EE/CE Capstone Projects

Abstract: The Solar Shade is a personal solar battery charger and single-axis tracker built into an umbrella. It uses a 9W solar panel (16–18V) to harvest energy and a 12V, 0.4A stepper motor to optimize shading. A buck converter with an MPPT algorithm maximizes power transfer to a 12V, 2.4Ah battery. Light-dependent resistors (LDRs) in a voltage divider detect sunlight direction, and a motor driver IC controls the stepper motor to reposition the panel. This tracking system improves charging efficiency while keeping the user shaded.

Abstract: This project involves the design and construction of an uninterruptable power supply (UPS). A UPS is a device that feeds a load from the grid until the power goes out when it seamlessly switches from the grid supplying power to a battery backup. This project uses an off-line configuration which passes power to the load through a bypass line during normal grid operation. The design of the battery charger centers around the control of a bidirectional converter. Conversion from DC to AC is done through a full wave one-phase inverter and filtered for a smooth output. All MOSFET switch control is implemented using an Arduino board sending PWM signals to gate drive circuits. The maximum load for this device is 30W at 120V AC 60Hz intended to be connected to a typical United States outlet.

Abstract: The capstone project presents a microcontroller-controlled battery charger capable of charging both Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) single-cell batteries, with user input allowing toggling between the two battery types. The system converts AC to DC through rectification and filtering, then steps the voltage down using an adjustable buck regulator. The project features real-time voltage and current sensing using analog inputs. The flexible multi-battery system offers a versatile option for modern day battery charging applications.

Abstract: This project is a versatile power electronics platform designed to repurpose brushless DC (BLDC) motors or permanent magnetic synchronous generators (PMSG) and 12V lead-acid batteries for small-scale renewable energy generation, storage, and supply, of up to 300W with available output to multi-use 5V USB charging ports. The AC generation will be propelled in the best use-case for the environment, such as wind, hydro, or mechanical generation. Up to 2 lead-acid batteries can be connected to the energy generation or utilized for USB output based on the user’s choices. The system reduces costs for local energy generation and promotes sustainable energy practices by allowing users to supply second-hand motors, generators, and batteries. This project delivers a cost-effective, modular, sustainable, and reliable energy solution for off-grid accessibility. Electronic waste is reduced by reusing existing motors, generators and batteries while promoting accessible and scalable renewable energy adoption.

Abstract: Power Outage Detection System (PODS) is a device designed to monitor the electromagnetic field of power lines, particularly in rural areas. With the electromagnetic field (EMF) detection capabilities, the device can identify voltage irregularities and communicate these findings to a central device, thereby reducing the response time for utility companies during outages. The PODS will be strategically placed along power lines to provide comprehensive coverage, enhancing the efficiency of fault detection. Essentially, each device will monitor the EMF at its placed location and radio communicate the state of an outage or change that is detected to the central device. This project aims to improve the reliability of power distribution systems and contribute to more resilient energy infrastructure.

Abstract: High-voltage (HV) battery packs are a critical and costly component in battery electric vehicles, with serious safety implications if not properly managed. Ensuring these packs operate safely and reliably is essential not only for protecting users but also for improving system longevity and reducing overall costs. Sponsored by Tesla, our team has developed a beta prototype Battery Management System (BMS) for a high-performance Formula SAE electric vehicle. The system includes one primary and one secondary unit and is designed for easy customization based on the number of series-connected cells. It features an isolated daisy chain configuration that supports expansion with up to 255 secondary PCBs. This modular and scalable architecture enhances monitoring capabilities, system flexibility, and overall safety — making it a robust solution for demanding electric vehicle applications.

Abstract: The Essential Tremors Monitoring System is designed to acquire and record voltage signals associated with essential tremors. It features a custom front-end with both analog and digital filters to accurately measure and quantify tremors, providing valuable data for diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and research purposes. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery, enabling portable, continuous monitoring. The ETMS is capable of operating and actively recording for 16 hours, along with the functionality to start, stop and pause and resume recordings. The results are viewable on a computer with a terminal and processed using a script that converts a CSV to a graphical representation of the recorded data.

Abstract: Hazardous Air and Vapor Environmental Notifier (HAVEN) is a compact, battery-powered air quality monitoring system designed to detect harmful gases and enhance environmental safety in residential homes. Equipped with six high-sensitivity gas sensors; carbon monoxide, ammonia, natural gas, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and formaldehyde, the device continuously monitors air quality in real time. A low-power NXP microcontroller processes sensor data and transmits alerts via Bluetooth to paired smartphones. Visual and audible distress signals, including LED indicators and alarms, ensure immediate awareness of hazardous conditions. Powered by readily available AA batteries and built with energy-efficient circuitry, HAVEN offers a reliable air quality monitoring solution, without the need for new infrastructure.

Abstract: A specialized sound bar that is capable of enhancing the experience of watching movies without having to constantly change the volume. This consumer-level device will allow for a smoother experience while still providing high-fidelity audio.

Abstract: The Digital/Analog Poly Synthesizer is a compact, power efficient instrument that combines digital tone generation with analog processing in a single package. At its core is a 12-bit DAC paired with a 40MHz processor, deliver sub-millisecond voice response. A universal keypad interface accommodates 2- to 36-key controllers, while onboard power regulation and charge pumps drive voltage-controlled filters and a low-frequency oscillator—letting users sculpt everything from smooth low-pass sweeps to rhythmic tremolo. Dual-channel outputs feed either built-in speakers or balanced line-level jacks, and the modular design can integrate with studio racks or live rigs. This project not only showcases embedded audio design but also offers a fully functional prototype ready for performance and further development.

