Mastering Engineering through Project-Based Learning

In Nashville, TN, Electrical Engineering students placed 13^th at the IEEE Southeastcon. They worked countless hours in the weeks leading up to the competition, some soldering  components together while others diligently wrote code. This year’s competition focused on the use of modern technology to assist emergency responders with accurate and timely information to ensure the survival of as many victims as possible. The team continually attempted to devise worst case scenarios through which to better test their robots. On the day of the competition, they continued to make modifications as well as field questions from children and other participants.

Carabiners. D-shaped rings with a spring catch on one side. Some lock, some don’t. Ever see part of a carabiner fly across the room? Just ask some engineering students. In the McConnell Integrated Laboratory, students test the strength of carabiners and compare their results to the manufacturer’s published specifications. An exercise in forensic analysis, students analyze product failures and devise methods for correction. So before you trust your life to this D-shaped ring, check your carabiner. And if you’re not sure, ask some engineers to test it for you.