The Learning Factory Current Projects (2024)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

This project seeks to evaluate and determine the most cost-effective and efficient means of repurposing scrap lumber into custom pallets that will replace the ones that are currently being manufactured using virgin materials by a 3rd party. The project should also consider whether the custom pallets from repurposed scrap lumber could be an additional source of revenue if marketed to other local manufacturers and distributors. The project will evaluate the environmental and economic benefits of minimizing waste by manufacturing the custom pallets in-house using scrap materials. The economic analysis should also evaluate the return on investment for a new gang rip saw.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Expected Tasks:
•Deliver a Project Plan and schedule
•A report summarizing suitable over-the-air comms solutions which discusses selection criteria with rationale, performance metrics considered and their priority, impact on selection criteria, and down selection methodology used.
•A test plan report discussing the test setup, materials tested, tests to be performed, test conditions, possible observations, anomalies, methodologies, measurement types & location, and test results.
NOTE: A single report is acceptable with each of the above as sections within the report. Each section is expected to be completed upon completion of each task and can be used as a reference for subsequent tasks.
•Rename the project with something creative and relevant

Project Deliverables include:
•Semester Roadmap (gantt chart)
•Research Plan
•Test Plan
•White paper on research conducted and suggested next steps
•PowerPoint Presentation
•Stretch Goal: Test 1 proposed solution

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Target species: Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), European barberry(Berberis vulgaris), multi-flora rose (Rosa multiflora) bush honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), privet (Lingustrum spp.), burning bush (Euonymus alatus)

Target size: 12”-36” height, ¼”-1” diameter, 1-5 years old

Estimated price: 80$ for base, 30$ for weed puller attachment

Background of design: Invasive species globally have been estimated to cost $1.288 trillion over the past 50 years (Zenni, R.D. et al. 2021). These come in various forms such as mammals, insects, plants, and reptiles. Plants are a type of invasive species that can be directly addressed (depending on if they are aquatic or terrestrial) without the need of searching as they are sedentary. Having the ability to remove these unwanted species manually, we can follow IPM suggestions of mechanical removal without the need for chemical interventions. The current market for invasive plant pullers are typically bulky and not the best solution for aging landowners, who on average are 57 in the state of Pennsylvania (PSU Resources for Woodland Owners). The need for a tool that is easy to use and able to help provide other uses such as planting of native species is ideal to increase the ability of land owners/managers to properly work their land without having to pay others or resort to expensive and environmental unfriendly interventions. This tool will incorporate experience with mechanical invasive species removal and a continually “need” for a device that can make the work of removal less physically taxing so one can work longer and remove more invasive plants in less time.

Deliverables: Base of tool Prototype- This will provide a lightweight, collapsible foundation to use with multiple attachments.

Invasive puller attachment prototype- This attachment will slide into the bottom of T.H.E. Tool base and provide a unique opportunity to remove multi-stem invasive forest plants.

(The base and attachment can be first created as a single piece to showcase function, though the goal would be to have this as separate so the tool base can be used with other attachments designed in the future*)

Project constraints: Could need two semesters to create final end product (depending if working with outside manufacturer). Price point could be too high for certain individuals (potential to offset price with other initiatives that target invasive species/ecosystem restoration) Personal limited knowledge on potential force to be exerted on drawn prototype (unsure of any material capability to create a solid tool to handle workload)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Last year, we proposed an interactive digital aquarium exhibit that allows children to color in a pre outlined marine creature and then scan the creature into the computer and see it pop up, swimming in the digital aquarium ecosystem on the screen or being projected. The new exhibit would pair with our current Marine Life Center to bring a creative learning element to the experience. At Discovery Space, we see 50,000 people each year who visit, explore our exhibit floor together, and learn STEM. This exhibit will be part of our regular offerings and available to all visitors. The exhibit deliverables will, in the end, include:
1. A single button/switch (not noticeable to the public) to turn the entire exhibit on such that the program automatically runs upon starting up (no need to click anything else to make it work.)
2. A large screen or projector to show the designed digital aquarium.
3. A small station where kids can choose a marine creature and colored pencils.
4. A simple mechanism for kids to reliably scan the marine creature they colored into the program so that it pops up in the digital aquarium, swimming around.
5. Picture-based directions so that the exhibit works for kids too young to read.
6. A back up file of the computer program running the exhibit.
7. A list of all technology and parts in case we need to replace items.
8. A troubleshooting guide

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Challenges Addressed:

Limited Availability of Small Diameter Tubing: Currently, there's a lack of readily available centrifugally cast tubing in diameters smaller than 3.0 inches, hindering applications in ethylene pyrolysis furnaces.

