Kinisi: A Platform for Autonomizing Off-Road Vehicles

This project proposed a modular system that would autonomize off-road vehicles while retaining full manual operability. This MQP team designed and developed a Level 3 autonomous vehicle prototype using an SAE Baja vehicle outfitted with actuators and exteroceptive sensors. At the end of the project, the vehicle had a drive-by-wire system, could localize itself using sensors, generate a map of its surroundings, and plan a path to follow a desired trajectory. Given a map, the vehicle could traverse a series of obstacles in an enclosed environment. The long- term goal is to alter the software system to make it modular and operate in real-time, so the vehicle can autonomously navigate off-road terrain to rescue and aid a distressed individual

Project Modulus: A study of Student Carryalls at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

This six-month team project analyzed the items WPI students carry on a daily basis, their justification for doing so, and carry weight. We researched musculoskeletal hazards, as well as how specific items enable a student to complete specific tasks or maintain a preferred lifestyle. Student backpacks and bags were analyzed using focus groups, unstructured interviews and Everyday Carry photo documentation methods. Our findings can be used to reconsider and re-design backpacks based on a students major, gender and avocations