Illumin - Archives

Volume XIII Issue IISpring 2012

Books of the Future: the Engineering Behind Electronic Ink Displays Written by: Michelle Chong
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, lifestyle Electronic ink displays have already hit the shelves via popular e-readers like the Kindle. Engineers are developing new types of electronic ink to create thin, high contrast, flexible displays.
Composite Technology and the Hockey Stick Revolution Written by: E. Maxwell Ernst
Tags: sports & recreation, physics, material science Composite carbon technology allows hockey sticks to be both durable and light, transforming the sport into the dynamic sight that billions of fans world-wide enjoy today.
Spread the Sound: A Brief History of Music Reproduction Written by: Kevin Crane
Tags: lifestyle, computer science, electrical engineering, material science In an age when music downloading is commonplace, it is difficult to imagine a time when the only way to hear music was to see the artists perform live. Music reproduction has evolved over many decades to provide the technology we use today.
The Prospects of Invisibility Cloaks: Bending the Laws of Light Written by: Emily Sylvester
Tags: electrical engineering, ergonomics, material science, physics Harry Potter's Invisibility Cloak may seem too magical to be real, but current research has proven that not only is it possible, it is becoming a reality.
Thought-Controlled Wheelchair Written by: Michele Kawate
Tags: transportation, biomedical engineering, computer science Ever wished that you could control objects with just your thoughts? New research in brain-computer interfaces is helping patients with paralysis control the movements of their wheelchair by simply thinking.

Volume XIII Issue ISpring 2012

Better Illuminating our Lives: The Need and Implementation of a Smart Grid Written by: Michael Elowson
Tags: energy & sustainability, environmental engineering Our current national power grid is under a considerable amount of stress as it struggles to meet rising U.S. energy demands. Smart Grid technology has the potential to ensure our energy use is efficient, reliable, and sustainable for years to come.
Edible Structures: The Application of Structural Engineering in Cake Design Written by: Lisa Okamoto
Tags: building & architecture, civil engineering, food & drink Buildings of all kinds - from the humble home to amazing skyscrapers - have a lot in common with delicious cakes. With civil engineering concepts and a little imagination, both designs can be well understood to the average eater.
Flying Cars and the Future of Civil Transportation Written by: Ryan Alam
Tags: aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, transportation A few cutting-edge engineering firms have already developed a flying car, revolutionizing our nation's transportation system, and possibly changing the way you get to work.
The Naughty Jabulani Written by: Paul C. Martinez
Tags: sports & recreation, physics, lifestyle Jabulani, the newest World Cup Soccer Ball, claims to be most smooth and aerodynamically favorable ball of its time. While the engineering behind it is extraordinary, what happens when Jabulani is not to the satisfaction of the world's best players?
Where Does My Decaf Come From? Written by: Katrina Wu
Tags: chemical engineering, food & drink Decaffeination methods are true feats of chemical engineering, involving intricate refinement steps and biochemical processes. Scientists have also recently discovered a new coffee bean species that comes decaffeinated from the get-go.

Volume XII Issue IIIFall 2011

A Tiny Microchip is Up for the Challenge Written by: Rodrigo Santos
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine The growth of informatics technology has led patient files to make their way onto eco-friendly hard-drives, servers, and even implantable microchips. Discover microchip technology's potential to revolutionize the field of healthcare informatics.
An Engineer’s Perspective: London’s Preparation for the 2012 Olympic Games Written by: Jack Cheap
Tags: building & architecture, civil engineering, security & defense, transportation The 2012 host city plans to build the Olympic park site, revamp its transportation infrastructure, and heighten its security to accommodate one of the most celebrated international athletics events.
The New Dimension of Entertainment: 3D Technology Written by: Jennifer Rohrs
Tags: art, entertainment, computer science, lifestyle, material science, sports & recreation Various forms of entertainment businesses, from video game companies to movie industries, have begun to incorporate 3D technology into their products. Read about the innovations that have allowed 3D technology to become a thing of the present.
Traffic-Actuated Signals Written by: Bin Choi
Tags: transportation, electrical engineering With the increase of personal automobile and vehicle usage, comes an increase traffic pile-ups. Traffic-actuated signals alleviate these delays by monitoring the road and setting light duration and frequency according to changing conditions.

