Capstone Projects 2023

Abstract: The Bicycle Visibility Enhancement Device (BVED) is a lighting fixture that, when attached to a bicycle’s wheel, makes it easier for an observer to spot a cyclist. This is particularity useful in low light conditions. BVED uses the optical illusion known as Persistence of Vision to display text on the face of a bicycle wheel. The text that is being displayed is the cyclist’s current speed in miles per hour. BVED uses a single array of LEDs that are programmed to display this text while the bicycle is in motion.

Email: Houston Conley (conleyh@wwu.edu)

Email: Logan Rambert (ramberl@wwu.edu)

Abstract: EMmitT is an interactive game designed to be a more engaging medium for middle school students to learn the subject of geography with. The game itself is a guessing game where a user is prompted to correctly identify, with their finger, a place on a map. The game is meant to be a more engaging alternative to learning geography in the ‘traditional sense’.

Email: Zach Glemba (glembaz@wwu.edu)

Abstract: Though many paper chore charts exist on fridges, no one has created a dedicated product for digitizing this common house hold system. Choreganizer was thusly created with 3 goals:

a) Work for multiple users
b) Automatically re-add chores that recur daily/weekly
c) Use positive reinforcement to encourage kids to do chores

Email: Logan Lemieux

Abstract: This project helps in mitigating the crop related contagious diseases by utilizing the Autonomous Crop Surveillance Drone (ACSD). The ACSD uses a camera in tandem with the Jetson Nano Edge Computer running the YoloV7 object detection algorithm to identify diseased/defected crops in any desired field with the corresponding GPS coordinates. The Computing Hardware is being mounted on a fully Autonomous Quadcopter Drone equipped with a ZED2 Depth Camera for imaging. This product prototype output is a Quadcopter with all hardware successfully communicating and mounted. 

Email: Dominic Danis (danisd@wwu.edu)

Email: Charlie Fredricks (fredric2@wwu.edu)

Email: Ryan Pinney (pinneyr@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This work is a steppingstone for autonomous vehicles designed to collect image data and implement machine learning algorithms with optimized parameters and will be a driving assistance tool. The system will detect hazards and alert nearby trucks that might run into the hazards. Its category will be an energy efficient vehicle-to-vehicle cooperative perception system that uses edge computing Makes a decision based on the vehicle's surroundings. Notifies other nearby vehicles if there is a person in the camera's view. Creates a network of information.

Email: Elizabeth Bouwens (bouwene@wwu.edu)

Email: Isaac Korry (korryi@wwu.edu)

Abstract: Home automation systems have revolutionized the way we interact with our living environments. Traditional methods of control, such as switches, remotes, or voice commands, can be limiting and unintuitive for some users. This project presents an implementation of a real time gesture recognition system using existing machine learning algorithms for seamless interaction with home automation applications. The focus is on the effective integration of these algorithms with computer vision technologies to accurately recognize and interpret a diverse range of gestures in real-world settings. This research contributes to the field of home automation by showcasing the effectiveness of real-time gesture recognition as a viable and user-friendly alternative to traditional control methods. 

Email: Marco Kollia (kolliam@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The Smart Parking Pod (SPP) is a low-powered, portable device that provides real-time tracking of parking spaces. The SPP allows for users to view if a vehicle is parked in the space or not on a smart device. It also collects the number of cars parking in the space and the length of time for the parking. These analytics enable users to optimize space allocation, implements parking policies and improve overall parking efficiency.

Email: Leo Shibata (shibatl@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The guitar amplifier and speaker cabinet switcher is a device capable of having multiple guitar amplifier head units and speaker cabinets connected simultaneously, while allowing the user to safely switch between them via midi or front panel controls. The goal is to allow recording studios a more efficient, and safer, pathway for managing connections of these devices.

Email: Bobby Yost (yostr@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This project is a floor mat that communicates wirelessly with an alarm For people that are fall risks, family members/caregivers can place the floor mat next to the individual’s bed so they can be alerted when the one in need of care gets out of bed The alarm can also be placed in the person’s room and when they get out of bed, they will hear a greeting message.

Email: Aili Emory (emorya@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This project presents a 12V battery charger with an integrated onboard Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) for precise State of Charge (SOC) estimation. The charger combines a controllable charging circuit, a discharge circuit, and CAN communication capability. By leveraging SOC estimation and a feedback control strategy, the charger achieves efficient power transfer, precise parameter control, and maximizes charging efficiency while extending battery lifespan.​

Email: Colter Creson (cresonc@wwu.edu)

Email: Rodrick Muya (muyar@wwu.edu)

Abstract: As the electric car market grows and slowly supplants their combustion based counterparts, the demand for battery charging will increase quickly beyond the capabilities of existing charging stations. To avoid this congestion, we require portable and reliable forms of charging that can be readily accessed by consumers. To address this problem we have created a 1/10th scale model automotive battery charger that maximizes portability, power efficiency, and output stability as a proof of concept. With minimal changes our system could be scaled up and produced on a large scale, solving the potential issues caused by relying too heavily on installed infrastructure.

Email: Jake Lockner (locknej@wwu.edu) 

Email: Chandler Johnston (johnst34@wwu.edu)

Abstract: As renewables such as solar and wind provide a larger percent of generated electricity, supply intermittency is an increasing concern. A potentially valuable use of excess energy during peak generation hours is the desalination and electrolysation of water. We designed and built a switched-mode power supply for the operation of a desalinator/electrolyzer. The power supply will convert 120 VAC into 36VDC, 12VDC, and 5VDC to power system components.​

Email:  David Jacobs (jacobsd8@wwu.edu)

Email: Jared Liechty (liechtj@wwu.edu)

Email: Dustin Schmidt (schmid58@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This project aims to create a wired Xbox 360 controller that does not require the use of fingers to operate once plugged in. It will be a flat device that can be laid in the user’s lap to play Xbox games on an emulator loaded on a computer. It is intended for the use of those with disabilities that leave then unable to exercise the same finger dexterity of an able-bodied person.