Casting Challenges with New Alloys: While new, advanced alumina-forming austenitic alloys offer superior performance for these furnaces, their limited fluidity makes

This project seeks to overcome these limitations by designing and developing:

Centrifugal Casting Equipment: Specialized equipment will be designed to effectively cast high-quality tubing in the desired small diameters.

Modified Alloy Compositions: The existing state-of-the-art alumina-forming austenitic alloys will be studied and modified to improve their castability without compromising their high-temperature performance.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Long version: FarVision’s company mission is to create original stories and art as the basis to produce high quality mobile games with tie-in licensed products including toy action figures, other types of toys, apparel, comics, and books. The company also has a goal to help others improve and achieve success in their lives by providing a percentage of profits to worthy causes. The company is currently pre-revenue and will be launching its first product, the mobile game G.A.M.M.A. Force® for iOS and Android smartphones, later this year.

G.A.M.M.A. Force® is based on an original IP, which is a science fiction action-adventure story. An original story, script, art, and product concepts were created. The company’s goal is to introduce the GF characters and universe, build a community of players and influencers, and pursue ongoing game and brand development. The story’s characters, backstories, and settings can enable game integration with branded merchandise.

Members of the Licensing community have expressed interest in the GF concept and the pursuit of brand development. The costs in founding the company, development of the game, and creation of two earlier action figure toy prototypes were bootstrapped by the founders.

As licensors, the founders envisioned creating a line of interactive action figure toys based on the story and game, offering a unique play experience leveraging electronic functionalities. For example, an action figure could respond to another action figure, or to a sound within the game.

A new project has been initiated to create updated toy action figure prototypes displaying electronic functionalities. These will be used to market G.A.M.M.A. Force® as a new brand to potential licensees and interested investors.

As G.A.M.M.A. Force® is an original IP and project deliverables will need to be released to FarVision, the company will fund the costs for the necessary ND and IP agreements.

The project scope encompasses using 3D printing technology to create the action figures, and embedding microelectronics in each figure, to enable the toy prototypes to do sample vocalizations. As sample use cases, the figures could have the ability to either “speak” with one other, react to sounds in the mobile game, and / or respond to prompts from someone playing with the toys.

An optional part of the project scope is to also 3D print one or more interchangeable parts for each character, which are elements of the story. For example, one of the characters can change his arm at the elbow to that of an arm that is a weapon.

We believe this project is of merit, as it combines the use of 3D and microelectronic technologies along with creative thinking and will provide a positive challenge and learning experience.

As well as creating functioning prototypes, creativity and expertise is needed in determining what is doable electronically within a given period of time, vocals to be recorded or created using AI tools, and determining the scope of what can be produced for this assignment.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Problem Statement: FirstEnergy has 2600+ electrical substations across 5 states. Electrical substations are covered in gravel with a cooper ground grid system to protect workers. Weeds and other vegetation reduce the effectiveness of this ground grid and are a safety concern. FE spends millions of O&M dollars every year to have weed control contractors spray the substation to kill/control weeds. An autonomous robot solution would reduce that O&M cost and be more effective at controlling weeds.

Project Needs: (needs completed by previous Capstone Project indicated)

1. Robot must be able to navigate gravel and larger stone terrain(completed by previous team and proven in actual substation)
2. Robot must operate fully autonomous with no human interaction (main focus of this Capstone project)
3. Robot must be able to recognize and avoid obstacles such as equipment foundations, open pits, people (main focus of this Capstone project)
4. Robot must be able to hold a liquid spray and spray for weeds(completed by previous team)
5. Robot must be able to recognize weeds in order to spray them
6. Robot must be able to operate on a schedule (know current time/date)
7. Robot must be able to dock with docking station for charging purpose (secondary focus of this project)
8. Robot must be able to be called home to docking station when requested by a manual PB on docking station (secondary focus of this project)
9. Robot must be able to be refilled at docking station as appropriate automatically without human interaction
10. Docking station must be able to pump additional spray into the robot automatically
11. Docking station must have an annunciator type indicators showing battery levels, spray levels and alarms

Items 2 & 3 are the primary focus of this Capstone Project with items 7 & 8 secondary

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Objectives:
- Understand the state-of-the-art centrifugal pump hydraulic testing techniques, including, but not limited to, materials, cost, availability, effectiveness & application limitations.
- Define & understand critical design parameters surrounding the hydraulic testing, such as materials, tolerancing, thermal expansion/contraction, wear etc.
- Prepare a comprehensive test plan to determine the optimum design for testing and gathering meaningful results.
- Create a CAD model of a hydraulics and test rig.
- Conduct FEA/CFD to understand design characteristics.
- Conduct DFMEA to determine any design setbacks and limitations.
- Present final deliverables to Flowserve.

