X band Class-E amplifier design

Abstract only availableThe goal of this research is to design and implement an X band Class-E amplifier. This amplifier will be centered on an ideal switch but, specific characteristics of the chosen transistor will be taken into account. The steps taken that compose the design of this amplifier are as follows. The first step is to use standard equations, which describe the behavior of ideal Class-E amplifies, to solve for lumped element circuit parameters. Once ideal parameters have been found the next step is to simulate the ideal model adding in non-ideal transistor parameters and tuning circuit parameters to compensate for the non-ideal transistor. The lumped element circuit will then undergo a necessary impedance transformation stage to match the output of the amplifier to a standard 50 ohm load. The final step in this design process is to transform the lumped element circuit into a micro-strip equivalent circuit. After the design has been completed microwave simulation software will be used to verify the operation of the micro-strip circuit.College of Engineering Undergraduate Research Optio

Processing brainwaves for hand-free control of devices [abstract]

Abstract only availableWe have built a system to observe and analyze brainwaves for use in controlling devices such as wheelchairs and electronic prosthetics bypassing a need for the user to have use of their hands and/or other limbs. The system senses brain activity through traditional electrodes placed on the head. The signal is amplified as much as 1000 times by a circuit on a custom printed circuit board developed for this project and then processed in a programmable hardware device. Various electrode positions and analysis algorithms are tested for ease in controlling the driven device, which is the electric wheelchair in this presentation. Not only was there a need to design the amplification and analysis circuitry for this project, we also had to reverse engineer the wheelchair to determine how to best link the circuitry to the wheelchair. This work is also preliminary work to acquire data for a new sensory prosthetic project in the Electrical Engineering department