Engineering Commons^™

Rotating Scatter Mask System Optimization Study For Determining Optimal Image Recreation, Seth L. Grover

Theses and Dissertations

The Rotating Scatter Mask (RSM) system is a radiation imaging technology currently limited by the mask design and governing identification algorithm parameters. To optimize the RSM design, Dakota—an optimization software—was integrated with a ray tracing code that simulates particle interactions with the RSM detector, and with the Locally Competitive Algorithm (LCA), which reconstructs the source image based on the ray tracing code’s Detector Response Matrix (DRM). Since the original ray tracing code was developed in MATLAB, it was translated into Python to improve compatibility with both Dakota and LCA. The Python version of the ray tracing code was then integrated …

Contract Quality Feature Extraction Using Llm, Aaron C. Washington

Theses and Dissertations

This study explored the potential insights generated from linguistic complexity measurements and large language model (LLM) based assessments on the quality of contract documents. By combining structured True/False prompts with log-probability analysis and ambiguity scoring, the study introduced novel contract-quality assessment methods. Results support a feature-driven approach to contract evaluation, one that offers automated, scalable insights for triaging risk and improving drafting practices. These assessment methods contribute to the growing field of legal natural language processing by offering modular tools for effective contract analysis.

Fused-Silica Microelectromechanical Systems For Relative Gravimetry, Ethan Doerstling

Theses and Dissertations

Gravimeters are devices that measure gravitational acceleration which can be used by the United States Air Force (USAF) in the areas of navigation and remote sensing. Fused-silica microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices offer capabilities to make inexpensive relative gravimeters with higher thermal stability than common silicon devices while maintaining good gravitational sensitivity. The fused-silica devices in this research were designed, simulated, fabricated, and tested to observe their performance as gravimeters. The devices exhibit properties of highly sensitive accelerometers but the current designs do not qualify as gravimeters. This study provides information to improve the sensitivity and stability of these fused-silica MEMS …

Leveraging Large Language Models (Llms) For Automated Generation Of Sysml V2 State Machines In Guidance, Navigation, And Control (Gnc) Systems, Andrea Louise Ames

Theses and Dissertations

Modern defense systems continue to grow in complexity, placing increasing pressure on engineering workflows to be faster and more adaptable. While Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) with the emerging SysML v2 standard provides a framework for capturing system behavior, its practical use is often limited by the expertise and time required for manual modeling. This research investigates whether large language models (LLMs) can help overcome that barrier by automatically generating SysML v2 state machines from Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) textual inputs. Three LLM Flowise-based models were developed and evaluated: the Structured Transformation Model (STM), which uses a structured extraction and …

A Controlled-Source Physical Model For Long Period Seismic Events, Sananda Ray, Gregory P. Waite, Radwin Askari

Michigan Tech Publications

Long-period seismic events (LPs) are observed within active volcanoes, hydrothermal systems and hydraulic fracturing. The prevailing model for LP seismic events suggests that they result from pressure disturbances in fluid-filled cracks that generate slow, dispersive waves known as Krauklis waves. These waves oscillate within the crack, causing it to act as a seismic resonator whose far-field radiations are known as LP events. Since these events are generated from fluid-filled cracks, they have been used to analyse fluid transport and fracturing in geological settings. Additionally, they are deemed precursors to volcanic eruptions. However, other mechanisms have been proposed to explain LP …

Optimized Electrocoagulation Pre-Treatment For Fouling Reduction During Nanofiltration Of Lake Water Containing Microcystin-Lr, Thomas Mckean, Chidambaram Tharmaraiselvan, Sarah Do, S. Ranil Wickramasinghe

Chemical Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Microcystin-LR (MCLR) is a toxin produced by harmful algal blooms that is emerging as a threat to drinking and recreational water systems worldwide. Nanofiltration (NF) is an effective technique for purifying contaminated water sources; however, membrane fouling caused by coexisting organic matter limits the practicality of the process. This research studies the use of an electrocoagulation (EC) pretreatment to limit fouling during the NF process. Water for this study was taken from Lake Fayetteville, a local body of water where MCLR concentrations have been recorded to be >15 µg/L. EC was performed using polyaluminum chloride as a background electrolyte at …

