Spring 2023 Winners
UTSA's Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design Spring 2023 Tech Symposium took place on Friday, April 28th from 8:30 am-1:30 pm in the Convocation Center on UTSA’s Main Campus
Congratulations to Print & Click, the 1st place winners of the 2023 Spring Tech Symposium!
Biomedical Engineering Design II
Atlus, An Alternative Approach to Charcot Foot Limb Salvage | Limb salvage surgery is the first-in-line treatment to restore function to a
traumatized limb with extreme bony defects. Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC)
Arthrodesis is a limb salvage procedure performed on patients with
Charcot Arthroneuropathy or Charcot foot, a chronic complication of Type
II Diabetes. Eventually, severe bony defects form around the ankle and
may require surgery to remove portions of diseased bone. To fill the bony
void, current technologies involve the use of femoral head allografts and
patient- specific implants. However, these methods are costly, lack
reproducibility, and are difficult to design. The Atlus allows for
osseointegration and ease of implantation. With the novel device,
surgeons may leverage an off-the-shelf product to reduce the reliance on
expensive custom implants.
traumatized limb with extreme bony defects. Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC)
Arthrodesis is a limb salvage procedure performed on patients with
Charcot Arthroneuropathy or Charcot foot, a chronic complication of Type
II Diabetes. Eventually, severe bony defects form around the ankle and
may require surgery to remove portions of diseased bone. To fill the bony
void, current technologies involve the use of femoral head allografts and
patient- specific implants. However, these methods are costly, lack
reproducibility, and are difficult to design. The Atlus allows for
osseointegration and ease of implantation. With the novel device,
surgeons may leverage an off-the-shelf product to reduce the reliance on
expensive custom implants.
Ultrasonic Ozone Sterilization Unit (UO3SU) | As of 2016, 20-30% of US medical practices reuse at least 1 type of single-use device, for hospitals it may be B.P. Handle and for dentistries it may be a dental mirror or an explorer, but of these devices/tools that get reused, only 2-3% of them are safely re-sterilized properly for reuse. With some of these single-use items, because the time and effort needed to clean these devices outweigh the benefit of using them again, most hospitals turn to disposing the medical tools. Therefore, there is a need for a sterilization unit that can effectively clean medical equipment with speed and efficiency. The device our team has created to assist in increasing the percentage of reusable single-use items in the dental field is known as the Ultrasonic Ozone Sterilization Unit or UO3SU. The UO3SU device is configured with aqueous ozone (O3), formed via electrolysis, in combination with ultrasonic vibrations to rid dental instrument surfaces of any contaminants (living and non-living) that may reside on the surface. Using these two very effective methods, our device is expected to be able to fully sterilize any instrument with a higher success rate and a faster turnaround time than our top competitor, the Autoclave. With the Ultrasonic Ozone Sterilization Unit, hospitals and clinics could save billions of dollars in the medical equipment market, which is currently worth approximately 488.98 billion USD.
Fluid Recirculation System for Intravascular Lithotripsy Recirculation | Calcium Buildup deposits in heart arteries occur in over 90% of men and 67% of women older than 70 years. It is most alternately characterized in people with higher body mass index, abnormal glucose or lipid level, and kidney disease. To combat coronary calcification, intravascular lithotripsy catheterization devices are a new technology which enables physicians to break up calcium deposits in arteries using sonic pressure waves however these current devices use manual fluid insertion for the catheter. The focus of this project is to implement a fluid recirculation system into existing catheterization devices specifically to remove bubbles from the fluid.
Prothrombin Time Sensor | There is a need for a at home prothrombin time detector to provide quick and accurate results at the comfort of the patient's home. Only a few coagulometers are currently available on the market, which forces patients to travel frequently and at great expense to the hospital in order to get crucial diagnostic information. Due to the limited number of at home coagulometers’ and inadequate marketing, many patients are unaware of their options. Instead of lasers, most coagulometers use reagents, which have a higher device failure rate. The market for anticoagulation devices is growing; it was predicted that the value of coagulation devices would be 27 billion in 2017 and increase to 43 billion by 2025. Many patients would benefit from at home testing, highlighting the need for a device that can test for blood clotting time, providing patients with critical diagnostic information that will allow them to make informed decisions about their treatment plans with their primary healthcare provider. As a result, we have developed the at home prothrombin time detector using a laser that patients can carry and use where ever they may please.
Laser Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) Balloon Catheter | Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the one of the leading causes of death in the world, affecting 3 million people in the US and 20.1 million people globally. CAD is characterized as the accumulation of plaque composed of lipids and calcium that penetrate the endothelial layer of cells lining the underside of blood vessels and arteries. The accumulation of plaque restricts blood flow by narrowing and decreasing the compliance of blood vessels. In chronic cases, heart attacks and even death can occur.
Balloon angioplasty has traditionally been used in treatment of arterial calcification. While it has been effective in some cases, many shortcomings remain. Today there remain no balloon catheters which can address coronary artery calcification in the smallest coronary arteries, which can be as small as 1.0 mm in diameter. As it stands, standard balloon angioplasty is also unable to successfully break down calcification in chronic cases.
This has led to angioplasty modifications in larger arteries (e.g. peripheral) which now predominantly utilize intravascular lithotripsy to more effectively break down calcification and create better vessel compliance. Intravascular lithotripsy uses a standard balloon catheter to generate and propagate shockwaves which break down and fracture the plaque. Peripheral artery approaches consist of electrode-based lithotripsy as seen in the main competitor Shockwave IVL. While this technology is effective, it is unable to be scaled down to the size of the coronary arteries given its use of electrode-based technology.
Referring back to traditional laser lithotripsy approaches in the kidneys, this design intends to adapt lithotripsy techniques through the use of optical laser fibers. Such a technique allows for the construction of a laser lithotripsy balloon catheter which has the ability to treat coronary artery calcification in the smallest arteries.
Balloon angioplasty has traditionally been used in treatment of arterial calcification. While it has been effective in some cases, many shortcomings remain. Today there remain no balloon catheters which can address coronary artery calcification in the smallest coronary arteries, which can be as small as 1.0 mm in diameter. As it stands, standard balloon angioplasty is also unable to successfully break down calcification in chronic cases.
This has led to angioplasty modifications in larger arteries (e.g. peripheral) which now predominantly utilize intravascular lithotripsy to more effectively break down calcification and create better vessel compliance. Intravascular lithotripsy uses a standard balloon catheter to generate and propagate shockwaves which break down and fracture the plaque. Peripheral artery approaches consist of electrode-based lithotripsy as seen in the main competitor Shockwave IVL. While this technology is effective, it is unable to be scaled down to the size of the coronary arteries given its use of electrode-based technology.
Referring back to traditional laser lithotripsy approaches in the kidneys, this design intends to adapt lithotripsy techniques through the use of optical laser fibers. Such a technique allows for the construction of a laser lithotripsy balloon catheter which has the ability to treat coronary artery calcification in the smallest arteries.
