BatLab: Automated Bat Species Identification Through Acoustic Analysis

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Rachel Rajamoney Computer Science Zach Campbell Computer Science Mati Davis Computer Science Riley Phan Computer Science Ally Schmidt Computer Science Stryder Schossberger Computer Science Elijah Yoo Computer Science
Advisor(s): Bingyang Wei Computer Science
Location: Basement, Table 12, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

The BatLab project aims to develop a machine learning based tool that assists researchers in identifying bat species from acoustic recordings. Bats rely on echolocation calls that vary in frequency, duration, and shape, allowing species to be distinguished through analysis of their recorded calls. Currently, researchers must manually review large volumes of acoustic recordings, which is a time consuming process that limits the scale of ecological studies. This project explores the use of supervised machine learning to automate the classification of bat echolocation calls using labeled training data. The system analyzes acoustic features within recorded calls and predicts the most likely species while flagging uncertain cases for further review. In addition, the project focuses on improving data organization and providing a user friendly interface that allows researchers to efficiently visualize and manage acoustic data. By reducing the manual workload involved in analyzing bat call recordings, the BatLab system aims to support ecological research and improve the efficiency of studying bat populations.

PostAgent

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Charley Reavley Computer Science Stephen Adeoye Computer Science Kayla Fruean Computer Science Ryan Jordan Computer Science Placide Ndayisenga Computer Science Alyssa Turenne Computer Science
Advisor(s): Dr. Ed Ipser Computer Science
Location: Third Floor, Table 8, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

This senior design project focuses on developing PostAgent, an AI-powered content creation platform created by Corevation, an innovations tech company. This product is aimed at helping businesses and entrepreneurs with creating and managing social media content more efficiently and allow marketing endeavors to be more manageable. Our team is building multiple features, including AI tools to regenerate and edit post text and images, an analytics dashboard for tracking social media performance, and a centralized content library for organization purposes and for users to upload custom content to the platform. We are also assisting in the overall UI/UX to ensure an intuitive user experience and developing a company website to support Corevation’s public presence. Together, these components demonstrate a full-stack approach to product development, blending AI capabilities with user-centered design.

iPELiNT: USPTO Forensics

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Adessa Segura Computer Science Jane Allinger Computer Science Dylan Caton Computer Science Eric Licea Tapia Computer Science Kasia Love Computer Science Dalton Plitt Computer Science
Advisor(s): Ed Ipser Computer Science
Location: Third Floor, Table 9, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

How would one classify an apple fruit versus an apple phone? Typically as a fruit and a technology device. However some modern systems for classifying patents are insufficent and would be unable to differentiate between the two and cluster both based on their containing the word ‘apple’. Our task with iPELiNT is to build upon solutions to better visualize how USPTO( United States Patent and Trademark Office) art unit’s change over time. An art unit is a group of USPTO examiners specializing in a specific technology area. Our end product helped establish a data-driven system for conducting forensic analysis of USPTO patent examiner dockets using vector embeddings and internal data pipelines. We used mongoDB for our database, JavaScript and Python for our backend, and NuxtJS and Vue for our frontend. Our 5 phases of development are as follows. 1. Data Aggregation and Preparation. 2. Centroid Calculation and Art Unit Profiling. 3. Deviation Analysis and Scoring 4. Visualization and interpretation Framework.

Examining the Role of Large Language Models in Modern Student Learning Environments

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Rahul Shrestha Computer Science
Advisor(s): Robin Chataut Computer Science
Location: Basement, Table 6, Position 2, 1:45-3:45

Artificial intelligence tools, especially large language models (LLMs) are progressively being integrated into educational settings as resources that can enhance student learning and offer novel methods for information retrieval. As these technologies advance, educators and researchers are increasingly focused in comprehending their impact on student learning and engagement with academic content. This study examines the potential role of AI-based systems in facilitating student learning by analyzing various ways employed by students to obtain and process information during study activities.
The study's participants are split up into four groups, each of which accesses learning resources in a different way. The first group relies on traditional text-based study resources. The second group uses general online resources to gather information. The third group is allowed to use AI-based tools powered by large language models to receive explanations and assistance. The fourth group uses a hybrid strategy that blends AI-supported tools with conventional study materials.
The performance and learning experiences of these groups are compared to evaluate how different resources influence students’ understanding of course concepts. The findings are expected to provide insight on whether AI technologies can successfully supplement conventional teaching methods. Understanding these effects help educators determine how to appropriately incorporate AI and LLM tools into classroom settings to improve learning while upholding efficient teaching methods.

