida. When the treatment plant first began operating, it was a Category 1 plant, using traditional coagulation, flocculation and sedimentation processes to treat the water. For these processes, the plant was using an alum and sulfuric acid combination. However, the plant began to see problems with the alum forming crystals, causing the filters to fail. After the failure and a rerating, the plant began operating as a Category 5 treatment plant, using chlorine and hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the water instead. This new disinfection process creates unwanted byproducts that must be removed from the water, calling for the use of granular activated carbon (GAC) filters.

The problem that the water treatment plant currently faces is that the new filters do not fit inside the existing treatment building. This means that the building, and all piping and equipment inside, needs to be completely redesigned to house the filters. Our team worked with the Florida Rural Water Association to design the layout for the entire piping system of all filters and treatment equipment at the plant. We designated pipe sizes and equipment, calculated optimal flow rate through each section of pipes, and included a cost estimate for the entire project. Our goal is to redesign the plant in a way that cleans the wastewater quickly and thoroughly.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Nicolas CarmonEthan GeigerMeghan Tyler


SPONSORFlorida Rural Water Association, Sterling Carroll, P.E.; Peyton Piotrowski

Civil & Environmental Engineering

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Corie CatesAlonzo RussellLeonardo VelazquezThomas Williams

ADVISORShonda Bernadin, Ph.D.

SPONSORFlorida Power and Light

301: FPL Pole Health Detection

Florida Power and Light (FPL) provides power to over ten million people in Florida via millions of utility poles that transfer power to homes. However, the integrity of these poles degrades over time. Linemen must test the health of these poles every two years using an 18-step inspection process. One of these steps is the hammer test where a lineman taps the pole with a hammer and listens for the sound it produces. Changes in the sound correlate to a defect in the pole. This inspection process is prone to errors and is resource-intensive. Our goal was to automate and simplify FPL’s pole inspection process.

We developed a pole testing approach that uses radar technology to improve testing efficiency and accuracy. This design provides linemen with a simpler, non-invasive way to test the health of a utility pole. With the help of a team of mechanical engineers, we designed and built a triangle-shaped robot that can climb and adjust to different sized poles. A radar sensor attached to the robot checks the pole as it climbs. Both the robot and the sensor are powered by a rechargeable battery. An app designed for iPads and iPhones is used to control both parts. The user is able to control the robot’s movement and view the sensor’s test results, along with other important robot information.

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Electrical &Computer Senior

Design


Electrical & Computer EngineeringElectrical & Computer Engineering

302: Superconducting Reversible Logic

The progress of modern computing has been slowing down due to the difficulty in making computers more energy efficient. Asynchronous Ballistic Superconducting Circuits (ABSCs) will be more energy efficient than those currently in use as they do not waste energy with clock signals. ABSCs also use components that do not use as much energy to operate. ABSCs work best for high-speed, high volume tasks, such as stock trading and scientific research. For stock trading, the faster speed would allow stock traders to have an advantage. For scientific research, the circuits would allow for improvements in the quality of measurements and simulations. Since there are very few designs for ABSCs known, the goal of our project is to create a tool that finds new ABSCs to help counter this current issue.

Our group’s tool receives user input from a file. This input is used to generate and simulate potential ABSCs. Those simulated circuits will then be tested and filtered to see if they are reversible and functional. The circuits that are not filtered out will then be output to the user.

If additional ABSC designs exist, then this tool will be able to find them, which will automate ABSC discovery going forward. Discovering new designs by hand requires a great deal of time, luck, knowledge and skill. With our tool it is now only a matter of computing power and time. This reduced cost would incentivize companies to use their funds to further research into reversible computing.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Marshal NachreinerSamuel PerlmanDonovan SharpJesus Sosa

ADVISORMichael Frank, Ph.D.

SPONSORSandia National Laboratories

303: Software Defined Radio

Radios have been used for many generations to send and receive data over large distances, wirelessly. From the military and large corporations to private owned vehicles, radios are used in a variety of different ways. Oftentimes, companies or the military use many different radios for different tasks. All these different radio transmitters can add up to a larger required investment. However, a new radio on the cutting-edge of technology can be used to decrease these costs—the Software Defined Radio (SDR). An SDR is a radio that uses one single device while allowing software to control the radio. Instead of using different radios, different programs can be written to the same device. This project focuses on developing an SDR with three objectives. The radio is built from commercial parts, the software is reprogrammable, and the SDR must have high fidelity. This means that the signal reproduced will be of high quality. By creating an SDR, it allows businesses to be more cost-efficient and will allow anyone to create a design. The SDR will have only one radio, which will prevent any confusion that multiple radios can lead to. The SDR is useful in many areas because of its flexibility and easily maintained because of its use of commercial parts.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Kira BronsteinSimon CharryChristian PollockJaryd WaltonEvan Woodard

ADVISORPeter Stenger, Ph.D.


304: FPL ATS Training Application

Florida Power and Light (FPL), a branch of NextEra Energy Inc, has recently introduced a new device into their systems to help reduce the number of power outages, called the Automatic Transformer Switch (ATS). The ATS makes sure that electrical power is continuously flowing by using a system that can detect faults. When a power outage occurs, the system identifies temporary faults using the ATS and restores them. If it is not a temporary issue, an employee will have to come out and check the ATS.

With the recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s challenging for FPL to offer safe, in-person training to their employees. Instead, they are creating more virtual training opportunities. FPL has tasked us with designing a Virtual Reality (VR) training application that can train their employees on the ATS.

Our remote training solution is an iPad application that will teach the employees about all the aspects of the ATS. The application will contain educational tools including videos and documents on safety procedures. It will teach them how to use the ATS and perform maintenance on it. The application will also allow employees to practice what they have learned by simulating the procedures on a 3D model. It would be very similar to interacting directly with an ATS device. The app will take them through all the information they need to know, and quiz them throughout. It will show them any wrong answers, so they know which areas they need to improve.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Alexis CrossKaitlyn GurtnerKevin RodriguezChristopher SopejuMax Urscheler

ADVISORReginald Perry, Ph.D.

SPONSORFlorida Power and Light


Electrical & Computer EngineeringElectrical & Computer Engineering

305: Haptic Feedback Controller

Controllers for unmanned vehicles are a key part of the user’s experience. Controllers currently on the market, however, lack the feedback a user would feel when piloting a manned vehicle. We built a controller that gives the user physical feedback analogous to what the vehicle is experiencing. It allows for the user to have a sense of what the vehicle is experiencing without it having to be in the user’s line of sight.

By measuring with sensors on the vehicle and relaying that data back to the controller, the controller can recreate what a user of a manned vehicle would feel. Our system does this with a variety of sensors. The data from these sensors let us calculate the angle of the vehicle and its distance from an object. Then, appropriate forces are applied to the thumb-sticks to recreate the forces on the vehicle. The controller and vehicle in our system communicate using radio. This allows for greater range than other methods would give.

The finished product will have a variety of uses, such as the commercial, medical, or military industries. Specific applications include controlling drones, industrial machines and surgical robots.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Brooks RiccaChristopher JohnsonClaudia JimenoTeresa Weaver

ADVISORRodney Roberts, Ph.D.


306: Leon County Energy Improvements

Leon County is facing concerns about rising energy use. The county has set a goal of reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030. There are many ways to meet their goals. We chose solar technology because it was the best fit.

Using different software and tools, we built models to show the overall performance from adding solar generation. This provided a look at how such equipment fits into the county’s renewable energy goals. Next, we researched the costs of various systems as well as tax requirements, funding opportunities and the return on investment for each option.

As a final deliverable, we developed a set of designs that Leon County can build. We determined that the best way to use the available resources was to build solar charging stations for parks. The station results in low running costs, low maintenance and a reduction on the load power for conventional grids.

The result of this project is both a detailed analysis and design. This provides many beneficial options to Leon County’s Office of Resource Stewardship. As time progresses, the county can use any number of these options, depending on available funding.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Sean FisherChristopher GibsonMarwan KamlehSamantha LafranceJacob Moore

ADVISOROmar Faruque, Ph.D.

