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Performance Analysis of a Nuclear Reactor-Heated Turbojet Engine
No full textThe JTN11 was a turbojet engine that was designed by the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company (PWAC), intended for use in an Indirect Air-Cycle nuclear-powered engine during the Aircraft Nuclear Propulsion (ANP) Program in the 1950s. This project was conducted in collaboration with the New England Air Museum (NEAM) in Windsor Locks, CT, which has in its collection an earlier, larger engine (J91), whose design would evolve into the JTN11. A goal of the ANP was to use heat from a nuclear reactor to augment or replace the use of hydrocarbon fuel during different phases of a mission. This would allow a bomber to remain aloft almost indefinitely and would allow for significantly reduced fuel consumption. Although the JTN11 was never built, components were built and tested. A liquid metal (NaK) heat exchanger would transfer heat from the reactor to the air flow through the engine, resulting in turbine inlet temperatures comparable to what could be achieved through conventional combustion. One goal of this project was to evaluate the air temperature achievable using the unique, air-liquid metal, heat exchanger. A second goal was to evaluate the limitations of the polycrystalline turbine technology of the day, with respect to maximum operating temperature, stress, and deformation and how these limitations might have been overcome if using single-crystal turbine blades made using modern processes. A third goal was to evaluate the sensitivity of engine performance, in terms of specific thrust and thrust-specific fuel consumption, to turbine inlet temperature since this could be controlled by the reactor heating. A fourth and final goal was to evaluate the efficacy of a computer-aided architectural design tool to model and plan a museum exhibit space containing multiple aircraft. The heat exchanger analysis was performed using a combined computational fluid and thermal simulation implemented using the COMSOL finite element analysis (FEA) software. The turbine blade structural and thermal analysis was performed Ansys Mechanical software suite of FEA tools. The fact that no digital model of the heat exchanger and turbine blade exist posed a unique challenge as these had to be created from a limited set of data contained in original documents. The engine performance was evaluated using standard Parametric Cycle Analysis (PCA) methodology implemented in MATLAB. Finally, the exhibit space modeling was accomplished using Vectorworks. For the design-point air flow rate of 195 kg/s, the temperature of the air exiting the heat exchanger ranged from 958 K to 1082 K as the NaK tube temperature ranged from 1145K to 1350K, a range that would be controlled by the liquid-metal flow rate through the reactor. Comparisons of turbine blade performance for two materials, Rene 41 (polycrystalline) and Inconel 718 (single crystal) suggested that the Inconel 718 would have experienced a lower strain and lower stress than the Rene 41 over a range of rotor inlet air temperature from 1000K to 1500 K. Calculations of deformation were on the order of millimeters, which would exceeded the typical clearance (< 1mm) obtained from published data. However, the results are very sensitive to the assumed temperature of the blade rotor, which was estimated from published data to range from 773 K to 973 K. Values of specific thrust and thrust specific fuel consumption (for reactor and heat exchanger used together) were calculated and results presented. Finally, a model of the military hangar at NEAM containing nine aircraft is presented
PC Pets: Interactive Productivity and Mental Health Boosting Desktop Companions
No full textPC Pets is an interactive media/computer science project that attempts to reimagine the nostalgic virtual pet concept for modern desktop environments. Developed in Unity, the application uses a transparent window effect to display a pixelated companion right on the user’s taskbar, offering a playful and interactive presence throughout the user’s time spent on their computer. Users can feed, care for, and entertain their virtual pets using toys, playing games, and buying decor acquired through an in-game currency system; these transactions and other management tasks are handled within a user-friendly “journal” interface. The journal’s pages house essential features such as inventory management, pet adoption, and access to the in-game shop, creating an organized and intuitive experience. In addition to traditional user-to-pet caretaking mechanics, PC Pets includes wellness-oriented functionality from the pet to the user. The pet actively supports users by offering gentle reminders to drink water, take breaks, and stand up—prompts that the user can customize to fit their individual needs. This dual focus on entertainment and well-being distinguishes PC Pets from typical virtual pet experiences and adds a layer of practical depth beyond a simple, fun, gimmick. PC Pets stands to not only enhance user engagement but also assist in a healthier, more balanced routine for individuals interacting with their digital companions
Policy Analysis with Generative AI: Harnessing Language Models and System Dynamics for Deeper Insights