Volume XII Issue IIFall 2011

Letting No Music Go Unrecognized Written by: Bradley Head
Tags: computer science, lifestyle, physics Music recognition software allows music lovers to use applications (or "apps") on mobile technology, such as cell phones, to identify songs based on their frequency, amplitude, and time.
Microbial Fuel Cells: Generating Power from Waste Written by: Justin Mercer
Tags: chemical engineering, energy & sustainability, recycling The bacteria you wash away with soap may actually be put to use generating electricity, producing hydrogen, and even cleaning our wastewater.
Soaring to New Heights: The Evolution of Pole Vaulting and Pole Materials Written by: Matthew McCormick
Tags: physics, sports & recreation, material science From take-off to landing, pole vaulting relies on energy transfers between the vaulter and the pole to maximize efficiency. Engineers have developed advanced materials that allow for stronger, lighter, and more flexible poles to reach record heights.
The Quadrotor’s Coming of Age Written by: Josh Villbrandt
Tags: aerospace engineering, security & defense Developments in the field of UAVs give us access to new perspectives. This surveillance technology can be used to gain a complete birds-eye view of emergency situations, leading to more informed, life-saving decisions.

Volume XII Issue ISpring 2011

Get That "Just Right" Feel: Incorporating Phase Change Materials Into Textiles Written by: Catherina Ticsay
Tags: lifestyle, ergonomics, material science How do your clothes respond to your needs? Clothing with phase change materials can change to help regulate body temperature.
How Tennis Can Save Soccer: Hawk-Eye Crossing Sports Written by: Swade Geiger
Tags: sports & recreation Should Hawk-Eye motion-tracking technology used in tennis be implemented in soccer as well?
Inside a Slot Machine Written by: Devin Wong
Tags: entertainment, computer science, mechanical engineering Take a behind-the-scenes look at the popular gambling game that combines engineering acumen, mathematical know-how, and psychological deceit in a single attractive package.
Recycling Plastics: New Recycling Technology and Biodegradable Polymer Development Written by: Samantha Huyhua
Tags: material science, energy & sustainability The engineering behind past, present, and future plastics.

Volume XI Issue IIIFall 2010

A Railway Under the Ocean: The Channel Tunnel Linking Britain and France Written by: Michael Chou
Tags: building & architecture, civil engineering, transportation A successful union of engineering and international relations.
Deep Blue: The History and Engineering behind Computer Chess Written by: Lawrence Aung
Tags: computer science, entertainment How computer chess shaped the field of artificial intelligence.
Diesel Engines: Is Old Technology Actually Green Technology? Written by: Paul Moldovan
Tags: chemical engineering, energy & sustainability, transportation A look at diesel through green-colored glasses.
Rubbing It In: Modern Sun Protection Written by: Hieu Nguyen
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine, lifestyle The scientific and engineering principles behind sunscreen.

Volume XI Issue IIFall 2010

California's Water Crisis Written by: Hannah Gray
Tags: civil engineering, energy & sustainability, environmental engineering For years, Southern California has relied on outside sources for water and food. However, as sources begin to dwindle, engineers attempt to use new methods, such as desalination, to increase supplies of water.
Engineering Super Strength: Combining Man and Machine Written by: William Croll
Tags: mechanical engineering, security & defense Developing powered exoskeletons to enhance human strength.
Sticking With It Written by: Kathryn Fink
Tags: biomedical engineering, material science The development of gecko-inspired medical adhesives.
WiMAX: The Next Generation of Wireless Technology Written by: Randy Lee
Tags: communication, computer science, lifestyle Preview the next stage in high-speed, on-the-go wireless internet.

Volume XI Issue ISpring 2010

Biomimetics: Engineering Spider Silk Written by: Soyoung Kang
Tags: material science, biomedical engineering The effort to reproduce spider silk has encountered many creative and innovative methods and materials, from genetic modification to recycled silk to stem cells, each with unique successes and drawbacks.
Engineering the Heart-Lung Machine Written by: Julie Woodburn
Tags: health & medicine, biomedical engineering Discover the engineering ingenuity behind the critical biomedical device that keeps patients alive on the operating table during cardiac bypass surgeries.
The Impact of Orbital Debris Written by: Jordan Olliges
Tags: aerospace engineering Space junk and satellite fragments pose an increasing danger to the international space community.
The Power of Pond Scum: Algae Biofuels Written by: Melissa Owens
Tags: energy & sustainability, chemical engineering New technology and increasing clean energy demands have spurred the development of algae biofuels, using photosynthesis to alleviate our fossil fuel dependence.

Volume X Issue IVFall 2009

A Look at Venice: Past and Present Written by: Eric Nakasako
Tags: civil engineering, building & architecture The floating city of Venice is an engineering marvel, and engineers have taken up the challenge of keeping it afloat.
Cloud Computing Written by: Paul Yoon
Tags: computer science A look at the computer engineering concepts behind technologies like iCloud, and how decentralized computing makes the internet work ever harder.
Genetically Modified Crops: Boon or Bane? Written by: Ola Bant
Tags: health & medicine, food & drink, biomedical engineering The genetic manipulation of crops has the potential to increase crop production. Genetically modified crops have the potential to revolutionize the farming industry, but some opponents foresee an abundance of associated health risks.
The Fun of Funiculars Written by: Anna Harley-Trochimczyk
Tags: transportation, lifestyle A look into the history and future of funicular or incline railways.