SPONSORLeon County Office of Resource Stewardship



307: SDR Scope – A Narrow Band “Oscilloscope” for High Power Tuning of NMR Probes

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL) performs an experiment that involves high radio frequency pulses, but the tools they use for the experiment are very expensive. For example, the oscilloscopes (instruments used to test and measure signals) needed for the experiment can cost upwards of $20,000. While the oscilloscope is able to observe the experiment, many of its other features go unused. This creates the need for a cheaper, but just as effective solution. Our project uses a Software Defined Radio (SDR) as the oscilloscope’s cost-efficient replacement.

With the help of Keysight, our project developed an oscilloscope based on SDRs because it uses radio frequencies. We programed the SDR to observe a range of frequencies. Then, the SDR is used in combination with software to record the incoming radio frequency pulses. That software displays the incoming data to the user as an oscilloscope would. As the data comes in, it must be aligned with the running experiment. To do this, we synchronize the SDR with the experiment using a trigger. We then add a second SDR set up the same way to observe the second set of pulses. Our SDR solution is then inserted into the experiment exactly where and how the oscilloscope would be hooked up.

Through the completion of this project, we are able to accurately measure, record and display the radio frequency pulses from the experiment. It can also be programmed to observe different frequency ranges. This allows the SDRs to successfully copy the oscilloscopes. The user can make the correct adjustments to the experiment using our solution. Therefore, the users at the NHMFL can replace the oscilloscopes used for these experiments with our SDR solution. This helps the lab to save thousands of dollars. It also allows them to use the oscilloscopes for other purposes instead of a simple observation.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jonathan BurtGabriel De LeonEmil LobachevAsher RichKyle York

ADVISORRajendra Arora, Ph.D., Paul Holcolmb

SPONSORKeysight Technologies


308: COVID Temperature Scanner

Our project aims to simplify and automate the temperature scanning process for COVID-19 protocols. Rather than the typical manual scanning process, we created an automated system that accurately and efficiently collects temperatures as patients go through. Public areas, such as schools, music venues, gyms and restaurants constitute the main scope of our project.

Our system uses a specialized thermal imager that allows for real-time image transmission. The UTi165k thermal camera takes the user’s temperature and sends the data to the administrator’s device. If the camera detects a temperature above the threshold, a notification is displayed on the staff member’s screen. This technology will safely, accurately and efficiently help reduce the spread of the virus by identifying possible COVID-19 cases.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Lewhat AylayDeCarlo CarrNolan DyerBradley GuthrieJordan Huckaby

ADVISORVictor DeBrunner, Ph.D.




309: Sprinter Optimization

In the track and field sprinting event, the difference between winning and losing a race is within a fraction of a second. Any slight change in technique during practice can have a drastic effect on race day. Many devices help coaches and sprinters collect data; however, these devices can be expensive or inefficient. The Florida State University Track and Field team uses a phone camera to record the sprinter, and this system is not the most efficient way to analyze their form.

Our project provides an inexpensive, easy-to-use training system that offers accurate sprinting data. The system consists of a GoPro Hero8 camera, a tripod, track markers, and an Android app. It measures the sprinters’ stride length (the distance between each step) and stride frequency (how quickly a sprinter steps) in the 100m sprint.

The system works by placing markers 1 m apart along a 10 m portion of the track. The camera is mounted on the tripod where it can capture the 10 m portion. The camera records the sprinter as they run by. Afterwards, the camera sends the video to the Android app via Wi-Fi. The app uses image processing techniques to determine stride length and stride frequency, and also includes multiple profiles to store the data for several sprinters. Our system is convenient for athletes to use and keep track of their improvement by providing an easily accessible app that stores the sprinters’ statistics. The athlete then uses the data to modify their technique and improve their overall performance.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Malique Akbar Gentry Darkins Kowe KadomaGabrielle Nelson

ADVISORJerris Hooker, Ph.D.


310: Autonomous Car

Human error is the leading cause of automobile accidents and our goal in this project was to create software that allows a computer to drive a car, eliminating human error.

We used several algorithms to teach a computer how to safely drive a car autonomously. We tested our software using Quanser’s Q-car, a car about the size of a remote-control car. The Q-car includes an onboard computer, four black/white cameras, one full color camera and a LIDAR sensor on top. The software was tested in a simulation before testing the car in real life because makes it easier to find and fix problems. For real-life testing, we constructed a track that included road lines, intersections, multiple lanes and potentially other RC cars as traffic. The end result is a car that can drive around the track while obeying traffic laws and avoiding any obstacles in its path by either coming to a stop or by driving around it.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Matthew BlackTyler CamposanoMackenzie GrahamSalomon NguyenAlvaro Reyes

ADVISORMoses Anubi, Ph.D.

SPONSORMoses Anubi, Ph.D.


311: Material Handler Robot

Note: This project integrated two teams (311 and 506) to achieve a common goal. The Electrical and Computer Engineering [Team 311] focused the on the sensing, power management and image processing. Each member expanded current knowledge that they have of their own studies while gaining new skills. The result of the multidiscipline approach allowed the mechanical engineers to improve their robotics skills while learning about online networks and path-planning, and the Electrical and Computer practiced creating databases and general programming skills, while also taking part in building a system.

Automatic warehouses are becoming more popular because of new automation technology. Robots are used to improve the storing and retrieving of packages in a warehouse while also lowering employee costs.

We developed an autonomous mobile robot that can be deployed in dark warehouses. The robot can track, receive and store packages on its own. However, the robot will need human aid if something goes wrong in the warehouse. To track packages around the warehouse, QR codes, a readable picture that stores information, are used. These are also helpful for creating a map of the warehouse for the robot. To ensure accuracy and safety, the robot’s path is restricted to black lines around the warehouse that lead to each package location. The robot is also equipped with a forklift lifting mechanism to lift and hold the packages. To test the robot, we built a warehouse model that includes black lines, QR codes and packages.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Walter Caldwell Jr.Alexandar JenTiffany MillerSebastian Muriel Tony Zheng

ADVISORBruce Harvey, Ph.D.




312: Delivery Robot

FAMU-FSU Engineering students living on campus must navigate up to three miles to pick up postal packages. The goal of our design is to create a system that automatically delivers packages to students. We designed a robot to transport packages across campus to student dorms. This solution allows for a contactless and more efficient system.

The robot we designed navigates its environment using positioning data and obstacle detection. Safety features such as lighting systems, reflective stickers and audio warnings were added, increasing visibility and reducing safety risk. In order to decrease grid power usage, our design uses recycled solar panels at charging stations. Recycled motors and light weight batteries allow for low weight and reduced power usage.

This system offers a low cost and scalable way to deliver packages and it has the potential to be applied to future delivery and navigation applications. In addition, the use of recycled materials provides a path to reduce waste from commercial products. Through our team’s design, a more efficient package delivery system is possible for university campuses.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Aria DelmarJackson DiGiovannaJoaquim FeitAnthony GingChristian GreeffKierra Howard

ADVISORLinda DeBrunner, Ph.D.

SPONSORTexas Instruments

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Juan CastroDaniela RodasRyan Simpson

ADVISORBeth Gray

SPONSORCity of Tallahassee

401: Staffing Response to a Pandemic

The City of Tallahassee Community Beautification and Waste Management Department maintains the city’s parks and common areas and removes the city’s solid waste. The services that the department provides are essential. This means that the city needs this department running in order to stay safe and clean. But during a pandemic, if the city maintains its normal workforce, the chance of a virus spreading is increased due to more worker-to-worker contact. Therefore, the department needs to balance its response to the city’s demand with worker safety during a crisis.

For this project, our team is working on a plan that gives the department staffing guidance during future pandemics. We are working to make sure that the department can respond to the demand while limiting the number of workers in order to keep them safe. Thus, all the city’s needs would be met and the workers would have a reduced chance of catching or spreading a virus at work.

Working with department managers, our team built a simulation model that represents the department’s working environment and services. The results show which areas have the most room for improvement. With this analysis, we created a response plan that balances staff reductions with efficiency gains. Methodologies learned from this project can be used to help improve other city processes.

Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering

Industrial &Manufacturing Senior

Design


Industrial & Manufacturing EngineeringIndustrial & Manufacturing Engineering

402: Vegetative Waste Stream Optimization

The seven divisions of the City of Tallahassee’s Community Beautification and Waste Management Department collect about 6000 tons of wood waste annually. Most wood waste goes to the landfill where it stays and releases methane gas which harms our environment. We worked with the department to find a disposal solution.

We analyzed how the different waste processes happen, focusing on gathering, measuring and validating data into diagrams and tables. The data show that only some wood waste reaches the department’s debris reduction site, where it awaits an annual/semi-annual grinding process. Currently, this is done by an outsourced vendor. Purchasing its own horizontal grinder would cost the department about $700,000.

To assess the benefits and obstacles, we looked at how a new grinder would be optimally used. A new grinder impacts the city only if most divisions within the department plus Solid Waste agree to deliver wood waste to the debris reduction site. Currently, only the Urban Forestry division dumps there daily. To safely execute the operation, the city needs to purchase more machines, such as an industrial scale to rightfully allocate bills to each division and an excavator to shear large logs.

Once the grinding is complete, the city sells wood chips to boiler plants who use them for fuel. Selling chips when prices are high is ideal. Owning a grinder allows that. Another impact is that property owners receive lower tax bills. The city’s future cost savings and environmental impact depend on our recommendation.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Javier GarciaAlejandro GuerraElizabeth Watkins

ADVISORBeth Gray

SPONSORCity of Tallahassee

403: Improving Infusion Chair Usage

Cancer patients are treated using infusion chairs, which dispense medicine via IV while the patient sits in the chair. We worked with Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare (TMH) to help improve their Cancer Center’s processes and infusion chair usage.

The healthcare industry employs many interconnected processes that allow patients to be cared for in fast, effective ways. To improve efficiency and effectiveness, we review the patient scheduling, chair layout and all related activities used in cancer treatment.

We analyzed how the Cancer Center currently operates by looking at their patient logs. These logs include appointment and treatment types, length of appointment and time of day. These items provide valuable insight to the flow of the Cancer Center and expose existing issues.

Our final recommendations include better signage for the physician, lab and infusion check-in desks. We also suggest that chemo and drug cabinets in the infusion pods be changed to a clear glass, making it easier for staff to know when the medicine is available to start treatment.

The improvements act as a guide for the Cancer Center so that they may treat more patients while maintaining patient satisfaction. Our recommendations are specific to the Cancer Center, but TMH can apply our problem-solving steps to other areas of the hospital.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Emily-Grace AlfaroMareshah ProbyVeronica Sanchez

ADVISORBeth Gray

SPONSORTallahassee Memorial HealthCare

404: New Facility Layout and Process Standards

Our senior team helped Advanced Composite and Metal-Forming Technology (ACMT), with the facility layout for their helicopter blade guard production facility in Lynn Haven, near Panama City, Florida.

The first goal was to reduce the total time needed to produce a single part. The second goal was to lower the number of defects in each process. Our final goal was to create a safe workspace for all ACMT employees.

We studied each production step to set up a baseline time standard to produce parts, in order to decrease the overall time it takes to make each part.

We incorporated visual management which allows the machine workers to easily see what is needed for each step of the process of making a helicopter blade guard. A visual workplace will help keep the workers safe and reduce the number of accidents in the facility. Setting baseline time standards and using visual management will help ACMT with spotting any future problems that may arise in the production process. These improvements can apply to any new facility with a similar production style.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Hunter FrankebergerStorm HewittJonathan MansaramBrett Sanderson

ADVISORBeth Gray

SPONSORACMT



407: Pressure Data-Mapping for Prosthetics

Over 30 million people in the world need prosthetics. This is a global issue with serious consequences as many people who wear prosthetics experience pain and discomfort that affect their daily lives. Some people do not wear prosthetics because of the discomfort, which can make daily life and everyday tasks even more difficult. The goal of this project is to help make prosthetics more comfortable for everyday use to improve patient quality of life.

A prosthetic lined with auxetic foam is less painful to wear. Auxetic foam, invented by Dr. Chad Zheng, absorbs shock and energy. This means with each step taken, the foam soaks up the pressure rather than the limb, ultimately increasing comfort for the patient.

To collect pressure data, we placed force sensors on a model residual limb inside of a prosthetic socket, with no foam. We analyzed both weighted (to simulate body weight) and unweighted prostheses different locations in the socket with different weights and angles.

We repeated the analysis after adding auxetic foam to the limb. We created a three-dimensional pressure map to illustrate the pressure distribution on the limb using different colors.

Our analysis showed the map made with the foam data is more uniform, without pressure points, and so the foam should improve comfort. This project can help make custom prosthetics and help decrease pain and improve quality of life.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Nehemiah FieldsHannah KelseyCatherine Mendoza

ADVISORHui Wang, Ph.D.

SPONSORHight-Performance Materials Institute

408: Automated Ground Vehicle Localization Improvement

3D printing needs precision to place heated plastic at specific positions on surfaces. These surfaces are typically small; therefore, the size of objects that the 3D printer can create is limited. Increasing the size of the printing area is expensive and means increasing the size of the surface and adding more parts that can fail.

While 3D printers work with good precision, the largest 3D printers’ surfaces still limit printing to very small areas. To solve this problem, we look at a mobile robot, called an Automated Ground Vehicle (AGV). This robot performs 3D printing and should have the ability to know its exact position in a room. Although a program currently exists to locate the AGV in a small space, it is inaccurate.

It is almost impossible to tell a robot to find a tiny object and move towards it within a small room. It is also hard to report its coordinates relative to the room’s size and pick it up. We aimed to narrow down why failure occurs by running experiments with the program and analyzing the results. After the analysis, we reviewed the program and applied the needed improvements to meet millimeter-precision goals. Project success means 3D printing would be more practical for making parts and products of all shapes and sizes.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Martina BuktenicaAlyssa HamiltonMadison McGloneBryant Rodriguez (ECE)

ADVISORTarik Dickens, Ph.D.

SPONSORNorthrop Grumman


405: Healthcare Supply Chain

Vidant Health, a hospital chain, cannot meet its needs through its supplier of protective equipment. Vidant Health must order from manufacturers for bulk purchasing of inventory. This ensures that there is ample inventory for patients. The change comes with new inventory management and logistic struggles.

Vidant now needs to manage and distribute the equipment from its main hospital to all the other locations. The equipment is stored in an unorganized warehouse and hence, cannot function as an effective distribution site. We present a plan to use the warehouse as a logistical warehouse from which Vidant can distribute supplies.

The plan includes a new warehouse layout and floor plan for better racking and space utilization. This helps to increase the warehouse capacity and allows for better movement throughout. We also added a packing and unpacking area for distribution to the hospitals. We began with creating nine and a half foot aisles and worked backwards to create the floor layout. The project also includes a financial analysis.

The deliverable is to plan a long-term sustainable and efficient distribution warehouse. Once complete, Vidant Health can meet their hospital’s demands and keep their employees safe. The company also reduces cost by buying from the manufacturer. The improvements help Vidant grow their health system and better serve their employees and patients.

The redesigned warehouse could present problems if hospital visits decrease. This may also result in changing inventory throughputs. Future teams may evaluate the warehouse in a post-pandemic world for changing needs.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Bailey DavisAlexander PreddyJoseph RowleyZaran Smith

ADVISORBeth Gray

SPONSORVidant Health

406: Ensuring Quality of Super Plastics in Airplanes

Airplanes are stronger and lighter due to super plastics. Carbon fiber reinforced is the most used composite within aerospace. It is often used in the body, interior and propeller blades of the aircraft. However, it is manmade and often contains defects. The C-scan is a non-destructive examination method which uses ultrasonic testing to detect defects in composites. It works the way an x-ray images a broken leg, but on a smaller scale—closer to an ant.