No full textImmigration policy is shaped by economic, social, and political factors, requiring robust analytical tools to assess long-term effects. Traditional methods struggle to capture complex feedback loops and systemic interdependencies in migration trends. This study explores how Generative AI and System Dynamics Modeling can enhance policy evaluation by automating causal inference, extracting key variables, and enabling predictive simulations. The research examines whether Large Language Models (LLMs) can be fine-tuned to identify causal relationships in immigration policy literature and how these insights can be integrated into system dynamics models for more comprehensive decision-making. A multi-phase approach was used to develop an AI-driven policy evaluation framework. A causal variable dataset was extracted from policy texts using Natural Language Processing (NLP) and structured into adjacency matrices for AI training. A Large Language Model (Llama 3.1-8B) was fine-tuned using Low-Rank Adaptation (LoRA) to improve causal recognition. Extracted variables were mapped into Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) within a systems thinking \framework, allowing for scenario-based policy simulations. Model performance was evaluated through semantic accuracy testing, expert validation, and comparative analysis of zero-shot, few-shot, and fine-tuned approaches. Results show that fine-tuned LLMs significantly improve causal inference, increasing semantic similarity scores from 60% to 89%. However, challenges remain in handling multi-variable causal chains, as the model often oversimplifies systemic relationships. Integrating AI-driven causal extraction with system dynamics modeling proved effective for counterfactual scenario testing, highlighting its potential for AI-enhanced policy forecasting. This study demonstrates that combining Generative AI and System Dynamics offers a scalable, data-driven framework for immigration policy evaluation. Future work should focus on expanding training datasets, improving AI’s ability to process complex causal dependencies, and refining AI-assisted decision-making tools. This research lays the foundation for next-generation AI-driven policy analysis frameworks by bridging the gap between AI automation and human expertise
Feasibility and Design of Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) as a Technology Standard for Drinking Water
No full textThis study evaluates the feasibility of implementing granular activated carbon (GAC) as a technology standard for drinking water treatment in the United States. The research revisits the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 1978 proposal to mandate GAC for removal of synthetic organic compounds (SOCs), which was rejected at the time. Given the advancements in research and the increasing occurrence of emerging contaminants in drinking water, this study reassesses the potential of a GAC technology standard through literature review, laboratory testing, and mathematical modeling. Designs for GAC systems of varying sizes were developed based on EPA standards, considering factors such as system type (i.e., pressure versus gravity system configurations), cost, disease and societal burdens of insufficiently treated drinking water, and anticipated avoided costs by implementation of a GAC standard. The findings suggest that adoption of a GAC technology standard could effectively enhance drinking water safety, mitigate health risks associated with unregulated contaminants, and align with current regulatory frameworks while balancing cost and feasibility concerns. Future research should include pilot-scale testing at various treatment facilities to assess real-world feasibility and optimize design parameters for different contaminants and system sizes. Additionally, interviews with operators of GAC systems would provide insight into operational challenges and treatment effectiveness for implementing a GAC technology standard
Feasibility of Phytoremediation to Improve Water Quality of Salisbury Pond
No full textThis research examines the feasibility of phytoremediation to improve water quality of Salisbury Pond in Worcester, MA, by addressing elevated contaminant concentrations and aesthetic concerns. Iris versicolor and Lemna minor were chosen from a selection of native species through literature review, as they show promise for remediation and ecological benefits. Preliminary sampling identified parameters of concern in the pond, which informed the development of a testing apparatus to monitor removal of E. coli, manganese, and chloride. Results showed promise for effective removal of manganese (92.0% - 99.99%) and E. coli (2.55log - 4.91log), which aligns with previous studies, whereas chloride removal was inconclusive. Additionally, a hydrodynamic analysis of the pond revealed a low residence time (2.7-4.63 days), necessitating increased plant density for effective contaminant reduction. Scale-up calculations confirmed the feasibility of implementing phytoremediation with adjusted plant densities to enhance remediation performance. A social examination surveyed the Worcester community to gather data on public support for green initiatives and compared costs of successful past projects to review potential expenses. Survey feedback indicated strong support for furthering sustainable initiatives, while social analysis suggested that a floating garden could address community concerns regarding current environmental challenges. Cost estimates indicated feasibility within the allocated budgets for the Worcester Public Works and Parks Department. Community feedback and a cost analysis revealed phytoremediation to be a viable and socially supported solution. Technical results show promise for feasibility but require further research to refine plant selection and evaluate long term efficacy
