Project Description:
CubeSats (small satellites) have become essential tools for teaching students about accessing space. Traditionally, CubeSat structures are fabricated using conventional machining techniques. This project challenges students to design, fabricate, and test a 1U CubeSat structure using metal-based additive manufacturing.

The CubeSat will follow the standard dimensions (10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm) and must meet industry standards for launch, including shock and vibration profile testing. The team will work through the full engineering design cycle—from CAD modeling to prototyping, simulation, fabrication, and environmental testing.

• Utilize additive manufacturing for structural fabrication
• Meet standard 1U CubeSat dimensional requirements
• Conduct shock and vibration testing for launch readiness
• Document and validate all design, analysis, and testing phases

Project Description:
This interdisciplinary team partnered with the NMSU College of ACES to design and construct an innovative hydroponic container farm equipped with a custom HVAC system. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, the project aims to significantly reduce both upfront construction and ongoing operational costs associated with container-based agriculture. The team implemented a horizontal ebb-and-flow hydroponic method using coco coir as the growing medium, and designed a fully integrated system that includes reverse osmosis water treatment, automated nutrient dosing, and precision climate control.

The project showcases the potential for smart agricultural engineering in arid regions, incorporating LED lighting, CO₂ regulation, dehumidification, and a 30,000 BTU cooling system—all controlled through an Agrowtek automated interface. This fully enclosed farm design addresses critical global issues such as water scarcity and food security by improving crop yields and operational resilience.

Key Design Features

• Design and cost-optimized blueprint of a commercially viable container farm
• Full-scale construction of the prototype farm
• Integration of advanced hydroponics and HVAC control systems
• Data-driven recommendations for future energy efficiency improvements

Project Description:
This interdisciplinary capstone team was tasked with designing and planning the manufacturing of a hydroponic container farm using a 20’ x 8’ insulated shipping container. The farm is intended to provide a cost-effective, scalable solution for growing leafy greens in remote and water-scarce environments.

The team focused on using off-the-shelf UL-listed equipment to reduce startup costs, lower overhead through energy-efficient systems, and minimize labor needs through automation. The design allows for year-round profitable crop yields with minimal environmental impact.

Key Design Features

• Hydroponic Growing Racks: Modular and space-efficient, each rack includes a water reservoir and LED lighting system.
• Synce Raging Kale LED lights with adjustable spectra and winch-mounted height control.
• Multi-unit HVAC and dehumidifiers maintain 70°F with integrated CO₂ regulation.
• Agrowtek control systems for real-time monitoring of lighting, nutrients, temperature, and CO₂.
• Recycled water system (up to 90%), optimized LED usage, and insulated design for reduced power consumption.
• Designed for minimal maintenance effort and ease of operation.

The final deliverables include detailed CAD models, a complete bill of materials, and documentation for future construction phases and integration with other capstone teams working on related systems.

Project Description:
This capstone project focused on developing the power and controls system for an off-grid container farm, part of a larger interdisciplinary effort to create a sustainable and modular hydroponic growing unit. The team was responsible for designing the electrical system, selecting components for power management, and integrating an automated controls architecture using commercial-grade cultivation equipment.

• Designed a complete Agrowtek GCX Cultivation Control System for fully automated control
• Integrated temperature, humidity, pH, moisture, EC, ORP, and water level sensors
• Established relay-based control for pumps, lights, and dosing systems
• Planned Modbus-compatible remote monitoring and control interface
• Outlined power distribution and generator options for remote operation
• Created outlet mapping, component layout, and wiring schematics

Outcome:This project delivered a scalable, low-maintenance electrical and controls framework that supports sustainable agriculture through precision environmental monitoring and automation.

Project Description:
This capstone project focused on improving dock diving bumpers for canine athletes. The team designed and tested a durable, high-visibility bumper using food-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and a lightweight internal foam core (AccuLite-260) to improve safety, buoyancy, and grip. A cylindrical structure with ergonomic ridges enhances handling, while side holes allow for a secure yet detachable connection.

