Engineering Commons^™

The Effects Of Phoslock And Water Treatment Residual On Phosphate Concentration Levels And Phosphate Adsorption, Anna Soehnlen

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Eutrophic, nutrient enriched water can induce adverse effects like harmful algal blooms (HABs) in aquatic ecosystems. Numerous studies have been conducted to control nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen in order to mitigate the growth rate of HABs. During the spring semester of 2023, a research project investigated if the bentonite clay product, Phoslock, was able to remove phosphorus when it was added to distilled water and surface water under laboratory conditions. The researchers noted potential deficiencies in Phoslock’s ability to decrease the concentration of phosphorus while maintaining the initial value of adsorbed phosphorus. Expanding from this past research, two additional …

Extending Trailer, Alex Grove

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The goal of this research project is to revolutionize the convenience in towable transportation. This innovative design aims to enhance the versatility of pull-behind trailers by incorporating an extendable feature, allowing users to effortlessly adjust the length according to their specific needs. Whether navigating tight spaces or accommodating extra cargo, our trailer adapts to diverse situations, providing unmatched flexibility. In addition to its adjustable length, the trailer is engineered to be compactable, addressing the storage constraints often faced by users with limited space. The collapsible design ensures easy storage without compromising on functionality, making it an ideal solution for individuals …

Materials Of Lightweight Concrete Research, Meganne Chapman, Kathryn Burns, John Grubb

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The objectives for this research project are to explore options for innovative and sustainable materials in lightweight concrete. Various materials including granite powder, hydrated lime, latex, and recycled glass beads will be used in the concrete testing for this project. The question the team wants to answer is how these additives affect the concrete’s mechanical properties. Weekly mix designs will be performed, and control cylinders will be compared to experimental cylinders. Compression and tensile testing will also be performed to further aid the research. The motivation for performing this research is to aid mix development for the University of Akron …

Battery Dunnage, Paul Hirsch, Alex Cox, Ben Strubbe

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Schaeffler is launching a new assembly line for a battery in 2025. As part of the project, it is necessary to design and fabricate a reusable dunnage (packaging) specialized for the battery, meant for safe domestic transportation in the United States. Through an iterative process, the team developed a final dunnage design out of steel components that had a maximum footprint of 62 in X 43.5 in X 29.25 in and a weight of 821.682 lbs. The dunnage is stackable on itself up to two high, weighing a total of 4,918.724 lbs. when loaded with four batteries. The design was …

Assessing Household Gac Water Filters For Pfas Removal From Private Drinking Water Wells, Mccallah Ferry

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This research paper delves into the efficacy of a typical household water filter in removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a concerning class of chemicals prevalent in water sources. PFAS, known for their persistence and potential health risks, have prompted regulatory actions such as the Third Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 3) and the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) by the U.S. EPA. While municipal water utilities are subject to regulatory oversight, individuals relying on private wells face challenges in ensuring water quality.

The study employs a model to assess the performance of a SAMSUNG Ice and Water Refrigerator …

Educating Older Drivers To Improve Acceptance And Utilization Of Cav Technologies, Ping Yi, Claudia Marovic, Renee Whittenberger

University Research

As the population of older drivers continues to grow, there is an increasing need to enhance their awareness and understanding of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs). This study utilized an education program aimed at improving the knowledge and awareness of older drivers about CAVs, thereby preparing them to utilize the safety features of these technologies while effectively meeting the challenges that come with them. Through data collection and analysis from study participants, the research provides valuable insights for transportation agencies and technology developers to design and develop more adaptive technologies and associated education for older drivers. The findings from this …

Powering Electric Vehicles: Are We Ready?, Christian Yoder

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This project will investigate typical power grids and the impacts that electric vehicles have on them. Electric vehicles are rapidly growing in popularity and much of the world is promising to make the switch from combustion engines to EVs. Electric vehicles demand a large amount of electricity. With fast charging becoming available, it is worth asking if the current electrical infrastructure can handle the increase in demand. After talking to a source at FirstEnergy, it seems large electric companies are well aware of areas in need of adjustment and are moving accordingly.