Deliverables:
- Research report on current applications of hydraulic vortices testing.
- Summary report outlining options & proposal of the final design.
- Final design of test rig including assembly drawings, supporting calculations & design review documentation.
- Summary report defining application requirements.
- Summary report of final design recommendations.
- Final report and presentation.

Throughout this project students will need to exercise their engineering judgment and intuition as they investigate this technology. The students will present their study, redesign, results, and conclusions to Flowserve.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Background: For typical bulk material handling systems that involve conveyors, a rule of thumb is that the angle of conveyance for the system is kept under 15 degrees. However, for certain configuration and plant layouts, it may not be possible to achieve this requirement.

The purpose of this project will be to research and optimize the design of the system and determine the limits that are advisable for each option available. Once an exhaustive list of design options are produced from the information search, the designs should developed using hand calculations (optional to confirm results using CFD), and finally developing a scale model test with allows for modification of test angle and changeout of belt material. The designs should then be summarized as to the extent of belt angles / belt types/materials that will work for each conveyed material consistency.

Overall, the project will be focused on mechanical design with the need to have some understanding of material properties and uses.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Deliverables:

1. Investigate and implement advanced spinning technologies to enhance the strength and quality of banana yarn to improve yarn production efficiency.

2. Develop energy-efficient motors and systems that reduce power consumption, and explore alternative energy sources such as solar power or lower voltage requirements.

3. Develop automated or semi-automated systems for slicing, washing, and combing banana fibers to reduce manual labor and increase productivity

4. Experimental research with treatments or additives and study the mechanical and structural properties of banana yarn and paper to improve its texture, strength, and durability.

5. Create a standardization framework and develop protocols for certifying the quality and authenticity of banana yarn.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Deliverables:
1. Investigate and implement advanced spinning technologies to enhance the strength and quality of banana yarn to improve yarn production efficiency.
2. Develop energy-efficient motors and systems that reduce power consumption, and explore alternative energy sources such as solar power or lower voltage requirements.
3. Develop automated or semi-automated systems for slicing, washing, and combing banana fibers to reduce manual labor and increase productivity
4. Experiment with treatments or additives and study the mechanical and structural properties of banana yarn and paper to improve its texture, strength, and durability.
5. Create a standardization framework and develop protocols for certifying the quality and authenticity of banana yarn.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

OpenAI has identified 5 levels of AI, from today's chatbots (level 1) to AI to help run an organization (level 5). ISSIP provides a petri dish scale organization for industrial and systems engineering undergraduate students to explore, as develop their skills for future jobs improving the effectiveness, efficiency, regulatory compliance, and sustainability of future organizations.

Both ISSIP individual participants and donor organizations would like to understand better service innovation opportunities and challenges in the AI era. This would be the first comprehensive ndustrial and systems engineering analysis of ISSIP roles and would be key to unleashing more of the organization full potential. Professional association platforms, like ISSIP.org, support give-get-grow community engagement at all stages of career development (from student to diverse career roles to
retired) with recognition and awards for growing and sharing knowledge at events (see Recordings), in publications (see Books), in practice via innovative offerings (see Annual Excellence Award).

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Specifically, we are interested in developing toolsets and workflows for designing spatially varying internal structures that are computationally designed and 3D printed for molding and casting in silicone, or to be used directly in the fabrication of a stop-motion character puppet.

We are looking to research and test design methods, as well as materials and fabrication techniques, that might provide structural and functional capabilities for puppet performance that is otherwise unachievable or too complex for existing fabrication methods and techniques.

Deliverables will include iterations on stop-motion puppet bodies/torsos and puppet components, through which the Project Team will test:

- Methods for generating computationally designed lattices and mesostructures throughout the volume of a geometry.
- Methods for generating spatially varying material compositions targeting performance design goals, including deforming musculature or other shape retention required by character design elements.
- Methods for 3D printing these structures on various platforms to optimize for the performance goals. This could involve new techniques for printing liquid and other untested materials.
- Methods for incorporating printed elements, or molding and casting printed elements, into puppet fabrication processes.
- Use of FEM or other techniques for predictive purposes.

The Project Team will be expected to deliver workflow/approach documentation, computer codes/scripts, and/or files to the Sponsor, related to the above iteration and testing.

