Mechanical Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology seniors solve real-world problems in their capstone/senior design projects. These projects focus on developing solutions to complex engineering design problems using their skills and knowledge to define the problem, find solutions, and create a product/prototype.
Fall Project Start Intake Form
Student Skills:
- Mechanical Design and Analysis: Applying Computer Aided Design (CAD) software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools to design and analyze mechanical components and systems.
- Manufacturing and Fabrication: Using modern fabrication tools and methods such as CNC machining, welding, and additive manufacturing to build high-performance mechanical systems.
- Mechanical System Testing: Conducting performance testing and iterative refinement of mechanical systems for reliable prototype functionality.
- Control Systems and Electronics Integration: Integrating mechanical systems with electrical components such as sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers to create functional, automated prototypes.
- Analytical Validation: Using numerical simulation software (ANSYS, Edupack, Altair), hardware-software interfacing coding language for control unit, Internet of Things (IOT).
- Budgeting and Resource Management: Managing project budgets, sourcing materials, and controlling inventory.
- Additional Skills:
- Project planning and scheduling
- Identifying and analyzing potential risks to develop safer systems
Previous Projects:
For Companies
- Endress & Hauser: Designed a flow demonstration unit for K-12 STEM program.
- Technip FMC: Designed an underground, inner pipe diameter measuring system.
- Texas Steel, Inc.: Designed a strain gauge system for an existing forging machine as a safety feature.
Other
- Exoskeleton Suit: Designed an ergonomic suit to support safe lifting for manual material movers.
- Formula SAE Car: Designed and assembled a complete car for an FSAE competition. The design included the powertrain, chassis, intake manifold, and brake and suspension system design.
- Hydraulic Bike: Designed a bike for a fluid power vehicle challenge competition.
- Pneumatic Lift: Designed an arial lifting system to reduce lifting injuries for construction workers.
- Renewable Energy: Designed a subsea energy storage system as an alternative to batteries using ocean hydrostatic pressure.
- Solar Powered Desalination System: Design a system to grow hydroponic plants near a bay area in a greenhouse.