UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Senior Design Showcase

Spring 2023

NEW FRONTIERS OF THERMAL TRANSPORT

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Senior Design Showcase

WELCOME FROM THE DEAN

Welcome to the Spring 2023 Senior Design Showcase! This event is the hallmark of the
UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science and it couldn’t be sustained without
your support. The teams you’ll engage with over the next few days have worked tirelessly
over the past year to bring their innovative ideas and creative solutions to fruition. They’ve
worked with faculty advisors to develop their ideas, listened to the needs of project
sponsors, and collaborated with fellow students to design, build and test prototypes. Now,
it’s time to showcase their hard work.

I’d like to thank everyone who helps to make this event possible, from the students to
the faculty advisors and team leaders who coach them. I appreciate the efforts of our
instructors, alumni and industry partners who volunteer their time to judge the projects,
as well as the college staff who bring this event to life twice a year. I’d also like to extend
a special thank you to our event sponsors, Leidos and Duke Energy, as well as our project
sponsors who help us make this event possible. I look forward to seeing what the bright
minds of CECS have created this semester.

Go Knights! Charge On!

Michael Georgiopoulos, Ph.D.

Dean, UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Interdisciplinary Projects......................................................................4

Computer Science...................................................................................8

Electrical and Computer Engineering.................................................15

Industrial Engineering and Management Systems............................19

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering............................................22

Materials Science and Engineering....................................................28

Alumni Engagement.............................................................................30

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Senior Design Showcase

Interdisciplinary Projects

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Interdisciplinary Projects
BEARMAX: A Robot for Social Emotional Learning Facilitation for Children with Autism
Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering
BEARMAX is a robotic companion that facilitates social-emotional learning for children with autism. The
primary function of the robot is to address sensory overload. BEARMAX detects heightened stress levels
and environmental triggers for sensory overload, then responds automatically with actions to soothe the
user such as a fist-bump or verbal instructions. Users can interact with and control their BEARMAX entirely
through a mobile app, and clinicians and guardians can review information through a website.

Boxing Buddy: Home Boxing Workout Station

Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
A home boxing training station with three workout options – force measurement, reaction time and
repetitive hits. A mobile application communicates with the main structure to determine which workout will
commence as well as what data to collect. The application displays the data from the workout as well as
previous workouts completed.

Convergent Solutions Consulting: Consistent Labeling to Enhance Machine Learning

Industrial Engineering, Data Science
Designed to improve trust, equity and precision within artificial intelligence and machine learning
performances that use labeled data. The goal of the project is to improve the consistency of labeling data.

D-MILE: Distance-Monitored Inkless Laser Engraver

Photonic Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering
Aims to create a laser printer that doesn’t rely on consumable products like toner or ink. Allows the user to
print on materials other than paper. Offers more options that general print solutions.

Efficient Tabletop Handling

Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
A handling method for tabletops that includes safety and quality measurements that will optimize the
process of picking, placing, loading and unloading tabletops in the Steelcase regional distribution center. The
handling system is able to handle at least 80% of the various tabletops to reduce labor costs, injuries and the
number of defects.

Electro-Optic Modulator Bias Controller Proof of Concept

Optics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering
Aims to improve radio communication by incorporating laser optical components to control the built-in
laser module. This allows signals to be read by the laser module which then is processed by the device’s
microcontroller. The end result allows the user to read and adjust for laser bias between sender and receiver
devices.

Laser Target-Shooting
Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Optics Engineering
Aims to bring the firing range experience to the home by creating a laser rifle and an electronic target
board. The target board will light up whenever the laser rifle is used to shoot at the target board. The target
and rifle system are connected through a smartphone app to play a variety of games and manage system
settings.

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Senior Design Showcase

Interdisciplinary Projects
Lensless Digital Holographic Miscroscopy
Photonics Science and Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering
A microscope that is smaller, lighter and more affordable than commonly used microscopes. By combining
electro-optical physics and technologies with computer software, the final product can image at a
250-micrometer level. Optical physics are used to digitally create a high-resolution image of the sample,
which will then be viewable across a smart phone or computer application.

Medidrone
Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering
Medidrone is a medical delivery drone designed to transport medical supplies, such as injections and first
aid, to areas affected by disaster.

Multiple Pet Feeders with Optical Recognition

Photonics Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering
A pet feeder that uses both optics and electronics to automatically feed the user’s pets whenever they are
not around. Includes a collar tag that will be worn by the owner’s pet. The pet food is dispensed based on
the LED light embedded inside the tag collars that are read by the camera. Owners are also able to remotely
control the feeder through a smartphone app.

Self-Playing Guitar
Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering
A fully autonomous robotic guitar that can use its motors to play any song that is inputted to the system.
Uses a custom algorithm running in Python on a microcontroller to take in music data and precisely time
the outputs of various servo motors to play the given song. Although the project’s main application is
for entertainment, it can also be used as a teaching instrument for both music and engineering design
principles.

Self-Sustaining Hydroponic Greenhouse

Photonic Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering
Provides food in the form of plants using as little human interaction as possible. Collects rainwater, filters it
and sends it to the plants using pumps. Sensors provide data about the subsystems to the microcontroller,
which then analyzes said data and controls the pumps and water movement as a result. The whole system is
powered by solar panels. Can grow at least 30 plants per system.

Student Rocket Launch Initiative

Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering
Gold Team, Black Team, Silver Team, Green Team, Blue Team (See Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering)
A Return to Launch Site high-powered rocket that proves RTLS efforts can be done on a smaller scale with
accuracy and accessibility. Rocket can ascend to 3,000 feet and land close to target.

SynGro
Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science
A 3D-generated synthetic environment using data obtained from a LiDAR sensor. Includes a payload capable
of capturing the data that can be configured into the synthetic environment. The payload includes a sensor
package that can scan real-world environments and process this data with sensor fusion algorithms to create
a virtual 3D map that is close to the real world.