The Impact Distracted Driving Has On Fatal Crashes, Adam Pohrte

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Distracted driving has been a major problem in the United States and around the globe for quite some time. It is one of the leading causes of fatal car crashes, and its impact on road safety has been the subject of much research and debate. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the driver who was distracted that ended up causing the crash. To obtain precise data and results, all the information about these crashes is from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). FARS is a nationwide census maintained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that …

A Study On Crash Reduction Of A Signalized Intersection Converted To A Multi-Lane Roundabout, Ian Fuller

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

An analysis of traffic patterns and design issues with East Main Street in Kent, Ohio. Including potential improvements.

An Analysis Of The Influence Of Speed On Fatal Accidents In Ohio, Megan Johnson

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Through data collected by NHTSA and FARS, Ohio crash data resulting in fatalities were analyzed through four different breakdowns to determine variables correlating to the fatalities. The breakdowns include dividing data from overall Ohio data, reports involving speeding, then from there to single-vehicle crashes. That data was divided down to only include male drivers and then finally only motorcycles. This data was analyzed as it was broken down to find trends with each category. Through these analyses, the trends were developed to suggest recommendations to implement through education and laws to help reduce the number of crashes resulting in fatalities.

Cost-Benefit Analysis Of Increased Water Treatment Plant Service Goals On Reducing Water Quality Risk, Briton Polen, Kendra Sanner

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

To treat water to make it safe to drink, disinfection processes are used in water treatment plants. These disinfection processes produce disinfection byproducts (DBPs) through the reaction of organic matter and the disinfectant, such as chlorine. DBPs have been shown to pose a cancer risk to consumers. In this report, the focus is on two types of DBPs, trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). The cancer risks associated with DBPs are analyzed through ingestion and inhalation pathways. Ingestion and inhalation consist of common water uses like drinking, cooking, or bathing. In addition to this, DBPs have been shown to increase …

Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, Bryce Towne, Ethan Andrews, Carter Moore, Andrew Sobel

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge is a competition held by the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) that challenges students to create a hydraulically powered vehicle to compete in four different races over two days. The vehicle has to be fully powered by hydraulics, with human power (such as pedaling) being used to move the hydraulic fluid. Electronics and pneumatics can be used to control the flow of the hydraulic oil. Vehicles also must have an energy storage device to take advantage of regenerative braking. The final competition was at the Norgren facility in Colorado from April 12th to April 14th. …

Does The Ite Trip Generation Manual Overestimate The Trip Generation Of Stores In Northeast Ohio?, Shawn Monahan

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This project will examine the use of the Trip Generation Manual to estimate the number of 'trips' per average weekday. A trip is defined as a vehicular movement from one location to another. The Trip Generation Manual will examine the estimated number of trips generated for local discount superstores in the Northeast Region of Ohio. Surveys were completed for local data, supplemented with a vehicle occupancy rate sample. This will provide a baseline that the Trip Generation Manual will be compared to.

Emergency Water Treatment Methods Through The Adaptation Of Natural Disaster Building Debris, Benjamin Colston

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The primary objective of this research was to determine whether concrete slag acquired from building debris in a disaster can be utilized to remove pathogens biochemically through changes in pH or physically through filtration. Direct Plate Enumeration testing was completed for different water samples to compare the general activity of bacterial growth as an indication of pathogenic potential. Throughout each experiment, the pH of different water samples was monitored and consistently indicated that water samples in contact with concrete pieces (concrete water samples) would exhibit a higher pH than samples with no exposure to concrete (control water samples). Compared to …

Non-Destructive Characterization Of Bio-Cemented Soils Via Seismic Wave Measurement, Kyle Best

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The final outcome of this project is to examine the mechanical and resulting physical properties of bio-treated soil through microbial activity via non-destructive testing by seismic waves. The proposed bio-treatment strategy is through supplying specific nutrients for indigenous microbes within a soil specimen which in return produce calcium carbonates. The bio-minerals produced during these biogeochemical activities will improve the mechanical properties of soil by making cementation between soil grains. Additionally, a theoretical laboratory experimentational description will be provided to explain any associative effects on a specimen's water permeability or mechanical strength due to bio-mineralization within the samples. The characterization of …

Potential Water Treatment Residual Used For Eutrophication Prevention: Varying Bake Time And Wet-Dry Release Experiments, Noor Fahoum