Pratt and Whitney asked our team to check three factors of a C-scan. The factors are to determine the feasibility of using a C-scan to detect defects such as dis-bonds in composites, determine the feasibility of using the C-scan in a production line, and state the accuracy of defect detection.

To accomplish these, we placed our own defects in a sample, scanned the sample and analyzed the results base on the image the C-scan creates. We repeated the test to check for variation in the resulting images, then optimized the time it took to scan for use in a production setting. From the success of the tests, we concluded the C-scan to be feasible.

The outcome of this project is useful for Pratt and Whitney to be proactive in providing quality parts to its customers and saving the company money. Since this project focuses on flat parts, for future research the next team can evaluate parts with curvature. Afterwards, Pratt and Whitney can decide on applying the C-scan testing to their production line.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Esteban DelfinoOrnelia Jones Katherine Watson

ADVISORRichard Liang, Ph.D.

SPONSORPratt & Whitney



411: Rugged Electronic Box for Fiber Optic Measurements

How do we know that the bridges we drive on are safe? Under ideal conditions, most construction materials are very reliable. However, construction or design shortcomings can cause construction materials to degrade over time. Structural health monitoring refers to the implementation of a system that can be used to detect damage done to structures. Structures like bridges, aircrafts, spacecrafts, buildings and dams are checked in a way that is cost effective and reduces maintenance costs. We designed a portable and rugged data acquisition electronic box that detects the damage in those structures.

Our rugged box uses the concept of triboluminescence for damage detection. Triboluminescence is an optical phenomenon where light shines when the material is subject to any rips, scratches, rubs or other external forces. Our data acquisition box works by capturing the light with a light sensor and then converting the light into data. We can then use this data to know where the damage is done.

We determined the best way to put all the components inside the box. Our main goal was to design a flexible system that works with different environments in a cost-effective manner. We made sketches and 3D models using computer-aided drawing software and used these drawings to help optimize the design and improve the box. We delivered a working prototype for structural health monitoring applications. For the future, we hope that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration can use our device to monitor the health of a spaceship in real time.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Tarek BishnakDavid RealGuadalupe Zepeda


SPONSORNASA Marshall Space Flight Center


409: Manufacturing Reconfigurability for a Pandemic

The global pandemic is causing changes in markets and disrupting assembly lines. Medical devices, such as ventilators, used to help people infected with the virus are becoming unavailable due to increased demand.

One way to solve this issue is to change assembly lines used to make other products into lines that make ventilators. Choosing assembly lines similar to ventilator assembly lines is important. This will lower the cost and work needed to transform one line into another. Making a sensible redesign plan is important since the results are good for the economy and have the chance to save thousands of lives.

Our team used a mathematical model to find out how easy it is to change one assembly line to another. The model focuses on the design and order of assembly tasks of the products, and uses graphs of products and tree-like diagrams based on the order of assembly tasks. The calculated value is a percentage of similarity between the products, which measures how easily a product converts to another. Using this model is better than other methods of estimating redesign effort because its use is at the early stages of the assembly.

We compared ventilators and compressors and found redesign challenges between the products due to major differences regarding the products’ diagrams and list of materials. The final model can be applied to any product in the future.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Michelle Arias Fernandito OrtizAnia Wilson

ADVISORHui Wang, Ph.D.

SPONSORHigh-Performance Materials Institute

410: Blockchain and Additive Manufacturing

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an emerging technology which has a lot of potential in the manufacturing industry. However, there are still some issues with print quality that end up wasting time and material. This project aims to correct that.

We used a blockchain to store data such as printer temperature and print speeds, from a 3D print. The team worked with Ford Motor company and 3D printed a key fob cover to test the blockchain. The data stored will help analyze the quality of the product as it prints layer by layer. This data is useful to ensure that each layer printed is of acceptable quality.

Transferring data at the right speed and size improves the blockchain. If the size of the data is too large for the blockchain to handle, the quality of the blockchain declines, which leads to an inefficient and slow system. We tested the blockchain using multiple computers and browsers to get the best speed. The test system used Raspberry Pi computers connecting to a network of 3D printers. The computers analyzed the print by sampling data on each layer while printing and making sure that the final print has the necessary quality. If a part is shown not to be quality, the blockchain sends a signal to the 3D printer to stop running to save time and material. While this process is currently only for polymer-based solutions, it can be extended to other types of additive manufacturing.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Valion Joyce (ECE)Brandon KowalskiShaun Mccombs (ECE)Rachel PesickMegan Scott


SPONSORFord Motor Company



412: AquaFarm – The Future of Farming

In the United States, more than 250 million acres of land have been lost because of farming methods that destroy the soil. Beyond this, the agriculture industry uses about 70 percent of the entire world’s fresh water supply leading to large amounts of water pollution. One thing is clear, these practices are not sustainable.

AquaFarm utilizes a process of sustainable farming that addresses these problems in both the short term and long term. This simple process is called aquaponics, a farming method taking advantage of the natural relationship between plants and fish. This symbiotic relationship between these organisms creates a “closed-loop” system that reuses around 95 percent of all water. Aquaponics is a three-step process. First, the fish produce waste, then plants absorb the nutrients from the waste and clean the water. This returns the water to the fish who are able to survive in the same clean water.

AquaFarm aims to create a more efficient, scalable model for aquaponics. This will change the standard practice of traditional farming. To meet this goal, AquaFarm built a highly efficient, profitable aquaponics facility model, producing two desirable products: salmon and cannabis. This combination of fish and plant species not only work together perfectly in the AquaFarm aquaponics system, but salmon comes from a very steady fish market, while cannabis is part of an exploding market that is trending upward.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Vincent EmanueleMax RocaJonathan Yepez

ADVISOROkenwa Okoli, Ph.D.

SPONSORHigh-Performance Materials Institute

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical SeniorDesign

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Peter IbrahimAustin SaundersConner StuartSabrina Torres

ADVISORCamilio Ordonez, Ph.D.

SPONSORArizona State University

501: Return Sample of Hypothesized Surfaces (End-Effector)

Beyond Mars, there is a metallic asteroid named (16) Psyche. Scientists hypothesize that Psyche could be composed of planetary core material. After years of research, NASA’s Psyche team will launch a mission in 2022 to send a satellite into Psyche’s orbit to study the asteroid. The sensors on the orbiter will discover Psyche’s age, topography and composition. After studying Psyche from orbit, people may wish to propose a follow-up mission to send a surface explorer to the asteroid.

Our objective was to design a device to collect samples to return to Earth for study. We developed a robotic arm and gripper to transport Psyche surface samples to fellow Senior Design Team 502’s storage device. Like a human arm, our robotic limb has three joints: a shoulder, an elbow and a wrist. Two additional joints rotate the arm’s base and gripper. We built each joint with electric motors and sensors that read its position and speed to track the arm’s motion. The gripper detects a sample in range of the robot’s fingers and closes the fingers around the sample. Holding the sample, the robot places the sample in the storage device.

A signal from the storage device will indicate where each sample should be stored. Advanced programming, testing, and collaboration with Team 502 went into the project’s development to ensure seamless operation.


Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering

504: Aftermarket Workflow and Process Creation and Implementation

Danfoss Turbocor wishes to improve the process of replacing parts for damaged compressors returning from the field. The current job of a planner is to find the appropriate replacement parts. Our goal is to help the planner by streamlining and automating this process. We are implementing a MATLAB script that produces a bill of materials of suitable replacement parts for a damaged compressor.

There are three reasons that parts need replacement: failure, compatibility and obsolescence. Planners filter through these factors to determine the proper replacement parts. There is no standard procedure for this process, which has led to organizational problems within Danfoss production. We created a system that determines part replacements based on the criterion for replacement.

Our system identifies the most recent revision of a failed part. If a replacement depends on other parts, the other parts must be added to the bill of materials as well. Furthermore, our system determines whether a part is obsolete, preventing outdated parts from entering the bill of materials.