All Project Team participants will be required to complete confidentiality agreements. And all intellectual property developed during the course of the Project shall remain the property of the Sponsor.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

As the impacts of climate change are felt more and more, construction workers are facing higher temperatures than ever. OSHA and other federal agencies are starting to require companies to provide products or policies to reduce the risks associated with heat stress for their workers. There are many products on the market to choose from with little data backing up the value of one product over another.

Current developed test methods focus on very specific mechanisms of heating or cooling and lack the real-world combination of factors. The goal for this project is that the team can develop a test fixture and methodology to properly evaluate different hard hat designs and their impact on the human body in high temperature applications.

Deliverables:
Review and compile existing academic literature about heat stress causation on the human head.
Determine the characteristics that must be mimicked in a test environment to evaluate a hard hat's benefits to reducing heat stress
Design a test method to holistically represent these mechanisms in a lab.
Benchmark 3 commercially available product offerings to validate the test method and catalog the results.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

While these frames are well designed and serve the user well in the west they are not as functional in the east where forest types and hunting methods favor shorter and more minimalistic equipment. However, the need for a load carrying frame in the east is still existent. The purpose of this project is to design a frame capable of the same function as western designs but applicable to the East and Midwest. This would include optimizing features to modify height, reduce weight, and limit noise.

Scope

Phase 1

1. Meet with Owner to Discuss projects goals
2. Background research to determine...What’s already available, current designs, design functions
3. Market analysis to determine....What do easter US recreators need, customer analysis, price points
4. Feasibility analysis to determine... Material sources, cost analysis, optimal load bearing, lifting angles, etc.

Phase 2

1. Materials Testing.... Sample plastics, carbon fiber, aluminum, best materials, strength testing, weather testing, noise testing, weight
2. Design... CAD designs, review with owner, adjustable height solutions, explore alternatives
3. Initial Prototype.... sourcing materials, prototyping, manufacturing options, equipment needs

Phase 3

1. Design improvements
2. Functionality testing

Deliverables

1. Design
2. Materials List and Suppliers
3. Cost Analysis
4. Initial Prototype
5. Functionality testing
6. Final Prototype

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Objective
PCC is seeking PSU student expertise to evaluate PCC’s current inspection reporting process and to recommend hardware and software solutions that can be used to streamline the process of collecting, reporting, storing and retrieving inspection data related to non-destructive testing of welded fabrications. The scope of this project will focus on one type of non-destructive examination but should be expandable to other inspection types in the future.
A viable solution will improve data collection speed and accuracy and will integrate with our existing ERP system which is Epicor. This project should consider existing Epicor solutions, custom Epicor solutions, existing 3rd-party solutions and, if necessary, a custom solution. The team shall make and support a recommendation from solutions considered and include a justification for investment. Time studies should be conducted to support the justification.

Deliverables for the Project Include:
1)Research into and comparison of hardware alternatives for data collection.
2)Research into and comparison of software alternatives.
3)Time studies on the current process. Quantity of studies should be sufficient to give 90% confidence level.
4)Presentation of preliminary results and recommendations approximately 1 month before final report is due. In-person presentation is preferred. Web conference is acceptable.
5)Comprehensive report meeting the objectives of the project.
6)Provide brief evaluation of process from student’s perspective including, but not limited to, key lessons learned by each team member, evaluation of partnership – was PCC fully engaged in the process, providing adequate feedback, supportive of student learning objectives, and other relevant perspectives on the project.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Healthcare-associated infections pose a significant threat to patient safety, with alarming statistics indicating that one in thirty-one patients develop infections daily, leading to severe outcomes such as sepsis and high mortality rates. Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infections (CLABSI) are a critical concern in hospitals, exacerbated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The urgent need for innovative solutions to prevent CLABSI and improve patient outcomes cannot be overstated.

Central lines, while essential for patient care, also present risks. Our project focuses on leveraging mixed-reality technology to enhance the safety and efficacy of central line insertions. By integrating augmented reality, we aim to create a guided platform that assists novice clinicians in performing central line insertions with precision and reduced risk of infection.

Why Choose This Project?

1. Real-World Impact: Address a critical healthcare challenge with direct implications for patient safety and quality of care.
2. Innovative Technology: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge mixed-reality technology in healthcare applications.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with experts across healthcare, technology, and education to develop a holistic solution.
4. Professional Development: Enhance skills in project management, research methodology, and healthcare innovation, preparing for future career opportunities in healthcare technology and patient safety.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Central lines, vital for patient care, paradoxically contribute to infections. Our project aims to innovate by integrating robotics to revolutionize intravenous administration, reducing the need for frequent nurse entry into ICU rooms and minimizing PPE usage. By enabling remote-controlled access to intravenous systems, we aim to mitigate infection risks associated with central lines and enhance patient safety.