Volume X Issue IIIFall 2009

Aerogel - The Insulative Frozen Smoke Written by: Kalin Higa
Tags: aerospace engineering, lifestyle, material science, space The material of the future is made of 99% air. It is planned for use in everything from building insulation to surfboards to space suits worn by future astronauts on Mars.
Making a Quick Buck: Counterfeiting in America Written by: Matthew Pieper
Tags: lifestyle, security & defense Ever wondered how con-men make counterfeit bills? Or how to tell a counterfeit bill from a real one? A look into counterfeiters, the technologies they use, and how the government tries to stop them.
Stylish Safety: Engineering Sunglasses Written by: Andrew Bagwell
Tags: lifestyle, health & medicine, physics A look at the engineering that goes into sunglasses.
Worthy of Praise: The Modern Flush Toilet Written by: Jeannette Chang
Tags: lifestyle, physics A history of how humans deal with waste.

Volume X Issue IISpring 2009

A Powerful History: The Modern Electrical Outlet Written by: Robin Hartman
Tags: electrical engineering, lifestyle A look into the history and development of electrical outlets.
Microprocessors: The Silicon Revolution Written by: Matthew Michihara
Tags: computer science An overview of the history and workings behind the ubiquitous microprocessor.
Night Vision Goggles: Moving from Military to Modern Day Applications Written by: Lynn Jane Ho
Tags: lifestyle, security & defense Night vision devices have evolved in reliability and performance, leading to many civilian and military applications.
Working Against Our Evolution: The Positive and Negative Effects of Antibiotic Use in Humans and Emerging Alternatives Written by: Garrett Weaver
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine A look into the science behind modern antibiotics, with a study of the drawbacks of this treatment.

Volume X Issue ISpring 2009

Biologics: Power to the Proteins Written by: Dennis Krouse
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine From vaccines to blood transfusions, biologics are protein-based treatments that have wide-range implications in the medical and biomedical engineering field. Though complex, the field is growing and the cure for cancer may be growing in a petri dish.
Chewing Gum Written by: Tina Chou
Tags: chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, health & medicine, food & drink A look at solving the sticky problems associated with a classic treat.
From the Vine to the Table: Winemaking Explained Written by: Kara Scheu
Tags: chemical engineering, food & drink An investigation into how wine is made.
NASA Brings Clean Water Back Down to Earth Written by: Sarah Nothnagel
Tags: space, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering Water purification systems are needed in space travel and in developing nations alike. A look at the development of water purification technology by NASA.

Volume IX Issue IVFall 2008

Motion Sensors Written by: Tim Furnish
Tags: electrical engineering, energy & sustainability An investigation into how we use motion sensors every day
Power Wars: AC vs. DC Written by: Kevin Roth
Tags: electrical engineering, history & society A look at the electrical standards battle between Edison and Westinghouse.
Underwater Habitats Written by: John Scheffler
Tags: lifestyle, energy & sustainability, building & architecture A look into the possibilities of living underwater.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy Written by: Munir Chaudhuri
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine Vagus nerve stimulation as treatment for depression and epilepsy.

Volume IX Issue IIIFall 2007

Engineering Snow Written by: Ryan Green
Tags: sports & recreation Hitting the slopes soon? An in-depth look into the technology behind artificial snow.
From Chemistry Labs to the Kitchen: Molecular Gastronomy Written by: Bryan Price
Tags: food & drink, chemical engineering, lifestyle Chefs around the world are using engineering techniques to obtain maximum flavor potential. New technology has has allowed chefs to transfer chemical innovations in the lab to the kitchen.
Reflecting on the Mirrors Written by: Richie Aquino
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, material science Unlike LCD or plasma displays, Digital Micromirror Display televisions utilize millions of tiny mirrors behind a screen to yield brilliant displays at a lower cost over a longer lifespan.
The Danger of Airport Runway Crashes Written by: Catherine Rae T. Ricafort
Tags: aerospace engineering, transportation, industrial engineering Perhaps the greatest danger on an aircraft lies not in the air, but on the runway before and after taking off. Many factors contribute to runway crashes, but current and future systems are looking to increase safety for eager travelers.
Turbochargers Written by: Susan Miles
Tags: mechanical engineering, energy & sustainability, transportation Turbochargers may be a surprising way to reduce fuel consumption in passenger cars.

