48440 research outputs found
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Optimizing Biofiltration for Sustainable Air Emission Control in Cannabis Cultivation
No full textThis project aimed to improve a basic biofilter design to target sulfur compounds and terpenes released during cannabis cultivation. Building on a pre-existing bench-scale setup, various media and biomaterials were researched and tested for their ability to degrade or adsorb these volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Each material was first tested in a single-layer configuration to evaluate its impact on VOC concentration in the airstream. The most effective materials were layered and stacked to create a final biofilter. This optimized filter reduced VOC concentrations from 0.97 ppm to 0.21 ppm, a 78% decrease in emissions. The main area for further improvement lies in minimizing layer compaction, which was identified as the primary limiting factor in filter performance
Midnight Oil: A VR Horror Game
No full textMidnight Oil is a virtual reality (VR) horror simulation game where players take up the mantle of a gas station employee in the middle of nowhere. Using motion controls players fulfill the requests of the customers that arrive, no matter how gruesome the request might be. The goal of this major qualifying project (MQP) was to make a vertical slice of a VR horror game and to create an unsettling atmosphere. We were able to refine our game through the use of playtesting throughout development
Electrical Rideable Vehicle
No full textThe objective of our MQP was to design, test, and manufacture an electric scooter with specifications and features comparable to existing market offerings, while introducing targeted improvements and innovative capabilities. We began by conducting comprehensive market research to identify key performance gaps in current scooter models. This was followed by detailed component research to select optimal parts aligned with our design goals. The team then progressed through multiple rounds of CAD modeling and simulation-based design validation. The final design was fabricated using various manufacturing techniques and tested to ensure it met project goals
Investigation of porous metal-organic frameworks as solid supports for separation of organic molecules
No full textPorous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) consisting of crystalline coordination polymers are of interest as host materials for molecular sorption and separation. MOFs display permanent porosity with channels that have high surface area and void volumes, high thermal stability, and can be modified through synthesis. We are currently exploring the use of MOFs as solid supports in Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and how the ability for guests to permeate through the MOF may affect the separation of substances. Toward this goal, the research on this project has focused in three areas: 1. synthesis and characterization of several MOFs, 2. developing methods to generate TLC plates using MOF solids, and 3. identifying mobile phases necessary to separate individual dyes in a TLC test. TLC plates made with MOF solids were generated and separated of dyes compared to standard silica gel TLC plate
A Field Guide to Mechanisms
No full textTo support students when they learn about designing and building mechanisms, our IQP aimed to create learning resources that provide useful information and tools to aid their journey. Research, through surveys and interviews, was conducted to gain insight into areas where students struggle with mechanisms. Using the results from the research a webpage on four bar linkage systems was created in response to participants requests
Learning From the Past: A Multidisciplinary Study of Climate Resilience in Vernacular Himalayan Architecture
No full textIn the face of increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters, Himachal Pradesh presents a unique case study of resilience through its enduring vernacular architecture and deep cultural heritage. This Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) investigates the cultural wisdom embedded within traditional buildings and rituals, exploring how these historical practices and architectural designs have enabled communities to adapt and survive environmental calamities such as floods, earthquakes, and landslides. Through interdisciplinary methods including Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, semi-structured interviews, and field observations, the study uncovers disaster-aware zoning practices, empirical knowledge encoded in religious symbolism, and the resilience exhibited by indigenous construction methods such as Kath Kuni. Findings highlight a compelling contrast between the enduring strength of ancient structures and the vulnerabilities introduced by modern industrial materials such as concrete. The insights gathered from community narratives, temple stewardship, and architectural analysis provide valuable guidance for developing culturally sensitive, sustainable, and effective disaster resilience strategies not only for Himachal Pradesh but also for global communities facing similar environmental challenges
: Enhancing biological recording using smartphone apps in Cathedral Ward
No full textBiological recording apps are a useful tool for conservation but are underutilized. This project aimed to educate adults (50 years+) on how to use the iNaturalist app in Worcester, UK. This was accomplished by conducting multiple workshop events where participants were taught through a combination of individual teaching and social learning. The effectiveness of the workshops was assessed by performing surveys both before and after events, along with optional semi-structured interviews. These revealed that the teaching methods used by the research team were effective, increasing confidence using the app, commitment to usage after, and enjoyment of the events. Data suggests the combination of social learning and individual teaching is an effective tool for adult education on iNaturalist
Disc Golf Inventory Automation System
No full textAutomation helps streamline processes, making them more efficient and reducing human error. With Maple Hill Disc Golf aiming to become a virtual disc golf retailer, automation is a key ingredient in reaching more customers. To help Maple Hill, the third iteration of this project continued the development of an automated inventory machine with a modular design. An automated machine with the functionality to record the diameter, flexibility, weight, outer dimensions, and cosmetic photos of each disc aims to provide the desired information to their virtual customers
Air Quality School Toolkit Report: Reducing Air Pollution by Reducing Car Use
No full textThis study aimed to improve air quality around schools in Worcester, UK, by spreading awareness about traffic-related air pollution and encouraging the reduction of car use. The student research team carried out observational studies at two primary schools, administered surveys to parents and students at the schools and at a local conference, and conducted a parent-child interview to understand travel habits and awareness of air pollution. Parents identified that time, lack of awareness, and safety concerns prevented them from participating in active travel. Students stated that to be motivated, activities must be engaging. Through analysis of the data, a toolkit with a variety of resources to educate students and parents was designed and distributed to schools in Worcestershire County
Empowering Climate Action Through Gamified CO₂ Reduction
No full textClimate change is one of the greatest issues facing our planet, as temperatures worldwide continue to increase and devastating natural disasters become more frequent. Many people rely on government leadership to address climate change rather than taking initiative themselves, despite the potential positive impacts that individual actions can have on the environment. Act Now Yoga is a Berlin-based non-profit organization that aims to empower motivated individuals to make changes to their daily behaviors with a tool that helps users reflect upon and improve their carbon footprint. This tool includes game elements to keep users engaged and motivated in the fight against climate change. To help Act Now Yoga develop this tool, we created the foundations for a community-based gamified eco-feedback system. First, we conducted scholarly research about gamification, the psychology of motivation, and community engagement to learn effective design strategies for this tool. Based on this research, we designed mockups for a potential mobile app that uses game elements (e.g., leaderboards, quests, peer-to-peer interactions) to foster users’ engagement with each other and this tool. We also conducted interviews and discussions with members of our sponsor’s yoga studio to understand community perspectives on their carbon footprints and their motivation to change their behaviors. Our community-based research affirmed that people are concerned and willing to work together to reduce their carbon footprints and identified actionable changes people can make in their lives to achieve this goal. This project’s research and design can be used for the future development of Act Now Yoga’s eco-feedback system to encourage people to work together to make changes in their daily lives to address climate change