Rigorous testing included simulated bite compression using a 3D-printed dog jaw on an Instron machine. The bumper withstood forces up to 650 psi—nearly three times the average dog bite force—without puncturing. The project also included magnetic clip testing to ensure the bumper could reliably attach and release under water sport conditions.

Key Design Features

• Durable TPU construction for rugged play and bite resistance
• Bright, high-visibility colors with grip-enhancing ridges
• Non-toxic, pet-safe, and free from choking hazards
• Tested using simulated dog jaws to validate compressive strength
• Detachable clip system optimized for strength and usability
• Magnetic release option explored for future iterations

Project Description:
This project enhanced the functionality of a robotic arm by integrating a digital twin system with advanced computer vision and artificial intelligence. Building on a foundation from a previous team, this year's group focused on using AI-based object detection and optimal pathfinding to streamline fruit harvesting tasks.

Using YOLO v8 for real-time object recognition and Intel RealSense depth cameras for precise location mapping, the robot identified fruit, calculated efficient paths, and executed targeted pickup and placement tasks using a ViperX 300S robotic arm. The digital twin allowed for real-time system feedback and operational visualization.

Key Technologies and Features

• ViperX 300S 6-DOF robotic arm with precision gripper
• Intel RealSense D415 cameras for 3D object localization
• YOLO v8 object detection and classification AI model
• Digital twin integration for real-time system simulation
• ROS 2 and Python-based control systems
• AI-driven optimal path calculation for object retrieval

The project demonstrates a powerful convergence of robotics, AI, and digital twin simulation for precision agriculture and automated operations.

Project Description:
This interdisciplinary team worked with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to investigate the correlation between fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing conditions and printed part quality by integrating in-line sensors and post-process testing. Their goal was to develop a foundation for predictive quality control in additive manufacturing systems.

The team used a Bambu Lab 3D printer and integrated three accelerometers and four thermocouples into the system to capture real-time data on vibration and thermal profiles. They printed standard tensile specimens (dog bones) under different process conditions and analyzed surface roughness and tensile strength to assess the impact of varying parameters.

Key Technical Features

• Custom testbed using a Bambu Lab 3D printer with embedded sensor instrumentation
• Multi-axis accelerometers to detect vibration and nozzle movement deviations
• Thermocouples placed to monitor nozzle and bed temperatures
• Variable process parameters tested: nozzle temp, bed temp, print speed (75%, 100%, 125%)
• Dog bone test parts used to evaluate surface quality and tensile performance
• Data acquisition and synchronization framework for aligning sensor signals with print stages

Project Description:
This interdisciplinary capstone project aimed to design a solar-powered UAV capable of sustained high-altitude flight to collect critical atmospheric data. The UAV integrates wing-mounted solar panels and an onboard hybrid propulsion system to enable long-duration, energy-efficient missions.

The platform includes advanced sensors to measure temperature, humidity, pressure, and CO₂ levels—making it an effective tool for climate research. A SEEED Studio XIAO ESP32S3 board was used for sensor management and data storage

Key Design Features

• Custom solar array capable of sustaining partial battery charge during daylight flight
• Integration of BME680 and MQ-135 environmental sensors
• Hybrid propulsion system for flexible energy usage during high-demand phases
• UAV model selected with guidance from White Sands Missile Range personnel
• Real-time data logging and remote telemetry via Ardupilot Mission Planner
• Design validation through voltage/current testing and airfoil simulation

Project Description:
This capstone project focused on designing a safe and efficient lifting mechanism for flywheel casings used in maintenance and disassembly at Cummins Inc. The solution needed to prioritize operator safety, ensure stability during handling, and conform to industry safety standards

The student team conducted stakeholder interviews, evaluated industry designs, and carried out engineering analyses to deliver a durable, easy-to-use lifting solution. Key features include welded tab reinforcement, a center-of-gravity balancing design, and adaptability for various flywheel sizes.