Online Defensive Driving Schools

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Peter Vo Computer Science Landen Chambers Computer Science Ben Hartje Computer Science Beau Moody Computer Science Alondra Oropeza Computer Science Isabella Reyes Computer Science
Advisor(s): Edward Ipser Computer Science
Location: Basement, Table 3, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

The Driving Safety Certificate Management System is a web application designed to streamline
the administration of driving safety courses in Texas. Currently, instructors conduct classes
independently but rely on the licensed provider to process student information, retrieve driving
records, and issue course completion certificates, which can cause delays and create additional
administrative work. This system shifts those responsibilities directly to instructors by allowing
them to manage classes, enroll students, process student information, and generate certificates
through a centralized platform. By automating these processes, the system reduces manual
workload, improves efficiency, and enables faster certificate delivery for students. The
application also maintains oversight for administrators while ensuring that instructors can
operate more independently within the requirements set by the Texas Department of Licensing
and Regulation.

Droplet Size Analysis of Nebulizer Aerosols Using Microscopy and MATLAB

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): London Bachelet Engineering Gatlin Adams Engineering
Advisor(s): Robert Bittle Engineering
Location: FirstFloor, Table 5, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

This study analyzed droplet sizes generated by nebulizers by collecting aerosolized liquid on microscope test slides and processing microscope images with MATLAB to quantify droplet distributions. Measurements were compared to the target droplet size range required for effective nebulization, since droplets outside this range can reduce respiratory delivery efficiency. Results help evaluate nebulizer performance and ensure droplets meet specifications for optimal aerosol behavior.

A Sustainable Microgrid for a Community of 200 Homes in North Texas

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Paige Bakke Engineering Gemma O'Neill Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: SecondFloor, Table 2, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

This project explores the design of a grid independent community in Fort Worth with 200 houses using only solar and wind energy sources. Data for the project has been obtained from Dr. Michaelides, which includes excel spreadsheets and research to aid in finding optimal efficiencies in the design of buildings. The design will include energy production, usage, and storage. We are planning on using one small wind turbine with supplementary solar power; we will also be able to store excess energy. We will do calculations to determine how much energy needs to be stored and how large our solar panels need to be to sustain our community.

Zero Net Solar House in Fort Worth

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Charlotte Cattaneo Engineering London Bachelet Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios E. (Stathis) Michaelides Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 3, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

Solar net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) are energy-efficient structures that generate as much electricity on-site as they consume over one year. This project involves designing a net-zero solar home in Fort Worth, Texas, using well-insulated construction materials, optimized building orientation to maximize sunlight, and efficient heating and cooling equipment. The home’s energy demand is met primarily by electricity produced from a photovoltaic (PV) system, while space heating and cooling are provided by a ground source heat pump (GSHP). Energy calculations and modeling are performed to estimate annual electricity consumption, determine the required PV system size, and evaluate GSHP operation. Results indicate that the home can reach net-zero energy performance under typical climate conditions in Fort Worth. This project shows that combining on-site solar generation with energy-efficient design strategies can significantly reduce residential energy use and lower environmental impact.

Structural acoustic characterization of a tenor trombone

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): William Cunningham Engineering
Advisor(s): Hubert (Seth) Hall Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 14, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

An analysis of the sound-producing characteristics of a tenor trombone has been initiated at TCU. Focus of the effort will be on the model Conn 44H "Vocabell" tenor trombone due to its unique rimless bell. A numerical model of the instrument using Autodesk Inventor has been created. The model was then analyzed using COMSOL Multiphysics.

Key areas of focus include understanding the interaction between the instrument's structural vibrations and the sound radiated from the bell. The "Vocabell" design, known for its unique construction and acoustic qualities, will be critically examined to assess how its geometry and material properties influence sound production and associated frequency spectrum. Radiated sound and structural vibration measurements have been conducted on the physical instrument, providing data for model correlation and validation. Once validated, the numerical model will be used to explore more advanced concepts of brass instrument design.