Why Choose This Project?

1. Real-World Impact: Address a critical healthcare challenge exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic with innovative robotics technology.
2. Cutting-Edge Technology: Gain hands-on experience with robotics, automation, and healthcare innovation, preparing for future careers at the intersection of engineering and medicine.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside experts in biomedical engineering, computer science, and healthcare to develop a solution with tangible benefits for patient safety and healthcare efficiency.
4. Professional Development: Enhance skills in project management, engineering design, and healthcare technology implementation, valuable for future academic and career pursuits.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Our project focuses on leveraging multiplayer virtual reality (VR) technology to enhance the training and competency of healthcare professionals in tracheostomy care. By immersing participants in realistic case scenarios, we aim to simulate complex patient care environments, including suctioning, stoma care, emergency responses, and patient monitoring. This immersive VR experience will enable healthcare teams to practice critical decision-making and procedural skills in a safe, controlled setting.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Our project focuses on developing a robotic dressing site monitoring device aimed at early detection of infections associated with central lines. This innovative device will continuously monitor the insertion site for signs and symptoms of infection, promptly notifying nurses when predefined criteria indicative of infection are met. Early identification through automated monitoring can facilitate timely intervention, preventing CLABSI and improving patient outcomes.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Our project focuses on leveraging mixed reality (MR) technology to enhance the safety and efficacy of tracheostomy tube change procedures. By merging virtual and augmented reality, we aim to simulate realistic scenarios that enable healthcare professionals to practice and refine their skills in a controlled environment. This innovative approach not only addresses training challenges but also aims to reduce adverse events, healthcare disparities, and overall costs associated with tracheostomy care.

Why Choose This Project?

1. Innovative Healthcare Technology: Engage in cutting-edge MR technology to revolutionize tracheostomy care training and procedural safety, preparing for future advancements in healthcare technology.
2. Impactful Learning Experience: Gain hands-on experience in healthcare simulation, scenario design, and interdisciplinary collaboration, essential for careers in healthcare innovation and patient safety.
3. Global Health Impact: Contribute to reducing healthcare disparities and improving access to high-quality tracheostomy care through innovative educational solutions accessible to diverse healthcare settings.
4. Professional Development: Enhance skills in project management, research methodology, and technology implementation, valuable for advancing academic and professional goals in healthcare and biomedical engineering fields.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The successful team will create a visual editing interface, import/export utilities, and at least two approaches to solve the scheduling problems using sophisticated mathematical algorithms (e.g., linear programming) and/or artificial intelligence methods (e.g., rule-based expert system, forward/backward chaining).

Two independent teams will be created (one in each section).

A successful working project must be completed and submitted by November 30th. For the last two weeks of the semester, projects will be analyzed by the alternate project groups. During the last week of class, both groups will present their products and their analysis of the alternate team's projects to both sections.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The successful team will create a visual editing interface, import/export utilities, and at least two approaches to solve the scheduling problems using sophisticated mathematical algorithms (e.g., linear programming) and/or artificial intelligence methods (e.g., rule-based expert system, forward/backward chaining).

Two independent teams will be created (one in each section).

A successful working project must be completed and submitted by November 30th. For the last two weeks of the semester, projects will be analyzed by the alternate project groups. During the last week of class, both groups will present their products and their analysis of the alternate team's projects to both sections.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The highlight of this program is a summer research experience that includes undergraduate and graduate researchers across the COE and ARL, and includes weekly guest speakers, facility tours, and a project showcase. The primary goal of this project is determine the most efficient process for manufacturing unique awards and items of recognition for:
- Guest Speakers
- Facility Hosts
- Best Project Award
- Outstanding Advisor Award
- Best Speaker Award

Stretch Goal: Depending on the Team composition and time, the team may also work with a marketing a promotions specialist from the sponsor team to assist in creation of additional, unique, PIPELINE “swag.”

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

This team will start from the current Augmented Reality application created by one of our earlier teams. This application was written using Unity tools. The application currently does image/object recognition and will soon include navigation support. This team will interface with a Generative AI option of their choice, using Unity tools, and work on different ways to feed the Generative AI so it is able to create personalized phrases based on basic knowledge of the user, objects recognized in the environment, and navigation destinations/current location.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The Fall 2024 team will start from the current Augmented Reality application created by one of our previous teams. The previous application was written using Unity tools. The team will incorporate use of GPS into the AR experience, for navigation between the current position and different positions saved within the application. At the end, the user will need to be able to:

- Save a point of interest within the application.
- Choose from points of interest to navigate to.
- Navigate to that point of interest using GPS, avoiding obstacles

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Deliverables:
1.Identify conditions for use in both cut tapping and roll tapping which are currently used in industry.
2.Conduct testing on the aluminum alloys with different taps and fluids.
3.Compare the performance of the two tapping processes and the effects of metal working fluids and alloys on tapping where performance will be determined by thread quality, and tool wear. (If possible, machining forces as well).