S.I.Jig | The Sacroiliac joint is an immobile joint connecting the spine to the pelvis. When this joint moves too much, it causes severe pain. One treatment is posterior SIJ fusion, which involves surgically embedding an implant into the joint through the back of the patient and fussing the bones. This method is minimally invasive but less effective due to the joint’s narrow-angle of entry and the ineffectiveness of current implants. The SI-Jig incorporates a surgical guide to aid surgeons in entering the joint and a cannulated implant designed to immobilize the joint and promote bone fusion
Aqueous ozone acute wound care device | Acute wounds account for approximately 50 million hospital visits and ambulatory services every year. Current debridement options during emergency situations include irrigation of 2 L of saline or water, however, they do not kill bacteria or viruses. The patients risk developing an infection which can lead to higher expenses. Using antimicrobials and antiseptics can cause adverse reactions to the skin and healthy cells. There is a need to develop a device to decrease infection rates by creating an oxygen-rich environment to increase healing for acute wounds during emergency situations. Previous research demonstrates aqueous ozone is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and vasoconstricting agent. We propose to create a quick and effective debridement device using aqueous ozone by electrolytic conversion.
Portable Oral Water Flosser | Oral sanitization before surgery reduces the possibility of open wound and bacterial infections. There is currently no chemical mouthwash commercially available that is safe and natural enough for patient-use as they can cause further problems including dehydration and gum inflammation. Prior to performing dental work, ozone water can be used as a pre-rinse to clean the surgical area without harsh chemicals. Aqueous ozone is a natural, practical and affordable treatment that can promote wound healing and guard against oral disease. Presented in this project is a design that incorporates aqueous ozone into dental appliances.
Fluidic Mixing Bioprinting System & Incubation Enclosure | Over 160,000 skin grafts are performed in U.S. hospitals annually, with 1 in 3 burn hospitalizations requiring a skin graft. Current skin graft methods involve using skin from a donor site on the patient, skin from another person/animal, or a synthetic substitute. Recent advances in bioprinting have shown a promising future where bioprinters can be used to create patient-specific skin grafts, other tissues, and even artificial organs. However, current bioprinters are incapable of printing high-quality viable tissue samples due to improper cell distribution and a lack of an enclosure system to protect the cells during printing. Our proposed bioprinting system will include a novel mixing system to improve cell uniformity and will be housed in an enclosure capable of maintaining the optimal conditions for the printed cells.
Quantifying the selective advantage of colorectal cancer driver genes in a whole-genome sequencing cohort of 1015 patients| Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death in the US, with 52,000 deaths in 2022. In a study by Zhao et al., 46 CRC-associated genes were identified in a cohort of 1015 patients using whole exome sequencing. However, their method based on gene mutation frequency alone does not determine its contribution to cancer. To address this, we used computational and evolutionary techniques to calculate effect size and quantify the significance of the identified genes. This allowed us to prioritize high-effect genes and variants for drug design, demonstrating the practical utility of quantifying selection intensities in cancer research.
Robotic Probe Holder for Ultrasound Imaging | Ultrasound imaging is currently used in combat casualty care to triage a patient’s injuries and prioritize evacuations. Personnel are oftentimes inexperienced with this technique, which is why it is necessary to simplify ultrasound imaging acquisition.
This proposed project is the development of a robotic probe holder for use as an attachment to a robotic arm system to perform automatic ultrasound imaging. The main focus of this device is to adjust to multiple probe sizes and shapes, to deliver gel to the tissue surface at each point of the exam, and to ensure adequate force is being applied to the patient.
This proposed project is the development of a robotic probe holder for use as an attachment to a robotic arm system to perform automatic ultrasound imaging. The main focus of this device is to adjust to multiple probe sizes and shapes, to deliver gel to the tissue surface at each point of the exam, and to ensure adequate force is being applied to the patient.
Adhesive Securement Device for a Crichothyrotomy | A cricothyrotomy is an emergency procedure that delivers oxygen to a patient's blocked airway. This is done by inserting a tube down the cricothyroid membrane. Currently, in order to secure the tube, methods of suturing, trach ties, or velcro straps are used so no internal bleeding happens. The shortcomings of these methods are that not all paramedics can suture, and trach ties and velcro straps can be complex during an emergency with blood and hair involved. Our goal is to improve upon these devices by using a skin adhesive. Our design must stay secured to the patient, and have quick and easy application.
Stabilizing Procidentia | 11-20% of women will undergo a uterine prolapse repair procedure in their lifetime. Current devices such as mesh implants have been recalled from the market and invasive procedures such as hysterectomies may lead to further complications, suggesting that there is a need for a medical device to better repair uterine prolapse in patients. Our mission as a team is to contribute to the well-being of women through innovative medical devices and shine a light on areas of women’s health that are neglected. Through the use of a uterine pessary ring, our device aims to provide a non-surgical remedy to all stages of uterine prolapse. By combining a drainage mesh with suction cube supports, our ring is capable of being used for multiple weeks without removal and supporting the entire weight of the uterus. To ensure the safety and compatibility of our device, we have established and completed numerous tests including biocompatibility, pH degradation, cytotoxicity, and sterilization ability.
Aqueous Ozone Chronic Wound Therapy Device | Chronic wound care is a complex process greatly affected by accompanying diseases which compromise the wound healing process. Current wound care treatments employ the use of antibiotics, which over time have become less efficient, and medical device technologies often require the patient’s presence in a hospital or wound care clinic as their large sizes only allow for use in a clinical setting. To address this, our team has designed a portable, wearable device for post-op or at-home wound care treatment incorporating aqueous ozone, a highly reactive oxidant that directly attacks the surface layer of microorganisms and destroys their cell walls.
Tripolar Left Ventricular Assist Device for Volumetric Measurements | The use of percutaneous left ventricular assist devices (pLVADs) is increasing in the management of heart failure or cardiogenic shock patients. However, ongoing research is being conducted to determine the optimal utilization and device-related outcomes. This project aims to develop a safe and biocompatible implantable device that utilizes three electrodes to measure cardiac output (CO) readings in the heart, assessing left ventricular (LV) recovery. The device will be capable of multiple deployments and measurements for up to one year, providing an upgrade to the current catheter-based pLVAD design.
The purpose of this project is to design a safe and biocompatible device that is an improvement of the current commercially available catheter-based miniaturized ventricular assist device that pumps blood from the left ventricle (LV) into the ascending aorta and would be responsible for systemic circulation.
The goal is to implement three electrodes into a commercially available pLVAD with the intention of measuring the volume in cardiac output (CO) to obtain accurate measurements and perform calculations in real-time for automated pump weaning.
The purpose of this project is to design a safe and biocompatible device that is an improvement of the current commercially available catheter-based miniaturized ventricular assist device that pumps blood from the left ventricle (LV) into the ascending aorta and would be responsible for systemic circulation.
The goal is to implement three electrodes into a commercially available pLVAD with the intention of measuring the volume in cardiac output (CO) to obtain accurate measurements and perform calculations in real-time for automated pump weaning.