Impact of Ultrasonic Transducer Arrangement on Cavitation

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Tan Dat Duong Engineering
Advisor(s): Hubert Hall Engineering
Location: SecondFloor, Table 7, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

Ultrasonic cavitation is a critical process in industrial cleaning and sonochemistry, yet its efficiency is frequently compromised by inconsistent energy distribution. This research investigates the complex inner workings of acoustic harmonics and their influence on the cavitation field within a contained tub. While traditional systems suffer from undesirable "hot spots" and "dead zones," this project systematically examines how transducer positioning and operating frequencies govern harmonic resonance and subsequent cavitation intensity. Utilizing a controlled test tub, empirical data will be gathered through standardized measurement techniques, including aluminum foil erosion, to visualize and map harmonic wave patterns. The primary objective is to quantify the relationship between these resonant frequencies and cavitation uniformity. The findings will yield actionable design principles for optimizing ultrasonic systems, advancing our understanding of harmonic behavior to improve process efficiency and consistency in precision engineering applications.

Engineering Design of a 20 MW Grid-Connected Solar Power Plant in Yuma, Arizona

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Henry Hartman Engineering Moses Hernandez Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 6, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

This paper discusses the design of a 20-MW photovoltaic solar power plant near Yuma, Arizona. It presents the requirements to create such a power plant by using the efficiency of a selected PV solar cell as a parameter to determine the cost and area requirements, along with capacity factor and expected average power output throughout the year. The meteorological data used includes wind speed, temperature, solar zenith angle, surface albedo, direct normal irradiance (DNI), diffuse horizontal irradiance (DHI), and global horizontal irradiance (GHI), collected at 30-minute intervals from 2018 to 2024 sourced from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB) at coordinates 32.08°N, 113.87°W. 

Prototyping a high flow nebulizer

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Daniel Hennessey Engineering
Advisor(s): Robert Bittle Engineering
Location: SecondFloor, Table 5, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

This project’s objective is to prototype a high-flow nebulizer that is capable of vaporizing 5 mL of medication in a 60 second treatment. After extensive research & testing of numerous existing nebulizers, we have chosen to develop two nebulizers. The first nebulizer uses vibration to push the medication through a tiny perforated mesh plate. The second nebulizer vibrates the medication directly as produces mist. These two systems are affectionately called the “mesh” & “ultrasonic” nebulizers; we are developing 2 independent prototypes for each of these methods.

80MW Wind Farm Design in Marfa TX

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Daniel Hennessey Engineering
Advisor(s): Stathis Michaelides Engineering
Location: FirstFloor, Table 11, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

This paper reports the design of an 80 MW Wind Farm in Marfa, TX. I have selected a group of the Siemens SWT-2.3-108 turbines for the moderate winds felt in Marfa (as compared to the Texas panhandle). A layout is developed to reduce wake losses and satisfy noise & environmental constraints. The point of interconnection for the farm is the ERCOT transmission system. Project economics are estimated from AEP, O&M, and federal tax incentives to gauge the electricity cost and overall viability.

A Net-Zero Energy Home in Fort Worth, TX

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Daniel Ingram Engineering Cameron Vieck Engineering Cameron Vieck Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 6, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

This project proposes the design and implementation of a net-zero energy home in Fort Worth, Texas, powered primarily through solar energy. The objective is to offset all annual household electricity consumption through on-site renewable generation. Based on average yearly usage, the average home requires approximately 13128 kWh of electricity per year. To meet the demands, the system incorporates a solar photovoltaic (PV) array sized to generate a sufficient amount of power to offset the full electricity usage per year, sending energy back to the grid when the amount generated exceeds the demand, and supplementing energy from the grid when the demand is higher than the supply. The design accounts for seasonal variation in solar irradiance typical of North Texas. This model demonstrates the feasibility of sustainable residential energy independence in the Fort Worth region.

80 MW Wind Energy Farm in Wyoming

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Lee Jacobs Engineering J.P. Van Dam Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 1, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

Abstract: This paper will detail the general design and operation of an 80-MW wind power plant in the high wind Carbon County of Southeast Wyoming. Using hourly wind data, the study will model wind profiles and perform parametric analyses of different design aspects. The research will discuss two possible configurations of 22 x 4 MW turbines or 30 x 3 MW turbines to determine the impact that an individual turbine’s capacity can have on design and energy production/efficiency. The study will focus on analyzing the Annual Energy Production and Capacity Factor based on height and spacing. The goal of this study is to design the better of the two configurations after analyzing them to determine which will provide a better energy output.

