Date of Award

2022

Degree Type

Capstone Project

First Advisor

Dr. Bahram Nassersharif

Abstract

An experimental, numerical, research and design investigation is conducted to formulate a nonlethal avian deterrent system for aquacultural applications. As the ocean is itself a dynamic system, so too must its passengers be. This ethos is carried throughout each stage of the design process described herewith. The true cost is outlined in time, energy, and dollars to account for every facet involved. The team driven decisions seek balance between the meticulous selection of materials favorable for their properties and design specifications prescribed by customer and sponsor requirements. Each members initial concepts are outlined and weighed by proven and practiced engineering analysis tools such as Pugh Charts, the QFD method, and simple arguments for and against. Through literature and patent searches the team investigates similar and previous attempts at solving related dilemmas. Once a concept is whittled from raw idea, the team designs the details. These components are then digitally drafted and tested numerically through finite element analytical tools (i.e., SolidWorks, Abaqus). Relying on previous work by mathematician Archimedes and local, modern scholars like Professor Rebecca Nelson Brown, the team performed further analysis on buoyancy, coverage area, and overall effectiveness.

Ultimately, the team has redesigned a conglomerative of early concepts to create a final design which is a fully adaptable, adroit platform mainly utilizing two green colored lasers aptly named “The Duck Star”. The applications of such a structure in multiple disciplines are not lost on the authors who wish to aid the scientific community in their work.

Comments

Team Name: Team 31, The Mighty Ducks

Sponsor: William M. Sullivan

Document Reference: URI-MCE-402-031-2022

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