Scoli-Dynamic Brace | In the U.S, more than 600,000 adolescents with scoliosis go to private doctors each year. Current treatment options for scoliosis include continuous observation by a physician, bracing for teens and children, and surgery for extreme cases. According to estimates, about 30,000 children are given braces to treat their scoliosis each year, which in most cases, is only given to a patient that has a Cobb angle of 25-45 degrees. Current brace technology is static, rigid, and non-breathable which causes the patient to be non-compliant with the physician’s instructions on the amount of time the brace needs to be worn. Our mission is to bring to life a scoliosis brace that will tackle these design flaws and make a brace that is lightweight, increases the patient’s range of motion, and is made of materials that are breathable to tackle patient compliance issues.
Chemical Engineering Design II
Production of Biodiesel Through Transesterification of Waste Vegetable Oil Feedstock | This proposal is introducing a new biodiesel plant located in Houston, Texas. Biodiesel production will be done through a transesterification process. The process will start with waste vegetable oil, sodium hydroxide as the catalyst, and methanol. Once the transesterification of the mixed reactants is completed, it will result in glycerol and biodiesel as byproducts. A detailed simulation was run where stream tables and plant economics were obtained. The conceptual designs of specific equipment sections and a process flow diagram are mentioned in detail for the process. The utilities, safety measures, and the economic analysis for the whole plant are included.
Biodiesel Production via Transesterification | Biodiesel is an alternative renewable fuel, derived from vegetable oil or animal fat. This sustainable product is seeing a rise in production and consumption, causing it to be the subject of more and more research. Our team of student chemical engineers were able to develop and optimize a process for producing 10M ton/gal of biodiesel in an economically and environmentally conscious manner. For this project, canola oil feedstock was utilized with methanol at a 1:6 molar ratio with the addition of a heterogeneous catalyst, calcium oxide (CaO), to produce fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) via transesterification.
Biodiesel Production and Separation Via L-L Extraction | The project developed simulates the process of creating M-Oleate (Biodiesel) from recycled soybean vegetable oil, methanol, and NaOH. Through this design a developed process simulation was created with 93.27% conversion of soybean to biodiesel. Furthermore, the design covers an economic and safety analysis to determine whether the developed design is feasible for production.
Production of Dimethyl Ether Utilizing Carbon Dioxide from Natural Gas | As CO2 emissions are expected to increase significantly over the following years, carbon capture and utilization is becoming an increasingly more important issue. This project establishes a process to convert CO2 from a commercially nonviable natural gas well in New Zealand to DME, a profitable chemical product, while taking into consideration health, safety, and environmental factors. In accordance with these goals, the CO2 is converted to DME by direct synthesis. The process is modeled in Aspen HYSYS and results in DME product purity of more than 99%. The associated economic analysis indicates the process to be profitable.
Production of Methanol from Natural Gas | R & A Engineering has been awarded to explore the natural gas field located in Conroe, Texas to develop the methanol production plant using the catalytic process with natural gas and steam as feedstock that is compliant with environmental health and safety guidelines. Production capacity was estimated to be 3000 MMSCF/day, the gas composition had 46.6% methane (CH4), 24.95 % CO2, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) the remaining composition consisted of a mixture of hydrocarbon species. The process scheme to produce methanol is presented and accessed via Aspen HYSYS simulation where the natural gas was converted to a syngas mixture that was circulated under pressure and temperature and in return was converted to crude methanol that has been distilled to yield the commercial methanol. Market demand and supply analysis that included the feedstock, products, process routes, and market cost was conducted thus satisfying the requirements established by the Department of Energy while minimizing the cost and ensuring process safety in every step of production.
Natural Gas to Dimethyl Ether Product Synthesis | Carbon dioxide (CO2) is nonflammable and therefore large quantities are undesirable in a fuel. Additionally, both hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and CO2 form a weak, corrosive acid in water. Although many natural gas sources are free of nominal amounts of H2S and CO2, an increase in discovery of natural gas wells with significantly high levels of CO2 have created a growing interest in upgrading CO2 to viable specialty market products. In this work, initial market research was conducted, and a refining process for a final product of dimethyl ether (DME) was designed and simulated. A natural gas stream with a concentration higher than 20 mol% of CO2 was used as feed. Amine sweetening was optimized with a 30 wt.% concentration of diethanolamine (DEA). Sweetened natural gas was converted to syngas and fed with the purified CO2 to produce methanol (MeOH) via a non-catalyzed pathway, achieving a 99.99% purity, to dehydrate and react to the final product of DME. Initial findings suggest that previously designated “sub-quality” natural gas sources can become commercially viable as a diesel fuel alternative and feedstock for other specialty chemicals.
Production of Biodiesel from Waste Cooking Oil via Alkali Catalyzed Transesterification | Second Life Biofuels seeks to advance biodiesel production from used waste cooking oil (WCO). The process begins at a pre-treatment phase where oil is filtered and undergoes an acid esterification reaction to reduce free fatty acid content (FFA). This allows for high-quality feed and increases biodiesel yield later in the process. At this point, refined WCO is directed to the main reactor where it experiences base catalyzed esterification, yielding among other things biodiesel and glycerol. In the final stage of the process, a series of separators serves to refine the desired biodiesel product from unwanted side-products.
Carbon Dioxide to Methanol | Significantly high concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in a gas stream is deemed “commercially nonviable”. This plant design has taken an interest in developing the natural gas and utilizing the available CO2. The well production capacity was estimated to be 3000 MSCF/day and the gas composition is composed of 46.6% methane (CH4), 24.95% CO2, 1.5% hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the remaining composition consists of a mixture of hydrocarbon species. After analyzing the gas composition, available technology, safety, global market analysis, and a simulation optimization on Aspen HYSYS, methanol is a product that is favorable to manufacture.
Biodiesel Production by Transesterification of Vegetable Oil | There are many advantages when it comes to considering biodiesel over petroleum diesel, to name a few: less environmental damage, less flammable, and safer production process as well as use. Design and future implementation and construction of the production plant for biodiesel fuel through a transesterification process, using the Aspen Plus program. Initial components were Methanol, Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerol, Triolein, M-Oleate, Sodium Methoxide, Diolein, and Glyceryl Monooleate. After the process simulation is carried out, the resulting product is biodiesel, with glycerol as the byproduct.
Civil Engineering Design II
Sports Recreational GYM | Alliance Engineering is in charge of the Sports Recreational GYM project, located in Stone Oak Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78258. The project will consist of a one floor building with multiple indoor and outdoor facilities and fields. This project was created in the pursuit of natural exercises in the form of sports, in order to achieve a healthy and long lifestyle. Alliance Engineering is confident that we will be able to provide the best design for the Sports Recreational GYM project.
Roadrunner Park | We will be presenting a park that will benefit everyone in the surrounding community. This park will include pickle ball courts as well as a family pool for activites. There will also be locker rooms and bathrooms for people to change in or gather there belongings. Attatched to the lockerrooms there will also be an outdoor patio area with an open concession stand that will serve gourmet meals as well as ball park food. The bonuses brought to the community will be overwelming as well as enjoyful.
