Design Project Samples The third proposed topic focuses on large scale applications of carbon sequestering concrete. It is estimated that 0.6-0.8 t-carbon dioxide is emitted per t-cement produced [8].Companies that are currently tackling the societal problem of carbon dioxide emissions by implementing new technologies to sequester carbon in concrete focus mainly on precast concrete, mainly used for concrete masonry units (CMU). Successful companies that utilize this sequestration technology focus on injecting carbon dioxide into the precast material before it is transported to the location of installment [2]. This is an inefficient method of capturing carbon dioxide since more energy is needed to retain the emissions, conceal concrete precast, and inject carbon dioxide at high pressures. Harnessing the large-scale applicability of this method is still a challenge to many firms [9]. The implementation of pouring the concrete on site, allowing the mix to capture carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere, will allow a more practical/largescale use of this technology to contracting firms; in addition, it will lower the energy needed to apply this technique. The final project I’m proposing is designing a hybrid power system for Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) fixed-wing Unmanned Ariel Vehicles (UAVs) that are used for crop spraying. An essential part of American agriculture today is the protection of crops from pests and diseases via the spraying of pesticides and other protective chemicals [7]. However, utilizing traditional spraying methods such as ground spraying or ariel application (crop dusters) becomes inefficient and expensive when spraying smaller or specific plots of crops. To address these issues, UAVs have seen an increased use for crop spraying in recent years due to their high maneuverability and relatively cheap cost [7]. Multi-rotor drones have been the industry standard for crop spraying UAVs due to their high availability and ease of use, but their small size leads to limited area coverage and short flight time [8]. VTOL fixed-wing UAVs offer high aerodynamic efficiency which leads to longer flight times, faster speeds, and heavier loads when compared to multi-rotor drones, as well as the convenience of a vertical lift-off and landing that traditional fixed-wing UAVs lack, as they require long-runways to take off [9]. However, the power it takes for the UAV to take off and land is exponentially more than the power it takes for the UAV to cruise through the air, creating a difficult problem when it comes to power system design and power system matching [9]. My design project will design a hybrid (gas and electric) power system for VTOL fixed-wing UAVs that will enable them to utilize both gas and electric power in take-off and landing mode, and solely electric power when in cruise mode. This new power system will make power system matching more efficient and improve the viability and application of VTOL fixed-wing UAVs in agriculture. Lastly, recognizing the significant challenges posed by invasive glucose monitoring methods in diabetes management, my last research topic proposal outlines a theoretical project aimed at advancing non-invasive blood glucose monitoring systems. Drawing upon established research in biomedical engineering, including studies on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and microfluidic-based techniques [7][8], this proposal seeks to outline a potential avenue for future research and development. Collaborating with experts in the field, this project would involve iterative prototyping and rigorous testing to engineer a device prioritizing accuracy, reliability, and user convenience. Emphasizing real-time monitoring capabilities, portability, and customization tailored to individual patient needs [7][9], the proposed project would require clinical validation to ensure regulatory compliance and market readiness [8]. By presenting this theoretical project, the aim is to inspire future innovation in diabetes management technologies, empowering individuals with diabetes to better manage their health and improve their quality of life [7][9].