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Saab is soliciting solutions yielding efficiencies in our continued CWTI manufacturing, integration and test activities. Early in the project lifecycle Saab will host a visit to our production facility in East Syracuse, NY during which students will have the opportunity to meet with our engineering team, evaluate CWTI design, integration and test processes, and observe ongoing integration activities first-hand. Students will subsequently be asked to develop and propose enhancements intended to streamline CWTI manufacturing, integration and/or test activities. Saab envisions a potential solution set that spans special tooling, cabling, test equipment, manufacturing process improvements, or enhancements to the CWTI design itself, but looks forward to entertaining any proposals that result from the students’ collective creativity.

Project deliverables will be dependent upon proposed solutions but may include any or all of the following:
•Reports, feasibility studies, design analyses
•Solid models and engineering drawings
•Prototype hardware / mock-ups
•Manufacturing, integration, and/or test process plans
•Presentations, videos, demonstrations

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

An early project plan outline includes:
1- Define current state of automated valve unit assembly.
2- Problem solve failures or gaps to automation functions.
3- Redesign end of arm tooling for o-ring installations and assembled valve installations.
4- Provide detailed drawings.
5- Install new tooling and complete automation run off testing.
6- Calculate return on investment for improvement.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Penn State’s Ecomarathon club (https://sites.psu.edu/pennstateecomarathon/) has performed well for over 20 years, and we’re now leveling up our game. In collaboration with the PSU student club, these capstone teams will integrate recent competition lessons learned into the ground up design of a brand-new vehicle. This project will design, build, and test that vehicle, first at our Penn State Test Track and ultimately at the Shell Ecomarathon competition. Ya, we actually drive our car on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway track! Some cool things you may do to create our winning car include: mechanical design using CAD modeling, finite element analysis, and computational fluid dynamic aero analysis; automotive electrical system design and construction; steel tubing and aluminum sheet metal cutting, bending, and welding; carbon fiber fabrication; small displacement engine powertrain implementation and optimization; and many other things.

If you want a hands-on experience where you will design and build a real car; have a competitive spirit and want to see Penn State win; are into sustainable automotive technologies; or want the chance to compete on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, then this is the project for you!

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Penn State’s Ecomarathon club (https://sites.psu.edu/pennstateecomarathon/) has performed well for over 20 years, and we’re now leveling up our game. In collaboration with the PSU student club, these capstone teams will integrate recent competition lessons learned into the ground up design of a brand-new vehicle. This project will design, build, and test that vehicle, first at our Penn State Test Track and ultimately at the Shell Ecomarathon competition. Ya, we actually drive our car on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway track! Some cool things you may do to create our winning car include: mechanical design using CAD modeling, finite element analysis, and computational fluid dynamic aero analysis; automotive electrical system design and construction; steel tubing and aluminum sheet metal cutting, bending, and welding; carbon fiber fabrication; small displacement engine powertrain implementation and optimization; and many other things.

If you want a hands-on experience where you will design and build a real car; have a competitive spirit and want to see Penn State win; are into sustainable automotive technologies; or want the chance to compete on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, then this is the project for you!

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Objective: Design a PLC based control system and develop a virtual environment to test and evaluate the control system. Below are the inputs/outputs to the virtual environment:
•Inputs
oSystem specific information document
oTest scenarios
oPLC project file
•Output
oTest report
oVirtually validated PLC code ready to deploy

Technical Approach: The project requires a three-pronged approach as described below:
•Control System Development
oA PLC based control system is needed to control the plant. This controller will be tested and evaluated in the virtual environment.
oThe controller needs to be developed in TIA Portal.
oStudents in the control system development group need to understand basic control theory and programming fundamentals.
oStudents will learn Siemens Control Language (structured text) and apply control concepts in an actual control system.
•Modeling
oA virtualized plant is needed to conduct the software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing. This is one part of the virtualized environment.
oPlant models need to be developed in a simulation environment (such as Tecnomatix Plant Simulation) that can interact with the rest of the virtual environment.
oStudents in the modeling group need to understand the physics of the plant being controlled.
oFor specific devices and components, CAD models may need to be created.
•Virtual I/O
oVirtual validation of inputs and outputs to the PLC is also critical to having a properly commissioned PLC.
oUtilize SIMIT to create charts and wiring of the inputs to drive the process
oStudents creating the virtual I/O need to understand basic digital logic design

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Project goal is to develop and demonstrate an open architecture embedded hypervisor that supports independent Safety and Mission operating systems (OS). The system will showcase the ability to swap Mission OSs while an independent Safety OS ensures hardware safety regardless of the Mission OS in use.

