The senior capstone project for the electro-mechanical engineering technology student should have three components; electrical, mechanical and programming. The students will research the idea, design the project, source the materials, build the design, and operate and test the final project. The most successful projects have a detailed description with clear and concise objectives for the project. The design and purchasing of components will happen during the first semester. Building and testing will be done during the second semester along with the capstone presentation.

Cost

The cost of sponsoring a project is $3,500 for a project that does not require the purchasing of specialty components. If specialty items are required, additional costs will be calculated and quoted prior to the start of the project.

Sponsorship Commitment

The sponsor is expected to participate throughout the project in research, design, sourcing, build, operating and testing. The most successful projects have one point of contact and much involvement from the sponsor.

Point of Contact Responsibility

  • Deliver a detailed description of the project
  • Present the project idea to students during the first week of class
  • Attend the first meeting with the selected engineering team and faculty adviser
  • Arranging a student visit to sponsor
  • Involvement in weekly meetings with the engineering team
  • Evaluate student input each week
  • Attend Capstone Project presentation at the end of the second semester

Deliverable to Sponsor

Each project has specific outcomes, however here is a list of possible results that will be given to the sponsor:

  • Previous design searches (Patent Research)
  • Preliminary design Ideas
  • Engineering drawings (3-D Models and Manufacturing)
  • Physical manufactured product (Full size or scaled prototype)
  • Computer, PLC, Microcontroller programs etc.
  • All presentations, posters, videos, etc.
  • Final design report

Summary

Each project has its own specific outcomes and deliverables with all projects differing slightly from other projects. Most projects have a team of two or three students that work for two 15 week semesters on the project. The objective is to complete all projects. However, depending on the nature of the project and hurdles along the way, some projects change the outcomes and deliverables as the project progresses throughout the year. Some long term projects may span multiple teams and semesters.