Intraoperative Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Fluorescence Imaging For Navigating Open Orthopedic Surgeries, Yue Tang

Dartmouth College Ph.D Dissertations

Infection following trauma is one of the most prevalent and challenging complications faced by orthopedic surgeons. Inadequate tissue perfusion plays a critical role in this complication, as poorly perfused bone can be a nidus for bacterial biofilm formation and promote resistance to antibiotic treatments. Consequently, the management of open fractures and fracture-related infections relies on aggressive and thorough debridement to remove all poorly perfused bone. This thesis focuses on developing an indocyanine green (ICG)-based dynamic contrast-enhanced fluorescence imaging (DCE-FI) to objectively measure bone perfusion during open orthopedic surgeries and guide surgical debridement of devitalized bone.

Novel methodologies were developed to …

Time Synchronization For 5g And Tsn Integrated Networking, Zixiao Wang, Zonghui Li, Cheng Long, Yiming Zheng, Bo Ai, Xiaoyu Song

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

Emerging industrial applications involving robotic collaborative operations and mobile robots require a more reliable and precise wireless network for deterministic data transmission. To meet this demand, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is promoting the integration of 5th Generation Mobile Communication Technology (5G) and Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN). Time synchronization is essential for deterministic data transmission. Based on the 3GPP’s vision of the 5G and TSN integrated networking with interoperability, we improve the time synchronization of TSN to conquer the multi-gNB competition, re-transmission, and mobility problems for the integrated 5G time synchronization. We implemented the improvement mechanisms and systematically validated the …

Distributed Energy Resources: A Systematic Literature Review, Midrar Adham, Sean Keene, Robert B. Bass

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Publications and Presentations

The traditional power grid, characterized by its centralized nature and one-way power flow, has long been the backbone of electricity supply and distribution. Grid operators have historically found various ways to accurately predict demand, anticipate faults, and prepare appropri- ate responses. However, with the rapid integration of Distributed Energy Resources such as Photovoltaic, storage systems, grid-interactive generation, and flexible-load assets, energy consumption and production patterns have become less predictable, transforming the grid into a two-way power flow system. Managing the potential of these Distributed Energy Resources requires advanced management systems that provide monitoring, coordination, and aggregation capabilities to …

Investigation Of Retention And Dehydration Of Preformed Particle Gel For Conformance Control In Fractured Carbonates, Abdulaziz A. Almakimi, Abdullah O. Almansour, Junchen Liu, Baojun Bai, Ibnelwaleed A. Hussein

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Preformed particle gel (PPG) treatment has proved to be among the most effective methods to reduce excessive water production in fractured reservoirs. The blocking ability of PPGs to fractures or fracture-like features is highly dependent on injected gel properties and volume. Gel dehydration during extrusion through fracture is common and has a considerable effect on gel properties, transport, and plugging efficiency. As the gel particles propagate through the fracture, continuous dehydration is often associated and causes the gel to concentrate and require high-pressure gradients to move. Dehydration might be desirable to a certain limit because it can help to form …

Research Into Job Classifications For Kentucky Department Of Vehicle Regulation Employees, Mallory Brown, Andrew Martin, Jeeyen Koo, Jennifer Walton

Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report

The Kentucky Department of Vehicle Regulation (DVR) faces persistent challenges with employee recruitment, retention, and workforce alignment due to outdated job classifications and compensation structures. This study investigates if DVR’s reliance on the general Administrative Specialist job series is warranted given the duties performed by its staff. Through a job task analysis, financial modeling, and personnel data review, researchers assessed the feasibility of introducing a new DVR-specific job series based on the Vehicle Regulation Specialist (VRS) position currently being used by the Division of Motor Carriers. The proposed VRS series includes two levels — VRS I (Grade 13) and VRS …

Experimental And Computational Study Of Slow Crack Growth Of High Density Polyethylene, Abdulla Fawzi Almomani

