Spring 2024 Senior Design Project and Team Information by Department
Chemical Engineering
- » Assessment of Poly-Lactic Acid Production on an Industrial Scale
Project Team Members: Jones, Austin; Morrow, Renie; Myers, Claire; Newman, Avery
- » Sustainable Aviation-Grade Paraffinic Kerosene Production via Ethanol from Biowaste
Sources
Project Team Members: Bemis, Sarena; Bostic, Zachary; Childress, Zachary; Connell, Blaine W; Davis, Riley
- » Improving Air Separation Techniques to Incentivize Carbon Removal and Reduce Carbon
Emissions
Project Team Members: Koger, Aubry; Miller, Cadence; Watson, Tristen
- » Molecular Recycling of PET for Saleable Monomers
Project Team Members: Howard, Hunter; Nandha, Aniket; Perricone, Jason; Queen, Jacob; Starnes, Jared
- » CO2 Sequestration
Project Team Members: Borges, Devin; Chen, Jeffrey; Harrison, Craig; Larsen, Shaina; Wall, Liesal
- » Distillation of Brent Blend Crude Oil into Naphtha, Kerosene, and Diesel
Project Team Members: Ali, Chinar; Boyd, Silas; Gordon, Elizabeth; Tran, Phuong
- » Synthesis of Water-Emulsified Resin from Vegetable Oil and Phthalic Acid (Acid Source
Pending)
Project Team Members: Barnhart, Jennifer; Hooper, Thomas; Horne, Luke; James, Evan; Varga, Marton
- » Modification of Pilot Plant to Biofuels Production
Project Team Members: Blackwell, Destin; Colella, Albert; Irawan, Kevin
Civil and Environmental Engineering
- » Structural and Site Design of LogiCore Corporation Headquarters, Huntsville, AL
Mentoring Firms: Ardurra and American StructurePoint Inc
Professional Mentors: Jack Southard, PE, Ardurra; and Stephen Cotton, PE, SE, American StructurePoint Inc.
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Dr. Avera, Mr. James, and Dr. Henderson
Project Team Members: Kathryn Rubino, Matt Staggs, Cameron Grundy, Kentrae Jones, and Kira Martinek
Abstract: The purpose of this project is the structural and civil site design of an office complex in Huntsville, Alabama for LogiCore, a company that delivers important services to the US Government and commercial clients within and outside the United States. The Huntsville office will serve as LogiCore’s Corporate headquarters. The scope of the project includes design of roads to provide vehicular access to the two office buildings and parking areas, water and sanitary sewer lines to the site, identification and completion of environmental permits required, structural design of the primary office building which consists of a two-story structural steel structure.
- » Replacement of Bridge on Brown Mill Road that crosses Big Richland Creek
Mentoring Firm: Benesch
Professional Mentors: Jake Williams, PE; Dillon Tubb, PE; Daniel Rikli, PE; Rebecca Witherspoon, EI, and Gregory Freeman, PE.
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Mr. James, Dr. Kalyanapu, and Dr. Huff
Project Team Members: Sammi Bugter, Nayyaf Alshammari, Louis Kondolios, Thomas Burgess, CJ Campbell, and Devon Reichard
Abstract: This project calls for the design of a new bridge to replace the previous cast-in-place (CIP) concrete bridge that was damaged, beyond repair, in a flood in 2021. Brown Mill Road, the road on which the bridge is located, serves as a crucial access road for the residents of McEwen and Waverly Tennessee. The total length of the project is approximately 400 feet, which includes the roadway and the proposed bridge-structure crossing Richland Creek. The project will begin at the intersection of East Big Richland Road and will end just north of Hooper Road. The construction will include all striping, signing, and installation of safety features. Specific tasks in the different civil engineering sub-disciplines include:
Transportation: horizontal alignment design, vertical alignment design, cross sections, traffic control plan, and intersection design.
Structures: Determining AASHTO loading and limit states, selecting the proposed structure, structural design calculations, and structural plans.
Environmental: Determining the required permits, existing and proposed hydraulic analysis, and erosion prevention and sediment control (EPSC) design.
All civil engineering sub-disciplines: Project management and estimation of cost of project.
- » Turning Lane Addition and Bridge Replacement on State Route 99
(Hampshire Pike), Maury County, Tennessee to Provide Access to a Proposed Industrial Site
Mentoring Firm: HMB Professional Engineers, Inc.