Key Design Features

• ASTM A36 steel plate structure with stress-reducing rounded surface
• Finite element analysis to validate strength and safety (Von Mises stress, safety factor = 2)
• Compact form factor with dimensions: 16.45" x 11" x 0.5"
• Welded tab for reinforcement in critical stress areas
• Adaptable design for different flywheel sizes with long slot geometry
• Cost-effective material usage (~6% of a $300 steel sheet)

Project Description:
This project addresses a critical need in Sub-Saharan Africa: access to clean, efficient, and sustainable cooking technology. Traditional stoves in this region contribute heavily to deforestation, air pollution, and health hazards, particularly for women and children. The student team designed and engineered a solar-powered stove to reduce emissions, increase efficiency, and eliminate the need for polluting biomass fuels.

The stove operates using six heating elements powered by a solar-charged battery, regulated by a charge controller. It is capable of reaching temperatures up to 392°F (200°C) and can cook for over an hour. Optional features include LED lighting, a variable resistor heat control knob, and a larger battery for extended use. The team focused on affordability, simplicity, and safety—aiming for a durable product life of at least 10 years.

Key Features & Benefits

• Solar-powered with low energy consumption and clean emissions
• Heats up to 392°F, supporting basic cooking needs
• Battery-powered for at least one hour of continuous use
• Reduced respiratory hazards through cleaner air output
• Durable materials engineered for a 10-year lifespan
• Supports future add-ons: LED lights, heat control, increased battery capacity

Project Description:
This interdisciplinary team developed PureFlow, a portable and efficient water desalination device tailored for deployment in remote or disaster-stricken areas. The solution targets communities suffering from water scarcity, offering a compact and lightweight system capable of producing up to five gallons of clean water per hour using a 100-psi membrane.

The system is powered by a 24V, 60Ah battery and controlled by a PID controller that manages water flow and pressure. Water is driven through a pressurizing pump and then passed through a reverse osmosis membrane, effectively removing salts and contaminants. The resulting purified water is collected, while the waste is discharged safely. The final prototype reflects significant refinement from the initial concept, balancing portability, safety, and functionality.

Key Design Features

• Compact suitcase-style design (30"x18"x14") for portability
• Reverse osmosis filtration achieving 5 gallons/hour production rate
• Powered by a rechargeable 24V battery system
• PID controller for automated operation and performance tuning
• Integrated booster and pressurizing pumps to reach optimal PSI levels
• Field-tested with Rio Grande, salt, and sugar water samples

Project Description:
This capstone project aimed to redesign and develop an assistive lifting mechanism for a bike rack to ease its installation onto a Tesla vehicle's hitch. The client, requested an innovative way to the 50 lb. steel rack, so the team engineered a lifting jig that would support and secure the rack during loading and unloading.

The solution utilized a commercially available bike lift platform and incorporated a custom jig fabricated from plain carbon steel. The jig, designed in SOLIDWORKS and cut using a water jet, securely holds the rack using quick-release pins and slotted holes to accommodate tolerances. Fillets and U-shaped flanges were incorporated to improve ergonomics and safety.

Key Design Features

• Manual lift system operated via foot pedal and bottle jack
• Custom jig ensures safe, secure holding of the bike rack
• Modeled full rack digitally and reviewed designs with AIS Machine Shop
• Focused on client usability, minimizing lifting strain and hazards
• Filleted steel parts to avoid sharp edges and improve aesthetics

Project Description:
This capstone project aimed to enhance the efficiency of a solar hot water heater by augmenting it with adjustable flat reflectors. The student team designed, built, and tested a system that increased solar radiation on the collector, with the intent of extending the effective heating period throughout the day.

The team constructed a thermal model, conducted experimental runs, and analyzed inlet/outlet temperatures using thermocouples. A custom-built base using wood and 3D-printed PET-G hinges allowed for reflector adjustment to capture optimal solar angles. Reflectors made of white reflective material were selected to enhance infrared ray concentration on the collector.