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Interdisciplinary Projects
Visual Navigation Drone
Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Photonics Science and Engineering
Aims to provide automated image detection as well as flight navigation to make tasks such as object
detection easier and more efficient. This drone has the capability to be programmed to automatically
take off, hover and land while detecting objects and navigating in a pre-determined course using machine
learning. It is also equipped with LiDAR sensors to prevent collisions and allow the drone to navigate an area
safely.

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Senior Design Showcase

Computer Science

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Computer Science
2+ Community: Pipeline to Better Placemaking
Improves testing and information analysis for the measurement of place in augmented reality, virtual reality,
digital engagement, design and building construction. The data gathered can be used to effectively and
efficiently carry out the future development of communities.

Accelerating Topology Optimization with Machine Learning

Reduces the amount of time required to perform topology optimization with the aid of machine learning.
Replaces parts of the optimization process via a machine learning model, or other quick shortcuts, reducing
the overall time required to generate a part.

Advanced Autonomy
Demonstrates that deep reinforcement learning can be used to train a drone to operate autonomously in
a fast and efficient manner. Uses Microsoft AirSim and Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a modern, feature-rich
simulation environment for drone training.

AlgoQuant: Retail Friendly Algorithmic Trading

Aims to make algorithmic trading more available to retail investors. Includes a web and mobile app that
allows user to easily configure and allocate money to automated investors that use statistical analysis and
machine learning models to make intelligent trading decisions. Users can also back-test their configured
investors to gain insight on how their trades may have performed in the past using historical data.

AnimELLE Crossing
A creative open world game that invites students to learn languages by interacting with characters and
objects to complete objectives. This is different from other language learning games as it aims to make the
process fun and immersive by providing different mini games to help players along the way.

Augmented Reality Medical Education Guided Tour

An augmented reality tour of the medical education department at UCF. The tour runs on the HoloLens 2,
which is a mixed reality headset. The app recognizes tour stops and displays the associated information to
the user. The contents of a tour stop include 2D articles and videos, hologram recordings of faculty members
and interactive 3D objects.

aVRage Paths: Virtual Reality Researcher Toolkit

Provides a highly versatile toolkit for virtual reality that can be used as is or specially customized using a
modular system design. Creates a randomized yet statistically controllable environment for researchers to
generate concrete data. Researchers are then equipped with an interactive dashboard that gives them an
overview of user studies.

Bar Butler: Inventory Management Software

An inventory management system that allows for convenient tracking of products and individual
components. The goal is to streamline the product development process and enable efficient and effective
work. It also allows for better quality control and easier shipment tracking.

bePlayFuel: Smartwatch Sensor Logging Feature for Application

An additional feature for the existing bePlayFuel application, which allows users to connect their smartwatch
to record and log their activity simultaneously. This product is for athletes, specifically water skiers, that
would like a way to measure their performance within a sport and see how they can improve it.

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Senior Design Showcase

Computer Science
BrainBeats: Version 4
A web application built for converting electroencephalogram into Musical Instrument Digital Interface files,
which can be converted to generic audio files. Audio files created by users can then be uploaded, edited,
shared and downloaded on BrainBeats’ web platform with a BrainBeats user account.

Cardiac Virtual Reality App

A better learning environment for simulating a human heart and interacting with it. The virtual reality app
includes an interactive heart model, flashcards, case quizzes and additional heart-related information. To use
it, a medical student will launch the Cardiac VR app from a Quest 2 headset, log in and proceed to interact
with the provided study tools. Participation data is relayed to instructors via a database.

cARdiac-AR 2.0: Augmented Reality App of Cardiac Disorders

An interactive, educational mixed-reality tool that displays a high-quality 3D model of the human heart.
Makes it easier for students to conceptualize the material covered in class and see how different cardiac
disorders affect heart rhythm. Students are able to interact with a realistic heart model and test their
knowledge using flashcards and a quiz component.

Cloak: Man-in-the-Middle Observer

A system used to capture packets going to and from a specific end user’s computer. It can be used by
system administrators, privacy researchers and penetration testers to monitor device usage or gain a
foothold in a corporate network. It collects all data from a specified host device and transmits it to local or
cloud-based infrastructure to be analyzed.

Composition Today: Version 2

Reboots the original Composition Today website, which once served as an online hub for musicians to
connect and explore opportunities. This new website allows musicians to view open opportunities, making it
the first website to display all opportunity types in one place. Additionally, unlike the original site where one
person manually posted all opportunities, our website allows users to easily create posts themselves.

Conductor Evaluation Through Motion Capture

An application for conductors to accurately track and analyze their performance. Provides useful feedback
and analytics. The performance is analyzed with pose estimation and is attached to a 3D model.

Dr. Hemo’s Lesser Escape: College of Medicine VR Escape Room

Aims to convert the UCF College of Medicine’s 2D browser-based medical escape room game to a 3D
interactive escape room. The virtual reality application tests students’ medical diagnosis knowledge in order
to solve various puzzles and complete the escape room. The application tracks various statistics including
completion time, responses to puzzle questions and hints used. The statistics collected are stored in a
database so instructors can review them.

DroneVQA: Visual Inspection and Deep Learning

This simulation-based proof-of-concept deploys open-source, visual question-answering artificial intelligence
models on the camera feed of simulated drones to perform visual inspection of simulated environments.
The real-world applications of this technology are limitless, enabling autonomous complex surveillance,
environmental monitoring, situational-analysis, self-inspection and maintenance support.

Growth+: Math for Africa

A mobile application that empowers parents to provide their children with fundamental math skills.
Targets numeracy, the ability to understand and use fundamental math skills, in Africa. While a few
educational apps have been developed in East Africa, our app is the first to primarily target numeracy in
Central and West Africa.