Professional Mentors: Harrison Bruce, PE; Alex Spencer, PE; and John Pennington, PE
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Mr. James, Dr. Click, Dr. Avera, and Dr. Huff
Project Team Members: Emma Bradford, Katelyn Carpenter, Jacob Hough, Nicholas Cox, Sarah Shaw, and Charles Smith
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to develop roadway plans needed for the reconstruction of approximately 2,000 feet of State Route 99 in Maury County, Tennessee. This reconstruction is needed to provide access to a proposed industrial development. The project also includes a bridge replacement. The state route will need to be designed to safely and efficiently handle future traffic volumes and speeds. The project will require roadway design, drainage design, permitting, geotechnical design, bridge design, project management, and estimation of the cost of the project.
- » Installation of Bridge Across Jellico Creek in Smith County
Mentoring Firm: Mattern & Craig
Professional Mentors: Jason Carder, PE, PTOE, RSP; and Nick VanEss, PE
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Mr. James, Dr. Click, Dr. Kalyanapu, Dr. Huff, and Dr. VandenBerge
Project Team Members: Jonathan Zadick, Sofia Lombardini, La'Bryan Scharklett, Will Myers, Cole Barrett, and Noah Tubbs
Abstract: A bridge that connects Angel Valley Road (Gum Fork Road) to Upper Jellico Creek Road has been found to be structurally deficient by Tennessee Department of Transportation. The bridge offers the only crossing of Jellico Creek for several miles and has an average daily traffic (ADT) volume of 300 vehicles per day (VPD). The bridge is used by residents, school buses and emergency vehicles.
The project requires the determination of a new bridge location, widening the bridge to include two lanes to allow better traffic flow, design of new horizontal and vertical alignments for the approach roads to improve efficiency, conducting a hydraulic analysis to decide on bridge elevation and span, design of the bridge superstructure and substructure, project management, and an estimation of the project cost.
- » Replacement of Bridge over Brush Creek on South Harpeth Road
Mentoring Agency: Tennessee Department of Transportation
Professional Mentors: Nick Kniazewycz, PE; Caylie Stockton, EI; Eric Slayton, PE; Rebecca Williamson, EI; Jimmy Scales, PE; Jason Randolph, PE; Gregory Dyer, PE; Konner Spradlin, PE; and David Layhew, PE
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Mr. James, Dr. Datta, and Dr. Huff
Project Team Members: Max Mouret, Jacob Belcher, Emma Whitus, Abbie Ferguson, Joshua Stewart, and Abby Fox
Abstract: Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has determined that the existing roadway and bridge along South Harpeth Road at Log Mile 1.27 are in need of improvements. The bridge and roadway serve as an important local route for residents of Kingston Springs to gain access to I‐40 and downtown Kingston Springs. The improvements include replacing the existing South Harpeth bridge with a bridge structure capable of supporting design loads. The roadway approaches along South Harpeth Road also need improvements to the alignments to meet the design speed. Because of the access this roadway provides to I-40, it is not ideal for this section of roadway to be closed during construction. All design must follow TDOT’s standards and guidelines. Specific tasks to be addressed in the different civil engineering sub-disciplines are as follows:
Transportation: Roadway horizontal and vertical alignment designs, roadway cross-sections, earthwork calculations, and a traffic control plan
Environmental: Environmental permitting, hydraulic analysis, and EPSC planStructures: Bridge design, understanding bridge sufficiency ratings
All civil engineering sub-disciplines: Project scheduling, and estimation of costs
- » Mixed Use Development located on Hwy 42 in Jackson, Madison County, TN
Mentoring Agency: TTL Inc.
Professional Mentors: Zach Wisniowski, EI; Chelsea Hannan, PE; and Randy Laine, PE
Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty: Dr. Badoe, Mr. James, Dr. Datta, Dr. Click, and Dr. VandenBerge
Project Team Members: Randle Baker, Sean Newman, Emily Graham, Kobe Braden, Jake Risner, and Omar Bazhuir
Abstract: This Senior Design Project will involve the preliminary planning and design of a mixed-use development that will contain both residential and commercial components; single-family residential, multi-family residential, and general commercial consisting of retail and restaurant spaces. This project will utilize land planning principles, environmental permitting, preliminary planning and design. The properties involve multiple parcels totaling 40 acres in Jackson, Madison County, Tennessee.
