MetroSwiftDrivers distracted by the gadgets on their cars cause thousands of deaths each year. To address the problem, Steven Reid, David Taylor, Ryan Kalb, and Patrick Simonson set out to design an automobile dashboard that minimizes distractions by simplifying the interface and narrowing the driver’s focus to the steering wheel and the dashboard in front of it. Their interface won an honorable mention in Intel’s 2012 Cornell Cup competition.

“We want to reinvent the driver experience,” said Reid. “Safer, more efficient, but still have that rich, interactive experience — that’s what people are used to. We’re trying to build that in, but not make it distracting.” Continue reading

Every year, Engineering Expo attendees can explore the many senior capstone projects and then vote for their favorite one—earning one team the coveted People’s Choice Award. This year, however, two teams from Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) tied for the award. Sandra Woods, dean of the College of Engineering; and Peter Johnson (’55), grand marshal of the Expo, presented this year’s honors. Continue reading

Engineering Expo 2012 @ Oregon State University

When: Friday, May 18, 2012, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Kelley Engineering Center
Information: 541.737.3101
Cost: Free & Open to the Public

The 13th annual OSU Engineering Expo, happening on Friday, May 18, 2012, promises another mind-boggling display of undergraduate engineering talent.

This year’s Senior Design Showcase features more than 100 student-built projects from across the disciplines: Chemical, Biological & Environmental Engineering; Civil & Construction Engineering; Electrical Engineering & Computer Science; Mechanical, Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering; and Nuclear Engineering & Radiation Health Physics. For a special exhibit of clean technology and green energy solutions, be sure to check out the Expo’s Sustainability Showcase.

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