Last Call Brewery Company | The City of San Antonio is a vibrant metropolis with outstanding universities, world-class medical facilities and a growing technology industry. As a result, a number of young and experienced professionals are now calling the city home. To capitalize on this growth of upwardly mobile professionals.
To capitalize on this growth, Encore Engineering is proposing a 7,000 square foot commercial development, on 1819 Sonterra Blvd, San Antonio, TX, 78259, a 5.0-acre lot on the intersection of East Sonterra Boulevard and Ridgewood Parkway. The structure will be a local brewery that will produce crafted beer. The site will also serve as a bar with an outside garden which will have popular, classic games such as giant chess sets.
To capitalize on this growth, Encore Engineering is proposing a 7,000 square foot commercial development, on 1819 Sonterra Blvd, San Antonio, TX, 78259, a 5.0-acre lot on the intersection of East Sonterra Boulevard and Ridgewood Parkway. The structure will be a local brewery that will produce crafted beer. The site will also serve as a bar with an outside garden which will have popular, classic games such as giant chess sets.
UTSA Legacy Museum | A showcase for academic and athletic activities that occur on UTSA
Art Is Life Art Gallery | The facility will be a two-story reinforced concrete building with precast concrete infill with a design capacity of 650 people. The facility will have a total area of 24800 square feet, with 3200 square footage of high bay area for large displays. The floor plans include provisions for stairs and an elevator as well as 2 bathrooms and facilities for logistic support and maintenance. The land development team will provide platting and the plans for grading, provisions of utilities, site planning, erosion control, and landscaping to support the facility and lot. These plans will account for the future developments regarding the expansion of the 1604 highway and the current conditions of area that is to be set aside for the museum from the current project site. Right On’s Transportation Engineers will facilitate entry to the lot from the 1604 access road, as well as the design of a parking lot capable of accommodating 40 visitor vehicles. If needed, the Transportation team will also create any plans needed to mitigate the effects of the museum’s traffic impact and will conduct a traffic impact analysis. The Geotechnical team will handle the collecting and testing of soil samples from the site to complete a geotechnical report and coordinate with other departments in the design of the proposed conditions and the base and materials that should be used.
Electrical & Computer Engineering Design I
ECMO Heater/Cooler Exchange| Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving technology used to support patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure. The ECMO circuit consists of a mechanical blood pump, a membrane oxygenator, and a heater-cooler exchange device. This product will feature a light-weight and compact heater-cooler exchange device that controls the temperature of the blood during medical procedures where heating or cooling is required. This product will also display the flow rate and temperature sensor information in an easily visible manner. Ultimately, it will improve the efficiency of the entire system and assist patients in receiving a second chance at life.
OMAR| OMAR is a self-feeding robotic arm that allows physically impaired individuals the ability to feed themselves without the assistance of caregivers. OMAR is designed to grant independence to physically impaired persons, and relieve the caregiver from performing feeding tasks, which also alleviates Caregiver Stress Syndrome (CSS). CSS is characterized by an increased risk of stress, depression and anxiety. CSS may affect the disabled person by limiting the caregiver’s ability to provide adequate care, which may lead to cases of neglect and mistreatment. OMAR also features facial tracking software, voice commands, and a flat surface mount.
BRISK Electrical System| Battlefield Ready Innovative Suction Kit, or B.R.I.S.K., is a multidisciplinary
engineering design project between the electrical and computer engineering (ECE) program and the biomechanical engineering program. The goal of the project is to create a portable suction device that is able to effectively clear airway obstructions—blockage of respiration due to foreign body, trauma or infection. Through a minimally invasive procedure, the device uses negative pressure to draw the obstruction from the patient’s airway. The ECE design team is tasked with developing the electrical system that is comprised of two subsystems, a low-power and high-power. The low-power subsystem will include the microcontroller, which will function as the “brain” of the device, as well as the user interface, which consists of LED indicators and a digital display. The high-power subsystem will be used to provide power for the pump motor. Using this two-subsystem setup, this device will provide a comprehensive and intuitive user-interface as well as user relegated suction speed
engineering design project between the electrical and computer engineering (ECE) program and the biomechanical engineering program. The goal of the project is to create a portable suction device that is able to effectively clear airway obstructions—blockage of respiration due to foreign body, trauma or infection. Through a minimally invasive procedure, the device uses negative pressure to draw the obstruction from the patient’s airway. The ECE design team is tasked with developing the electrical system that is comprised of two subsystems, a low-power and high-power. The low-power subsystem will include the microcontroller, which will function as the “brain” of the device, as well as the user interface, which consists of LED indicators and a digital display. The high-power subsystem will be used to provide power for the pump motor. Using this two-subsystem setup, this device will provide a comprehensive and intuitive user-interface as well as user relegated suction speed
Dell TEE| The DellTrust Team project aims to improve the security and trustworthiness of data in use by integrating Intel's & ARM Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) technology into Dell's products and services. Our focus is on developing two distinct facial recognition systems using Intel SGX and ARM TrustZone, in order to compare their features and identify their respective strengths. By testing and documenting our TEE application functionality, we strive to demonstrate effective methods for seamlessly incorporating TEE into AI applications. Our ultimate goal is to help Dell leverage Intel Project Amber to safeguard sensitive data in use, thereby enhancing overall trust into Dell products and services.
ES Lab | Our project is a lab management system that allows students to sign in to lab sessions, record their progress, and signal for assistance using a USB dongle and a set of workstation buttons. The system is designed to streamline the lab experience by automating record-keeping and reducing the need for physical interaction with instructors. With the creator access, lab administrators can easily create and edit lab sessions and exercises, while students can sign in, select their lab exercise, and request assistance through the work station buttons. The system aims to improve lab efficiency and student experience while reducing administrative workload.
Flight Computer Ecosystem/OPenFC | Openfc is a simple and affordable flight computer ecosystem, it also will contain different features, that will aid the piloting of smaller fixed-wing aircraft. The Openfc flight controller will provide most common functions that are found in flight controllers in general, such as: data logging, safety features, RC control, and tuning capabilities. There are many different flight controllers to option to choose, but what differentiates Openfc from the rest of the choices is its low cost which is a huge benefit for beginner hobbyists. Achieving a low-cost product will be done by utilizing the most efficient and cost-effective components for the flight computer ecosystem. In addition, the product will be supported by a large open-source community which will provide easy to access resources, for the flight computer ecosystem.
Navistar Flow Meter Test Bench | This project will develop a flow meter test bench for Navistar, a company that produces branded trucks and diesel engines. The Flow Meter Test Bench will evaluate the operability of vehicle flow meters. Our solution to the problem is to integrate a flow meter into a test bench to ensure flow meters are working properly before being installed into a vehicle. Having this Test Bench, the time and cost for vehicle testing and maintenance will decrease for Navistar. Over the current existing solutions, our method is less expensive, more precise, efficient and more user friendly.