Specific tasks to be addressed in the different civil engineering sub-disciplines are as follows: Land Planning and Project Management: Development of the layout of the site for both commercial and residential purposes, and development of a project schedule for the rezone and platting processes.
Transportation: Development of parking lot concepts, development of a pedestrian circulation plan, development of a vehicle circulation plan, and traffic impact study to determine whether road widening is required.
Structures: Design of a retaining wall.
Water Resources and Environmental: Pre- and post-development drainage analysis of the site, and environmental permitting
Computer Science
- » Intelligent Parking Availability (NavSea)
Project Team Members: Omar Abdelsalam, Devon Barrett, Vaughn Gavigan, Andres Godinez
Abstract: A solution to the parking issues on Tennessee Tech’s campus available for android and IOS. The app communicates with a firebase server which communicates further with our back end server that utilizes a prediction model to produce parking traffic patterns in advance. This allows users to get a sense of when parking spots are available or when they crowd up as well as which parking lots fill up quicker than others. This model supports data obtained from an induction loop as well as cameras which will use object detection to track flow in and out of parking lots. The model also supports predictions for special events such as athletic events or homecomings.
- » BI Data Health (Transcard)
Project Team Members: Lorenzo Abellanosa, Robert Bingham, Collin Cunningham, Carlos Escudero, Harrison Peloquin, Grant Tarver
Abstract: This project involves the addition of quality checks on an SQL-based database, displaying the results of the quality checks in a presentable manner through Power BI. When large amounts of data are passed through a daily “refresh” of data for the clients to view, sometimes the data does not pass correctly. A series of quality checks are instantiated to ensure that the data passed through is neither too little (e.g., missing data) nor too much (e.g. duplicate data, or data that is not necessary to refresh). These results are viewable through the Power BI interface by Transcard. These results are filterable, allowing Transcard to compare data against multiple dates rather than just viewing single dates. The Transcard team is notified once the quality check is completed or when something has not been refreshed correctly.
- » Database Clone (State of Tennessee)
Project Team Members: Saif Althubaiti, Alex Karlsson, Hunter Otto, Sam Staggs, Mimi Vertrees, William White
Abstract: The Data Imitation and Regression Testing Harness project is a comprehensive database solution and accompanying user interface that facilitates the cloning of original member records. This cloning capability is essential for testing hypothetical scenarios that determine member retirement eligibility based on specific rule sets. The user interface provides a seamless experience for users, allowing for the creation, saving, and testing of various data/testing scenarios. Users can select original members based on predefined or custom testing scenarios, clone these members' data, and save the cloned records for further analysis. Furthermore, once a member has been cloned, a dedicated UI tab enables users to stage and refine certain aspects of the testing scenario to understand the various outcomes better. Post-cloning, the system will run the testing scenarios on the cloned data, enabling users to compare the routine's outcome with the expected outcome, ensuring clarity and accuracy in retirement eligibility evaluations. This project streamlines the member retirement evaluation process, reducing manual errors, and optimizing decision-making processes.
- » Auto Sales Forecasting (AutoFlyte)
Project Team Members: Abdulaziz Albeshri, Victor Battonyai, Erik Bowling, Darius Derakhshan, Chris Geist, Jonathan Peng
Abstract: The AutoFlyte Auto Sales Forecasting Tool is a full stack application used by dealerships to predict which vehicles will be popular and help market them. It analyzes the collective history of sales of dealerships and creates an educated prediction of makes and models that may be sought after in the future. The model works across several parameters, including make, model, location, etc.
- » Manufacturing Line Emulator (EOSYS)
Project Team Members: Connor Burnett, Joshua Eldridge, Amy McCaughan, Mary McCready, Seth Thompson, Robert Zheng
Abstract: For Manufacturers, System Integrators, and Industrial Software Companies, the Manufacturing Line Emulator is an open-source emulation tool that can simulate information from a manufacturing line and its machines, and predictively simulate issues without risking real hardware, or requiring a shutdown of production. Unlike other open source manufacturing models/emulators, our solution easily supports multiple simulated manufacturing lines, simulates faults and downtime, and communicates with other software (such as TrakSys) to visualize the data and determine the system’s OEE.