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Computer Science
Heterogeneous Swarm Formation for Search and Rescue in Forests
A drone swarm that can coordinate a search and rescue operation for a lost person in a forest. The swarm
can navigate a large area, identify the lost person and use collision avoidance to avoid danger. The project
is intended to be used by law enforcement for locating missing persons and criminal suspects who have
ventured deep within the natural landscape.

Human Friendly Java Compiler

Aims to make the output of the Java compiler significantly more informative and helpful. Adds more context
to errors to show the reason why an error occurred and shows additional information in the text by adding
structure sections to errors.

IAGO: Interactive Arbitration Guide Online

Simulates a negotiation through emotions. The system pairs a user up with a unique artificial intelligence
agent from a library and asks them to come to a decision on an issue. The project aims to supplement
training in some spaces where negotiation with opinionated individuals is common.

Illuminate: Image Relighting

Through machine learning, neural networks and normal mapping, this app can analyze and understand
photos. It can generate a detailed 3D model of the image, allowing users to make adjustments to the lighting
in a realistic and natural way. Users can add multiple light sources, change the lighting from different angles
and with different colors and intensities. This allows users to easily enhance their photos and achieve the
best lighting, all within the convenience of a mobile application.

Journey Map
A mobile application that creates a map of the places a user has been using GPS data, while displaying
photos or videos taken on their journey. This application is a fun way for all lovers of the outdoors to re-
experience their activities, such as hiking, running, scuba diving and more.

KnightVisor: Advising Chatbot

The KnightVisor chatbot answers academic advising questions for students, and allows undergraduate
coordinators and faculty members in the computer science department to receive less emails about the
same question multiple times a day. The chatbot allows students to get all of their questions answered and
provides a user-friendly faculty page for members to add, edit or remove questions that the chatbot can
answer.

Mangrove
An open-source sound analysis tool that provides analysis and data sharing for researchers and hobbyists.
Similar software exists, but none are open source.

Microtonal Music
A synthesizer that inherently supports microtonal scalings. Generates the frequencies of every note based on
criteria given by the user and allows the user to map these notes to keys. The ease of access and informative
user interface allows anyone to quickly start creating their own microtonal scales, since the application is
hosted on the web rather than installed.

MovieMentor: App for Movie Content Warnings

A system that allows users to search for a movie, see a summary of the plot as well as a list of sensitive
topics and when they occur in the film. Users can filter out content sensitivities to reduce trauma and find
movies better suited for them. This system pulls film information from The Movie Database and content
warnings are user-populated with safeguards in place to remove incorrect entries.

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Senior Design Showcase

Computer Science
Multi-Modal Orientation for Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals in Virtual Reality
Aims to solve the lack of accessibility in virtual reality for those who are blind and visually impaired. Provides
a set of orientation tools and a testing environment to use them. Runs an application that loads the user into
a virtual reality environment. From there, they use the orientation tools that mainly rely on their sense of
hearing and touch to reach the end of the simulation.

Persistent Memory Object Benchmarking

Converts benchmarking programs designed for old memory systems to use persistent memory objects. By
converting existing benchmarking programs, this project provides side-by-side equivalent tests to better
understand and evaluate persistent memory object technology in comparison with other memory systems.

Photovoltaic Module Analysis with Machine Learning

Automates fault detection in solar panels through machine-learning algorithms. Contributes to an automated
framework to find degradation trends in photovoltaic modules and helps the solar energy industry improve
solar panel durability.

Polyamanita
A mobile app that encourages people to connect with nature via the activity of mushroom hunting. The
machine learning model analyzes images that users take to identify a potential find. Users then have
the ability to read and learn more about their recent capture through the journal. The location of each
mushroom that has been captured is documented so that future users can easily find them.

QRDocent
A QR code tagging service that is provided to museum facilities. The goal is to replace physical brochures
and placards with a digitized version of each exhibit. There are two components to the application – the
administrator dashboard and the mobile app. Museum administrators create their exhibit content on the
dashboard, where a QR code is autogenerated and tethered to that given exhibit. Users of the mobile app
can scan the QR code and view the exhibit content on their device, even when they are not in a museum.

RealityFlow: Version 4
Black Team, Gold Team
An immersive development environment that lowers the entrance barrier for rapid prototyping by utilizing
a visual scripting whiteboard. Users can create and test the virtual reality environments they design without
having to remove their headsets, which makes for smoother prototyping. Includes a website and mobile
application for project management and discovery.

Regolith Advanced Surface Systems Operational Robot Transportation

Solves the problem of transporting a payload using several multipurpose rovers working in collaboration,
avoiding the need for specialized robots. Uses a multi-robot system to manage the rovers and position them
in formations to transport payloads.

Roomfin
A platform to help out-of-state and international students find roommates. Allows students to create profiles
that are used to match them to potential roommates. Includes an integrated chat so users won’t have to give
personal information to strangers, and a listing section for those who have space to rent.

SafeMed: Mitigating Medication Errors via AI-Empowered Augmented Reality

Aims to serve as a second set of eyes for nurses as they measure doses of intravenous medication in a
syringe. A mobile computer vision application that uses a device’s camera feed to identify a syringe, identify
the location of the plunger within the syringe, read the max dosage, count the relevant lines and combine
these elements to calculate the volume of medication present.

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Computer Science
SeeShells: Shellbags for Digital Forensics
SeeShells is a digital forensics tool that allows the user to view events that occurred on a computer, such as
opening a file or installing a program. This tool is useful for investigators as it allows them to find evidence of
digital crimes without needing to manually traverse through the registry.

Senior Design Scheduler

A website and mobile app meant for use by the students and professors in Senior Design. Through the
scheduler, students can schedule meetings with professors, who can post their availability. Students can
select and vote upon a meeting time to present their design project.