Dissertations

This dissertation investigates the slow crack growth (SCG) behavior of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) under various mechanical and environmental conditions. The study combines experimental analysis and computational modeling to enhance the understanding of SCG mechanisms in HDPE, particularly in pressurized pipes and under the exposure to hydrocarbons. A novel Crack Layer (CL) theory-based SCG model is developed and validated through experimental data, offering a predictive framework for HDPE failure assessment. The main objective of this dissertation is to quantify and model the viscoelastic-viscoplastic behavior of HDPE under monotonic and cyclic loading conditions while addressing SCG kinetics in structural applications. The study …

Design And Development Of Hip Implants For Longevity Through Integrating Advanced Groove Structures And Additive Manufacturing, Asarudheen Abdudeen

Dissertations

This doctoral research concerns the design and optimization of hip implants (HIs) to enhance performance, durability, and improve patient outcomes by addressing the key issues of wear, deformation, and stress distribution. Innovative surface groove designs have been introduced to both a solid and a hollow femoral head with the aim of reducing friction and wear. The addition of grooves, with both a hemispherical and rectangular cross-section, onto the femoral head reduced friction, as debris produced by the inner liner was trapped within the grooves, significantly reducing adhesive wear. A numerical simulation study compared the effects of surface modifications both grooves …

Investigation And Prediction Of Excessive Water Production In Bottom Water-Drive Naturally Fractured Reservoirs Using Machine And Deep Learning, Sami Abderraouf Belkhir

Theses

Naturally Fractured Reservoirs (NFRs) are characterized by dual-porosity and dual-permeability systems, posing significant challenges in managing water production due to highly conductive fracture networks that facilitate rapid water migration from bottom aquifers, often bypassing oil stored in the matrix, thus resulting in early water breakthrough and water channeling phenomena. The main objective of this thesis is to develop and validate deep learning and machine learning models to predict water production, water breakthrough time (tbt), and ultimate water cut (WCult) in NFRs, thereby enabling more effective reservoir management strategies. This work also aims to evaluate the sensitivity of water behavior to …

Data-Driven Machine Learning Applications For Predictive Modeling Of Petrochemical And Ecofriendly Systems, Noora Saleh Al Mansoori

Theses

Traditional experimental approaches in industrial processes, such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and well-drilling operations, are often constrained by time, cost, and operational limitations. This research explores the application of data-driven Machine Learning (ML)-based predictive modeling to improve efficiency and reduce dependency on resource-intensive experimentation. The study develops ML models for three distinct processes: FTIR intensity prediction of bitumen thermal cracking products, thermal degradation of Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF) using TGA data, and Rate of Penetration (ROP) prediction in petrochemical industry. Six algorithms: Linear Regression (LinReg), Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Gradient …

Supporting Student Success In Engineering By Promoting The Participation Of Underrepresented Minorities In Research Venues, Eleazar Marquez, Hiram Moya, Anil K. Srivastava

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications

In this study, the recruitment model termed IBIEE (Identify, Build, Integrate, Evaluate, Extend) was implemented to attract, advance, and advocate the participation of underrepresented engineering students to a research collaboration effort between The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and a National Laboratory. The purpose of the partnership between these two entities is meet the following goals: a) find innovative manufacturing techniques for weapons development, and b) prepare UTRGV students to conduct internships and be employed with the National Laboratory. Similarly, the internal aim of UTRGV is to 1) support student success in engineering by promoting the participation of …

Skip The Grid: Bringing Solar To The Navajo Nation, Samuel B. Mcclintock Ii

Construction Management

Skip the Grid is a student-driven, interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to improving access to electricity for families of the Navajo Nation. The project focuses on educational equity by addressing barriers to home study, such as insufficient lighting and energy. These issues stem from the Navajo Nation's remote nature and the families' access to resources. In March of 2025, a group of 24 students and faculty from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), representing six different educational departments, traveled to Arizona to partner with the Chinle Unified School District in addressing educational equity in the Navajo Nation. The effort allowed students to …