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

A challenge faced today in water ways is the excessive growth of algae due to eutrophication. These harmful algal blooms create problems for the environment and safety concerns for the use of water for drinking purposes. An increase in limiting nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are one of the factors that contribute to eutrophication. This is a concern for the Akron Water Treatment plant where preventative measures are being taken to avoid the potential formation of harmful algal blooms and the cyanotoxins they may release in the water. Through various studies, water treatment residuals (WTR) have been found to …

Improving Traffic Efficiency At Tallmadge Circle Considering Autonomous Vehicles, Benjamin Mallinak

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

In a set of behavioral recommendations outlined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), navigating a roundabout is listed as one of twenty-eight regularly required abilities that a highly automated vehicle must be able to complete. As autonomous vehicle technology is developed, refined, and proven to meet these ability expectations, roundabouts and traffic circles that experience high volumes of traffic are anticipated to benefit from an improved efficiency of traffic flow. For Tallmadge Circle and other similar traffic control configurations, the degree of improvement will be dependent on the steps taken to utilize the capabilities of the autonomous vehicles …

Energy Analysis Of Heating, Ventilation, And Air Conditioning Systems, Erica Ferguson

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This project studied Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems for commercial buildings. I completed an energy model Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department in West Virginia. This building’s HVAC has been completed by the consulting engineering firm: Scheeser Buckley Mayfield. I intern at this company, so they allowed me to use their original design as a basis for comparison. Load calculations, utility costs, energy consumption, and carbon footprint were derived from this energy analysis. The energy model compared three systems: variable air volume (VAV) with electric reheat, variable air volume with hydronic reheat, and variable refrigerant volume (VRV). Based on the …

Barriers To Technology Adoption In The Water Treatment Industry, Ian Adams

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This honors project focuses on barriers to technology adoption in the drinking water treatment industry. The scope of this project considers these barriers as they relate to general technology and with a specific focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins. To better understand these barriers, prior research and case studies are analyzed. The case studies include reports provided by Fontus Blue, a water treatment software provider based in Akron, Ohio. The case studies exhibit the benefits and challenges of integrating new technology, including AI systems. With the context of these case studies in mind, a survey was distributed to …

A Comparison Of Common Structural Materials, Molly Green

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This report will compare structural steel, concrete, and lumber through the lenses of mechanical properties, design process, cost, and environmental impact. Steel is a versatile, strong, and lightweight material that comes at a premium price – both financially and environmentally. It is the most expensive material of the three included in this report. This is largely due to its complex manufacturing process that is also responsible for a significant amount of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions. Concrete is significantly less expensive than steel, but the carbon dioxide emissions from manufacturing are approximately equal. Concrete also only performs well in compression …

Investigating The Mechanical Properties Of Frozen Soil Using Non-Destructive Seismic Wave Measurements, Sean Mach

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This proposed project will be dealing with investigating the mechanical properties of soil under frozen conditions. This will be done by an innovative non-destructive technology measuring the propagation of seismic waves through the frozen soils from multiple piezoelectric sensors. For the duration of this research, a freezing cell must be constructed to carry out the experimental testing. Multiple levels of saturation will be tested under the given freezing conditions. This should highlight the effect that the level of saturation will have on the propagation of seismic waves throughout the soil. Piezo-electric sensors will be placed in each layer of soil …

Investigation Of Casting Methods Of Photoelastic Particles To Study The Geomechanics Of Granular Media, Daniel Schullek

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The research being conducted within this project is to observe force chains in different samples of soil media with varying shapes. The method for observing the force chains is a process called photoelasticity. Photoelasticity uses two polarizing sheets, with the clear media being tested placed between, and light is directed through the sheets to observe how the light is refracted as force is applied to the tested media. Through our research, we are coming up with a method of casting soil particles through the utilization of resin, silicone, and 3D printing. Once the clear particles have been cast, we will …

Sustainability And Environmentally Friendly Methods To Travel Over Waterways, Kendall Kubus

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Throughout daily traveling, the main structures used are bridges and tunnels. Bridges are used as overpasses over valleys, canyons, and areas that require a large amount of dirt fill to bring the roadway up to the proper grade. Tunnels are underpasses through mountains, under city limits and waterways. The benefits of building a bridge structure is little preparation goes into earth-work and the transportation of aggregate materials. There is some time spent testing surrounding soil to determine the process that will need to occur for foundation preparations in bridge columns. Options for foundation include different types of drilled shafts, caissons, …