- » Women’s Basketball Analytics (TTU Women's Basketball)
Project Team Members: Kyle Hermansky, Brandon Parton, Matthew Sims, Katherine Spann, Kenneth VanGemert, Dylan Varney
Abstract: The Women's Basketball (WBB) team is keen on the acquisition and utilization of advanced analytics to enhance their game preparation processes. In addition to the statistical data currently provided by the league, the team presently undertakes the collection of performance statistics through the analysis of game and practice footage. The current approach is notably labor-intensive, involving manual data entry using traditional pen-and-paper methods. Our application called the goldeN Eagles Statistical Tracker (NEST) is a statistical sports analysis mobile app that can facilitate the swift generation of diverse statistical insights. These encompass but are not limited to recording shot attempts and successes within the framework of the game clock, identifying shot locations on the court, and monitoring game tempo, among other essential parameters.
- » Data Atlas
Project Team Members: Antonio Brown, Hunter Evans, Jonathan Leonard, Darren De Peña, Anekin Kryter, Drew Wheeler
Abstract: The Data Atlas, an AI-powered model, tackles the challenge of understanding SAIC's diverse legacy applications by automatically parsing data schema and mapping CRUD operations from source code. This not only reduces reliance on experts but also empowers developers with a clear picture of data usage, easing integration, maintenance, and data storage optimization.
- » Tick Toch Tech
Project Team Members: Samuel Sullins, Ruby Koval, Sierra Osborne, Pooja Patel, Seif Ikbarieh, Aden Perez
Abstract: Digital Dream Forge's Time Tracking system, built with React and featuring a MongoDB database that references AWS, streamlines employee hour management. This web-based solution integrates with the existing Slack chatbot, allowing for convenient clock-in/out via chat while replacing the current text-based system with a user-friendly interface. Employees gain easier access to work hours, breaks, and data storage, simplifying time tracking and management.
- » Green Button
Project Team Members: Vincent Lin, Harrison McLain, Connor Powell, Riley Tilson, Braxton Westbrook, Jayden Wright
Abstract: Green Button is a tool designed to help manufacturing industries optimize their energy usage and verify the resulting savings. Currently, these industries rely on Verifi, a software hosted and developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratories. The project streamlines this process by eliminating the need for manual data entry in Verifi. It’s achieved through a series of API calls to the hosting utility company, obtaining and parsing meter and billing data into a format compatible with Verifi. An authorization key secures data retrieval, and users can choose their preferred export format: Excel (xlsx), JSON, or XML.
- » AI Data Framework
Project Team Members: Tyler Bang, Aidan Gibson, Nathaniel Wiedemann, Chase Smith, Jasper Kleparek
Abstract: The AI/Data Framework tackles a critical challenge for NavSea's data analysts: asynchronous SQL data sets hindering comprehensive analysis. This project proposes an AI-powered algorithm, specifically designed to synchronize disparate data sets collected at varying rates. Built with a user-friendly Angular front-end, the framework empowers NavSea to combine previously siloed data. This fosters a more unified understanding of the data, readily accessible for informed decision-making.
- » Data Science Auto Tester
Project Team Members: Savannah Glover, Megan Hendrickson, Jaden Johnson, Cade Kennedy, Faith Lee, Kevin Pathana
Abstract: The Automatic Data Science Tester is a web-based data visualization tool designed for UrbanScience. It empowers agents with a user-friendly interface built on React to extract and analyze sales data, eliminating the need for direct database interaction. The tool leverages a custom web scraper backend to gather data on key sales metrics from various sources, including competitor data. This data is then presented in customizable front-end tables, enabling the client to gain quick insights into sales performance and trends.
- » Sci-Spy Mission: Match
Project Team Members: Ben Coates, Tommy Marascia, Markow Moussa, Emily Mutter, Kelsey Rainey, Brendan Sullivan
Abstract: Inspired by Dr. Kelle Z. Riley's captivating murder mystery novels, Sci-Spy Mission: Match is a mobile match-3 game built with the Godot engine. Players strategically swap spy gadgets and gizmos on a grid, creating thrilling cascades and combos to progress through Dr. Riley's book universe. Unlocking increasingly difficult levels, players earn points and uncover secrets hidden within the game, all while sparking their interest in Dr. Riley's series and fostering a connection between the mobile world and the broader literary world.