Shopping Stories: Historical Ledger Analysis and Graphing

Enables visualization and research on the historical ledger data of John Glassford and Company. Takes
human-transcribed spreadsheets of ledger entries and parses the entry text to be searchable, downloadable
and graphable. Historians looking into the history of early American colonies can use this project to glean
greater insights into the makeup of society at that time.

Siemens Analog Gauges

Explores the feasibility of gauge identification and reading using automated computation vision methods.
A prototype system with the aim of automatically identifying gauges within a camera frame, reading their
indicated values and storing them on a database system that meets the needs of individual power plant
sites. This archived data is stored in a form that allows outside systems to perform data and statistical
analysis.

Simulation Exploration Experience: Base Operations

A collaborative program project with the purpose of simulating missions on the moon 25 years in the
future. Implemented systems and components are based upon those in the NASA Artemis plan. Includes a
simulation of a potential base and related components on the lunar surface. Simulations will be presented at
the annual Sim Smackdown.

Simulation Exploration Experience: Moon and Mars

Simulates an accurate and realistic space environment for the NASA Artemis program. Established solar
panel and reflector model interactions on the lunar surface. Solar energy is unique in the scope of this
project as it has been known to be a challenging obstacle for NASA to implement.

Social Rock Climbing

A mobile application built for the UCF rock climbing tower. It allows users to view and log climbing routes, as
well as post and interact with friends and other users of the app. Users can compete on a social leaderboard
by climbing routes and logging them in the app. Includes a website for employees to create routes, manage
user permissions and moderate content.

Sudokuru: Sudoku Mentoring Platform

A comprehensive platform designed to teach users all the fundamental strategies of sudoku. Aims to
make sudoku accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level. With an easy-to-use interface and interactive
tutorials, the app guides users through various solving techniques.

SWIM: Simple Web Interface for Assembly Languages

A browser-based development environment for the assembly language MIPS64. Includes modern features
such as syntax highlighting and error recognition that emulates a subset of language instructions. Also
includes a visual data path that can demonstrate how a small subset of basic instructions travel through a
basic central processing unit.

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Senior Design Showcase

Computer Science
Synesthize: Color Depiction of Music
An application that converts microphone input into a displayed color, depending on the note that was
played. It can be used by chromesthetes to show their note-to-color sensory experiences or by musicians to
enliven a performance.

Total Refrigeration Gaskets: Order Management System

Replaces the existing order management software with a new product that can facilitate operations. New
order management system is a dynamic web application that uses languages, libraries and technologies that
are widely used and have long-term support.

Total Refrigeration Gaskets: Shipping System

A shipping system that validates order addresses, returns shipment quotes and generates labels for orders.
Uses fairly recent technologies with extensive documentation that provide substantial support for future
developers. Can be integrated with multiple shipping carriers such as UPS, USPS and FedEx.

Trill: A Social Network for Music Lovers

Aims to solve the problem of navigating the overwhelming amount of music available on various streaming
platforms. Allows users to find new and exciting music that suits individual tastes. It provides a platform for
users to connect with others who share similar music interests and to share recommendations.

Tunnelight
A cloud-based software with two distinct applications that serves as a vital hub to connect homeless
individuals with the resources they need. Provides valuable insights to service providers. Homeless
individuals can access the software through self-service kiosks located in high-density urban areas,
while service providers can access it on their computers. The kiosk asks a series of intake questions and
recommends government and community resources based on their answers. With this data, service
providers can create events that are tailored to the needs of homeless individuals.

U.S. Space Force: Survey System

Improves the current evaluation system used by the USSF by providing a platform for individuals to
participate in required evaluations, view real-time information about how they are being evaluated and allow
higher-ranking individuals to maintain who they are supervising.

VirtuELLE Mentor
Provides a unity card game, website and server migration for the ELLE platform. Includes the design of
virtual mentors into the card game, a revamp of the existing website and a successful transition of the server
infrastructure.

We-Tinerary: Collaborative Trip Planner

A trip-planning application that caters to individuals or groups desiring a convenient experience when going
on trips. Offers a customizable framework of different dashboards and widgets that give structure to each
group’s planning needs. When users log in and view their trip dashboard, they can quickly see upcoming
events, other participants, and even view or download all of the photos and videos that have been taken
during the trip.

Workout Buddy: Social Workout Planner Mobile App

A mobile application for workout completion, scheduling and planning. Allows users to add friends and share
workouts to provide a close community of users who look to push each other toward their goals. Includes a
discover page dedicated to information that may be difficult to approach for new users. This includes a large
number of exercises paired with descriptions and templates of possible workouts.

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Electrical and
Computer
Engineering

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Senior Design Showcase

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Automated Pool Maintenance Assistant
Automates the task of adding chemicals to a swimming pool. Measures the chemical quantities of the pool
water, calculates the correct amount of chemicals to add and dispenses the chemicals accordingly. It’s
portable, easy to use and requires minimal human intervention.

Bass Guitar Amplifier

An affordable bass amp header with multiple outputs such as a headphone jack, a speaker output and
bluetooth output. Pedals and effects are implemented in the amp head.

Battery-Powered Solar Induction Grill

A testbed for a battery-compatible cooking implement that allows consumers with installed battery-
independent electricity systems to use their existing infrastructure to make food without relying on gas or a
standard 220V main line. It uses DC power, charged via solar panels, to heat a pan or cooking surface using
induction heating, making it more efficient and less power-hungry than other cooking appliances.

Cerberus: Self-Propelled Robotic Vehicle

A robotic car that is capable of navigating an environment using only voice commands. Can avoid obstacles
in its path, and is able to use object recognition to properly find an object that is specified by the user.
Possible applications could be a household/grocery robot that is able to fetch items, or a security robot that
could identify intruders within a home.

DOLL-E: Automatic Following Platform Dolly

DOLL-E offers an innovative solution for those burdened with carrying items by following its user on foot,
wherever their journey takes them. Ideal for individuals seeking a hands-free transportation experience,
DOLL-E is especially beneficial for those with disabilities.