Smart Well | The Smart Well is a modernized residential water well control system. The Smart Well system provides notifications to the user with information on the amount of well water available and can alert the user when the well water is low or empty. Additional functionality of the Smart Well includes leak detection, failure monitoring, and early component wear detection. We will implement the Smart well using a digital pressure transducer and a micro-controller with Wi-Fi capabilities. These components will allow us to implement our idea while making the system more robust.
Temperature Transducer Test Bench | This project is an automated temperature transducer test bench that is being developed for Navistar. Navistar produces vehicles in class 6 through 8, with a focus on zero-emission solutions and clean manufacturing practices. This project efficiently validates Navistar’s temperature transducers by autonomously recording temperatures and implementing a correction factor for malfunctioning probes. This device will replace Navistar’s current test procedure, which is tedious and time-consuming. The test bench will utilize a Raspberry Pi to control the parameters of a heated oil bath, where transducers will be submerged. The test bench will identify dysfunctional transducers and notify the user of the results through email.
Hands-Free Dental Loupe with Spectrally-Tunable Light | The Hands-Free Dental Loupe with Spectrally-Tunable Light is a project sponsored by Rancho El Toston, LLC to create a dental loupe and lighting system. These systems allow dentists to improve their vision in specific areas—enabling them to work on details not visible to the naked eye. Current available lighting systems require physical touch to operate, and managing the physical light color filter can be challenging during certain procedures in a surgical environment—increasing the risk of cross-contamination. The project will feature a touchless interface utilizing time-of-flight sensors for switching light presets, allowing users to change light color presets via a smartphone app, effectively reducing cross-contamination.
The Lower Body Negative Pressure System | The United States Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR) is committed to advancing medical research to better serve combat-injured veterans. As part of this effort, our sponsor, USAISR, is in need of an updated Lower Body Negative Pressure (LBNP) chamber. This
valuable device allows for the simulation of hemorrhage-like conditions, leading to the
development of improved medical treatments. Our team is working on upgrading the existing
LBNP chamber by replacing some of its physiology sensors and vacuum pump, as well as
upgrading its software to enhance the user experience. These upgrades will contribute to the
continued advancement of medical research and improve the understanding of the physiological
responses to hemorrhage-like conditions.
valuable device allows for the simulation of hemorrhage-like conditions, leading to the
development of improved medical treatments. Our team is working on upgrading the existing
LBNP chamber by replacing some of its physiology sensors and vacuum pump, as well as
upgrading its software to enhance the user experience. These upgrades will contribute to the
continued advancement of medical research and improve the understanding of the physiological
responses to hemorrhage-like conditions.
Material Reuse Project | The Material Reuse Project is a website-based inventory of second-hand materials salvaged from deconstructed buildings in San Antonio. The project was created following the city's recent ordinance mandating the deconstruction of buildings rather than demolition. The website provides an accessible online platform for individuals/organizations to find and use the inventory of reusable materials for their projects. In addition, the website will also implement these materials in a 3D format, such as Rhino 3D or Revit. This allows users to create digital models of their designs and incorporate the repurposed materials in their projects; supporting sustainability and promoting a more circular economy.
AI DESTOP ASSISTANT | The AI desktop assistant is a robot that will notify the user if they have been sitting for too long. Its purpose is to help work efficiently by notifying you when you haven’t moved for extended periods of time and remove cellular distractions. The AI desktop assistant is a voice activated robot that calculates basic math and has the ability to connect to a phone using Bluetooth. The AI desktop will be able to
access the user’s phone to display weather information, play music, record to notes, and interact with user’s calendar. The AI desktop assistant is designed to detect certain voice commands to provide features tailored to the user’s order.
access the user’s phone to display weather information, play music, record to notes, and interact with user’s calendar. The AI desktop assistant is designed to detect certain voice commands to provide features tailored to the user’s order.
VivoVision | When in use, medical implants are incompatible with conventional means of identification. The Vivovision project is sponsored by Nvision and aims to provide software that is capable of decoding structurally encoded objects from medical x-ray imaging. The medical industry and FDA require an innovative solution for unique device identification (UDI) of an implant in use.
Using image processing techniques, such as targeting and various morphological tools, this product will identify and read the structure representing UDI for the medical implant from an x-ray image. The UDI can contain information such as manufacturer, date, device model, and lot/batch.
Using image processing techniques, such as targeting and various morphological tools, this product will identify and read the structure representing UDI for the medical implant from an x-ray image. The UDI can contain information such as manufacturer, date, device model, and lot/batch.
Electrical & Computer Engineering Design II
IoT Connectivity for BioSure Products | Collect and display data from BioSure product in an easily digestible way, using API's, Databases, and a wireless display
AllTube Vacuum Tube Audio Compressor | The All-Tube Vacuum Tube Audio Compressor provides an affordable solution to the mixing and mastering process that musicians and audio engineers alike go through. The All-Tube Compressor utilizes vacuum tubes as its center element for gain reduction, which provides a unique "warm" output sound. It works by leveling out the dynamic range between the quiet and loud parts of an audio signal to be reduced for clarity in its output sound. The All-Tube Vacuum Tube Audio Compressor features adjustable input gain, threshold levels, and release-time controls.
Robotic System for Semi-Autonomous Ultrasound Image Acquisition | In a combat zone, quick and effective assessment of injuries can mean the difference between life and death. Understanding if a patient presents fluid or air in their body can prioritize battlefield evacuation. This information is gathered using the protocol for eFAST – Enhanced Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma. The purpose of this project is to develop an autonomous method to conduct the eFAST exam and identify possible internal injuries so the patient can get to the care they need as quickly as possible. Our team proposes a method for autonomous body scanning using a camera system.
Draft Beer Line in-place System for Ozone Sanitization with Mobile App Integration | In partnership with BioSure Professional, BeerHounds have come up with a beer line in-place system for ozone sanitization with mobile app integration. The system will be designed to receive data using sensors connected to a draft beer line which will measure different parameters available to analyze within the app. This allows the user to know when to clean the lines using BioSure Professional’s ozone sanitization technology. Currently, cleaning beer lines is done on average every two weeks and with this set in-place system, it saves the user time and money by reducing risk of having a bad beer and eliminates the use of harmful chemical sanitization techniques.
Game Board | Cornhole has been an incredibly popular game that has gathered more views for it’s professional league than Major League Baseball and the WNBA. Despite its popularity, we believe cornhole still has room for improvement. Score keeping is a very common problem, particularly in unofficial settings, such as parks and bars, and the board often proves unwieldy and hard to transport. Cornhole also lacks the common features of modern games which we wish to include to create a new game with more engagement and longevity.
Drone Conversion Appliances | The Drone Conversion Appliances team (DCA) has created a proof-of-concept novel drone design for the Unmanned Systems Laboratory that allows a user to easily switch between the traditional Quadcopter flight mode and the Fixed-Wing VTOL flight mode. This design allows users to choose the most optimal flight mode to fit their specific use-case, according to the scenario.
General Electronic Module Tester | The General Electronic Module Tester (GEMT) will provide an all-in-one solution to the time-consuming task of electronic hardware functionality testing. The GEMT proposes to streamline the process of testing electronic components by giving users a product where they can simply connect a compatible electronic component, choose their desired testing program, and get validation that the component works or not. The user can then continue to test the same type of electronic module, or, at the push of a button, switch to testing a completely different electronic module—all while having to forgo the process of rewiring and reprogramming a new circuit.