Thermomechanical And Thermal Characterization Of Pressureless Sintered Tib2, Simone Taraborelli, Simone Failla, Diletta Sciti, Steven M. Smith, Jeremy Watts, William G. Fahrenholtz, Greg E. Hilmas

Materials Science and Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

The impact of high-energy milling using WC[sbnd]Co media on the pressureless sintering and properties of TiB₂ was studied. After 30 mins of milling, samples sintered at 2200 °C achieved a high relative density (>98 %) and a fine mean grain size (<2 >µm). In the microstructure WxBy phases, often containing Co, were observed at triple points, due to contamination from the milling media. Moreover, core-rim structures with multiple rims were detected: the cores consisted of pure TiB₂ grains, the rims were (TixWy)B2 solid solutions. The core-rim formation was significantly more pronounced compared to a reference sample of …

A Survey Of Industry Professionals On The Role Of Ff&E In Sustainability, Caius T. Toy-Grace

Construction Management

This study is designed to explore how professionals in the construction and design industries perceive the role of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) in building sustainability. Although FF&E is often viewed as a minor component of the overall construction process, it has the potential to significantly impact environmental outcomes through material sourcing, durability, and end-of-life recyclability. A survey was distributed to eight professionals in FF&E, construction, and sustainability-related fields. The survey included eight questions, with four multiple choice and four open-ended, designed to gather both quantitative and qualitative insights. Responses were analyzed to determine how often sustainability is considered in …

Upstander Behaviors To Combat Implicit Bias, Jakob J. Wilkins

Construction Management

This project investigates how individuals across different experience levels in the construction industry respond to workplace bias, exclusion, and unfair treatment. Rather than focusing on the often-ambiguous term “ally,” this study explores the role of an “upstander,” someone who takes thoughtful, proactive action to support fairness and inclusion. Using a combination of survey data, industry interviews, academic literature, and a participatory workshop at the 2025 Women in Construction Symposium, the study identifies effective upstander behaviors and evaluates their impact. Survey findings revealed that a majority believe implicit bias influences jobsite dynamics and that intervention can shift workplace culture. The workshop …

Students' Evaluations Of Construction Management Curriculum Through A Senior Exit Interview, Anthony J. Roensch

Construction Management

This project explored student perspectives on the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Construction Management program through a two-phase approach: individual interviews and a large group review session. Ten students with varied career goals and levels of involvement in the program were interviewed to understand their views on curriculum quality, industry engagement, extracurricular opportunities, and departmental support. The goal was to identify patterns in feedback across diverse student experiences. Following the interviews, a refined set of questions was developed and presented to a larger group of students in a structured discussion forum. This session provided further insights into both strengths and …

Son Care Foundation - Pergola Preconstruction, Samuel J. Peters

Construction Management

This paper discusses the design and preconstruction aspects of a pergola constructed at Thousand Hills Pet Resort, supporting a non-profit organization called the Son Care Foundation. Founded in 1994 by Jack Gould, the foundation is committed to fostering hope through various programs including mentorship for students, service dog training for PTSD victims, basic pet training, vehicle repair and turnaround, and dog daycare and lodging. This project serves Son Care Foundation’s dog daycare and lodging program, called Thousand Hills Pet Resort. The program was established in 2005, and all profits are used to fund the other programs operated by the Son …

Building Confidence, Building Careers: An Industry-Informed Evaluation Of A High School Aec Camp, Madisen Berube

Construction Management

This study assesses the effectiveness of the Girls Build Summer Academy, an architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) summer camp for high school girls, and similar programs by gathering and analyzing feedback from industry professionals. The research aims to identify which program elements most successfully inspire interest and build foundational skills for young women considering careers in architecture, engineering, and construction. An anonymous survey was distributed to AEC professionals, some who were familiar with the program. The survey included multiple choice, rankings, and open-ended questions to evaluate areas for improvement and future curriculum development. Findings revealed strong support for interactive learning …

