We designed and developed a virtual reality (VR) museum to combine technology, education and art in an innovative digital manner. By using artificial intelligence (AI) to create a variety of exhibits, we aimed to make learning fun and accessible for audiences of all ages. The museum explored the future of collaboration between the arts and sciences in the ever-evolving digital world.

We developed a drone-mounted radio frequency sensor to measure and map 3G, 4G and 5G signal strength. This project aimed to provide real-time signal coverage data for telecommunications analysis, emergency response planning and network improvement. We integrated a signal sensor, microcontroller, GPS module and radio transmitter into a weatherproof enclosure. It captured signal strength, linked it to precise location data and transmitted the information to a ground station for live monitoring.

We designed and used encryption methods for audio signals. We applied a variety of modern encryption methods, which utilized different ways to verify users. We ran these on hardware devices such as digital signal processors (DSP), Field-programmable-gate-arrays (FPGA) and microprocessors which offer tools for changing and modifying signals. We aimed to create a system that could encrypt and decrypt a voice file quickly and cheaply. Our project focused on protecting sensitive voice communications, such as military messages, from being intercepted.

Inexperience is a major cause of car accidents, often due to mistakes made when learning to drive. Like any skill, driving takes practice, but errors on the road can lead to serious consequences. With new technology, there are better ways to teach driving. One promising tool is simulation. Driving simulators create a safe space for new drivers to gain confidence and improve their skills. Unfortunately, simulators can be expensive and difficult to use, which limits access for students and schools.

We designed and built a submersible vehicle kit to inspire middle and high school students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education. We aimed to create an affordable and easy-to-use kit that taught students about engineering concepts like floating, movement control and programming. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City sponsored our project in partnership with SparkFun and Experiential Robotics, which provided hardware and software support.

We created a robotic system that removes a tough protective coating from circuit boards. The conformal coating makes the boards more reliable but makes them harder to fix. When engineers or technicians need to repair the board, they must gently remove the coating while ensuring the components beneath remain intact. This can be time-consuming, increase the risk of causing further damage, and put the operator at risk of injury. We aimed to design a tool that helps remove the coating safely and efficiently.

Processing and delivery exposes packages to many damaging conditions. This concern grows when shipping separates people from the package. We developed a small, durable and reliable device to track military shipping containers. This system saved time by showing recipients there may have been damage during transit.

This project introduces a hands-free golf pushcart designed to make transporting clubs easier on the course. The cart uses millimeter-wave radar to recognize simple hand movements, allowing golfers to guide it without pushing or pulling. With built-in motors, it moves smoothly across different types of terrain, reducing effort and improving the user experience.

We worked with Danfoss on a project that automated the testing of a sensor ring they made. Danfoss tested their sensor rings using a fixture that moved a shaft on the x and z axes by manually twisting a knob. The sensor ring was secured on top of the fixture’s shaft and a knob moved the shaft to test the sensor’s x-axis. When complete, we rotated the sensor 90 degrees and did the same thing to test the sensor’s y-axis. We used a second knob to move the shaft up and down to test the sensor’s z-axis. These tests measured the sensitivity of the sensor ring.

Bioluminescent bacteria, like Vibrio fischeri, can glow on their own. Fluorescence happens when something absorbs energy and then emits light. This light has potential uses in environmental research and covert operations. However, existing methods to activate bacterial fluorescence were either too harsh or used too much energy. We aimed to build a device that could trigger fluorescence in a simple and safe way. Our project laid the groundwork for further research on these bacteria.