Acoustic Testing of Generator/Alternator Fans

The intent of this project was to fill in a gap of the testing knowledge possessed for acoustics of an alternator within a generator set. The objective was to build a test fixture that would allow the user to test the acoustics of alternators without the driving force of an engine, which is a high acoustic source during testing. Eliminating the engine from the equation would allow for more accurate data of the product line, allowing for better utilization of acoustic tools when implementing sound source dampening. At the end of the project, it was found that the test fixture that was used gave useful data within certain frequencies, but will be needing modifications in order to allow for a larger range of frequencies to be more accurately measured

Flood-resilient waterfront development in New York City: bridging flood insurance, building codes, and flood zoning

Waterfronts are attractive areas for many—often competing—uses in New York City (NYC) and are seen as multifunctional locations for economic, environmental, and social activities on the interface between land and water. The NYC waterfront plays a crucial role as a first line of flood defense and in managing flood risk and protecting the city from future climate change and sea-level rise. The city of New York has embarked on a climate adaptation program (PlaNYC) outlining the policies needed to anticipate the impacts of climate change. As part of this policy, the Department of City Planning is currently preparing Vision 2020: New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan for the over 500 miles of NYC waterfront (NYC-DCP, 2011). An integral part of the vision is to improve resilience to climate change and sea-level rise. This study seeks to provide guidance for advancing the goals of NYC Vision 2020 by assessing how flood insurance, flood zoning, and building code policies can contribute to waterfront development that is more resilient to climate change

Flex-Fuel Prius

The project involved the modification of a 2006 Toyota Prius into a Flex-Fuel Hybrid Vehicle. Included within the presentation: testing procedures, available kits, E-85 information, fuel blending procedures, costs, fuel efficiency, emissions outcomes, drivability, performance, and final outcome. The team used the time and money donated to modify a Prius that will be able to use gasoline and E-85 in order to have cleaner emissions and to reduce the dependency on foreign oil. The vehicle was tested for emissions, fuel economy, and performance, including drivability. The results were then analyzed for advantages and disadvantages of the fuels used during the testing period with the Prius