Our team designed a MATLAB script that automates the logic for part replacement. Certain scenarios are dependent on the intuition of the planner. The script is used with a standard which handles the manual side of planning. Together, the script and standard produce a final bill of materials. While we have designed our system to handle Danfoss’s TT/TG model compressors, our system is formatted to be replicated for all Danfoss compressor models.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)David BishopJulian VillamilJames WilsonKyle Youmans

ADVISORAli Yousuf, Ph.D.

SPONSORDanfoss Turbocor

502: Return Sample of Hypothesized Surfaces (Storage)

Studying samples taken from a planetary core would be a boon to scientific progress. In the future, the asteroid Psyche may allow scientists a chance at such samples.

Our job is to design a storage unit to hold Psyche surface samples. The unit must preserve the samples’ original state for study on Earth. Our design focuses on damage from vibration, impact and shock that might occur on the trip to Earth.

The success of this project rests on two main objectives. First, the design of a storage unit. Since the budget did not allow for top-grade materials, we designed two units, a high-cost design for mission purposes and a low-cost design for the prototype. The second objective is to integrate with Senior Design Team 501’s sample collector. The two units mount side by side on a rover and work together to store core-drilled samples.

A challenging part of the project is lack of detailed data about Psyche’s surface. This forced us to design for all possible environments. Building in fail safes help ensure integrity, no matter what challenges Psyche presents.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Marcus HatchettMichael MacedoLuke RemillardRobert Zube

ADVISORPatrick Hollis, Ph.D.

SPONSORArizona State University

503: Environment-controlled Compressor Test Stand Chamber

Businesses and individuals use Danfoss Turbocor’s compressors in varying climate conditions worldwide. Danfoss is searching for a way to test their compressors in different climate conditions. Our goal was to create a design that will simulate real-world climates by controlling the temperature and humidity within the test chamber, to be used on a new compressor stand at Danfoss.

The enclosed test stand contains a mounting space where the compressor is connected. The rest of the test chamber is for refrigerant piping to supply the compressor during testing. We isolated the compressor from the rest of the enclosure to reduce the overall controlled volume. A refrigerant-based cooling supplier, air handling unit, humidifier and heater supply the climate conditions inside the chamber. The air handling unit consists of a heat exchanger and a fan. Ducts connect from the air handling unit to the top of the chamber. The ducts supply conditioned air to the inside of the chamber. Our design provides a temperature range from 50 to 130˚ and relative humidity levels from 10% to 95%. This design works like your home air-conditioning.

Climate recording sensors are placed inside the chamber. The sensors will control the fan, humidifier and heater. The sensors will also display the climate conditions inside the chamber. Recording of the climate conditions ensures accuracy.

We performed a heat balance analysis on the design to size the heating and cooling components. This ensures the chamber will reach the needed climate conditions in 15 minutes or less. Our design and decision making has led to a useful addition for Danfoss’s research and development team.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jacob HoldsworthDakota SilvermanZachary SmithNewton St. Louis

ADVISORKeith Larson, Ph.D.

SPONSORDanfoss Turbocor



507: SAE Aero Design (Aero-propulsion)

We designed a radio-controlled cargo plane for the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Aero Design Competition. This effort involves two Senior Design teams: Aero-Propulsion team and Geometric team. As Aero-Propulsion, we focused on design features and calculations for the plane during flight. Our goal was to complete the flight path while keeping a stable flight with a cargo load.

We used the project to test a new design by adding a canard. It is a smaller wing in front of the main wing that produces lift. The plane is about 4 feet long and has 3 wings: the canard, main wing and tail. The main wing has the largest surface touching the airflow, producing the most lift.

Planes with two wings are hard to fly. However, we found that adding a tail made the plane more stable. The tail features a T-tail design, where a vertical section holds the tail wing in a plane above the main wing.

We placed our cargo bay between the canard and the main wing, allowing for easier cargo loading and unloading. Our plane can resist crosswinds up to 30 MPH, providing a stable landing. The plane produces a maximum thrust of 222 pound-force. We calculated performance of our plane during takeoff and landing to figure out our plane needs at least 360 feet of runway space to work. Our plane can carry a maximum cargo load of 11 pounds. We use servomotors to move control surfaces. Our plane works under large forces with the servos we selected. This design shows that a canard wing plane can create stable flight with a cargo plane.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Michenell Louis CharlesAdrian MoyaSasindu PintoCameron RileyNoah Wright

ADVISORChiang Shih, Ph.D.

SPONSORFlorida Space Grant Consortium

505: Robotic Pole Inspection Collar

Due to an incident that occurred because of a faulty and outdated testing method, Florida Power and Light wants a more accurate and objective solution to pole health examination. Our objective was to create a robot that can climb wooden power poles and find out if the pole is safely climbable.

Currently, pole safety test is determined by the hammer test. It relies on a line worker listening to the sound the pole makes when struck to decide the integrity. The Florida Power and Light Robotic Pole Inspection Collar will use ground penetrating radar. This sensor creates a more accurate test by studying the internal quality of the pole. Testing the robot on both healthy and unhealthy pole samples calibrated the ground penetrating radar.

The robot conforms to the pole using a triangular prism-shaped design, which allows simplified mounting by wrapping around the pole. The robot relies on tension and its shape to keep contact with the pole’s round surface. This design uses motors to cause vertical motion, while its passive wheels help keep grip on the pole. We custom-made the wheels of the robot with two cones to form an hourglass shape, providing two points of contact for improved grip. The driven wheel also has a rubber coating with spikes to further increase grip. The robot houses the ground-penetrating radar between the two triangles, where it can contact the surface and send pulses to scan for flaws in the wood.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Mathew CrespoJohn FlournoyAngelo MainolfiCarey Tarkinson

ADVISORJonathan Clark, Ph.D.

SPONSORFlorida Power & Light

506: Material Handling Robot

Note: This project integrated two teams (311 and 506) to achieve a common goal. The Mechanical Engineering [Team 506] focused the on the structure, robot motion and package manipulation. Each member expanded current knowledge that they have of their own studies while gaining new skills. The result of the multidiscipline approach allowed the mechanical engineers to improve their robotics skills while learning about online networks and path-planning, and the Electrical and Computer practiced creating databases and general programming skills, while also taking part in building a system.

Automated warehouses are a growing industry popular for using advance technology, such as robots, in storage facilities. These robots can change how a warehouse functions by replacing human workers, lowering utility costs, increasing profits and reducing safety hazards.

We developed an autonomous mobile robot that is independent enough to track, receive and store packages on its own. To track packages around the warehouse, packages will have a quick response (QR) code. These codes are also helpful for creating a map of the warehouse for the robot. Black lines placed around the warehouse shape the robot’s path and lead it to each package spot. The robot features a forklift device to lift and hold the packages. For testing, the robot worked in a scaled-down warehouse including black lines, QR codes and packages on small pallets. TEAM MEMBERS

(clockwise)Taylor HarveyDiandra ReyesPeter WatsonAlexander WoznyNicholas Norwood (not pictured)

ADVISORCamilio Ordonez, Ph.D.




509: NASA Human-Powered Vehicle

During the Apollo 14 Lunar mission, astronauts ran into trouble while trying to explore on foot. Low on oxygen and energy, they had to abort their tasks and return to the lander. This incident led to the creation of the NASA Human Powered Rover Competition. This annual competition allows students to design and build their own human powered rovers. The rovers must be able to hold two people and traverse difficult terrain, similar to that of the moon. Points are awarded for rover weight, finish time and completed tasks.

Our team designed a small rover to help solve the astronauts’ problem. The rover was built according to Earth conditions since the competition is not actually on the moon. We took a systems engineering approach to design and implemented five subsystems for the rover. The primary rover systems include a rear drivetrain, dual tiller steering, a steel frame with front suspension, foam wheels and tools with a rear-end storage compartment. Two riders sitting side-by-side will pedal the rover like a bicycle. The seats are reclined to provide comfort as well as a low center of gravity. Our design includes a 2.0 factor of safety to ensure the rover’s robustness and reliability.

