Design Portfolio

Designed a wind turbine blade optimized for efficiency and structural reliability across expected wind conditions for a model wind turbine in a wind tunnel test section. Using the blade element method, each section was lofted as an NACA 4412 airfoil profile. The chord, twist, and pitch along the span of the blade were optimized for balanced lift and drag under the wind conditions. The geometry achieves smooth aerodynamic performance at varying speeds while maintaining low stress at the root. The design prioritizes efficient power extraction and mechanical safety, with performance validated through power curve testing across multiple wind speeds. 

Designed a mixing chamber system that combines soil samples with DMSO for spectroscopy and acetic acid for CO₂ and humidity sensing. A divided funnel evenly distributes collected soil between the mixing and CO₂ chambers for each site of interest. Each CO₂ chamber integrates a magnetically attached sealed-sample cache that can be removed from the system to present to the judges. The cache, secured with neodymium magnets and a spring-loaded hinge, remains open during sampling and automatically seals when detached. Mixing is performed by stir bars driven through a pulley and belt system powered by a 12V DC motor, with the assembly mounted on an aluminum L-plate fixed to the rover chassis. 

Designed a soil collection subsystem responsible for gathering and delivering samples to the rover’s onboard life-detection system. The mechanism features a circular shovel optimized to distribute moment loads during excavation, mounted on a four-bar linkage that raises and lowers the shovel between the ground and the mixing chambers. The shovel is driven by a brushed DC motor coupled through bevel gears, rigidly mounted to the four-bar assembly. 

Designed to solve the challenge of carrying reusable bottles that don’t fit standard backpack pockets while discouraging the use of plastic alternatives, the Bottle Buddy securely mounts bottles of various sizes to the exterior of a backpack. The 3D-printed TPU body flexibly conforms to different diameters, while a ratcheting buckle cinches a strap around the bottle for a tight hold. A PLA clip anchors the assembly by attaching over a backpack pocket or linking to a carabiner, ensuring stability and convenience.

This desk lamp was modeled in Autodesk Fusion 360, inspired by an OttLite product. It features articulated joints for flexible positioning and a sturdy base with integrated wireless charging. Dimensions were derived from manual measurements, and joint parameters are adjustable within the model for different lamp positions.