Acoustic Emission Sensing and Signal Analysis Projects
- Electromechanic Ears Listening to Metals: Development of Acoustic Emission Transducers
Student: Jonah G. Tesler (Graduated)
Description: This project focuses on investigating and optimizing circular piezoelectric (PZT) disks for use as acoustic emission transducers. It aims to support the detection of ultrasonic signals generated by early-stage material deformation and contribute to the design of low-cost sensors for applications such as structural health monitoring and biomedical imaging.
Outcome: Completed as a Temple Mechanical Engineering Senior Design project in Spring 2025. Student continues in the 4+1 Master’s Program. - Listening to Materials: A Study of Acoustic Emission Signals
Student: Henry Krumrine (Senior)
Description: This project analyzes acoustic emission signal features such as amplitude, frequency, energy, and rise time during mechanical loading. It applies machine learning to classify material deformation types and improve spatial crack detection and failure prediction.
Outcome: Received Temple CARAS undergraduate research scholarship. - Listening to Failure: The Sound of a Failing Bearing
Students: Samira Akther (Junior), Shlok Mehta (Sophomore)
Description: This study compares the effectiveness of AE sensors and microphones in detecting lubricant degradation in rolling element bearings. It aims to establish accessible acoustic methods for early failure detection in rotating machinery.
Outcome: Received STLE Philadelphia Section research scholarship for 2025–2026.
Robotics Projects (The OWL Project)
- OWL-SIGHT: Optical and Acoustic Detection for Identification of Tactical Drones
Students: Connor Beck (Senior), Dhruvil Patel (Senior), Martin Filaj (Junior)
Description: This system combines optical and acoustic sensors to detect low-altitude FPV drones that are difficult to identify using conventional radar. It aims to improve detection capabilities in both military and civilian environments.
Outcome: Targeted as a Temple Senior Design project for Spring 2026. - OWL-Strike: Design and Prototyping of a Non-Explosive Kinetic Neutralization System for Tactical Drones
Students: Owen Pelonero (Senior), Gavin Buce (Senior), Andrew Freeman (Senior), Danny Tropeano (Senior)
Description: This project develops a non-explosive kinetic system for neutralizing drones. It addresses safety, regulatory, and cost concerns while maintaining effectiveness in urban and civilian contexts.
Outcome: Approved as a Temple Senior Design project for Fall 2025. - AirTrack: Integrated Environmental Monitoring
Students: Thayne Sharp (Sophomore), Santiago Ignacio Troya Maya (Sophomore)
Description: This project creates a compact monitoring unit to measure environmental conditions including temperature, wind, pressure, and humidity. It supports performance optimization for outdoor electromechanical systems.
Outcome: Functions as an ongoing undergraduate research project with potential application in OWL systems. - OWL-Ear: Development of Long-Range Acoustic Detectors
Students: William Cooney (Senior), Rocco Haeufgloeckner (Senior)
Description: This project designs parabolic microphone systems for long-range drone detection. It enhances directionality and sensitivity to improve surveillance in acoustically noisy environments.
Outcome: Targeted as a Temple Senior Design project for Spring 2026.