- » BuildLogix
Project Team Members: Caleb Smith, Zachary Henard, Jamil Omer, Kieffer Ford, Vadim Kholodilo
Abstract: BuildLogix, a web application built with an Angular front-end, streamlines construction planning and payments. This unified platform empowers users with features like service and material selection, an on-the-fly sketching tool, and secure in-app payments via Stripe integration. By extending the CodeTankLabs codebase with a custom payment interface, BuildLogix eliminates the need for external payment systems. This translates to a frictionless experience for both construction companies – who receive faster payments – and clients – who enjoy a convenient, one-stop shop for project planning and payment.
Electrical and Computer Engineering
- » Ride Replay Kit
Project Team Members: Benjamin Ebel, Utsav Signha, Caleb Rozenboom, Caleb Turney, Jesse Brewster, and Jayden Marcom.
Abstract: The Ride Replay Kit is an extension to already existing bicycles of most sizes. The goal of the project is to give users the capability to record local trails and upload them to be experienced on a workout bike. Some of the expected accomplishments of the Ride Replay Kit are: Visual and Auditory immersion, a level of physical immersion in the form of "wind", an interfacing touchscreen, and an accurate reflection of the work done during the trail.
- » M.E.E-3PO (Mechanical and Electrical Engineers - 3PO)
(Interdisciplinary with mechanical engineering)
Project Team Members: Callie Battenfield, Caz Bilbrey, Liam Counasse, Adrin Jackson, and Conor Orr
Abstract: In this project M.E.E-3PO has been designed to be a fully autonomous robot to complete the pre-ordained course and tasks as required by the 2024 SECON Hardware Competition in a way that is consistent and minimizes risk in both its design process and during its deployment at the competition. M.E.E-3PO shall be able to consistently and autonomously complete runs of the entire course, including climbing the ramps, turning corners, and traversing the crater. It is also expected that M.E.E-3PO will be able to push a button at the final part of the course to stop a timer that tracks course completion, which is required for the bulk of the points available during the competition. Finally, M.E.E-3PO is expected to complete the bonus tasks of starting remotely by detecting a start light at the beginning of the run and displaying a light show to demonstrate team spirit near the end of the course.
- » Parking Lot Monitoring System – Ground-Based Approach
Project Team Members: Abdulrahman Alrudayan, Khalifah Altamimi, Brady Beecham, Kyle Plant, Michael Sisk
Abstract: The goal of the project is to develop an inductive loop-based system to determine the number of available parking spaces in a given parking lot. The project is being designed as a proof-of-concept system that can be scaled up to span the entirety of campus. The project is expected to detect vehicles entering and exiting a lot using inductive loops, send sensor data over long distances, be powered by solar panels and wall power, and run on rechargeable batteries to minimize downtime in the event of power loss or insufficient power from the solar panels.
- » Autonomous Greenhouse Project
Project Team Members: Noah Jones, Grant Hooper, Bryan Rhoton, Jaxson Billings and Jared Hooker
Abstract: We aim to create a system to automatically measure and report the NPK levels, pH and moisture of the soil as well as the temperature and humidity of the greenhouse. We also aim to implement systems to monitor the tank water levels and carbon and nitrogen dioxide levels in the greenhouse atmosphere as well as controlling the greenhouse lighting with a central plc controller. Our expected accomplishments are a functional prototype containing the nutrient, carbon and nitrogen dioxide, temperature and humidity, water level, lighting and display subsystems.
- » Modular IEEE Robot
Project Team Members: Luke Chapman, Jackson Crews, Isaac Hoese, Isaac Jennings, Abigail Kennedy, and Mabel Olson
Abstract: Each year, Tennessee Tech sends a team of students to compete in the IEEE SECON hardware competition. Our project is creating a robust base model robot for future groups. The following are key objectives: navigation for different types of competition boards, 360-degree movement on flat and angled floors, and documentation for easy adaptability.
- » Preserve Home Pro
Project Team Members: Jackson Woodard, Cole Cooper, Nate Cambell, Luke Carson, Dylan Robbins
Abstract: Preserve Home Pro is creating an advanced home health monitoring system to track household data effectively. Our main goal is to make sure sensors give accurate data and the head unit shows real-time and past information. Our expectation is that our system can switch between wall power and a backup battery smoothly, ensuring it works all the time. With a focus on reliability and innovation, Preserve Home Pro is ready to change how home health monitoring works.
