Projects Overview

Seven research projects on sensor networks and security infrastructure have been identified for this program, involving nine faculty members.

• Continuous Monitoring and Tracking Based on Smart Sensor Networks - Students will learn about the sensor networks, feature extraction, object segmentation and identification, and object tracking. In addition, they will independently complete a small project using the existing sensor network test bed and software platforms in the ISGRIN lab.
• Programmable System on Chip (PSoC) Based Wireless Smart Sensor Nodes - Students will:
  1. Become familiar with the principles and technology of PSoC and other similar state-of-the art technology products
  2. Build and demonstrate a prototype software defined or smart sensor system that acquires data, then using a communication system sends data to a host at high speed based on "intelligent" decisions
  3. Have the opportunity to get real world experience as they develop new and novel ways to utilize the PSoC device in sensor applications.
• Next Generation Sensor Networking with Interoperability - Students can work on the development of sensor nodes that will monitor a rocket engine test stand with control sensors and actuators. Each sensor node will be loaded with historical sensor/actuator readings. The playback circuit will be a good experience for the undergraduate students.
• Remote Operated Vehicle - Opportunities to Experience Design and Application Principles in Real World Industry Operations - Students will learn about the critical integration of technical, academic research and their application of attitude and skills necessary to develop useful and effective ROV equipment and operational software that can operate in "real world" situations. Students will follow the application of design and construction to experiential testing of concepts and applications with both their academic advisors and industry engineers and operators.
• Health Management System Using Wireless Sensor Networks - Students will have multiple opportunities be involved in the research. For example, they will be involved in digital interface design between the sensor and equipment, security issues and software applications that analyze the data.
• Biosensors and Biosecurity - Students will understand a logical progression of a life cycle of a typical biotechnology product, starting with isolation and characterization of microorganisms, use of a microorganism to produce a product, and an application of the product involving nanobiotechnolgy, and applications in environmental biotechnology, bioenergy and biosecurity.
• Design and Fabrication of a Low Power Wireless Transceiver for Piezoelectric Sensors - This project is very well suited for students interested in wireless telecommunications and remote data acquisition. The Smart Materials and Structures Laboratory has several graduate students, including two from Electrical and Computer Engineering, will give guidance to your design projects. In addition, a test bed with ten piezoelectric sensors is available to use.