Engineering Commons^™

Xenabloom, Sophia Maglabe, Ryer Lauth, Elizabeth Shaw, Sheyna Rongong

Architectural Engineering

Proposal for an architectural and structural design of a shade structure at the Leaning Pine Arboretum, employing the Xenaform typology of Poly Shells, LLC.

Lever Drive Wheelchair With Gear-Changing Concept, Dylan Hsu, Julian Hermosura, Anugrah Murali, Brian Burke

Interdisciplinary Design Senior Theses

The team has taken notice of the limitations disabled people in wheelchairs experience in everyday life due to the insufficiencies of their wheelchairs. The purpose of this project is to create a wheelchair that is affordable for users and enables them to have more freedom when it comes to their areas of travel. Our wheelchair would allow patients to be more integrated into society by not only having more freedom in the areas that they can travel, but also to be a part of the economic society by potentially providing services to people with their updated mode of transport.

The …

A Primer On Working With Longitudinal Student Unit Records, Russell Long, Richard A. Layton, Marisa K. Orr, Susan M. Lord, Matthew Ohland

School of Engineering Education Faculty Publications

Longitudinal, student-level data are a rich resource for characterizing how students navigate the terrain of higher education. Learning to work effectively with such data, however, can be a challenge. In this paper, we share some of our experiences over years of conducting research with the Multiple Institution Database for Investigating Engineering Longitudinal Development (MIDFIELD). MIDFIELD contains individual student-level records for all undergraduate students at 19 US institutions with over 1.7 million unique students. This paper focuses on our lessons learned about processing longitudinal data to prepare it for analysis. We describe and define the steps that we take to process …

Impact Of Traffic On Air Pollution In A Mid-Sized Urban City During Covid-19 Lockdowns, Nathan Hay, Otito Onwuzurike, Somesh Roy, Patrick J. Mcnamara, Margaret L. Mcnamara, Walter M. Mcdonald

Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

In this study, we evaluated the changes in air pollutant concentrations around Milwaukee, WI, during and after lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic for a period of 126 days. Measurements of particulate matter (PM₁, PM_2.5, and PM₁₀), NH₃, H₂S, and O₃ + NO₂, were made on a 74-km route of arterial and highway roads from April to August 2020 using a Sniffer 4D sensor mounted to a vehicle. Traffic volume during measurement periods were estimated from smartphone-based traffic data. From lockdown (March 24, 2020–June 11, 2020) to …

Investigation Of Natural Pozzolans: Analyzing The Practicality Of Natural Pozzolans As A Partial Substitute For Cement In Grout Production, Jadyn I. Breien, Andrew J. Baro, Logan T. Marino

Architectural Engineering

This senior project aims to investigate whether natural pozzolans are more sustainable than fly ash and a sufficient substitute for cement in the production of grout. By following the intent of the ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) standards, a conclusion will be made to determine if natural pozzolans can contribute comparable strength in compression. The objective is to prove that natural pozzolans should be utilized in the production of grout rather than alternatives such as fly ash because it can provide similar strength while being more economical and more sustainable.

The Center For Centering Dome, Olek Piechaczek, Ryan M. Scharf

Architectural Engineering

The Center for Centering seeks to create a large-scale healing center, conducive to individual centering of the mind and body. This mobile installation provides a relaxing, enclosed space while still maintaining a connection to the outdoors. The clients liked the idea of having a pop-up installation that could be easily set up as a touring display. With a deadline for installation looming in June 2022, a team of students had five months to design and manufacture the structure.