- » Pulse Inverted Electrolyzer
Project Team Members: Brennan Angus, Jacob Cooper, Wyatt Groves, Austin Jerrolds, Conner Sanders
Abstract: The Pulse Inverted Electrolyzer primary goal is to boost the efficiency of the standard constant current electrolysis machine. A Standard Electrolysis system takes in constant current and turns an electrolytic solution into gasses from said solution. The Pulse Inverted Electrolyzer will boost efficiencies in two ways. One will be by pulsing the current given to the electrodes, and the other by using constant magnetic fields to redirect ions back to the electrodes. By pulsing the current in an electrolyzer it takes advantage of two ideas happening inside the water of the system. When first fired on the electrodes will gain electrons around, and prevent current from passing through. By pulsing the current the system allows for this layer to disperse to make for more current to flow through the electrolytic solution. Also by pulsing the current, we will be able to send a burst of energy through the system instead of the constant current normally supplied.
Manufacturing and Engineering Technology
- » Breathalyzer to Measure Breath Alcohol Content
Project Team Members: Yousif Fanous, Michael Abraham, Da’Jawn Polk, Weston Hull, and Jesus Zuniga-Gonzales
Abstract: Breathalyzers are used by a many people around the world. Law enforcement officers use these on the daily basis. Drinking can be an enjoyable activity for many. Alcohol limits can be misjudged by some who think they can handle or control their intake. Senses will become impaired or thrown off by too much alcohol, meaning routine activities will become more challenging. There are many different brands that make these devices. Professional ones can be expensive, but with our design we want to ensure something inexpensive. Our design will be efficient for people who need to carry on their person to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Using this project’s paper, people can make their own breathalyzer.
- » Mechanical Properties of Recycled Filaments with Additives
Project Team Members: Humberto Lopez, Vaughn Meloy, Kevin Sexton, Jared Stombaugh and Matthew Stombaugh
Abstract: There is a need in the 3D printing market for recycled filament. Most recycled filaments lack desired strength and durability. In the commercial market there are filaments that can achieve certain material properties, however the cost to an average consumer can be expensive. By combining various additives to recycled filament or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), the desired properties can be achieved at an affordable price. In this project, the problem of high costs and lack of mechanical properties will be overcome by using additives alongside different types of plastic bottles. Our materials' mechanical properties will be compared to those mass manufactured through non-recycling methods.
- » Forge Build and Heat Treat Analysis
Project Team Members: Nicholas Drake, Adam Gutierrez, Carson Lowrie, Dylan Browder, Brayden Hawkins
Abstract: Our project's purpose is twofold: to design and construct a relatively cost-effective, large section forge and heat treat and test different microstructural arrangements for a series of Halligan Bars. By developing the forge, we can attempt to create an efficient burning system that can be manufactured at a low cost, making it more available to a wider market. And by using the forge to perform different heat treatments on a lifesaving device, it is hoped data and test results show we a product more reliable through the process used. Through research this project gives a best practice construction for the forge, generate estimates for the most cost-effective construction, research variable microstructures for the castings that will be heat treated, and these treatments are tested in real-life scenarios.
- » Leak Detector to Discover Leaks in Various Plumbing Configurations
Project Team Members: Luke Ledford, Nate Phipps, Benny Heath, Jaquan Nelson, and Aulbrey Smith
Abstract: A common issue facing many residential and commercial complexes is the fact that they are plagued with elusive water leaks. Often, we must wait for these water leaks to manifest themselves. By this time, the leak/leaks have incurred hundreds to thousands of dollars in damage and wasted water. A way to solve this problem is to create a system that detects water leaks in pipes as a first response to find these leaks before they cause greater problems. This system will serve as a built-in leak detector that once attached to the plumbing system will detect leaks in 10 different observable areas. When this system detects something, it will alarm the individual in the area and let them know. The owner of the residential area also expressed that he wants the system to be noninvasive, so no plumbing work is required.
