Controls Lab Spotlight on Student Projects

Lego train following system

The Lego train following system with on-board micro-computer, ultrasonic range finder, power supply and lead train. Scott's Lego train following system worked very well and produced very respectable results. This was a true mix of low and high tech devices. Scott continues to refine his project and was a valuable team member to the University of Maryland’s Underwater Robotics Competition where his team captured the #1 spot.

"Perfect" Egg Cooker (65C/147F Sous Vide Eggs)

By using a +5 Volt DC control (output) signal from the Quanser I/O board to a solid-state relay, and by using computer feedback loop control, two teams cooked eggs at a "perfect" 65 °C temperature. The teams built interface boards for the thermistor temperature sensor attached to the heating vessel and brought this signal into the Quanser/Simulink station for feedback control.

Normally, most eggs are hard-boiled at 100°C causing the proteins contained in the egg to shrink and get tightly bundled. This can result in some truly tough eggs. The lower cooking temperature of this project kills all harmful bacteria that can be found in an egg but allows for the proteins in the eggs to remain elongated and retain more water. Student reviews of the results were mixed at best. This tester found the eggs to be less visually appealing than his usual morning fare but quite tasty. An inernet search of "Sous Vide Eggs" will yield a wealth of information on the lower-temperaure cooking of foods.

Video of a 65 °C egg after cooking

Vane position control with air

4 Rotor flight control system