In winter 2022, the students developed custom geometry to minimize the number of individual parts and built a ¼ scale model of …

Wonder World, Liam M. Shaw, Briana Kuo

Computer Engineering

The main motivation for this project stems from a mutual lifelong love for video games, specifically sandbox games. These types of games, such as Mojang's Minecraft, ConcernedApe's Stardew Valley, and many more, have consistently provided us comfort in stressful times throughout our lives. Now, at the culmination of our undergraduate experience, the curriculum we have experienced throughout these past four years has provided us with the knowledge and resources that allows us to provide this same sense of comfort for others. Our game aims to encourage collaboration between two players through solving puzzles and minigames. In addition, our game seeks …

Interlaminar Tensile Properties Of Unidirectional And Woven Carbon Fiber Reinforced Toughened Epoxy Laminates, Eric Timothy Casey, Sean Mckalip Thompson

Materials Engineering

This project aims to develop a dataset on interlaminar tensile strength comparing unidirectional and woven thermoset matrix carbon fiber composites keeping ply count, matrix material, and fiber diameter constant. The interlaminar tensile strength is an important property relating to the delamination failure mode. Interlaminar tensile strength is determined using the ASTM D6415 testing standard. This test is a modified four-point bend test using a 90° curved beam test specimen. Laminates were produced by laying up pre-impregnated carbon fiber sheets onto a curved beam tooling. The unidirectional laminate was produced with 20 plies in a [0,0,90,0,0]₄ layup pattern. The woven …

Failure Analysis Of Variably Sized 4340 Steel Mandrels Utilized In The Production Of Seamless Superalloy Rings Through The Vertical Ring Rolling Process, Mikhail Alexeyevich Vasilyev, Joshua Brady Venz

Materials Engineering

Vertical ring rolling is a forging process which forms seamless metal rings through applying a large force at elevated temperatures onto component materials stabilized by cylindrical mandrels. Carlton Forge Works, a company which produces rings of superalloy materials such as INCO718 and 718Plus, is experiencing a consistent failure of mandrels due to extreme conditions. An analysis of the lifetime (bulk material, heat treatment, and use) was performed, which aided in the identification of process variables tied to mandrel failure. Experiments were formed surrounding three variables of the mandrel heat treatment: Austenitization temperature, quenching temperature, and tempering conditions, with the goal …

Filters For Fiji: A Modified Cracker Box Biosand Filter For Rural Fiji, Geneva Newell, Cameron Lowrey, Thomas Burt, Lexie Caterine

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Water quality remains a major issue throughout rural Fiji, as current solutions rely on outside organizations providing money or technology. The goal of Filters for Fiji’s research was to develop a sustainable water filtration method for the people of rural Fiji, through ethnographic and biological research. In order to be sustainable, the filter had to be inexpensive (less than USD$15), simply built and maintained, and suitable for the end-user. The driving question of the research was: can a plastic, modified biosand filter be constructed from materials that could be sourced locally in rural Fijian communities? To answer this question, feedback …

Effect Of Environmental And Ultraviolet Degradation On The Albedo Of Polyethylene Sheet Materials For Improved Energy Harvesting By Bifacial Photovoltaic Power Plants, William A. Jang, Roxy H. Jackson-Gain

Materials Engineering

Solar energy farms typically utilize monofacial photovoltaic (mPV) cells in their arrays to capture direct sunlight to produce renewable energy. However, the efficiency of these farms can be increased by 2 – 6% through the implementation of bifacial photovoltaic cells (bPV). These bPV cells function by capturing incident ultraviolet (UV) light energy that is reflected off the surface to increase its overall energy production. The amount of UV energy that is reflected is dependent on the albedo value of surface, which is a measure of energy reflectance. In this study, samples of unreinforced polyethylene (PE), scrim-reinforced polyethylene (SR-PE), and woven …

Covalent Adaptable Networks For Wood Coatings, Jachin Boaz Clarke

Materials Engineering

Wood swells and shrinks causing problems with seasonal humidity. Applying thick coatings of reactive finishes based on cross-linked polyurethane, epoxy, or polyesters can slow moisture-vapor exchange. However, the use of thick coatings leads to cracking and crazing sooner than thin finishes. This research proposes the addition of 3.3 mol % triazabicyclodecene, a conventionally used covalent adaptable network catalyst, in a commercially available polyester-based wood coating. The self-healing of the wood coating is tested using DMA stress relaxation and compression molding. The result from DMA renders inconclusive and compression molding indicates the novel wood coating oxidizes at elevated temperatures. The wood …