- » Plastic Bottle and 3D Filament Shredder
Project Team Members: Kizer Riley, Jordan Price, Devin McCracken, Gage Powell, John Mendez
Abstract: There is a need for a new shredder in the Lewis Hall lab on campus. This shredder's primary purpose would be to break down plastic bottles and failed 3D models for recycling purposes. Any shredded filament would be fed into an extruder for reusability. This would allow faculty to use the finely shredded filament again to make more 3D models that would be more useful to the students and lab while also saving money, as they would not need to purchase as much filament with a portion of it being recycled. The lab did have a former shredder, but it was quite poorly designed and did not allow for many changes to how it works or for repairs. Therefore, the new shredder would ideally be more user-friendly and allow for improvement, adjustments, and repairs, should its use change with time.
- » Voltage Regulation for Non-Battery Reliant Solar Powered Appliance
Project Team Members: Alexander Kilburn, Denton Stout, Dustin Steele, Hunter Evans, Logan Shugart, and Ben McGee
Abstract: There is a need for off-grid solar powered appliances such as freezers in remote or off grid homes, water pumping for cattle in wells far from electrical wires, air compressors in parking lots to check tire pressure, and among other appliances. The most expensive reoccurring cost to off-grid solar is the battery and the project eliminates the need for a battery. This objective is to insert some form of voltage regulation within an already existing system to prevent the voltage from exceeding a limit of 24 volts, protecting the appliance from failure due to excessive stress. The already existing system functions to not run while voltage is under the minimum requirement, however, the system is incomplete and requires the addition of voltage regulation when above 24 volts.
- » Eagle Bait Truck Frame Restoration
Project Team Members: Willian Page, Clayton Roe, Spencer Allina, and Maguire Headrick
Abstract: The Tennessee Tech Mechanical Engineering department has asked for help bringing back to life the beloved 1929 Chevy 1.5-ton truck know as Eagle Bait. The goal is to make a rolling chassis for the ME department to build it into an electric vehicle for use in parades and other events on Tech campus. The goal by the end of the semester is to have a rolling chassis that is not only capable of supporting the weight of 12 people in the bed, but it also must be ready for an electric drive and power system to be dropped in hopefully next semester.
- » Zamak 12 Microalloying Senior Project
Project Team Members: Alexander Armour, Katlin Gardner, Christopher Carter, Elijah Greer, and Husam Alsaleh
Abstract: Understanding the impact of some microalloying elements on an alloy known as Zamak 12 (ZA12) is essential to explore some of its potential applications. ZA12, an allow comprising mainly of zinc and aluminum, remains relatively unexplored regarding the effects of incorporating titanium and boron, particularly in terms of fatigue and hardness. The process of microalloying with ZA12 is anticipated to unveil properties of the resulting material, potentially beneficial in manufacturing processes like die casting, particularly within aerospace applications. This project aims to showcase the team’s proficiency in casting, machining, testing, and analyzing the effects of microalloying on materials.
Mechanical Engineering
- » Lab Scale XYZ Gantry System
Project Team Members: Netlandsnes, Roy; Springer, Shamar; Thomason, Trevor; Travis, Andrew
Project Description: A 1-meter cube lab-scale ball screw XYZ gantry system was designed and built. The system will interface with Matlab and can be used to test path planning in small-scale 3D lab environment.
- » IEEE SE Robot Competition
Project Team Members: Adams, Colby; Howell, James; Jordan, Steven; Wisti, Zachary
Project Description: The mechanical engineering team worked with an electrical engineering team to develop a robot for the annual IEEE Southeast robot competition.
- » Human Powered Vehicle
Project Team Members: Bryant, Chase; Labudde, Keith; Hinchman, Zach; Summitt, Landon; Buckner, Joshua; Garrison, Mac; Rich, Taylor; Yarbrough, Carsyn
Project Description: The team is developing a human-powered vehicle that conforms to the ASME HPV competition rules.
- » Small-Scale Jet Engine Thrust Measurement System
Project Team Members: Savage, Alex; Wall, Colin; Griffith, Josh; Meeks, Spencer
Project Description: A thrust measurement system for a 100N thrust jet engine was designed and built. The system will measure both axial thrust and can measure off-axis components from a vector thrust system.