Comparative Analysis Of Bridge Abutment Types, David Fell

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This project was developed to serve as a brief overview of design practices and considerations in the selection of highway bridge abutment types. This involved a review of literature in the form of reviewing national design guides and department of transportation (DOT) requirements from both US DOTs and international DOTs. The abutment types covered in this research included conventional reinforced concrete abutments with bearings, integral abutments, and semi-integral abutments. This research focused solely on highway bridge abutments, particularly on Ohio Department of Transportation design requirements due to their extensive use of semi-integral abutments. Superstructure elements and geometric requirements are primary …

Analysis Of Road Use Maintenance Agreements (Rumas), Anna Cermak

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

A Road Use Maintenance Agreement, also known as a RUMA, is an agreement made between a government entity and a business to put in place the set of rules that will guide the responsibilities of the business regarding the use of the entity's roads (Road use maintenance agreements RUMA, 2020). This specific type of road maintenance agreement is popularly used in the state of Ohio a the time. Most other states still operate on older ways of thinking, not capitalizing on the industry that in their area, therefore causing their road infrastructure and economies to suffer. A template agreement was …

Biodegradation Of Rubber Particles In Soil: Using Acclimated Bacteria Isolated From Kansas Soil To Degrade Cryogrinds In Slurry, Shane Graham

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This study investigated the viability of bioremediating rubber cryogrind using enriched indigenous bacteria. To begin the experiment, soils from three highway roadside locations in Kansas, KS 96 and West, KS 400 and 143^rd, and 199^th, were collected and transported to the lab to be studied. An initial soil characterization was run on the soil samples using distilled (DI) water mixture and 0.01 M CaCl₂ to assess conductivity. The soils were tested to gather a baseline of the relationship between pH and conductivity and the impact of its distance from the roadside. Bacteria were isolated from …

Affordable And Sustainable Housing, Brandon Gibson

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Due to the current state of the world, families around the world have started to invest in their homes. This change in lifestyle has caused the average cost to build a new home to increase to nearly $300,000, with an additional $35,872 due to the pandemic-related uptick in material costs. Custom homes take an ample amount of planning, construction time, along with excessive amounts of materials. I am looking to put my spin on a recent trend that allows an efficient construction timeline, along with the reduction of materials and waste.

Shipping Containers. Though their history of utilization has solely …

The Effects Of The Coronavirus On Transportation, Brittney Crandall

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This year the world has been challenged with the Coronavirus pandemic. This has led to national shutdowns which have negatively affected many aspects of everyday life. One of the industries that has seen adverse effects from the global pandemic is the transportation industry. This raises the question of exactly how the transportation industry has been affected by the pandemic, what the long-term effects will be, and what the future of the transportation industry will look like. Using existing data and research, predictions will be made to solve these questions.

A Comparison Of The Effectiveness And Integration Capability Of Personal Aerial Vehicles (Pav) Into The Existing Transportation Network Of The City Of Los Angeles, Alec Perkins

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Traffic demands on the current infrastructure network is becoming more strained as populations migrate and increase, particularly in large cities. Therefore, city officials, transportation and traffic authorities and researchers, and city inhabitants themselves are always striving to find faster and more efficient means of transportation. With the rise of new technologies such as autonomous vehicles and drones, the applications for transportation are endless. Therefore, this paper will describe and explore the operations, and consequently the efficacy, of Personal Aerial Vehicles (PAV), also known as Urban Air Mobility (UAM). The machines, while still hypothetical, are being researched extensively by some of …

Residential Dwelling Design And Construction Planning, Jodi Beery

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This report presents a step-by-step guide in building a hypothetical residential dwelling in Wayne County, Ohio. The project begins with the initial site investigation phase, which gathers general information about the physical site of proposed construction as well as the requirements of the governing body of the area; applications for permits and inspections for example. Next, phase is the site design which includes creating plans for the building footprint, pavement areas, and utility locations. The next phase in the design will be the building plans which will include floor plans and associated material lists for the construction of the home. …