The rover has a top speed four miles per hour with the riders and tools loaded in and can traverse inclines up to 28° with its high-torque powertrain. The rover also has a tipping angle of 40° and a stopping distance of eight feet. The suspension design uses two wishbones of equal length to ensure constant stability. Wheels made of a solid lightweight foam avoids the need for pneumatic wheels. Overall, the rover is capable of easily conquering rough terrain and will be a crucial tool for the astronauts’ next trip to the moon.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Ryan FloydNicolas PicardNinett SanchezAndrew Schlar

ADVISORShayne McConomy, Ph.D.


508: SAE Aero Design (Geometric Integration)

Our project is to build a radio-controlled (RC) plane to compete in the SAE Aero Design Competition. This is a two-team project. Our team is in charge of designing the structure of the plane, and the other is focused on the aerodynamic calculations. At the competition, the plane will need to complete a required flight path while carrying a regular size soccer ball and one-pound weight.

In competing against other universities, one of the team’s main goals is to make the plane stand out at the competition. 3D printing the aircraft is the main thing that will distinguish us from the other schools. Printing RC planes is an uncommon building method. Balsa wood and foam are the usual building materials used in making model planes, so it is likely we will be the only team with a plane made this way.

3D printing model planes is challenging in many ways. The plane must be large enough to meet the competition goals. This means the team must print the aircraft in multiple parts then assemble it. Using printing filaments within competition rules also makes the plane heavier than usual RC planes. The size and filament requirements give us the challenge of creating the needed lift and keeping the plane as light as possible. To lessen plane’s weight, it is made using a filament known as lightweight polylactic acid (LW-PLA). This material expands when exiting the nozzle, decreasing the density and weight of the print. To both increase lift and help make the plane unique, an extra set of wings known as canards are a part of the plane. The canards have no control surfaces and are made solely to produce more lift. In minimizing weight and increasing lift, the team is creating the highest chance of a successful flight.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Lauren ChinJoseph FigariJacob Pifer

ADVISORSimone Hruda, Ph.D.




512: Low-Cost HOTAS Design for Pilot Training Devices

We worked with Lockheed Martin to design a low-cost hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS). For this project we created a modular variant to support pilot training through Lockheed Martin. Our product has interchangeable throttles and sticks, adapting to air and ground fighter crafts. A HOTAS mimics the controls of various military aircraft and tanks which controls their direction, speed and other roles.

Our HOTAS has four main parts: one modular stick base, a second modular base for the throttle and a separate stick and throttle. Each main part has mechanical and electronic parts, allowing the different sets to work with one another. The HOTAS provides the user force resistance based on their training needs. Features like this allow any HOTAS set to better resemble the real controls for the user.

Based on a pilot’s training needs, they can connect the HOTAS set they need to a matching base. For example, the F-16, F-22 and F-35 jets all have different shapes for their throttles and sticks. We are creating one HOTAS set using Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II as our model for testing.

Our HOTAS works with Lockheed Martin’s training software on desktop computers or laptops. With modular connections in mind, our HOTAS is plug and play, so the user can change the set quickly, then change a preset profile in the software to work well for them. Most throttle and stick sets have switches and buttons that need to talk with a computer’s software. Creating our HOTAS to understand these various signals is key in our success in working with other sets. Developing this modular HOTAS lessens the cost and time spent making new sets in the future.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Robert BlountConnor ChuppeRobert CraigPatrick Dixon

ADVISORPatrick Hollis, Ph.D.

SPONSORLockheed Martin

510: Indoor Air Quality of Hotspots

As schools and universities return to in-person learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic, air quality is an important topic. Our sponsor, Honeywell, wants to explore how to improve air quality in indoor spaces. This project’s goal is to lessen the spread of harmful particles present in the air of university classrooms, namely COVID-19, at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.

Our project adjusts air to promote a healthy building climate without changing the existing air handling system. We measured and adjusted air quality using equipment on a pair of portable carts. One cart contains a suite of sensors to measure the air quality and the second contains cleaning equipment to improve air quality. We chose this concept because of its portability. A portable design allows users to easily transport the equipment around the college. We can temporarily place the carts in a room to study and adjust air quality. The carts can then be moved to new spaces as needed.

Users can easily track air quality during different times of day. When higher levels of pollutants are present, operators can adapt device settings to best suit each room. The project can track how specific activities and varying occupant levels effect air quality. A computer displays the recorded data to users, who choose when to run the equipment. Running the device only when air quality is low boosts the efficiency of the project by lessening unnecessary use. This project can be used in locations other than schools and universities. In the future, we can scale this project for use in hospitals, stadiums, and other high traffic public spaces which are seeing an increase in face-to-face contact.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Eric Grogans (ECE)Leon JohnsonEmma MartinRazhan MatipanoWhitley Pettis

ADVISORNeda Yaghoobian, Ph.D.

SPONSORHoneywell

511: Reducing Hardtop Weight

The Intrepid 409 Valor is a popular boat model among consumers. The company wants to further improve this boat by lessening the weight and increasing the aerodynamic abilities of the 409 Valor hardtop. The hardtop weight and shape lower fuel efficiency and vessel range, and the weight and shape also negatively affect the boat’s stability, top speed and acceleration.

Our goal was to improve boat performance by making the hardtop lighter and more aerodynamic. We compared the hardtop to airfoils to understand the effects of improved aerodynamic properties on the 409 Valor. Changing the shape of the hardtop to model an airfoil improves lift and decreases drag. Increased lift allows the boat to sit higher in the water when traveling at speed, which lessens the wetted surface of the hull. This lowers friction and resistance from water while improving fuel efficiency, and may also improve acceleration and top speed while adding stability from the air under the hull sides. However, total hardtop shape changes provide little improvements to vessel performance because a total change adds weight.

Using lower-density fiberglass and core foam in the new design will lessen the hardtop weight and lower the center of gravity of the boat, lessening the thrust needed to operate the boat and saving fuel. These new materials lowered the hardtop’s weight by 60%. Combining lightweight materials with leading and trailing edge shape changes allows the boat performance to improve. TEAM MEMBERS

(clockwise)Erika CraftJohn KaramitsanisCory StanleyJuan Tapia Broce

ADVISORWilliam Oates, Ph.D.

SPONSORIntrepid

513: MathWorks Engine Controller

We worked with MathWorks to create a modular controller for the airflow components of a simulated gasoline engine. This simulated engine is part of MathWorks’ Powertrain Blockset. Our controller helps modernize the Blockset, using a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) approach, instead of the current single-input single-output approach. Improving gasoline engine performance and lessening their emissions is important for keeping up with new standards and staying competitive with other engine types on the market. Controlling the airflow through the engine is a good way to meet these goals.

There are multiple parts that affect the airflow through an engine. Because of this, a MIMO approach is a strong choice for controlling the airflow, since it allows the parts that work together to be controlled together, instead of individually. The specific parts being controlled are the throttle and the wastegate valves. The throttle brings air into the engine, while the wastegate diverts exhaust gas into a turbine wheel to compress more air in the cylinders, creating more power. These two valves play the largest roles in engine airflow.

A good controller for this project is a model predictive controller (MPC). MPCs can handle systems with multiple inputs and outputs well and can take constraints on how the valves physically move. There has also been recent success of engine airflow control in production-line vehicles using MPCs.

The controller will take the simulated values for commanded torque and other load variables as inputs and return better throttle and wastegate position values as outputs. The engine simulation will then use these values to return more exact torque values. We will compare these actual torque values to the commanded torque and calculate the error between them. We aim to lessen this error by 50%.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Austin LaFeverPatrick MarlattFrederick PetersonJonathan Wozny

ADVISORKourosh Shoele, Ph.D.

SPONSORMathWorks



516: Human Lander System Self-Leveling Legs

We worked with NASA to create a leveling platform for the new Artemis missions. On these new missions, NASA plans on returning to the moon with a human lander in search of water deposits. NASA plans to land near the moon’s south pole where they know the ground is uneven. This creates an uneven working environment inside the lander which is unsafe for the astronauts onboard. This project focuses on the design of a self-leveling platform that can level the lander capsule with the astronauts inside. Project goals include a design that is lightweight, reusable and levels in less than one hour.