Key Features & Results

• Constructed and tested a solar water heater augmented with flat reflectors.
• Achieved a 0.92% increase in thermal efficiency compared to a control unit.
• Calculated optimal reflector angles based on sun position and system tilt.
• Selected open-loop water flow and white reflective material to optimize performance.
• Presented findings and submitted research for academic dissemination.

Project Description:
This capstone project focused on developing and validating bioinspired turbine blade designs to enhance energy efficiency in wind systems. Drawing inspiration from the aerodynamic structure of the albatross bird, the team created and tested a range of airfoil geometries aimed at improving torque output, reducing mechanical stress, and increasing overall energy capture.

The students used a combination of simulation modeling, 3D printing, and wind tunnel testing to compare the performance of various blade designs, including a NACA 4412 standard and a tapered albatross-inspired profile. The optimized albatross blade demonstrated the highest power generation and efficiency in real-world validation.

Key Features & Results

• Airfoil inspired by albatross wings to improve aerodynamic performance.
• CFD simulations and full-scale wind tunnel testing for validation.
• Use of additive manufacturing for blade prototypes and structural assembly.
• Measured increased torque and faster power ramp-up with bioinspired blade design.
• Enhanced energy generation at low wind speeds for residential/commercial turbines.

Project Description:
In partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory, this capstone project investigated how sound propagates through carbon-doped 3D printed materials. The team fabricated standardized test cubes with varied carbon concentrations and applied ultrasonic testing techniques to analyze acoustic behavior.

By measuring time-of-flight in ultrasonic signals and developing calibration curves, the team was able to establish relationships between carbon content and sound speed. The ultimate goal was to enable future material characterization and quality assurance for parts requiring specific acoustic properties.

Key Contributions

• Created controlled 3D priinted specimens with varying carbon concentrations.
• Utilized pulse-echo and through-transmission ultrasonic techniques
• Developed calibration models correlating sound speed with carbon content
• Implemented MATLAB data processing for signal analysis and curve fitting

Project Description:
As space exploration advances, the growing problem of space debris increases. This project aimed to design, model, and test a satellite gripper for collecting space junk, focusing on CubeSats. The design process began with research that revealed several key insights. Most satellite grippers utilized jointed fingers, resembling a human hand. The first design idea was a worm gear that drives four gears that have "fingers" on them. There were also two designs for the flexible finger, one being a triangular structure with thin pivots in the middle and a flexible lattice finger. The final design used a linear actuator to drive two parallel clamps with lattice fingers. The lattice fingers allows the clamps to conform to irregular shapes by “hugging” the edges.

Throughout the project, many challenges arose, particularly in achieving the right balance of flexibility and adaptability in the system. Attention turned to developing a flexible "finger," which ultimately inspired the concept of a lattice structure. Key obstacles included designing the flexible finger and fine-tuning the system for optimal closure and extension. Several failures, including issues with 3D printing and material selection, provided valuable insight that led to improved designs. Many learning opportunities were also present throughout the entire project. A new software was used and lots of hands-on experience occurred. New machining tools such as a manual mill and manual lathe were used, and different 3D printing technologies such as FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) and SLS (Selective Laser Sintering). The final prototype demonstrated the feasibility of the design, capable of handling CubeSats and other objects with varying shapes.

Project Description:
This one-semester project aimed to design a functional and reliable 3D-printed aviation control stick boot to be used in small aircraft. The boot serves as a protective barrier against foreign object debris (FOD) while supporting full range of motion for the control stick.

The design incorporates a modular and flexible structure using TPU materials, enabling unrestricted 360° stick movement while maintaining a sealed enclosure. Features include a layered hemispherical construction, igloo/pyramid configurations, and a dynamic block interface for enhanced movement. The design emphasizes simplicity in assembly, visual appeal for cockpit customization, and fail-proof operation during flight.Final recommendations include additional validation through stress testing and real-world installation trials in cockpit mock-ups or functional aircraft environments.