Drone X: Drone Detection Device

A drone detection system that alerts users when a drone has entered a predesignated airspace. This can
be used for events such as concerts or sporting events where drone incursions could be dangerous to the
performers and viewers in attendance.

FARM: Farming Assistant Robotic Machine

An agricultural small ground vehicle that can drive across soil and plant seeds. Works with the use of
commands being sent to the computer of the agricultural vehicle. Can drive over certain areas, drill a hole,
plant a seed, water the seed and go past the hole with plating to push dirt over the hole. This can be used by
small farm owners and gardeners who need minimal amount of equipment to plant seeds.

FP&L Lower Body Exoskeleton

A lower body exoskeleton that will help linemen perform physically demanding tasks. The exoskeleton can
provide support to the legs and hips, reduce the load on the back and legs, and make it easier for linemen to
perform their tasks. The motors built in will help linemen ascend and descend utility poles.

Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave Radar Module

Allows users to monitor activity in dynamic environments by providing real-time velocity and range readings.
This portable device can be used for a variety of applications, including environmental science, traffic
control, and building surveillance.

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Electrical and Computer Engineering

FRGB Instruments
A device that receives signal inputs from an instrument and then converts the input to data that can be
processed and used to create desired outputs. The outputs are then sent to other electronics like an LCD
screen and LED strips. The LCD screen is the user’s form of communication with the device and the LED
strips’ outputs correspond to the signals sent.

GARDENIRS: Garden Automated Rain/Daylight Executed by NIR Sensing

A microcontroller that reacts to sensor data to water a plant bed. The ultimate novelty is that all of the
sensing is done through spectroscopy. This eliminates deterioration due to contact with highly acidic and
wet environments and expands the data points that can be collected.

Galahad: Smart Tag

A device that will be able to find any object the user attaches to. The finder is simple in design and has a
small footprint for the most user accessibility. The finder features work with an iPhone app as a receiver.

HyGrower: Indoor Plant Hydroponic System

Simplifies indoor gardening by automating plant care. Provides light, nutrients and an optimal climate as well
as an app that users can employ to track data and control the unit. The system is intended for indoor plant
hobbyists or collectors who sell plants.

Infrared Vibration LED Drum and Metronome

Provides a cheaper solution for stage lighting effects for musicians and improves the stage presence of
drummers. This device has an array of LEDs and IR sensors that will be fitted in the drum. The infrared
sensors detect vibrations when the drum is struck, sending a signal to the microcontroller that causes the
LEDs to flash. The user can alter how and when the LEDs flash and their preferences are shown on an LCD
display.

Intelligent Input and Output Module

An intelligent input and output device for Alcorn McBride’s paging and show control products. The software
flexibility of the device allows for integration with show controller-embedded devices that already exist, as
well as future integration with next-generation paging products.

LiDAR Navigation Robot

A household assistant robot that can follow a user through their home. The robot uses LiDAR technology
to track itself through a 3D simulation of the user’s home. Moves around with a motor system while using a
camera to detect objects. Takes commands from the user through microphone inputs and displays responses
on its screen.

Monophonic Hybrid Analog/Digital Synthesizer

Allows users to create different types of sound and manipulate them in different ways. Intended for audio
engineers, audiophiles, DJs, artists, and the television, film and game industries.

MUSE: Musical Utility for Self-Education

A beginner-friendly device that educates users on several concepts they encounter in their music production
journey. The user sings or plays into a microphone, MUSE will decipher the note heard from the user and
display chords that can harmonize with the note deciphered. MUSE is unique in its ability to educate the user
behind the music theory concepts that a device such as a chromatic tuner or digital mixer fails to explain.

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Senior Design Showcase

Electrical and Computer Engineering

PEDAL: Phone Energizing Device and Lights Bike
Aims to provide a way for bikers to charge their devices on the go. The various sensors provide information
on temperature, speed, voltage and time to give the user accurate readings that can improve the experience.
The intended users are bikers who hike, deliver or just ride casually.

Programmable Trackpad
A peripheral device for consumer PCs that behaves like a laptop trackpad rather than a mouse. Includes
programmable function keys that can be configured by the user through a software interface, allowing
the user to customize their experience. The device interfaces with the PC via USB or Bluetooth. The USB
connection also allows the device to charge its battery.

SCRATCH: A Billiards Training System

A billiards training system that can be used by the visually impaired. Uses an array of sensors and a speaker
to guide the user to safely and correctly take aim at the ball via audio commands. Can also be used by all
billiards players to improve performance. In normal mode, the system provides pre- and post-shot guidance
and feedback on a wearable HUD display, which includes shot power and point of impact with the ball.

SMART Garden
The SMART Garden is an automated indoor gardening system that can sustain plants. Pulls data for the
specified plant and monitors the on-board sensors to create and maintain ideal conditions for the plant.
Automatically waters and feeds nutrients based on a predetermined ideal amount, which is in the database.
The user has the option to use this with an integrated web app that provides stats on the plant.

Study Buddy: Timed Multi-Factor Storage Locker

A three-compartment locker that can hold items such as smartphones, laptops and game controllers. Can
be locked with a timer or multiple configurable unlocking methods such as a keypad, fingerprint scanner
and radio frequency identification reader. This device is intended for parents of younger children, or for high
school and college students who need a barrier from distractions.

ThinkNav: Target Acquiring and Tracking Drone

An autonomous drone that utilizes machine learning and an object detection model to detect a vehicle
and track it through a mounted camera. The drone also emits light and sound in order to be more easily
followable and trackable. Could be used by police.

Vest-Free Laser Tag and Texas Star

An at-home laser tag system and shooting range. Blaster shares features with products already on the
market. Includes a simulated Texas Star experience to give users an enjoyable and authentic-feeling
experience.