Exploring Coding Practices of Neurodiverse Students
No full textThe field of computing has long valued individuals with aptitude in areas such as problem solving, pattern identification, and creativity. While some neurodiverse learners’ cognitive strengths lie in certain areas of computational thinking [16], such as problem decomposition, neurodiverse retention and participation in higher education has remained low relative to their neurotypical peers due to systematic and social barriers [6]. Over time, a focus on evaluation metrics based on strong test-taking and study skills rather than their knowledge, coupled with possible frustrations relating to unclear objectives can lead to boredom, burnout, and culminate in pursuing another field. To better understand how neurodiverse students interpret and respond to a given task based off of the clarity of the intended goal, we conducted a study among college students (N = 49), of which 10 were neurodiverse and 39 were non-neurodiverse, where participants completed two computer programming tasks. One task was more deduction-based, using the process of elimination to create equal groups, and the other required more spatial reasoning to draw a rectangle according to specific criteria. Both tasks had prompts of either a well-defined or ill-defined nature. We identified that the ambiguity of the prompt had a statistically significant impact on the correctness of the solution generated for our deduction-based task, p = .001. While we saw certain trends which were present in neurodiverse solutions but not non-neurodiverse solutions, such as the frequency of small errors in impacting correctness, our limited sample size made it difficult to conclude if the neurodiversity of the participants explains the differences we observed
Birth Centers and Midwives: Keys to Reproductive Justice
No full textMidwives solve key areas of inequality surrounding access to childbirth care by prioritizing mothers' choice in all matters related to the birthing process. They give a unique focus to the needs of the mothers. Due to Massachusetts regulations, there is only one certified birth center in the state. This study aims to examine the need for midwives and midwife-run independent birth centers in Worcester. To accomplish this goal, the team reviewed state-distributed surveys regarding maternal outcomes, followed by interviews with leaders in maternal health. The knowledge gained informed a survey translated into various languages for future study teams. The team found racial disparities in maternal outcomes and determined greater public support for birth centers could help improve this issue
Project Management Application for STC Marketing Employees
No full textProject management in cross-regional, multilingual environments presented unique challenges, particularly for organizations with distributed teams and complex workflows. This project aimed to develop a tailored project management software application for the Hong Kong Standards and Testing Centre's (STC) marketing team. Through a comprehensive User-Centered Design approach, the project investigated the specific project management needs of a team operating across Hong Kong and Mainland China. The research employed mixed-method data collection strategies, including prototype-centered interviews, participant observation, and iterative feedback sessions. By systematically analyzing the team's current workflow challenges and existing tool limitations, the project aimed to create a multilingual, responsive application that enhanced cross-regional collaboration and productivity. The proposed application supported critical project management features such as multi-language interfaces, comprehensive reporting, and seamless cross-platform accessibility. The solution specifically addressed STC's multilingual language needs while providing an intuitive, customizable user experience
Homeless Awareness Campaign for the Unstably Housed in Puerto Rico
No full textIn Puerto Rico, 41.7% of the population lives below the poverty level (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022), and 1% of enrolled students are homeless (National Center for Homeless Education, 2022). Homelessness is a pressing issue, exacerbated by social stigmas and systemic barriers. This project developed a social awareness campaign to challenge misconceptions and highlight the struggles of those seeking stability. Through 19 interviews with community members, staff, and homeless participants of La Fondita de Jesús, we gained insights into their experiences and institutional obstacles. Our findings led to a targeted social media campaign to educate the public, advocate policy change, and foster understanding of homelessness in Puerto Rico
WPI Open Learning Platform
No full textThe Internet has democratized global access to information, yet university curricula remain restricted to enrolled students due to traditional structures in higher education. This fosters a lack of accountability and an exclusive culture, concealing the true quality and content of a university’s education. At WPI, surveys of students and faculty revealed a strong demand for broader access to course materials. While Learning Management Systems (LMS) digitize and organize content, they lack the capability to make materials openly accessible. To address this, we developed openlearning.wpi.edu, a platform that uniquely bridges the gap between LMS and open access. By enabling faculty to easily share their courses, this platform advances educational equity and furthers WPI’s global impact