Design, Modeling, And Testing Of A Novel Inductor For Electric Vehicles: Iron Nitride Soft Magnetic Composites, Sydney F. Fultz-Waters, Jacob Krynock

Materials Engineering

New technology for electric vehicles (EVs) must meet the requirements of higher energy usage, lower costs, and more sustainable source materials. One promising material for EV power system components is iron nitride (IN) soft magnetic composites (SMCs) because of their competitive magnetic properties and high abundance of the source materials. As part of an ongoing program at Sandia National Laboratories, this project focused on using computer modeling to optimize the prototyping process for an iron nitride SMC toroidal inductor to reach a target inductance of 600 μH. Four inductors with different combinations of wiring (26 AWG and 20 AWG) and …

Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown Modulation Of Physico-Chemical Parameters Of Surface Water, Karamana River Basin, Southwest India: A Weighted Arithmetic Index And Geostatistical Perspective, S. P. Prasood, M. V. Mukesh, K. S. Sajinkumar, K. P. Thrivikramji

Michigan Tech Publications

The coronavirus disease or COVID-19 pandemic continues imposing restrictions on the human population from full-scale normal/routine activities all over the world. This study primarily spotlights the consequences of the COVID-19-pandemic-lockdown on physicochemical parameters of water (samples) of the Karamana river system (KRS) during the pre-monsoons (or January) of 2021 and 2022, using the Weighted Arithmetic Index method and Geostatistical analysis (ArcMap 10.2). Even though the Karamana river supported the water needs of the people during the past several decades, the quality of water deteriorated due to the rising population and consequent anthropogenic activities. Hence, it is imperative to evaluate the …

Tandem Crane Lifts Of Long Span Ppcgs Case Study, Giovana Sousa

Construction Management

The goal of this research is to compile the data from tandem crane lifts, specifically of long span girders, to determine the proper configuration for this type of work. There have been numerous failed attempts at lifting long span girders, and these failures are all unique. Much of the findings until recently have tended to be job-specific and never became widely available for public knowledge. In learning about these cases and understanding the reasons for these failures, I hope to provide concise information so that future people can avoid repeating the same mistakes. The objective is to provide insight on …

Pcra-Icra Pre-Construction Risk Assessment/Infection Control Risk Assessment Course, Devin Alan Deiranieh

Construction Management

The Preconstruction Risk Assessment and Infection Control Risk Assessment (PCRA/ICRA) course is a collaboration between Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Construction Management Department, Cal Poly’s California Center for Construction Education, Green Advantage, LLC and Thomas Kommer, J.D. The goal is to create a certification course in which industry professionals become certified, signifying their knowledge and understanding of PCRA/ICRA practices associated with construction in the environment of patient care. The project began with the PCRA/ICRA manual authored by Stellar Performance, LLC. Working with Nicholas Schorno, the author developed the learning material for the course. The learning material consists of power point …

Well Pump Enclosure Upgrade & Custom Gate For City Farm Slo, Joey Martin

Construction Management

City Farm SLO sits on seventeen acres of the Calle Joaquin Agricultural Preserve. The non-profit organization aims to enable farmers, educate youth, engage the community, and promote regenerative farming. One of the prevailing issues on the farm was a lack of security for their well pump system on site. The existing fence was loose, flimsy, and wrapped around the pump’s control panels. Additionally, there was no locking gate to secure the enclosure and prevent vandalism. The main goals of this project were to provide an enclosure that was more secure, visually appealing, and would last a long time. To accomplish …

The Benefits And Intricacies Of Self-Performing Work For General Contractors, David Steven Economos