VISION: Visually Impaired Spatially Interactive Orientation Network

Uses computer vision to find pool balls, artificial intelligence to determine the best shot to take, Bluetooth
beacons to locate the user in a room, and speakers to guide a visually impaired pool player around the pool
table. VISION is one part of a two-part project that enables visually impaired individuals to be able to play a
game of pool.

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Industrial
Engineering and
Management
Systems

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Senior Design Showcase

Industrial Engineering
Blue Origin: Sub-Assembly Facility Layout
Blue Origin’s Orbital Launch Site in Cape Canaveral lacks a manufacturing facility layout that allows them to
produce mission-critical sub-assemblies in a timely and cost-effective manner. This project uses simulation
and modeling software to provide data-driven layout recommendations that will improve the current state of
the facility and allow the Orbital Launch Site to meet its production needs.

Blue Origin: Barrel Panel Continuous Improvement

The goal of this project is to improve a subassembly process at the Blue Origin Merritt Island facility. This
project uses Lean Tools and the DMAIC quality improvement cycle to target cycle times, production costs,
worker safety and throughput. The data and metrics generated could provide Blue Origin with a blueprint to
improve all subassemblies.

Coca-Cola: Printer Downtime Reduction

Aims to reduce the downtime of Coca-Cola’s label printing and applying processes. This project breaks
down the current process to reduce waste and improve the overall efficiency of the process.

Facility Process and Layout Optimization: Using Quality Methods to Improve Production
Applies various methods to identify areas of waste, inefficiencies in material handling, and flows in the
production cycle for Contec. Includes a high-level value stream map that evaluates processes at every stage
throughout the facility. The goal is to create a new recommendation on processes and an optimal facility
layout design that can be used by our client to reduce labor and material handling costs.

Galactic Getaways: Engineering the Ultimate Cargo Pod

Provides data and a 3D optimization algorithm that the U.S. Space Force can use to properly pack their
disaster relief cargo pods. Data will show what is required, how much is required to meet population
demands and how to pack the cargo shipments.

LabelWise: Streamlining Materials Labeling System

Improves the shipment labeling template and enhances the inventory tracking process by establishing clear
stages within the shipment workflow. Aims to streamline the flow of material and to make inventory tracking
more accurate.

PepsiCo: Warehouse Optimization and Utilization

Solves the problem of improper space utilization within the PepsiCo warehouse. Reduces unused space and
allows for better product management.

PepsiCo: Pallets Network Flow

Aims to solve the problems that arise with the limited yard space issue at the PepsiCo South Division Main
Plant. The goal is to implement an optimized layout that eliminates the risks of unsafe travel for delivery
trucks, and increases the value and organization of other sources of storage and allocation of necessary
materials.

U.S. Space Force: Rocket Cargo Ground Processing Operations

This project provides visualization and data that can assist the U.S. Space Force as it develops cargo pods
that can be launched in rockets and sent around the world to deliver emergency relief. Uses a simulation
software to provide visual representations of ground processing operations, time data and a more detailed
process to pack the cargo pods.

U.S. Space Force: Rocket Cargo Depot Simulation

Delivers an accurate and validated model of the requisition process as well as a detailed model of the future-
state depot operations for the U.S. Space Force Rocket Cargo Vanguard Program.

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Industrial Engineering
Universal Great Movie Escape Optimization
Improves business analytics and optimizes the guest experience inside of Universal’s Great Movie Escape for
Universal Orlando Resort. Applies a data-driven approach to identify areas for optimization and proceeds to
implement strategies based on our results to enhance the guest experience.

Vanguard Program: Emergency Logistics Network

Provides a simulation of the delivery network, which is one of the logistics network’s responsibilities, for
the U.S. Space Force Vanguard Program. The tools provided will optimize the USSF’s capability to provide
supplies in an emergency response.

Warehouse Consultants: FritoLay Warehouse

This project aims to improve the operational workflow of the FritoLay warehouse distribution facility through
the use of Lean Six Sigma methodology. The goal is to reduce motion waste and improve customer order
picking. The work could result in increased profits, increased utilization of warehouse workers and an
improved customer experience.

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Senior Design Showcase

Mechanical and
Aerospace
Engineering

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

AIAA Design Build Fly

This team represents the UCF student chapter of AIAA in the Design Build Fly Competition. The unmanned
aerial vehicle must be capable of sustaining flight around a track in a timely manner both with and without
a payload; it must also be capable of flying with a variable length antenna attached to the outer tip of the
wing; and pass a ground-based structural integrity test. The end product is a UAV that serves to remove
soldiers from hazardous zones in the battlefield while also collecting valuable wartime data.

ASHRAE Design Competition: HVAC System Selection

Black Team, Gold Team
Provides HVAC system designs for the ASHRAE Design Competition, which challenges teams to create
three heating and cooling systems for a building in Cairo. The team built a model of the building with virtual
software to obtain a heating and cooling load that will be required by the building for optimal use. These
calculations allow the team to mold different HVAC systems made up of different technologies or fits that
each offer a specific benefit, and to pick the overall best fit for the building.

Autonomous Golf Ball Launcher

Silver Team, Black Team, Gold Team
An autonomous projectile launch competition that shoots a golf ball at three traffic cones ranging from 25
yards to 100 yards from the baseline. Launchers utilize pressurized air as its mechanism of launching.

Baja Front Differential

Provides a design for a custom front differential that can be used for the UCF Baja SAE car that will race in
the 2023 Baja SAE competition, as well as lay the foundation for future teams to develop iterations to the
differential to suit their own needs.

Bench Top Heat Exchanger

Black Team, Gold Team
A platform to test heat exchangers for undergraduate educational purposes. The objective is to design a
system that supplies accurate and meaningful data relating to heat exchanger performance for analysis by
undergraduate engineering students as part of the energy systems laboratory course work. Systems are
designed to be cheaper and fit in a smaller space.

