Research

Extreme Environments

Adaptable Structures

In-Space Manufacturing

Deployable Architecture

Space Debris Mitigation

Extreme Environments

AM Method for MXene Integration for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding

To develop a safer, scalable synthesis process for titanium carbide MXenes and demonstrate integration of MXenes into AM systems for advanced EMI shielding aerospace materials.

Researcher(s): Madison Hardiman

Above: Filament extrusion on a 3devo machine

Left: Overview of the MXene Filament Manufacturing Process

Displacement between computed Mach 10 and 6 streamsurfaces

Morphing concept configuration

A Variable Geometry Waverider for Mach 6-10

Develop a morphing hypersonic waverider vehicle concept that broadens the nominal design Mach number through cost-effective TPS and minimally obstructive Macrofiber Composite (MFC) actuators.

Researcher(s): Connor Dewey

CFD contour of waverider surface adiabatic wall temperature

Adaptable Structures

Adapted Leading Edge Enabled by Pneumatic Artificial Muscle Actuators

Develop a compact, lightweight morphing leading-edge fairing system capable of dynamically modulating surface geometry to actively control junction-flow structures around the wing–body interface.

Researcher(s): Aliya Zhagiparova

Fairing attached to wing with the PAM actuator inside (left) side view and (right) front view

Smoke visualization at 10 m/s for α = 15◦, baseline (0 Hz)

Smoke visualization at 10 m/s for α = 15◦, actuation at 10 Hz

Heatmap at 10 m/s for α = 15◦, between baseline (0 Hz) and actuation at 10 Hz

Actuation of increasingly complex truss structures, with greater working envelopes and outer mold options.

Project Chimaera

Project Chimaera aims to design and fabricate a tessellated tetrahedral truss structure capable of manipulating its geometry to produce localized deformation. When these deformations are combined together, they produce large movements. The objective of this project is to develop this framework into an adaptive system for various uses. We have begun testing and confirming the rigidity and dynamic movement of the structure. The group is currently working on training the structure through machine learning to allow for complete movement of the truss structure

Researcher(s): Eyan Meyer, Jackson Schuler

In-Space Manufacturing

Simulated Microgravity Using a Random Positioning Machine for In-Space Additive Manufacturing

This project focuses on developing a dual-axis Random Positioning Machine (RPM) to simulate microgravity conditions for in-space manufacturing (ISM) research.

Researcher(s): Miles Lettinga

Simulation of mean acceleration at the center of RPM

Model of final design concept

Deployable Architecture

Thick-Panel Origami Hinge Angle Verification

Moving from paper-thin origami to applied engineering options complicates angle-value relationships, and there are very few methods which are able to measure "real-world" values to compare to theory. This research effort seeks to not only create a generalized method for solving potential angle combinations through an advanced algorithm, but then apply it to a novel angle measurement process through embedded IMU's to error correct deployable structures, making them more rigorous for in-the-field applications.

Researcher(s): Jackson Schuler

Angular Rotation of origami patterns with 6 degrees of freedom

Quaternion Components of angle-value solutions tracing their own fold-pattern on a Projected 4-Dimensional Sphere

Quaternion-Based Angle Solver

This project investigates utilizing quaternion-based algebra to determine the angle relationships of multi-cell thick-panel origami structures. Quaternion-based formulations of loop closure principles are utilized to solve angular constraints governing origami panels. The goal is to develop a generalized, pattern-independent solver capable of determining real configurations for multi-cell thick panel structures and comparing their efficiency to their matrix-based counterparts. Our work supports the design of reconfigurable and morphing aerospace structures.

Researchers: Eric Rodarte, Jackson Schuler

Space Debris Mitigation

RIDDANCE: Removal of Irregular Debris using Double Assisted Nets with Controlled Enhancement

Project RIDDANCE aims to design and develop a compact, latch-based dual-net deployment mechanism for active space debris removal. The system uses two independently controlled nets to capture irregularly shaped debris, improving flexibility and reliability over traditional single-net capture designs. A key focus is the controlled enhancement of net deployment, ensuring reliable ensnarement and containment across a range of debris sizes and shapes. Through this work, the project seeks to advance safer, more effective solutions for mitigating space debris and supporting long-term orbital sustainability.

Researchers: Sahasra Boyapati, Chester See Yue Zhe

Net Capture Simulation

Demonstration of prototype EDS device repelling micro-scale particles, sped up x88.

Electrodynamic Dust Shield

The goal of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of manufacturing a two-phase/three-phase Electrodynamic Dust Shield (EDS) using an aerosol jet printing mechanism as well as the use of a coating to extend the lifespan of EDS systems in lunar environments. The system described will be a subcomponent to a hybrid dust mitigation system.

Researcher: Chester See Yue Zhe

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