Construction Management

In the construction industry, the trend regarding self-performing services ebbs and flows as a result of the ever-evolving market and new patterns that influence the industry. Recent studies have indicated that contractors plan to increase the amount of work they self-perform in the future, however research on the analysis of benefits, intangible and tangible, and intricacies self-perform services provide for a company is scarce and minimal. This case study analyzed the perception, experience, and knowledge of three various contractors of different sizes who procure different sectors of work in different geographical locations of the United States. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, …

Mep Comparison Of 3d Printed Homes And Stick Framed Homes, Carsen Quick

Construction Management

New construction technology is one of the most intriguing subjects in the construction industry, and new technologies are constantly being developed and improved on. In recent years, 3D printing has been developed and introduced into the residential construction industry. The content of this report aims to showcase the promising new technology of 3D printing in residential construction. In order to create new knowledge on this subject, an MEP comparison between 3D printed homes and traditional stick framed homes will be analyzed. This project was done in collaboration with a Northern Californian construction company, Emergent 3D. A site visit with Emergent …

Comparative Analysis Of Construction Scheduling: Consultant-Led Vs. Project Team-Led Approaches, Elijah J. Stennett

Construction Management

Efficient and accurate construction scheduling plays a pivotal role in the successful completion of construction projects. Most construction companies understand this importance, and they heavily rely on their schedulers. This research paper investigates the advantages and drawbacks of employing a consultant-led scheduling approach compared to a scheduling process managed solely by the project team. To assess the effectiveness of the two scheduling approaches, two companies and their scheduling practices were analyzed, and project management individuals were interviewed from each company. The findings reveal that a consultant-led approach brings specialized expertise in scheduling software, provides advantages in court litigation, and provides …

The Torii Project: Installation Manual, Jorge Armando Lara-Gonzalez

Construction Management

Serving as a symbolic gateway that establishes the entrance to a sacred space, is known as a Torii. The Torii is a traditional Japanese gate that holds great significance in Japanese culture. Our team is inspired to create a respectable and culturally appropriate Japanese torii in hopes of honoring the Japanese, Japanese-American community within the campus and the central coast. This Torii is meant to serve as a token of diversity, equity and inclusion in the Cal Poly community. The scope of manual for the Torii project explores what it takes for the installation process of the Torii after manufacturing …

Dg Pathway For City Farm Slo, Kieran Barker

Construction Management

City Farm SLO is a local 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to empower the next generation to live healthier, more prosperous lives through sustainable agriculture and farm-based education. Located in San Luis Obispo on the outskirts of San Luis Ranch, City Farm SLO’s latest project known as “A Garden for All” aims to create a fully accessible garden that can serve all the students in the community they serve. A key part of this project is the pathway connecting the various garden elements which were previously not accessible to wheelchairs and susceptible to water damage and flooding during rain …

Optimal Concrete Mix Design And Finish For Skateboarding Performance, Lohgan Christoper Spencer

Construction Management

While concrete has been used in construction for hundreds of years, the introduction of concrete to skateboarding is a relatively new development. Concrete and concrete finishes are very well studied in the context of buildings and building design. Shotcrete is also very well understood as it has been in use for over 100 years. Because it is a relatively new sector of the industry, concrete skatepark construction is an area that has plenty of room for research and development. This research paper will describe the finish methods and mix designs used for concrete skatepark construction by leading skatepark construction companies …

Exploring The Potential Of Pavegen’S Kinetic Energy Generating Floor For Sustainable Energy Solutions: A Proposal For Cal Poly Slo, Brandon J. Cuneo

Construction Management

This paper proposes the installation of Pavegen's kinetic energy generating floors at Cal Poly’s campus as a sustainable energy solution. Pavegen has developed a pioneering technology that converts footsteps into clean and renewable energy. The versatility of these floors is demonstrated through successful implementations in various settings, such as transportation hubs and public spaces, generating power from foot traffic. Collaborations with Schneider Electric, installation at Dupont Circle, and integration at Heathrow Airport showcase the potential for sustainable urban infrastructure. This paper outlines research conducted on Pavegen and similar solutions, including communication with company representatives and examining proposed installation locations at …