The design separates the lander’s capsule and legs. This location blocks dust and harsh temperatures. The design takes in the angular readings from the onboard sensor. With these readings, electronically controlled rods level the lander cabin. These rods will perform a series of movements to adjust the lander cabin position from inside the leg base. The software for the design allows the rods to move quickly and accurately by using a two-axis plane. This plane exists from the union of two opposing rods. These rods will move in pairs until they reach a level state. The project relies on both the hardware and software equally.

The leveling section is independent from a specific lander design. This gives the design a wide variety of lander setups. The simplicity of this design allows for easy maintenance and a low mission impact. The design fits two key goals of being both reusable and lightweight. Another key goal for the project is a quick leveling speed, which this design achieves. Overall, the self-leveling module orients the lander cabin within the design constraints and ensures the cabin interior is suitable for the astronauts.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Stephen BrownJames EvansDalton LeClairJake SeamanParker Stensrud

ADVISORDorr Campbell, Ph.D.


514: Hydrogen Pre-Heater for Nuclear Rocket Simulation

Nuclear thermal rockets are a way to propel aircraft that use a nuclear heating element, like uranium, to heat and pressurize hydrogen, resulting in thrust. Nuclear heating allows the fuel to last much longer than conventional fuel, which is useful for deep space exploration missions. This is an interest of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. At the Marshall Space Flight Center, a lab simulates the interaction between hydrogen and uranium. Induction coils transfer heat to the hydrogen through metals that can withstand high temperatures. The current setup at the lab allows for heating of 20 inches of a 50-inch-long tube. This 50-inch-long tube is the size used in the rocket. A pre-heater is necessary to study the heating of locations past the 20 inches.

We designed and analyzed a tool that heats hydrogen to needed temperatures, allowing for easier hydrogen heating experiments and testing. We created a new reference tool for scientists at the lab.

Customers come with various needed test conditions to study the effects of hydrogen heating. The lab does not have a way to change testing conditions like power or temperature levels before the hydrogen enters the testing chamber. Our tool allows users to select heating equipment based on these testing conditions. This will help choosing power levels of the heating tool and provides users a safe working range for testing. It also allows the design of a heat exchanging shape that encloses the flowing hydrogen and transfers heat into the hydrogen. The heat exchanging shape will also provide heat uniformly to the hydrogen. Users can choose the shape and material of the exchanger to fit their needs.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Michael CorakKevin HartzogJordan Weid

ADVISORRajan Kumar, Ph.D.


515: Reusable Shock Absorber for the Next Lunar Lander

In the 2024 Artemis mission, NASA will send a team to the moon to create a long-term presence. An outpost called Gateway will orbit the moon, allowing travel from the outpost to the moon’s surface. A human lander will repeatedly carry the astronauts between Gateway and the surface with little needed maintenance between trips.

Extreme space conditions make it challenging to design for moon landings. The moon’s surface has a top layer of sharp rocks and dusty material, and motion can turn this into a cloud and cover sensors. Previously, the Apollo-class moon lander crushed a honeycomb cartridge to absorb the impact energy. This design was not reusable, needing a new cartridge for each landing. Because of the back-and-forth nature of our mission, this won’t work. Our challenge was to create a reusable design that can withstand the debris and moon’s low temperatures.

We designed a reusable shock absorber that stores the impact energy in a spring, holds it, and later releases it. Our design uses a spiral ratchet and pawl (the lever that blocks movement) to lock the spring after absorbing the impact. Each ring of the spiral acts as teeth for the end of the lever to hold on to, locking it into place. We chose spiral teeth to have a controlled release of the spring. A motor within the leg slowly rotates the spiral ratchet back to the starting length.

The design is reusable since it loads and then unloads a spring. We chose materials for our design that safely handle the extreme temperatures of the moon. The moving parts have a cover to protect them from the harsh conditions. Our design lowers the cost, time and materials to carry out further lunar missions.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Joshua BlankMatthew FowlerTristan JenkinsAlexander NollMelanie Porter ADVISORKeith Larson, Ph.D.




519: Football Shoulder Pads

American high school football accounts for nearly 480,000 shoulder injuries per year. Rotator cuff tears, AC (acromioclavicular) joint injuries and collar bone fractures are some of the more common injuries in football. Mike Holloway asked our team to develop a product that will help lessen the number of injuries caused by lack of shoulder pad innovation.

From our market research and interviews with high school athletic trainers, we determined improper fit of football shoulder pads is a major issue. Improper fit is especially an issue for football programs that do not have the budget to purchase pads made to fit the individual player. When there are gaps of space between the shoulder pads and the player’s shoulders, the pads will shift in position as the player is moving. This shift out of the proper position exposes vulnerable sections of the shoulder.

We decided to create an undershirt to improve the fit of the shoulder pads and still allow for maximum comfort. The undershirt includes padding in the shoulder and chest area and a foam composite collar around the neck to keep the shoulder pads from pinching the neck. This design helps spread incoming energy from hits and prevents pinching on the neck. The undershirt fills the gap between the player and loose shoulder pads. Properly fitted shoulder pads gives the player more confidence and protection during the football game.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Paul CunninghamVivi HuynhSawyer O’BryanNicholas PalestriniMorgan Sefcik

ADVISORChristian Hubicki, Ph.D.

SPONSORMike Holloway

517: Lunar Landing Payload Crane

In 2017, NASA introduced the Artemis missions with a goal of building a base on the moon. The team at Langley Research Center created a crane that will land on the moon attached to their Peregrine lander and unload the cargo. After unloading, the crane lowers onto a rover. The rover and crane combination will set up the lunar base before astronauts arrive.

We designed a machine that lowers this crane from the moon lander to the rover. NASA uses popular acronyms when naming projects, so our design is called the ARROW (Automated and Ranged Relocation Of the crane for Wider application).

The design considers several constraints, including a weight limit, doing tasks free from outside control and scaling for different crane sizes. We met these goals by keeping the weight below 20 pounds, making the ARROW scalable for any size, and enabling the ARROW to work by itself. Our calculations were based on the mini crane.

Our ARROW supports the crane and rotates it off the Peregrine lander to position it onto the rover. The base of the ARROW uses a motor and gears to rotate the crane 90 degrees. The top half uses another motor pinned to a plate. The plate mates with the crane and angles it down towards the ground. The crane uses supplied power from the plate to lower itself to the rover. The ARROW can scale for different crane sizes, meaning our design’s use extends to multiple missions.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Alanna BlackJayson DickinsonChristina MorrowRyker Mullinix

ADVISOREric Hellstrom, Ph.D.


518: Light Weight UAV

Drones provide aerial surveillance and data collection at a fraction of the cost of manned aircraft. They have various applications in both military and civilian settings. Our project goals was to reduce the weight of a drone, resulting in a longer flight time.

Considering the necessity and function of each part’s purpose helped reduce the weight of the drone. We questioned the job of each part and tried to find other ways to combine them. Reducing the weight means the drone needs less power to fly at the same rate as before. Using a lighter battery that provides a more precise amount of power results in even more weight savings.

We applied three weight-reducing techniques to the Believer 1960mm aerial surveying drone. We reduced the weight of the battery and motors, replacing parts with 3D printed pieces, and lightened the propellers. We decreased the weight of the battery and motors by replacing the original parts with lighter, 3D printed versions made of a lightweight filament. Propellers made of carbon fiber are lighter and stronger than those made of plastic.

Our goal was a flight time over one hour. Another part of this project was to develop a tool measuring the effectiveness of our light-weighting techniques. This tool can be applied to other projects with weight-cutting goals. Measuring the energy consumed by the drone, after the weight savings, shows the effectiveness of our work.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Jackson DixonEthan HaleJoseph Ledo-MasseyMaxwell SirianniJohn Storms ADVISORLance Cooley, Ph.D.

SPONSORNorthrop Grumman



521: Sprinter Data

Every athlete wants to reach their full potential, whether that is by reacting faster or finishing stronger. A product that can be used to improve a sprinter’s performance would be extremely helpful. Now, imagine a product that will allow you to compare yourself to your favorite athletes – that could be game-changing. The goal of our project was to create a desirable product that will objectively measure and predict a sprinter’s performance.