OYSMS DigiPark | The problem of having no parking space is one
of the most significant issues faced by drivers in a
parking lot, especially at UTSA. The proposed solution is a mobile
application based on the development of a pre-mapped of
the parking space and a scanner that informs about the
free or empty space in a parking lot. The mobile
application is highly efficient and offers distinct features
such as real-time updates and statistics on the free parking
spaces along with the closest free spots based on the
user’s location.
of the most significant issues faced by drivers in a
parking lot, especially at UTSA. The proposed solution is a mobile
application based on the development of a pre-mapped of
the parking space and a scanner that informs about the
free or empty space in a parking lot. The mobile
application is highly efficient and offers distinct features
such as real-time updates and statistics on the free parking
spaces along with the closest free spots based on the
user’s location.
Boresight-to-Boresight Antenna Point System (B-2-BAPS) | A team at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) is conducting mountain-top-to-mountain-top atmospheric propagation studies at Ka band levels, which requires a boresight-to-boresight alignment of two antennas.
To accommodate this need, the research team has requested students to design a system which achieves boresight-to-boresight alignment within 15 minutes and with an accuracy within 0.025 degrees. While the student team was not able to obtain equipment to operate at Ka-band levels, the team was able to utilize S-band equipment in a hardware-software approach using software-defined radios and microcontrollers to satisfy constraints.
To accommodate this need, the research team has requested students to design a system which achieves boresight-to-boresight alignment within 15 minutes and with an accuracy within 0.025 degrees. While the student team was not able to obtain equipment to operate at Ka-band levels, the team was able to utilize S-band equipment in a hardware-software approach using software-defined radios and microcontrollers to satisfy constraints.
Mr. Ohm Discrete Component Continuous Wave LiDAR Module | Mr. Ohm’s Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) module is a cost-effective sensor used to perform range finding, object detection and expand the knowledge of STEM students. The use of circuit-board-level designs, simulations in LTspice and discrete components; the LiDAR module signal strength has been increased from 50mA to 100mA while maintaining a five megahertz frequency. By increasing the signal strength of the LiDAR module; it can now be used at a greater distance and collect a greater resolution of the received signal.
Smart Cane | In growing cities and towns, it has become increasingly difficult for people who suffer from impairments to be independent. Our team has the objective of helping these people who suffer some kind of visual impairment to regain an amount of independence. We propose an affordable and simple smart cane for people who need it. With our product we give both the user and anyone close to the user a sense of security.
The Rowdy Resuscitator | A cardiac arrest is extremely taxing on Fire Departments and EMS services. The amount of apparatus and manpower needed to handle a single cardiac arrest is substantial. Even with these resources provided, the odds of surviving a cardiac arrest are incredibly low, averaging 10%. The Rowdy Resuscitator aims to increase the survivability of cardiac arrest by administering CPR in accordance with AHA guidelines, proving chest compressions and Automatic External Defibrillation at the push of a button. With this device in use, our highly trained first responders will be able to focus their efforts on other aspects of patient care and advanced life support, needing less manpower while providing higher quality CPR.
WM Solutions | Intelligent Water Monitor that detects the measurement on water on a WebApplication. Moreover, displays the approximate cost and possible leakage that may occur.
Wound healing with ozone | The wound healing with ozone device is intended to be used to help treat wounds that require medical attention at a more rapid pace. Since ozone is classified as triple-bonded oxygen, and it is known that oxygen can be used to stimulate healing, ozone can therefore be used to help speed up the rate of healing. Since most of the current devices out on the market are either too expensive or require extensive use, this device will be beneficial in reducing both. The solution aims to assist in the healing of the wound while also monitoring the ozone output and
continuously ensuring the safety of the user via third-party software that checks the ozone concentration levels.
continuously ensuring the safety of the user via third-party software that checks the ozone concentration levels.
EPICS
Maverick Creek Clean-Up Initiative | The Greenway Maverick Project serves to find sustainable solutions to keep our creeks and floodways free of trash/inorganic debris. The project team has pooled multiple partners’ attention who are actively supporting its efforts to find high- or low-tech solutions. There are two main objectives for this project:
1. To clean up, sort, and distribute materials gathered from the site to then send to remanufacturing firms.
2. To gain understanding regarding where the trash/debris is coming from and why our society is tolerant of this sort of illegal dumping.
1. To clean up, sort, and distribute materials gathered from the site to then send to remanufacturing firms.
2. To gain understanding regarding where the trash/debris is coming from and why our society is tolerant of this sort of illegal dumping.
4D Helicopter Exhibit | Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) has partnered with San Antonio’s Children's Museum, The DoSeum. The DoSeum is a hands-on, STEM-focused museum aimed at expanding children’s minds, encouraging curiosity, and creating long-lasting positive attitudes toward learning. Their mission, in partnering with EPICS, is to create new/updated exhibits through our contributions. EPICS will be delivering an upgrade to the GeoKids exhibit. Our point of contact is Meredith Doby, Vice President of Exhibits.
Mechanical Engineering Design I
Pressure Sensitive Ankle CAM Boot | This project aims to create an ankle boot for ankle rehabilitation that utilizes force sensing resistors and an Arduino circuit to detect any unwanted stress on the ankle. The boot will have an ergonomic and comfortable design and will be integrated with a dedicated app to log applied force. By using strain gauges, the boot will ensure that the patient refrains from applying excessive force to the ankle. The collected data will be valuable for both the patient and their primary physician. This boot has the potential to aid in ankle rehabilitation and improve patient outcomes.
ECMO Compact Cooler-Heater | ECMO, extracorporeal life Support, is a life-saving therapy for individuals with severe cardiac and/or lung dysfunction. The cooler-heater exchange is responsible for maintaining a desired temperature of the circulating blood as it is returned to the patient. The primary component of the ECMO circuit, which is the oxygenator, is compact and transport ready; however, the cooler-heater exchange is cumbersome and heavy. To satisfy military and transport necessities, a lighter and more compact cooler-heater exchange is warranted.
Magneto-Mechano-Electric (MME) Energy Harvesting Rig | This senior design project focuses on researching, designing, and fabricating an automatic magneto-mechano-electric (MME) energy harvesting rig, which aims to convert stray AC magnetic field energy into DC electrical energy through the piezoelectric effect. The project team will explore various techniques for harvesting and converting energy from magnetic fields, including designing and fabricating a custom piezoelectric transducer to convert the mechanical energy generated by the magnetic field into electrical energy. Additionally, the team will develop a control system to optimize energy harvesting efficiency and assess the rig's overall performance. This project has significant potential for applications in areas such as energy harvesting from power lines and railway systems.
Beverage Dispensing Automated Test System | This project is intended to reduce the manual labor involved in the collection of data samples from a soda fountain under testing conditions in an environmental chamber. The system will handle cup dispensing, sample weighting, temperature collection, cup positioning, cup disposal.