Storage Shed Construction For Local Charity, Veda Maisie Guillermo

Construction Management

This paper presents a project of the successful construction of a storage shed for Taproot Charities, a non-profit organization based in Templeton, California that aims to support young women furthering their education in Uganda. The project aimed to provide a storage solution for the organization's supplies and materials. The planning phase considered the available donated materials to determine the shed's dimensions and design features. This paper highlights the methods and materials used to build a storage shed and emphasizes the importance of communication during the construction process. During the construction process there were several weather-related project schedule setbacks which were …

Technology Update Recommendations For Construction Management Classrooms, Julia M. Ralston

Construction Management

This paper outlines the process of creating the design for technology updates to a classroom with outdated and unreliable equipment. Key features of the design include updates to the classroom’s audio and visual display systems, improved connection accessibility for presenters using personal devices, the implementation of modern recording technology to assist with virtual teaching methods, and better support for students using personal technology as their primary note-taking and working mediums. The completed elements of the project include input gathered from students, faculty, and professionals on suggestions for the design, equipment selection and justification, preliminary coordination efforts with project contractors, and …

A Guide To An Effective Cal Poly Construction Management Internship, Vincenzo Lucich

Construction Management

Internships provide a multitude of opportunities for students to learn and apply curriculum concepts. Internships are a window providing students with a glimpse of industry standards and practices. For employers, internships can provide value in the form of assistance with documentation, providing a fresh pair of eyes, and providing potential hires. That being said, currently there is no common set of internship standards, producing varying results for interns. The purpose of this research paper is to provide a professional blueprint for current and future CM companies to integrate in their internships. Student surveys and industry professional interviews were conducted to …

2nd Annual Girls Build Summer Academy: Apprentice I Service Project, Jalene Maryam Gee

Construction Management

At Cal Poly construction management department’s second annual Girls Build Summer Academy for high school-aged girls, first year academy participants completed a service learning project to enhance the well-being of the turtles and tortoises at a turtle and tortoise sanctuary. In this week-long day camp, which exposed girls to various career paths within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, girls learned all industry aspects from volunteers, construction management alumni, and camp leaders, and were provided the opportunity to safely learn and apply building construction techniques. Throughout the week, they learned about tools, materials, and safety, and applied those skills to …

Dissolution Rates Of Borophosphate Glasses In Deionized Water And In Simulated Body Fluid, Parker T. Freudenberger, Rebekah L. Blatt, Richard K. Brow

Materials Science and Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Particles of Borophosphate Glasses with the Nominal Molar Compositions 16Na₂O-(24-Y)CaO-YSrO-XB₂O₃-(60-X)P₂O₅ (Mol%), Where 0 ≤ X ≤ 60 and Y = 0, 12, and 24, Were Reacted in Deionized Water and in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) at 37 °C. for the Dissolution Experiments in Water, the PH of the Solution at the Conclusion of the Experiments Increased Systematically, from 2.1 to 9.5, for Y = 0 Glasses When 'x' Increased from 0 to 60. the Reaction Rates over the First 8–24 H of Dissolution in Both SBF and Deionized Water Followed Linear …

Attainable And Sustainable Home Building Solutions, Katrina Matthews

Construction Management

Sustainability has fortunately been a recent concern in the construction industry as climate change continues to impose potentially insurmountable threats to the global environment. Although many new methods have been adopted in efforts to lessen the adverse environmental effects of construction-related activities, as a society, we still have much room for growth as the built environment accounts for almost 50% of global emissions. Many changes and standards must be adopted to make these solutions efficiently beneficial. To set industry standards, we must start with the most basic form of construction- residential building. This report covers two attainable framing solutions for …