The embedded hypervisor will manage resources and prioritize multiple OS executions on the host HW. The Mission Processing OS will handle non-critical, processing-intensive algorithms, while the Safety OS will perform high-priority safety tasks and can fail-safe the system if a safety concern is detected.

This project will develop advanced skills in embedded systems, embedded software, and safety-critical applications.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

1.Finalize the App for Launch: Ensure all features are fully integrated and functioning as intended. Conduct a thorough review of the app using X Code to guarantee compatibility and optimal performance on iOS devices.

2. Enhance Aesthetics: Refine the app’s user interface using Tailwind CSS to create a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. Pay attention to details such as color schemes, typography, and layout consistency.

3. Early Meeting Arrival: Arrive five minutes early to all project meetings to ensure we maximize our productivity and address any last-minute issues or adjustments needed before the app launch.

4. Bug Detection: Perform rigorous testing using TypeScript and React to identify and resolve any bugs or glitches. Collaborate closely with team members to troubleshoot and implement fixes promptly.

5. Feature Creation: Develop and integrate any remaining features as specified in our project roadmap. Utilize Supabase for backend development to ensure robust and scalable functionality.

By focusing on these deliverables, we can successfully prepare our app for a smooth launch on the App Store.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The sponsor holds an annual competition in which student teams present their AI-related work for an opportunity to win cash prizes ($1500 - $6500!). This team will be eligible to enter that competition, held in May 2025.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: NO

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The goal of this project is to develop a software application or resource that can help users accurately determine what tolerances apply to the products they make or purchase. As a starting point for this project, we have selected tolerances that apply to extruded wire, rod, bar and profiles fabricated using aluminum alloy-tempers (which are illustrated by a series of tables in AS&D Chapter 11). Tolerances that apply may include dimensions (e.g., thickness), straightness, flatness, angularity, twist, and more. Typically, for a specified thickness, width and/or diameter range, industry established tolerance limits for each of these parameters can be determined from these tables. Adding further complexity are multiple footnotes that define additional criteria that apply to each table and their elements within, making them an integral part of the tolerance calculation process.

The end result of this project resource could either be packaged along with the publication itself or made available separately on our website. One approach would be creating look-up tables as worksheets. A more advanced idea would be to develop a program that can analyze an imported 2D CAD drawing of an extruded cross-section and subsequently recognize and recommend what tolerances apply for each of the geometric features of the cross-section. The project team is encouraged to come up with their own solutions. The best deliverables would be both easily editable to update with revised values to keep up with revisions to the publications and easily expandable to include product forms other than extrusions that are covered therein.

Project Deliverables:

A software resource/program that can be used in conjunction with the tables in AS&D chapter 11 to interpret tolerances that apply to aluminum extrusions with both accuracy and efficiency. The resource/program should be capable of easy editing to accommodate revisions and easy expansion to include other AS&D chapters in the future.

Introduction and Background:

The Aluminum Association represents aluminum production and jobs in the United States, ranging from primary production to value added products to recycling, as well as suppliers to the industry. As the industry’s leading voice in Washington, D.C. area, the Association provides global standards, business intelligence, trade policy and expert knowledge to member companies and policy makers nationwide while being committed to advancing aluminum as the prime sustainable metal of choice around the world. The Association’s Standards department develops and maintains technical standards and publications that aid the producers and customers of primary aluminum and aluminum alloy semi-fabrications (semi-fabrication: processes that transform aluminum into a semi-finished intermediate products).

One of our standards widely in use is Aluminum Standards & Data (AS&D), a standard that contains multiple chapters’ worth of tolerancing data for semi-fabricated aluminum products and is available in a U.S. customary units version and a metric units version. These products are used in numerous applications across a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, and structural engineering. Standardization often demands the use of intricate criteria and methods to ensure repeatability and reproducibility of prescribed instructions, and to reduce ambiguity in interpretation. Standardization is a means for providing clear technical information and we are exploring how novel methods could be used to make them more user-friendly to the target audience. We have used illustrative examples and explanatory videos to aid the users of our standards to commendable effect. We are now looking to combine modern software tools and to engage sharp engineering minds to develop efficient, interactive ways to make technical standards intuitive and easy to master.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

For this Capstone project, students will design, manufacture, test, and deliver a portable structure with an integrated feedback control system which effectively minimizes vibratory response of a mass on the end of a cantilevered beam due to various forcing inputs. To accomplish this, students will develop and implement a systems control loop which utilizes real-time data processing of accelerometers and knowledge of the test stand's modal properties to inform rotary actuator commands that counteract the beam's transient vibrations.