Oil Reconditioning Assembly | The purpose of this project is to design and construct a device that will allow the reconditioning of hydraulic oil for reuse at HEB Facilities. The device will be designed to remove contaminants, such as metal shavings, dirt debris, and water from hydraulic oil. The device must be able to operate in HEB’s operating environment and meet the required environmental safety and quality standards. The projected savings of this machine is about $4500 per barrel of oil cleaned. With an estimate of cleaning an average of 56 barrels annually.
Workspace Refrigerant Leak Detector | The purpose of Ode to Code’s Workspace Refrigerant Leak Detector was to find a solution for false refrigerant leak alarms within H-E-B stores. To accomplish this, the team decided to go with the approach of a dual authentication system which we believe will work best. This system will consist of an ultrasonic sensor, which will detect sound waves created by the refrigerant gas evacuating the piping at high speeds, and an infrared sensor, which will be used to detect the refrigerant being absorbed by the infrared waves. These sensors were chosen because of their lowest cost of ownership.
Mechanically-Assisted Weight Machine | The Mechanically-Assisted Weight Machine is engineered to make it easier for the user to change weights between lifting sets. Primarily designed for the bench-press system, the machine uses a jack system to move in the vertical direction and a rail system to move in the horizontal direction. When the desired location close to the weightlifting bar is achieved, the user simply moves the bar from the machine to the bar, using minimal effort and saving time. In-depth engineering analysis was performed to ensure system integrity and user safety.
Supersonic Nozzle | Our Team, SJN, was hired by the Southwest Research Institute (SWRI) to additively manufacture a modular nozzle for a scramjet that would allow it to reach a Mach speed of 2. This modularity of this design will then be replicated and modified to allow for the testing at different Mach speeds. Furthermore, the produced nozzle must consist of a clean flow without any shockwaves. This design is created through the use of methods of characteristics, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics in order to ensure an exact Mach speed given pre-existing conditions.
Soliterraneous Energy Generator Assembly | The purpose of the Soliterraneous Energy Generator Assembly project is to design a piezoelectric generator that takes ambient heat from warmer climates and turns it into usable energy in suburban and city roadways. The generator utilizes solar radiation heating the asphalt. The asphalts heat will then, by conduction, move through the semiconductor inside the prototype underneath. The design is intended to be minimally invasive to the infrastructure, staying within regulations for asphalt depth, roadway construction, alongside environmental regulations for what can be placed into the ground.
Navistar Thermocouple and Flow Transducer Test Benches | Our team was tasked to design and build two automated transducer test benches for Navistar's Thermal Validation team at their Advanced Technology Center in Elmendorf, Texas. Navistar's current methods of testing thermocouples and volumetric flow transducers is extremally time consuming and requires constant observation by an engineer. The Thermocouple Test Bench serves to automate the testing process and allow for testing of up to 16 thermocouples at one time. The Flow Transducer Test Bench will allow for testing of volumetric flow transducers of various sizes and flow rates.
Adaptable Furnace Monitoring System | The primary objective of this project is to design, test, and manufacture a modular camera assembly that can withstand extreme high-temperature environments such as furnaces, incinerators, and combustion chambers. The modular design of the camera assembly makes it highly versatile, allowing it to be adapted for use in a wide range of scenarios, including fire tests in specialized rooms or bays.
The project's commercial rationale is to present SwRI's clients with a clear and detailed visual representation of their products' fire test results. By providing a live view into the chamber, SwRI can not only communicate with their clients more effectively about their products, but also present the results in a more accessible and visually compelling manner, surpassing the limitations of raw data.
The camera assembly must be able to capture video throughout the entire duration of the test, even under temperatures exceeding 2000 F for several hours. The system's design ensures its durability and longevity, making it an invaluable asset for any high-temperature testing applications.
The project's commercial rationale is to present SwRI's clients with a clear and detailed visual representation of their products' fire test results. By providing a live view into the chamber, SwRI can not only communicate with their clients more effectively about their products, but also present the results in a more accessible and visually compelling manner, surpassing the limitations of raw data.
The camera assembly must be able to capture video throughout the entire duration of the test, even under temperatures exceeding 2000 F for several hours. The system's design ensures its durability and longevity, making it an invaluable asset for any high-temperature testing applications.
Mechanical Engineering Design II
Tire Testing System | This project, sponsored by Continental Tire, seeks to create a device that will assist in testing the wear tires undergo when being driven over rough terrain on their proving grounds. The device must be capable of having a load applied to simulate the weight of a vehicle. The device must also accommodate for various tire sizes and lug patterns. With these specifications met, the device will increase capacity of chip and chunk tire testing without increasing driver head count and operational costs.
Room Air Conditioner Mechanical Design Support | For our project, Friedrich Air Conditioning LLC, has asked the ARMC Mechanical Engineering team to optimize their RAC unit by replacing the current components such as a motor, blower, fan, and fan shroud. Friedrich has asked the team to develop a new design incorporating the new components for their next generation room air conditioners for the small Kühl model. Improving efficiency by 20% for the evaporator and condenser is the objective, as of January 1, 2025 the Department of Energy will require new efficiency standards for all HVAC units that range from 6,000-35,000 BTU/HR.
Anti Ballistic Podium: Integrating Passthrough, Gunport, & Viewport | The Anti-Ballistic Podium is manufactured by Anti-Ballistic Systems and is designed to protect the user from ballistic projectiles that are fired against them. The podiums are developed for use in public buildings, such as court houses and city halls. Designed with bullet resistant polycarbonate glass and integrated AR500 steel plates, the podium is a visually appealing solution to personnel protection. With this project the Ballistic Runners will further build upon the original design to expand from defensive protection to offensive capabilities by integrating a passthrough, gunport, and viewport.
Biosure Portable Ozone Pressure Washer | Our team has developed a portable Ozone Pressure Washing System (OPWS) to address the need for an effective and efficient cleaning solution that meets all required specifications, including a high disinfection rate, portability, and compliance with OSHA regulations. The OPWS system generates a specific concentration of ozone for high disinfection rates, utilizes John Guest fittings and PTFE tubing, and is housed in an IP-rated case. With a battery life of 8 hours and a lifespan of approximately 10 years, the OPWS system provides a reliable and efficient cleaning solution for various applications. Testing is underway to ensure the system meets all required specifications, and the team is committed to delivering a high-quality product that meets the needs of our sponsor and users.
Automated Part Palletizer | As parts exit CNC machines they accumulate
awaiting palletization. Palletizing is a repetitive and
laborious process including cleaning, drying, and
inspecting. Presently, it is manually completed by a
human operator. This non-value-added operation is
considered waste in the Manufacturing Industry since
it removes operators from value-added processes.
Currently, no device exists to automatically palletize
parts exiting CNC machines. JMDP has designed an
Automated Part Palletizer to eliminate the need for a
human operator when palletizing, allowing them to
complete more complex, value-added tasks.
awaiting palletization. Palletizing is a repetitive and
laborious process including cleaning, drying, and
inspecting. Presently, it is manually completed by a
human operator. This non-value-added operation is
considered waste in the Manufacturing Industry since
it removes operators from value-added processes.