Abstract: This project is a development kit designed for electrical engineering students to gain experience with embedded systems. It consists of a microcontroller development board, a graphical LCD touchscreen, and a digital microphone. Students working with the kit will have access to a library written in the C programming language, allowing their code to respond to buttons being pressed on the touchscreen, output text and images to the screen, and process audio recorded by the microphone. Students will also have the ability to customize the screen's layout by adding, removing, or repositioning buttons as they see fit.

Abstract: Typically, there are only two options for controlling your pointer when using a computer, one being the traditional mouse, and the other being a trackpad for laptops. Our project would help people unable to use these standard devices and it would be mounted to the wrist with a band, like a watch, and make use of a gyroscope rather than optical sensors to read movements.

Abstract: Configurable Macro Display Pad (CMDP) is an HID input device designed to simplify typing engineering and math symbols in Windows 11. Instead of memorizing complex keyboard shortcuts or searching through extensive symbol libraries, users can instantly type characters using mechanical keys with built-in displays. Unlike existing macro pads, CMDP is built specifically for technical users and features a unique display-on-key design that shows the function of each key. This makes it intuitive and satisfying to use, especially for those who already enjoy mechanical keyboards. CMDP is a tool which combines speed, clarity, and tactile feedback, ultimately enhancing productivity in many technical writing applications, and beyond.

Abstract: The Film Scanning System is an electronic and mechanical system which automates the film scanning process. This system consists of a light sensor array to detect each exposure frame, a motor which advances the film through the holder, and an automatic trigger for the camera. Automation reduces the time it takes to scan a roll of 35mm film by over half, while delivering more consistent results. The FSS aims to bring an affordable automatic scanning option for film photography enthusiasts.

Abstract: Our project strives to enhance motorcyclist safety and comfort by providing situational awareness to the rider through blind spot monitoring. Through a network of sensors and AI object detection, our system gathers valuable data about surrounding vehicles and relays information to the rider, allowing them to make crucial decisions while maintaining focus on the road ahead. So as not to reduce the rider's field of view or focus, our design uses an array of discrete LEDs to relay information. The UI control system allows the rider to customize the brightness and color of the data provided to them, and automatic adjustments to the display such as brightness ensures the data is visible in a safe, non-distracting manner in different lighting environments.

Sponsor: PACCAR

Abstract: This prototype benchtop system aims to analyze input point cloud and image data from sensors, including LiDAR and camera data onboard a vehicle, and implement real-time cooperative perception techniques to detect objects around a vehicle accurately. Information regarding hazardous situations is communicated to nearby vehicles using Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication in real-time to enhance the safety of passengers.

Sponsor: PACCAR

Abstract: Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) rely on accurate environmental perception to ensure safe and efficient operation. Our project aims to enhance this perception by implementing multimodal and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) fusion methods. Multimodal fusion integrates data from multiple onboard sensors (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, radar, and GPS) to create an effective, unified representation of the vehicle's surroundings. V2V fusion further improves perception by sharing sensor data between vehicles, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the environment beyond a single vehicle.
To achieve this, we are developing a multimodal fusion pipeline that processes raw sensor inputs, synchronizes data across modalities, and generates a final object list representing detected objects in the vehicle's surroundings. Our implementation utilizes high-performance computing hardware, classification techniques, and object detection algorithms. The V2V fusion pipeline will receive the local and incoming object lists, synchronize the object lists, and produce a final object list representing both vehicles’ environment. 

Abstract: The dual-monitoring system measures electrical activity and monitors heart-rate variability from the user in a non-intrusive, low-cost, and low-power manner. By detecting and monitoring brain
activity, markers for mental health problems can be identified and preemptive steps could be
taken by the user. Similarly, recording the heart-rate’s variability is a useful metric in determining
the health of the user’s cardiovascular system. By analyzing both streams of data, users are given a pathway to understand and take hold of their health, steering them towards a greater quality of life. Furthermore, the implementation and both systems are purposely designed with low-cost and power in mind, widening the accessibility of the user base.

Abstract: The NoGrid Handheld Communication System is a portable, peer-to-peer communication device designed for off-grid use. A 1-watt LoRa transceiver module enables fast, long-range, infrastructure-free digital wireless communication. Users interact with the device through a 38-key QWERTY keypad matrix and a full-color TFT-LCD module. A MicroSD Card slot is integrated to provide non-volatile storage. This is used to load and store device configurations, messages that have been sent and received, and system logs. A piezoelectric buzzer gives additional system feedback and message alerts. By integrating with a custom solar-powered power module, NoGrid communicators can be used for extended deployments without access to the grid. An STM32H7 microcontroller integrates each of these systems and implements custom drivers and kernel. Overall, the NoGrid system demonstrates a robust integration of custom hardware and firmware to give emergency crews, outdoor expeditions, hikers, campers, boaters, and even pilots a secure, peer-to-peer text messaging platform.

Abstract: My design will enlist touch sensors, recorded guitar tones and a digital to analog converter to mimic a guitar. It is intended for this design to function in real time just like a real guitar and will have a neck and body that will be 3-D printed. 6 copper pads will be placed in each fret to simulate the strings, and 6 very small lengths of string will be used on the body to sense the touch from the hand that would be used to strum. This design will be useful for people with special needs of many different sorts, people who don’t want to develop calluses on their finger tips or just about anyone who enjoys playing guitar.

Abstract: The winter beehive life detector is a battery powered, handheld device that uses a sensor array to take in data from a man-made beehive. Beekeepers lack fast, reliable ways to safely monitor the health of their beehives in wintertime, and the detector is meant to solve this. It can store sensor data in memory to allow the user to calibrate the detector for their specific beehives and displays detection results on an LCD for easy use.

Abstract: The project is a desktop MIDI keyboard controller with capacitive touch keys arranged in a grid pattern. The notes triggered by the keys are user configurable to allow for different note layouts.