- » Small-Scale Jet Engine Thrust Vectoring System
Project Team Members: Arrington, Matthew; Bailey, Zach; Bellamy, Jackson; Chumney, Sam
Project Description: A thrust vectoring system for a 100 N thrust jet engine was developed. The movement of the thrust nozzle can be electronically controlled.
- » Small-Scale Jet Engine Test Stand
Project Team Members: Meadows, Ashley; Medlin, Ryan; Askildsen, Selma Elisabeth; Vongsamphanh, Ben
Project Description: A test for the operation of a 100 N thrust jet engine was developed. The test contains the fuel and safety systems for the engine as well as mounting for the thrust measuring system and all electronics.
- » Material Characterization System
Project Team Members: Briley, Dalton; Hardison, Noah; Jernigan, Colton; Johnson, Laken
Project Description: The team is working with an industrial partner to modify and qualify a custom material characterization system.
- » Pep Truck Frame
Project Team Members: Guest, Benjamin; Redman, John; Scott, Jymon T; Arnold, Brett; Akin, William
Project Description: A mechanical engineering team is working with an engineering technology team to design and fabricate a new frame for TTU 1929 Pep Truck.
- » Floor Vibration Drop System
Project Team Members: Bird, David; Dittert, Jackson; Powell, George
Project Description: The team is developing a portable drop system for use with the smart building research group.
- » Vehicle Simulator Update
Project Team Members: Behaylo, Gwen; Herberman, John; Howell, Landon; Wiggins, Tyler
Project Description: The vehicle simulator was upgraded to work with the latest version of Matlab, and operating procedures were developed for future teams.
- » Shock Isolation for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Project Team Members: Boone, Richmond; Lilly, Michael; Milligan, Gavin; Onaghinor, Anthony
Project Description: The team worked with the aircraft electrification research group to explore and design a shock isolation system for solid oxide fuel cells.
- » Water Induction Heating System
Project Team Members: Duncan, Bryce; Lingerfelt, Brett; Morales, Hugo; Wonder, Anthony
Project Description: The team worked with an industrial partner to explore the possibility of using induction heating for hot water generation.
- » Hot Water Storage Baffle System
Project Team Members: Beaty, Jacob; Been, Wyatt; Boswell, Trey; Masters, Tucker
Project Description: The team worked with an industrial partner to investigate the impact of baffle design on the performance of a hot water storage system.
- » Greeting Robot Development
Project Team Members: Dukes, Sydney; Barrett, Cassidy; Guy, Jacob; West, Joshua; Hicks, Graham
Project Description: A development platform for a greeting robot was assembled, and basic functions were programmed into the robot.
- » Steering Simulator Development
Project Team Members: Bailey, Bradley; Gifford, Devin; Sauder, Wyatt; Sullivan, Hunter
Project Description: The team worked to get a commercial steering simulator functional. It was determined that the simulator needed extensive modification, and the team added more functional weight loading to the simulation.
- » Wooden Floor Vibration
Project Team Members: Horner, Jase; Khalil, Michael; Miller, Luke; Ward, Michael
Project Description: A lab-scale wood floor system was constructed to residential standards, and the vibration signature of the structure was determined. The results will be used to determine if the techniques that have been developed in commercial construction would be applicable in residential environments.
- » Cicada Attraction System
Project Team Members: Brannon, Nick; Cunningham, Jack; Lowe, Connor; Moore, Spencer
Project Description: A system to imitate the sounds of Cicadas was developed that can be used to attract the insects away from areas to prevent damage to plant nursery stock.
- » Lab-scale Vehicle Morphing Structure
Project Team Members: Goodwin, Bryce; Habib, Michel; Jones, Erik; Montgomery, Chad
Project Description: A lab-scale system with 3 plates was developed that morphs to optimize the form drag for a vehicle.
- » Modeling of Fluid-Structure Interactions of Travelers Palm
Project Team Members: Hayes, Sophie; Hicks, Robbie; Wiles, Erica
Project Description: Coupled fluid-structure interaction models of the Travelers Palm were developed to investigate the impact of flow speed and direction on the deflections of the tree.
- » Vehicle Suspension Simulation
Project Team Members: Cantrell, David; Gray, Jessi; Lowe, Jennifer; Willoughby, Micah
Project Description: A test stand was developed to provide an impulse input into a motorcycle suspension was developed. The system is instrumented to record the system response.
Senior Design Expo Design Teams Project Archives
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