Email: Brooke Snow (debeelb@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This project is a battery-based renewable power supply which charges a battery via a photovoltaic panel and can supply DC power to a user-attached load through USB outlets. The system is designed specifically for its compact form which requires no permanent installation. The overall design consists of a 50-watt rated photovoltaic panel, two sealed-lead-acid batteries, several DC-DC power converters, USB ports for power output to a user, and an LCD screen displaying metering data. The DC-DC converters are controlled by pulse-width modulation (PWM) outputs from a microcontroller board.

Email: Shelby Powers (powerss8@wwu.edu)

Email: Kai Parkinson (parkink2@wwu.edu)

Email: Sarah Jackson (jackso92@wwu.edu)

Abstract: My senior project is a transmitter for a RC car that you control with your feet. The user stands on top of the 4 force sensitive pads, and shifts their weight to control the acceleration and turning of the car. The user could stand on top of sensors and shift their weight to control acceleration and turning direction of the RC car. 

Email: Justin Brooks (brooksj6@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The Pulse Band is a simple alternative to the highly technologically advanced smartwatches and fitness bands on the market right now. Its minimalistic design will avoid distracting its users from their workouts, while its interactive haptic feedback will keep pushing them forward by triggering pulse sequences when certain conditions are met, such as heart rate becoming too low or rest time expiring. The user will be able to easily set and manage these conditions through its tactile user interface or through its own API by downloading the Pulse Band app and connecting via bluetooth.

Email: Henning Pankow (pankowh@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The purpose of the SOBT is to have an improved bike riding experience, primarily focused on improving the setup of push-pedal bikes by integrating features that would exist on an electric bike. These features are not found standardly installed on push-pedal bikes that exist on the market due to the added cost and complexity added to these push-pedal bikes. The bike computer was designed in mind to display real-time data information about the bicyclist, and LED side lights to improve visibility for surroundings. The Dynamo was incorporated to provide charging on the go, reducing the need for external charging.

Email: Daniel Young (youngd30@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The Outdoor Air System (OAS) is a multi-node, cloud connected system to effectively monitor dust particles, temperature, and humidity levels on a college campus. By providing an accurate and up-to-date air quality information, we aim to enhance the overall campus experience and promote well-being.

Email: Karen Aguilar (aguilak2@wwu.edu)

Email: Ryan Blake (blaker3@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This Engineering capstone project is aimed at developing a portable data collection system for environmental monitoring. The project's primary objective is to collect temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed and direction. The portable nature of the system makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including environmental research, weather forecasting, and climate monitoring and disaster prediction.

Email: Minh Le (lem7@wwu.edu)

Email: Avery Chauls (chaulsa@wwu.edu)

Abstract: Espresso machines make coffee by forcing hot water through ground coffee at high pressure. Some machines use thermostats to control the temperature and it can vary by as much as 20°F. The ideal water temperature for brewing espresso is between 195-205°F and the ideal pressure is 9 bar. WiFi-Enabled Espresso Machine Controller (WEE) aims to make better coffee by regulating temperature to ±55°F and adding variable pressure regulation. WEE features a control system to maintain consistent water temperature during brewing and a remote start to preheat the espresso machine from any device with a local network connection.

Email: Nick Coyle (coylen@wwu.edu)

Abstract: Many motorcycles still utilize a physical “throttle by cable” interface to control speed, and as such, often do not offer any option for cruise control. This capstone project aimed to develop a cost effective and intuitive solution, as other aftermarket options are either prohibitively expensive, or are universal systems for all vehicles with installation complexities. 

• The motorcycle cruise control is a Kinetis KE04 MCU based system that reads the speed of the vehicle via a speedometer signal, and using a servo motor, adjusts the throttle to match the set speed.

• The system also accepts inputs from the brakes, clutch, and handlebar mounted buttons to halt the device.

Email: Taeglan Thornton (thorntt5@wwu.edu)

Abstract: This capstone project presents an air quality analyzer that measures temperature, humidity, CO, and air particulate values. The device records data using sensors and displays it on an LCD. It aims to provide a portable and user friendly solution for monitoring indoor and outdoor air quality. The analyzer features temperature and humidity sensors for assessing ambient conditions, a CO sensor for detecting harmful gas levels, and a particulate sensor pollutant sensing. This enables users to make informed decisions regarding their environment and take necessary actions to improve air quality.

Email: Andy Nguyen (nguye218@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The “Go-Live” is a USB human interface keypad that provides the user with more efficient access to voice chat application functions. With keyboard switches and a graphical interface, it provides visual feedback. Some functions, for example would be muting the microphone or deafening voice chat.

Email: Austin Pangborn (pangboa@wwu.edu)

Abstract: The Board Game Buddy is a tabletop game assistant that is designed to work with almost any turn-based tabletop game.

a) Tracking which users turn is active using a blinking LED button which can be pressed to pass your turn.

b) Turn timer for keeping track of the time elapsed during each user’s turn.

c) Controlled counters by the user for keeping track of in-game statistics

Email: Michael Colella (colellm@wwu.edu)