Net Zero House in Phoenix Arizona

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Monica Lopez Aguirre Engineering
Advisor(s): Stathis Michaelides Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 10, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

A net zero energy house is a residential dwelling that produces an amount of electric energy that is at least equivalent to the amount of electric energy it consumes. This report describes technology and methods applicable to the creation of a net zero electric energy consumption house in Phoenix, Arizona with a focus on energy from photovoltaic sources. Specifically, this report utilizes local environmental and energy usage data to prescribe an appropriately sized solar energy system combined with energy saving insulation practices to reduce power grid draw while maintaining modern conveniences.

Grid-Independent Solar Powered Golf Resort

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Cole Martinez Engineering Levi Meis Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 5, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

This project proposes the design of a self-sustaining, solar-powered golf course and resort
development in Fort Worth, Texas. The development will include an 18-hole course, a clubhouse,
and 40 villas (4 occupants per unit), all powered by an on-site photovoltaic solar farm integrated
with a battery energy storage system. Annual energy demand will be estimated using published
golf course energy data from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA
Phase II Energy Survey) and residential electricity consumption data for Texas. Total system
wattage (W), annual energy use (kWh/yr), peak demand (kW), and storage capacity (kWh) will
be calculated using standard methods from Energy, the Environment, and Sustainability. Data to
be collected includes the median annual golf course energy consumption, irrigation pumping
requirements, clubhouse loads, per-capita residential electricity use, average solar irradiance in
North Texas, photovoltaic module efficiency, system losses, and battery round-trip efficiency.
Water supply options will be evaluated using regional sources and potential on-site groundwater
or reclaimed water strategies, with associated pumping energy incorporated into total load
calculations. Primary calculations will determine the required photovoltaic capacity, the land
area for the solar farm, storage sizing for overnight and low-irradiance periods, and the overall
system efficiency. Anticipated results include demonstrating the technical feasibility of a
net-zero-energy golf course development in Fort Worth, estimating total installed capacity in
megawatts, and quantifying reductions in grid dependence and operational carbon emissions
compared to conventional golf course operation

ROS 2-Based LiDAR Robot for Autonomous Maze Navigation

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Miles Masker Engineering Cris Gamez Engineering Lorenzo Martinez Engineering Juan Moncada Engineering Angel Mota Engineering
Advisor(s): Morgan Kiani Engineering
Location: FirstFloor, Table 14, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

Task Timer

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Juan Moncada Engineering Charlotte Cattaneo Engineering Lance Lincoln Engineering Levi Meis Engineering David Nguyen Engineering Campbell Pushkin Engineering Alessandra Senis Engineering
Advisor(s): Robert Bittle Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 13, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

The TaskTimer project focuses on the development of an automated task management board designed to support individuals living with dementia and other memory-related conditions. People with dementia often benefit from consistent routines and clear visual reminders, but traditional task boards require manual resets and caregiver supervision. The TaskTimer addresses this challenge by providing an electronic system that displays daily tasks, allows users to easily mark them as complete, and automatically resets tasks at midnight. The system uses an embedded computing module connected to a display to present tasks in a clear and simple interface. When a task is completed, the next action moves into view, helping users stay focused on what needs to be done next. Tasks can also be scheduled to appear on specific days or exist for only one day, allowing routines to be tailored to individual needs. In addition, a caregiver application was developed to allow caregivers to remotely add or modify tasks, monitor whether tasks have been completed, and manage the user’s schedule. By combining an accessible task display with remote monitoring capabilities, the TaskTimer helps individuals with dementia maintain daily routines while reducing the level of supervision required from caregivers.

A 20 MW solar power plant in Ouarzazate, Morocco

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Dorcas Muhoza Kongwa Engineering Damilare Olukosi Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 4, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

Abstract

The development of large-scale photovoltaic systems in high-irradiance regions can significantly support the decarbonization of the electricity generation industry. This project presents the design of a 20-MW grid-connected photovoltaic power plant in Ouarzazate, Morocco. Hourly solar irradiance data from 2017 to 2019 were used to compute plane-of-array radiation and the resulting power output with a module nominal efficiency of 22%. The required panel area was determined from rated conditions, and the annual energy production was calculated by summing the hourly energy generation. Results indicate an annual electricity generation of approximately 55.9 GWh with inter-annual variation below 5%.