We focused mainly on collegiate track teams. Since every athlete is different, we personalized our measurements and predictions to each sprinter. There are many ways to try to improve a runner’s performance, but we decided the best approach was the holistic one. Since this is an entrepreneurial project, we made sure this product is desirable for purchase by making it cost-effective, self-contained, and with low hinderance to performance.

We designed the Launch Monitor Pro, a base station on the track that interacts with the sprinter and their coach. Using a high-speed camera and sensors, the device measures the sprinter’s takeoff form at the beginning of the race and their average speed throughout the race. The Launch Monitor Pro looks closely at the images and analyzes the data. We then compare the sprinter’s performance and form to that of professional athletes. Our innovative technology helps the coach and sprinter identify how they can improve performance and maximize potential.TEAM

MEMBERS (clockwise)Dylan CedenoMarc GriffithsJordan NoyesHandy A. PierreEdwin Ulysse (IME)

ADVISORJonathan Clark, Ph.D.

SPONSOREntrepreneurship Senior Design

520: Improve Air Quality and Efficiency

The Air Quality Control project sponsored by Trane focuses on reducing the spread of COVID-19 with HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) technology. We chose bipolar ionization from a wide range of possibilities. If this technology does work, it offers benefits in a simple, easy-to-install solution that will work in most buildings.

An ionizer creates charged particles in the air called ions. These ions gather particles in the air like a snowball rolling down a hill. The bigger size allows a filter to easily catch those particles. The ions also work by directly deactivating living particles in the air. These two functions work together to lessen the amount of contaminant in the air. This happens with very little energy use and very little change to the existing setup. We designed and ran tests to determine the usefulness of the ionizer.

We tested the effectiveness of the ionizer in a mock air conditioner, with small, harmless particles to predict the behavior of airborne viruses. We ran the system both with and without the ionizer and compared results to see if the ionizer cleans the air.

As it stands, the capability of the ionizer is supported by the claims of the manufacturers. Some schools are already using ionizers to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Based on the results of our tests, developed a recommendation for implementation of these ionizers. TEAM MEMBERS

(clockwise)Jake HamiltonNicholas HolmAndreu SanteiroJoseph ThyerGavin Young ADVISORJuan Ordonez, Ph.D.

SPONSORTrane

522: Vision Impaired Technology

Our goal was to improve daily life for the visually impaired, and to aid and expand their independence. Many individuals with vision impairment go through Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training to improve agility and motor skills. They employ navigation techniques in new locations, using their senses and typically a white cane. Various products try helping, but most have limited use and high costs. Our design is compatible with their O&M training while offering various features to further heighten these skills.

HapTac is a product that improves on the standard white cane. HapTac includes sensors that find the distance between objects and the user. Vibrations on the handle relay the interpreted data to the user. The device includes three vibration motors using varying intensities to help the user interpret their surroundings.

HapTac also includes a camera that scans and analyzes objects. A speaker or earpiece relays the name of the object to the user, allowing individuals to identify common items at places like the grocery store or in their pantry. HapTac has a database full of diverse reference images.

HapTac’s housing replaces the standard white can handle, allowing users to feel the cane’s vibrations. The entire assembly, including the white cane, is less than three pounds. This ensures comfort for the user’s wrist and hand.

HapTac’s battery is long-lasting and rechargeable. Thanks to HapTac’s competitive price, it is easy to integrate into daily routines.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)David AliceaNicolas GarciaMadison JaffeEthan Saffer




Mechanical Engineering

523: Temperature Sensitive Medication Storage During Natural Disasters

Natural disasters such as hurricanes devastate the world every year and can disable power for weeks at a time. These power outages leave survivors desperate for food and shelter without access to certain critical medications. The lack of proper cooling for insulin after these storms causes hundreds of otherwise preventable deaths. We designed a portable cooling solution that preserves temperature-sensitive medicine without relying on grid power.

Our design consists of a 5-quart cooler with a thermoelectric cold plate powered by two batteries and a solar panel. The storage space holds three insulin pens at once—the average prescription a user will have available at one time. A hook and loop strap secures the pens inside and grooves cut into the plate hold them in the ideal position for cooling.

If insulin reaches 0˚C it will freeze. If it goes above 8˚C, it can expire. The cold plate keeps the temperature between 2˚-8˚C (35˚ to 46˚F). This temperature range can preserve other supplies, such as vaccines or eye drops for glaucoma.

A solar panel supplies consistent energy to recharge the batteries during operation. Two batteries allow the user to stagger power draw by alternating the source. While one battery is powering the device, the solar panel is recharging the second battery. This setup provides 14 days of cooling, the average time for power restoration in the United States.

This product can save countless lives. It will protect vital medications when nothing else can and provide invaluable relief to those who need it most.

TEAM MEMBERS (clockwise)Travis AmaralZoe DillehayNicholas GeorgevichKeon GlassDiego Mendoza (ECE)Andrew Sayers



A big round of applause and thanks to our generous sponsors, who provide valuable monetary resources for these projects, mentor our teams and serve as important stakeholders for each of these projects. Our students learn many valuable skills from this process and these mentors, including teamwork, professional engineering principles, client and project management.

ACMT – Tyler Kane

Arizona State University

Barkley Consulting Engineers – Doug Barkley, M.S., P.E.

Chipola Engineering Group – Nick Grosso, P.E.; Blaine Varn, P.E.

City of Tallahassee

City of Tallahassee UU&PI – Roger Cain, P.E.

Community & College Partners Program – Michael Burns, P.E.

Danfoss Turbocor

DHM Melvin Engineering – Paul Davidson, M.S., P.E., C.G.C; Jamie Graham, P.E.; David Crow

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Recreation & Parks – Michael Foster, Jr., P.E.

Florida Power & Light – Genese Augustin

Florida Rural Water Association – Sterling Carroll, P.E., MPA; Peyton Piotrowski

Florida Space Grant Consortium

Ford Motor Company – Arthur Jack

HNTB Corporation – David Crombie, P.E.; Sadie Dalton, P.E.; Travis Lloyd, P.E.

Halff Associates – Mark Llewellyn, Sr., P.E.

Hanger Clinic – Matthew Dunford

High-Performance Materials Institute – Hui Wang, Ph.D.; Okenwa Okoli, Ph.D.

Historic Apalachicola Foundation, Inc. – Diane Brewer, Marie Marshal

Honeywell

KB Engineering LLC – Kim Bottomy, P.E.

Keysight Technologies

Leon County Office of Resource Stewardship

Lockheed Martin

Mike Holloway

Moses Anubi, Ph.D.

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center – Ian K. Small

Northrop Grumman Corporation – Stan Zoubek, Jennifer Tecson

Northwest Florida Water Management District – Brett Cyphers, Jim Lamar, P.E.

Pratt & Whitney-UTC

Sandia National Labs – Michael Frank, Ph.D.

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare – Lynn Brickler

Texas Instruments

Trane

Urban Catalyst Consultants – William Colbert, P.E.

Vidant Health – Michael Zimmer, Ph.D.

Waldrop Engineering – N. Kasten, E.I.

Senior Design Teaching Faculty & Professors

OSCAR CHUY, PH.D.

SEAN MARTIN, M.S., P.E. SHAYNE MCCONOMY, PH.D.

ROBERT WANDELL, PH.D.

STEPHEN ARCE, PH.D.

Senior Design Sponsors

JERRIS HOOKER, PH.D.BETH GRAY, M.S., P.E.

2525 Pottsdamer StreetTallahassee FL 32310www.eng.famu.fsu.edu

One college,two universities, unlimited opportunity.

The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is the joint engineering institution for Florida A&M and Florida State universities, the only such shared college in the nation. We are located less than three miles from each campus. After satisfying prerequisites at their home university, students learn together at the central engineering campus with its eight adjacent, associated research centers and a national laboratory.

Documents

Engineering Senior Design - Florida State University