Skip The Grid: Off-Grid Solutions For Navajo Families, Jordan Badgley

Construction Management

Skip the Grid is a service project executed by California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) students, Heart of America, and SOLV Energy to provide sustainable power solutions to Navajo families in need. Within the vast, remote landscapes of the Navajo Nation, over 32% of households lack electricity, creating significant challenges for daily life. The 2025 Skip the Grid trip marked Cal Poly’s fourth consecutive year partnering in this impactful initiative. An interdisciplinary team of 20 students from 6 different areas of study, work collaboratively, preparing for months to ensure a successful installation trip in Chinle, Arizona. Over the course of …

California Polytechnic Design-Build Lab Course, Nicho Domine

Construction Management

This paper explores the development and execution of a project-based Design-Build (DB) course implemented at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. The course aimed to replicate real-world DB processes in a controlled academic setting, engaging Construction Management and Architecture students in simulated but immersive industry experience. From Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to Final Presentation and Closeout, the course mirrors a typical DB project lifecycle. Through collaborative exercises, students gained exposure to roles and responsibilities, submittals, cost estimating, procurement strategies, risk analysis, virtual coordination, stakeholder communication, and more. This paper describes how a sequence of weekly assignments was structured to …

2025 Annual Hackathon Redesigning Safety Fall Protection, Cole Lewis

Construction Management

The Verifying Everyone’s Safety Together (VEST) Hackathon is an annual event organized by construction management and social science students at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Its purpose is to redesign a specific piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) to improve usability, comfort, and inclusivity, with a focus on providing equitable safety for all workers. This hackathon centered on fall protection, specifically safety harnesses, which are essential for protecting workers at height but often lack comfort and user-friendliness. Students, faculty, and industry guests gathered to examine current harness designs and develop practical, worker-informed improvements. The event space was outfitted …

Hawthorne Elementary Stage Set Construction, Sergio Daniel Manriquez, Alejandro Gonzalez

Construction Management

The Pirate Ship and Playhouse project, undertaken by California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Cal Poly Construction Management students, aimed to support arts education at Hawthorne Elementary School through the construction of theatrical set pieces for a Peter Pan performance. Initiated by Phil Barlow and guided by Anna Brennen from the school’s staff, the project integrated community service with practical learning in construction management. From initial design and material sourcing to final installation, the team emphasized safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Funding and logistical support from local businesses and Cal Poly facilitated the project’s success. This hands-on endeavor not …

R.A.C.E. Matters Precast Concrete Bench Construction, Camryn E. Berger

Construction Management

This paper presents a narrative detailing the design and construction process undertaken by an interdisciplinary team of students from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, representing the Construction Management, Architecture, and Architectural Engineering departments. The team collaborated to design, fabricate, and install three precast concrete benches for the nonprofit organization R.A.C.E. Matters. The project began in Fall 2024 and culminated in the installation of the benches at sites managed by the San Luis Obispo Conservancy: Pismo Preserve, the Octagon Barn, and Kathleen’s Overlook. Each bench will serve as a platform for murals, visually depicting diverse racial experiences. This paper …

Creating An Off-Site Construction Course, Tyler Steven Meehleis

Construction Management

The construction industry is undergoing a transformation as prefabrication and modular methods become more common across project types. From residential homes to large-scale commercial buildings, offsite construction offers faster timelines, improved quality control, and reduced environmental impact of construction. Despite these advantages, off -site construction has historically been underrepresented in the Construction Management (CM) curriculum at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). While students are well-prepared for traditional project delivery in residential, commercial, and heavy civil sectors, they often graduate with limited exposure to more modern building systems and off-site production techniques. This off-site construction course addresses this gap by …

Shipping Container Library Project: Preconstruction Strategy And Planning, Chris Lochner

Construction Management

This report outlines the preconstruction planning phase for the development of a shipping container library to be deployed to a community in Sub-Saharan Africa. The library is designed as a modular and sustainable solution for delivering access to educational resources. Preconstruction efforts have focused on finalizing design documentation, procurement planning, trade coordination, permitting considerations, and site logistics. While no construction has begun, two 40-foot high-cube containers have been ordered—one for prototyping and one for shipment. One container is currently staged at Tilden-Coil Constructors’ yard in Riverside, California, and the project is approaching the procurement and mobilization phase. All tracking of …