Students will design the test apparatus to be modular in nature to accommodate the future addition of more complex modal characteristics, including compliant components, a second orthogonal actuator, nonlinear spring and damper elements, and contact joints. Throughout the semester, the multi-disciplinary student team will learn and exercise fundamentals across a wide range of technical topics (modal dynamics modeling and analysis, electromechanical design and integration, control system generation and optimization, and more) to strive toward a progressive list of success metrics with the support of on-campus resources and JHU APL technical expertise. The future system will be used for proof-of-concept studies in active dynamic compensation of structures with complex modal characteristics, as well as for educational purposes with sponsors, new employees, and in STEM outreach activities; therefore, each part of the system must be approachable for audiences with a wide range of technical backgrounds.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Phase 2 – “Concept Selection, Large-Scale Testing and Industrialization”
Purpose: Continuation of phase 1 efforts and outcomes starting with concept evaluation and selection. Design of experiments and remanufactured performance that can be tested within laboratories at Penn State. Full life cycle analysis with recommended remanufacturing/recycling strategy for silica gel desiccant cartridges.
a.Criteria based decision making and concept selection
i.Design options evaluated in Pugh matrix format with weighted criteria
b.Design of Experiments
i.Evaluating top 1 or 2 concepts from the concept selection
ii.Identifying key input variables
iii.Identifying key outputs variables or responses
iv.Cartridge performance
c.Scaling those Experiments and Processes to large scale manufacturing
i.Identifying unique solutions or processes for patentability
ii.Identifying existing or new recycling processes
d.Final Lifecycle Analysis
i.Complete details of the full lifecycle analysis of constituent parts/components/materials
ii.Cost/benefit analysis of the selected remanufacturing/recycling strategy

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Two such variables that are key in this process are 1) determining expansion reservoir size based on the inlet pump pressure characteristics and 2) the determining preformed rubber hose geometry, specifically the relation between bend radius, bend angle, arc length and inner diameter for manufacturability.

The Volvo Powertrain Installation BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) team is looking for a more efficient design methodology for both of these variables.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: YES

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

The goal is to optimized technical solution – Design & Simulation / Materials / Mfg / Validation. Come and help us create an innovative solution for changing the design, manufacturing, and customer experience of tailgating canopies!

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

Key Deliverables:
1: Watertight Seal Development: Enhance the prototype to achieve a watertight seal, ensuring the unit is waterproof.
2: Deck Latch System Development: Create a new attachment mechanism that expedites mounting/removing a Wavebreaker from the kayak.
3: Manufacturing Plan: Develop a manufacturing plan for 3D printing the base unit and photography insert.
4: Functional Prototype: Produce a fully functional prototype suitable for testing and small batch production.

Note: To ensure students are equipped with the necessary skills for design and manufacturing tasks, we ask that the following training be completed at the Learning Factory by Week 3 of the project: Basic Saftey, Additive—Basic I and Basic II, and 2nd and 3rd Floor Makerspace. Students are encouraged but not required to complete the Additive - Advanced training.

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: YES

Physical Prototype or On-Campus Equipment: YES

Images and Additional Links (if provided)

WSSC Water relies on large diameter pipelines to move water across its service area. The pipes, referred to as “transmission mains” vary in size from 24 inch to 96 inch in diameter. The amount of water flow and the ability to isolate and drain segments of a transmission main is controlled by large valves. WSSC Water needs a method/devise to visually verify that a valve has fully closed when needed for maintenance of the pipeline.

The PSU teams will design, develop and prototype a devise that would use a probing camera that can be inserted into ports of the pipeline to visually determine valve position (see attached photos). This devise will need to be waterproof, battery powered, pressure resistant, durable, portable and self-lighted. All these aspects of the design will need to be worked into a compact housing that will pass through the pipe’s port and into the water stream within the pipe. Sealing the port after insertion will be needed to prevent release of water from the pipe.

The PSU team will have freedom to develop the image display configuration such that a user can easily view the cameras display on a screen. Movability of the cameras view will also be a challenge the team will tackle such that the camera can see multiple angles of the valve.

The project will allow WSSC Water to continue to provide a highly reliable water source to approximately 2 million customers by allowing WSSC Water employees to properly verify valve position and facility regular maintenance on our transmission mains.