20 MW Thermal Biomass Plant in Southern Louisiana

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Chris Nesbit Engineering Stroud Rudolph Engineering
Advisor(s): Efstathios Michaelides Engineering
Location: SecondFloor, Table 6, Position 2, 1:45-3:45

This project presents a preliminary design for a 20 MW thermal biomass power plant in southern Louisiana. The proposed plant will use a blended biomass fuel stream based on regional availability, including rice hulls, bagasse, and switchgrass/wood chips (planned 30/30/40 mixture, with final basis and assumptions to be justified). The analysis will use standard thermodynamic notation and methods from class and the textbook.
A Rankine cycle model will be used to estimate the plant thermal energy requirement and determine the annual energy demand (MJ/yr) needed to maintain the target electrical output. Using lower heating value (LHV) data from biomass property tables, the study will then calculate the required annual biomass consumption (kg/yr), including the mass of each biomass type in the proposed blend. In addition to the energy balance, the project will evaluate biomass transportation logistics by estimating the number of truckloads required per year and the land area needed to support switchgrass production within the regional agricultural system.

TCU Engineering Senior Design: Structural Design of an Automated Parts Washer

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Gemma O'Neill Engineering Dylan Clark Engineering Cole Martinez Engineering Daniel Sandoval Engineering Ceu Thang Engineering
Advisor(s): Hubert Hall Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 2, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

This poster presents the structural design of the Automated Parts Washer (APW), a senior capstone sponsored by Mary Kay and developed by engineering students at Texas Christian University. The APW is designed to provide an automated ultrasonic cleaning solution for cosmetic manufacturing components such as nozzles, caps, and trays. All structural components of the system have been modeled in Autodesk Inventor to enable a fully integrated digital design environment that supports visualization, dimensional coordination, and verification of system layout prior to fabrication. The washer frame utilizes 80/20 aluminum structural members, selected for their strength, modularity, and ease of assembly. This material choice provides flexibility in frame configuration, allowing rapid design iteration and future modification while maintaining robust structural support for the fluid-filled wash tank, ultrasonic hardware, and plumbing systems. The resulting design balances structural integrity, manufacturability, and adaptability for prototype construction and testing.

A 10 MW Solar Power Plant West of Fort Worth

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Campbell Pushkin Engineering Anna Tucci Engineering
Advisor(s): Stathis Michaelides Engineering
Location: Third Floor, Table 10, Position 2, 1:45-3:45

This paper presents the design and electrical performance analysis of a 10-MW
grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power plant located west of Fort Worth, Texas, in a region selected for high solar irradiance, flat terrain, and transmission accessibility. Emphasis is placed on electrical system architecture, including module configuration,
DC string sizing, inverter selection, transformer integration, and interconnection with the utility grid. A single-axis tracking (panel pivoting) system is incorporated to maximize incident solar radiation and increase daily energy capture. Parametric studies
are performed on tilt angle, tracking strategy, module efficiency, and inverter performance to evaluate their influence on overall system output and electrical efficiency.

Advanced Development of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle for Hydrographic Surveys (Coté Cruiser 2.0)

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Skandha Rajnarayanan Engineering
Advisor(s): Stephen Weis Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 8, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

This project aims to retrofit and build on the first iteration of the Coté Cruiser, an autopiloted Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) originally developed for automated sonar surveys. It established the baseline for autonomous navigation and sonar data logging, but the second iteration will enhance the craft’s power, sonar system, and real-time diagnostic capabilities. These upgrades provide a significant use case for the project sponsor, Freese and Nichols Inc., particularly in San Antonio, where underwater structural surveys of the river could potentially save the city nearly $2 million in damage funds.

What The Shell Are They Doing: Monitoring Oyster Behavior Through Corresponding Water Conditions

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Skandha Rajnarayanan Engineering Dorcas Kongwa Engineering Jonah Morgan Engineering Anna Tucci Engineering
Advisor(s): Stephen Weis Engineering Mark Young Engineering
Location: Basement, Table 1, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

This project focuses on the development of a biological and environmental sensor network to monitor the health and feeding behavior of oysters. This system utilizes a specialized cage design to consolidate oysters and sensors into a single, high-precision monitoring hub. The system correlates oyster valve gape activity - specifically feeding duration and frequency - with real-time water quality parameters such as salinity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll-a. These upgrades provide a significant use case for the project sponsor, Freese and Nichols Inc., by establishing a scalable model for remote water quality monitoring that can be expanded across the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.