Engineering Commons^™

A Modular Open-Technology Device To Measure And Adjust Concentration Of Sperm Samples For Cryopreservation, Nikolas C. Zuchowicz

LSU Master's Theses

Repositories for aquatic germplasm can safeguard the genetic diversity of species of interest to aquaculture, research, and conservation. The development of such repositories is impeded by a lack of standardization both within laboratories and across the research community. Protocols for cryopreservation are often developed ad hoc and without close attention to variables, such as sperm concentration, that strongly affect the success and consistency of cryopreservation. The wide dissemination and use of specialized tools and devices can improve processing reliability, provide data logging, produce custom hardware to address unique problems, and save costs, time, and labor. The goal of the present …

Lyapunov Function-Based Stabilizing Control Scheme For Wireless Power Transfer Systems With Lcc Compensation Network, Abu Shahir Md Khalid Hasan

LSU Master's Theses

A stabilizing control scheme based on a Lyapunov function is proposed for wireless power transfer (or WPT) systems. A state-space model of the WPT system is developed and the Lyapunov function is formulated based on an energy equation of the system involving state variables. The internal resistance of a battery varies during charge and discharge. Therefore, if a WPT system is used to charge a battery, its output load will vary. Furthermore, the coupling coefficient between the transmitter (primary) and receiver (secondary) coils decreases when they are misaligned. Comparative case studies are conducted to verify the efficacy of the proposed …

Distance-Based Formation Control Using Decentralized Sensing With Infrared Photodiodes, Steven Williams

LSU Master's Theses

This study presents an onboard sensor system for determining the relative positions of mobile robots, which is used in decentralized distance-based formation controllers for multi-agent systems. This sensor system uses infrared photodiodes and LEDs; its effective use requires coordination between the emitting and detecting robots. A technique is introduced for calculating the relative positions based on photodiode readings, and an automated calibration system is designed for future maintenance. By measuring the relative positions of their neighbors, each robot is capable of running an onboard formation controller, which is independent of both a centralized controller and a global positioning-like system (e.g., …

A Feedback-Based Pneumatic Compression System For Effective Lymphedema Management, Mohammad Imrul Kayes

LSU Master's Theses

Bioimpedance analysis (BIA) is a method of detecting lymphedema- a debilitating medical condition involving swelling of the extremities. Pneumatic compression devices are frequently used in the compression treatment of lymphedema. Although existing compression technology provides relief of symptoms, it has limitations in terms of ease-of-use, portability, and monitoring of treatment progress. Currently, there are no BIA analyzers in the market that run on a low-power microcontroller and a rechargeable battery. Moreover, no such device currently exists that integrate the BIA analysis with pneumatic compression system to offer a feedback-based solution for lymphedema treatment. This work represents the first steps towards …

Electrospray Deposition Of Zno Nanostructures For Nanoscale Electronic Applications, David Hooks

LSU Master's Theses

Modern technology is ever-evolving and as more emphasis is placed on faster, more sensitive electronic devices, advancements in the field of electronics are as important now as they ever have been. To meet the need for more sensitive devices, it is important to study new semiconducting materials and the applications in which they pose a potential advantage.

The field of electronic materials research falls at the intersection of physics, chemistry, materials science, and electrical engineering. Zinc Oxide (ZnO) is of particular interest in modern electronic devices for its uses in sensing applications, high-powered transistors, and LED technology. ZnO has been …