Currently, no device exists to automatically palletize
parts exiting CNC machines. JMDP has designed an
Automated Part Palletizer to eliminate the need for a
human operator when palletizing, allowing them to
complete more complex, value-added tasks.
T.S.D.S. | Continental Tire's proving grounds in Uvalde, Texas, covers an 11-mile perimeter overall. It has experienced multiple human intrusions, posing a safety risk to personnel during road tests. In order to address address this, the Last Dance Team created a mobile surveillance system with two PTZ cameras and a user interface. The system can detect intrusions within half a mile and alert the Continental team for prompt action. Its trailer-mounting capabilities allows for easy setup and mobility throughout the proving grounds facility.
Inertial Measurement Device | This device measures the Moment of Inertia (MOI) of small test objects used in the UTSA Hypersonics Lab. Devices currently on the market measuring objects in the same weight range can cost up to $70K vs this fabricated device with a total material cost of $650. This device can more accurately reflect the MOI of the tested objects than a CAD software measurement, such as SOLIDWORKS, due to fabrication and machining variabilities. The importance of measuring MOI is to predict the object’s behavior during free flight and produce results in fluid dynamic simulations that can closely simulate experimental results.
HiPIPS Slim | The mission of the project is to redesign the plasma head for the High-Power Impulse Plasma Source (HiPIPS) technology. The Material Science Division at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) tasked the team to reconstruct the HiPIPS plasma head. Design specifications require that the apparatus fit within an automated 3-axis enclosure for surface coatings on substrates. Furthermore, the team must design a feeding mechanism for metal stock materials (cathodes) which are continuously stripped during the process. The implementation of a calibration tool is required to maintain a colinear constraint between the cathode and the nozzle which will effectively deposit the material.
Solar Powered Runners | Our solar-powered carport is a modular, user-friendly, and sustainable solution for sheltering two cars while providing renewable energy. The carport features an active tilting implementation with a gear system to optimize the performance of the solar panels. The design includes easy-to-use charging ports and storage areas for charging cables and accessories. The solar panels are positioned to maximize exposure to sunlight, and a battery storage system ensures power even when the sun isn't shining. Our project showcases the potential of sustainable design and innovation in creating practical solutions for our daily needs while minimizing environmental impact.
Lunar Excavator | Our team was tasked with making an excavating drum attachment for a bot that will be used to melt bricks from lunar regolith. The attachment will have two drums that will scoop regolith when spun in one direction, and then discharge the regolith when direction is reversed. The drums will also have to be lifted over head to dump the regolith into the body of the bot where the bricks will be produced.
Continental Water Distribution System | One of the most crucial parts of development is testing. Our sponsor, Continental Tire, is committed to testing their products' limits to ensure users' safety. The testing is conducted at the Uvalde proving grounds, where our team will replace and upgrade the existing water distribution network that allows for wet surface tire testing. This redesigned distribution system will provide an effective environment that will survive weather conditions in Texas while decreasing maintenance days for increased testing.
Team Lead/Test Engineer | Our project was commissioned by the Air Force Research Lab to develop a device that would assist them in performing experiments on the effects of laser against tissue. The performance specifications for our device to be affective for their purposes was to control the tissue thickness, temperature and pressure, which they did not have control over with their current methods. Our device with be able to control and monitor the thickness, temperature and pressure of the tissue sample and link it to LabVIEW, which is compatible with the software systems.
Electric Vehicle Solar Carport | The goal of this project is to design the structural component of a modular electric vehicle solar carport, this includes housing for solar panels, battery modules, and designing to ensure all applicable building codes are followed. With the growth of e-commerce last mile delivery fleets are migrating to electric vehicles for carbon emission goals, a modular solar carport allows fleet managers to purchase and provide a clean energy source for their growing fleet.
Helical Water Turbine-Stage 3 | Asterion Engineering aims to develop a water turbine for the purpose of generating renewable energy that is compatible with the size and flow of rivers, while being minimally intrusive to wildlife or an obstruction to commercial or public transportation. The goal of this project is to design a water turbine that is optimized for efficiency with a relatively small vertical footprint when compared to standard water turbines. Asterion has focused on manipulating the blade geometry and stage profile such that the greatest efficiency can be achieved to harness the most kinetic energy from water flow as possible.
Pike Power Hydrokinetic Turbine | The PikePower hydrokinetic turbine is designed to aid in the transition away from fossil fuels and help with power grid demands as we shift into a more environmentally friendly world of sustainable energy generation. The turbine structure is designed to reside at the bottom of riverbeds and convert river currents into kinetic energy. The turbine features a three-stage design including two stationary stages to gather fluid and increase velocity and a third rotating stage for power generation. FOSP Solutions is tasked to optimize and test the design of stages 1 and 2 to ensure maximum kinetic energy generation entering stage 3.
Mobile Data Acquisition System | Build a mobile DAQ system that can be used for a variety of testing scenarios with minimal setup and troubleshooting. DAQ should be compact, portable, lightweight and accompany a wide range of sensor types (thermocouples, RTDS, Current input and output, voltage input and output). DAQ should be expandable should the chosen sensors and number of inputs and outputs not meet customer requirements.
Automated Disposal Lift | The Lazy Lifters have been tasked with designing
and building an automated disposal system to lift and
dump heavy debris into the roll-off dumpsters located
at Newton Home Improvement’s worksites. This will
reduce the workplace fatigue and risk of injury
associated with their construction personnel. A
preliminary SolidWorks design was created by the
Lazy Lifters that utilizes a scissor lift mechanism
paired with an actuator.
and building an automated disposal system to lift and
dump heavy debris into the roll-off dumpsters located
at Newton Home Improvement’s worksites. This will
reduce the workplace fatigue and risk of injury
associated with their construction personnel. A
preliminary SolidWorks design was created by the
Lazy Lifters that utilizes a scissor lift mechanism
paired with an actuator.
Autonomous Pallet Destacker | Pallets are essential to the operation of the H-E-B meat distribution plant and are used to load merchandise from distribution centers to grocery stores. Currently, stacks of pallets are manually destacked and handled during the warehouse palletization process. BALR Engineering has designed and built a system that provides an autonomous method for destacking pallets. The system destacks a single pallet from the top of a stack and places it vertically (standing on its side) on the floor, enabling employees to safely slide the pallet on its side to wherever it is needed.
3-Axis Computer Numerical Control Router | The UTSA makerspace currently does not have a 3-Axis CNC Router and the manufacturing needs of students are rapidly growing. The purpose of this senior design project is to complete the design and assembly of a 3-Axis CNC Router that will be implemented into the UTSA Makerspace in the Summer of 2023. The router will feature a work area of twenty-four by forty-eight inches, a minimum resolution of 1/32 of an inch, a 2.2 kilowatt spindle, and a touch screen interface. This 3-Axis CNC Router will serve as a user-friendly machine to support future generations of UTSA students.