Benchtop Solar Photovoltaic Panel

Offers a design for a benchtop solar photovoltaic power generation experiment for undergraduate
laboratories. This compact experimental facility measures the power generation characteristics of each type
of solar photovoltaic panel for various parameters.

Biomimetic Prosthesis
A biomimicking transtibial prosthesis that is designed to reduce residual limb pain when in use, while also
catering to the needs of the amputee. Also includes a shower attachment that allows the amputee to shower
without worry.

Delivery Drone
Black Team, Gold Team, Silver Team
Designs for food delivery drones that can make restaurant delivery faster and easier for workers and
customers. Packages would be attached to the drones, which then deliver to the desired destination.

Distributed Electric Propulsion

Black Team, Silver Team, Gold Team
Provides designs for electric-powered airplanes that use distributed propulsive devices on their wings. The
goal is to lower emissions and to sustain efficient electric-powered flight.

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Senior Design Showcase

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Electrathon
An electric vehicle that will compete in the Electrathon America competition. The vehicle is designed
around standard class rules, which limits the team to a maximum 73 pounds of lead acid batteries. The car is
designed to be driven around an oval track while maximizing the distance covered over an hour on a single
charge.

EZ-RASSOR
A collaboration with the Florida Space Institute and NASA to assist in the development of an EZ-RASSOR
Heavy Hauler, a modification to NASA’s RASSOR rover. The prototype version incorporates a lifting
mechanism tasked with transporting hefty payloads on simulated lunar terrain. The rover will also serve as an
educational, student-friendly rover assembly backed by FSI.

Glide and Tow

Black Team, Gold Team
Aims to advance aircraft tow capabilities. The objective is to build, design and test a remote-control aircraft
dedicated towards carrying a glider towards a minimum altitude of 200 feet. The aircraft can rapidly return
and land in a designated location.

Hybrid Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

A hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle that can be easily transported, deployed, and used to search and pinpoint
desired GPS coordinates through a software interface that allows the user to request a visible location from
the UAV’s sensor. Aims to enhance certain UAV capabilities, including information gathering, for the military,
law enforcement and rescue teams.

Interactive Shoulder Animated Figure

Aims to add to the immersion of a theme park with a new and unique interaction — allowing guests to get
up close to a dragon. Provides an autonomous interactive animated figure with the appearance of a small
dragon. This figure will perch on the shoulder of a theme park crew member and behave as an animal would,
recognizing changes in its environment as well as sounds, movement and physical contact.

Intercollegiate Rocket Engineering Competition

This subscale rocket will provide crucial data collection and design validation for the full-scale rocket that
will represent UCF at the 2023 Intercollegiate Rocket Engineering Competition.

JST Garter Spring Test Fixture

Provides a test method and design test fixture that can measure radial forces on contact assembly that can
accommodate multiple garter spring designs for JST Power Equipment.

JST Outdoor Circuit Breaker Roof Assembly Fixture

A fixture that can streamline the process of assembling the roof of JST’s new medium voltage outdoor
circuit breaker. This fixture holds the roof while technicians attach current transformers to the bottom side,
and then allows the operator to rotate the roof using a hand crank. This fixture could greatly increase the
production rate of JST’s circuit breakers.

JST Printed Circuit Board Packaging

A printed circuit board module that is designed to lower the amount of space utilized on the mounting wall
of the switchgear. Also ensures that the printed circuit board is not affected by electromagnetic interference.

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Large Format 3D Printer

A 3D printer that maximizes capabilities while minimizing cost. Features include an intermediate-sized
print volume, high printing speed on par with industrial printers and the ability to produce prints using high
engineering plastics. The goal of this printer is to provide a machine that is capable of being used in an
industrial setting, while being affordable enough that it is accessible to the hobbyist.

Lifting System for Persons With Disabilities

Aims to address these drawbacks of current lifting systems for persons with disabilities and improve what is
available in the current market. This includes a design that allows users to navigate their environment more
freely and that can accommodate a higher maximum weight while maintaining the stability of the user. The
goal is to maximize independence of people with disabilities and simplicity of design while minimizing the
effort and cost required.

Linear Detonation Engine

Improves the mixing of the Linear Detonation Engine, an existing facility at the UCF Propulsion and Energy
Research Laboratory. Could expand research regarding the rotating detonation engine through a new
injector plate and corresponding plenum and plumbing system.

Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Gold Team, Silver Team, Black Team
Teams have been challenged to create autonomous aircraft that can carry and deliver a payload. The designs
aim to improve upon range and speed, and could have potential use in the military, search and rescue, and
agriculture.

NASA: Indoor Farming

An indoor farming system that is able to grow a variety of crops in microgravity or zero gravity. This system
uses aeroponics to spray water directly onto the roots. It requires no soil and uses 95% less water when
compared to conventional agriculture. The system is also fully automated, requiring minimal input from the
astronauts until it is time to harvest. It is designed to integrate directly into the International Space Station or
another spacecraft with similar support systems.

Range-Extending Solar Glider

An autonomous range-extending glider that allows the user to follow land and marine animals through GPS
tracking or visual observation, monitor forestry areas for weather disturbances or fire, and gather visual- or
sensor-based scientific data from an elevated perspective, depending on the user’s needs. Device is easy to
use and more cost effective.

RASC-AL Lunar Rover Payloads

A prototype of a lunar rover that is designed for large-scale cargo transport across the lunar surface for
NASA’s return to the moon. Prototype conforms to the standards of the NASA Revolutionary Aerospace
Systems Concepts – Academic Linkage (RASC-AL) competition.

SAE Aero Design

Green Team, Gold Team, Silver Team, Black Team, Blue Team
Teams created unmanned aerial vehicles that can carry and deliver a payload in a time-efficient manner. The
designs will compete in the national SAE Aero Design West competition.

Smart Wheelchair with Virtual Tether

A manual wheelchair that can autonomously follow a specified user. Allows the wheelchair to follow behind
a user at a safe distance while simultaneously adjusting its speed. Increases patient safety as the physical
therapist will not have to leave the patient unattended to retrieve a wheelchair.

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Senior Design Showcase

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Solar Decathlon: Knight Lights

This project aims to design a zero-energy home, including a detailed floor plan, 3D model, energy simulation
and cost analysis for the Solar Decathlon, sponsored by the Department of Energy.

Solar Desalinization
Gold Team, Black Team
Aims to provide a simple and cost-effective way for families to distill fresh water from brackish water. With
the power source being solar, the desalination system is meant to function anywhere on the planet with
adequate sunlight and access to brackish water.

Student Rocket Launch Initiative

Blue Team; Gold, Black, Silver and Green Teams (See Interdisciplinary)
A Return to Launch Site high-powered rocket that proves RTLS efforts can be done on a smaller scale with
accuracy and accessibility. Rocket can ascend to 3,000 feet and land close to target.

Talladega Knights: e-Human Powered Vehicle Challenge

A recumbent tricycle designed for the ASME e-HPVC challenge. Made with day-to-day tasks in mind such
as carrying cargo and traveling for long distances. The rollover protection system, harness, turn signal, side
mirrors and lights allow for safe traveling for all uses.

Team Legasus: Biomimic Prosthesis

Using 3D printing and scanning technologies, this prototype provides an affordable and modular prosthetic
that mimics the look and feel of an amputee’s natural limb. It eliminates having to compromise cosmetic
appearance to meet the functional needs of the patient.

U.S. Space Force: Balloon Drop

Green Team, Black Team, Gold Team, Silver Team
Teams created new methods for delivery of a high-altitude payload that ensures the safe, targeted and
efficient arrival of cargo for rapid military grade emergency efforts. The goal is to research and develop small
scale navigation and control systems, and to safely land a payload dropped from 2,000 feet to a specified
target on the ground.

U.S. Space Force: Cargo Pod Design

Aims to develop a cargo pod to be used by the USSF to deploy logistical payloads across the globe rapidly.
The pods can be deployed for immediate humanitarian aid and disaster relief or to send sensitive military
equipment or supplies to desired locations. These cargo pods are designed to carry payloads of up to 100
tons, exceeding the carry weight of current rockets.

U.S. Space Force: G-Limited Rocket

Gold Team, Black Team
A rocket that can reach an altitude of 2,000 feet to 3,000 feet without exceeding an acceleration of 5Gs.
This rocket is designed for use by the U.S. Space Force, which aims to use high-powered rockets to deliver
emergency relief around the world in a short amount of time.

U.S. Space Force: Ground Support Equipment

A lifting system capable of rapidly loading cargo onto an aircraft or spacecraft for rapid deployment to
another location. This design is meant to relieve the rigging problem of cranes in order to expedite the cargo
loading process. It can be used by anyone in the aerospace industry for large cargo pod loading into tight
spaces.

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Vibration Characterization and Reduction of a Robotic Positioner

Provides accelerometer testing and analysis, simulations and an active damping system to improve the X-ray
machine for Omega Medical Imaging.

Wheelchair Transfer System

Aims to help people with limited mobility make wheelchair transfers easier. Increases independence and
reduces the risk of injury for the wheelchair user and caregivers. The lift design is attachable and detachable
from most standard wheelchairs without major disassembly or tools. This makes it easier for larger
institutions to implement the device into their facility as well as streamline device installation.

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Senior Design Showcase

Materials Science and

Engineering

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

Materials Science and Engineering

Additive Manufacturing of Magnetic Shielding Alloys

Focuses on the design of a device, known as a magnetometer, to easily determine the permeability of
additive manufacturing alloys. Provides Philips Healthcare with the information and device necessary to
select and process additive manufacturing alloys for their next generation MRI systems.

Graphitization of Diamond Microparticles in Heavy Wear Conditions

Aims to obtain an easier characterization method of graphitization – the process of turning a diamond to
graphite – in diamond microparticles under heavy wear conditions. This method could lead to more effective
and efficient cutting, which improves sustainability, and can have an impact on the diamond tools used in the
solar cell industry.

Standardized Procedure for the Removal and Characterization of Photovoltaic Systems

A process for removing and characterizing core samples from solar panels. This process is intended to create
a basic series of steps to properly remove a sample and prepare a conductive adhesive. This will result in
quicker data creation for failure modes.

Thermal Substrates for Photovoltaics

A proposed passive cooling method for solar panels that could improve their efficiency. Unconverted light
can heat up the panels, causing them to lose efficiency. This method suggests that the thermal dissipation
properties of the cell’s base layer could be improved by doping the thermoplastic base layer with a ceramic
material.

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Senior Design Showcase

Alumni Engagement

Are you interested in learning more about how you can engage with the College of Engineering and
Computer Science? There are many ways for you to make a difference and give back to your alma mater,
whether through your time, talent or treasure. Contact Francesca Botteri, the associate director for alumni
engagement and annual giving for CECS at [email protected] to learn more about how you can
make an impact!

Are you or your company interested in sponsoring a Senior Design project for next year? If so, contact Mark
Steiner to learn more about how you can get involved: [email protected].

Follow Us on LinkedIn Make an Impact Today

Join our group to connect with other alumni and stay Learn more about how your giving can help student
informed on all alumni activities. and faculty programs.

Go Knights! Charge On!

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 UCF College of Engineering and Computer Science

NOTES

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Senior Design Showcase

LEARN MORE:
C E C S . U C F. E D U

U N I V E R S I T Y O F C E N T R A L F LO R I DA

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

P. O . B O X 6 2 4 5 0

O R L A N D O, F LO R I DA 3 2 8 1 6 - 24 5 0

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