Volume IX Issue IIFall 2007

A Chemical Engineer's Guide to Cleaning Just About Anything Written by: Rupesh Parbhoo
Tags: chemical engineering, lifestyle How cleaning supplies are chemically engineered to keep our homes clean and safe.
Freeze! Engineering Frozen Vegetables and Fruits Written by: Amy Lin
Tags: food & drink, chemical engineering From the farm to your freezer - how engineering has affected the evolution of frozen food.
Security Versus Privacy: The Engineering of X-Ray Vision Written by: Farzana Ansari
Tags: electrical engineering, security & defense Airport security's main line of defense, X-ray devices, have caused much controversy over privacy and safety. By looking into how these devices work and their impact on daily life, we can understand what we'll be up against the next time we check
Taking Off and Landing on an Aircraft Carrier Written by: Jeff Moring
Tags: aerospace engineering, security & defense Taking off and landing an aircraft in the middle of an ocean is by no means easy. Current aircraft carriers still rely on systems developed decades ago to guide runway traffic, ensuring safety and efficiency for those flying over open water.
The Trebuchet Written by: Christopher Carrillo
Tags: mechanical engineering, security & defense, history & society The trebuchet was engineered to become an agent of mass destruction.

Volume IX Issue ISpring 2007

Automotive Telematics: A Technological Lifesaver Written by: Gerardo Garcia
Tags: communication, transportation An overview of modern automotive telematics and its applications.
Built for Sound: Architectural Acoustics Written by: Craig Thompson
Tags: building & architecture, entertainment With the proper balance of acoustical intimacy and vivacity, concert halls are designed to accentuate the characteristics of symphonic music and provide the best listening experience possible.
Modular Prefabricated Housing Written by: Cynthia Kwan
Tags: civil engineering, lifestyle, building & architecture Modular prefabricated housing combines advanced materials and engineering with innovative style for an affordable housing solution.
Walking in High Heels: The Physics Behind the Physique Written by: Jessica Kofoid
Tags: lifestyle, physics The attractive walk and pain that come from high-heeled shoes is explained by simple matters of physics.
What Makes Antibacterial Soap Antibacterial? Written by: Stephanie Angkadjaja
Tags: chemical engineering, health & medicine Dive into the controversy over the popular ingredient Triclosan, used in antibacterial products.

Volume VIII Issue IIFall 2006

Atomic Clock: The Atlas of Our Time Written by: Daniel Dyba
Tags: history & society, lifestyle, mechanical engineering Man's quest to capture time culminates in the Cesium clock.
Stopping Bullets, Saving Lives Written by: Brian Kirk
Tags: material science, security & defense The science and engineering behind current and future body armor.
The Magnetic Stripe Technology Written by: Shame Er Shah Kamal
Tags: electrical engineering, lifestyle The engineering behind the credit card.
The Metro: The Engineering Behind Madrid's Most Valuable Asset Written by: Brian Lobo
Tags: civil engineering, lifestyle, mechanical engineering, transportation The Madrid Metro system is extremely safe, reliable, and convenient. Almost every location in Madrid is no further than 1,000 meters away from a metro station.
UAVs: Engineering in Action Written by: Brandon Krikorian
Tags: aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, security & defense Unmanned Aerial Vehicles are gaining in popularity on the battlefield, and their future use will contribute to peacetime as well.

Volume VIII Issue ISpring 2006

Applying Nanotechnology to the Battle Against Cancer Written by: Simon Tse
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine How size does matter: the use of nanotechnology in cancer therapeutics.
Leonardo da Vinci: The Engineer Written by: Leallyn Murtagh
Tags: health & medicine, mechanical engineering, civil engineering Explore the contributions of one of the forefathers of engineering.
Look, No Hands! Written by: Steve Condoretti
Tags: electrical engineering, security & defense A look into the engineering behind autonomous robot vehicles.
Planning for Future Generations Written by: Kari Hernandez
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine, history & society, lifestyle Advocating the engineering of an internal, reversible, and safe infertility drug for men.
The Inner Workings of Speech Recognition Written by: Seth Capistron
Tags: electrical engineering, lifestyle, computer science Speech recognition technology has bridged a communication gap between technology and its users. Explore the obstacles that engineers must overcome to make this a reality.
The Science Behind Tennis Racquet Performance and Choosing the Right Racquet Written by: Yohan Chang
Tags: entertainment, mechanical engineering, sports & recreation Finding the perfect tennis racquet can be a long but worthwhile process that can enhance the player's game.

Volume VII Issue IIISpring 2006

American Football: That Magic Yellow Line Written by: Jeff Braun
Tags: sports & recreation The engineering behind the virtual first-down line.
Micropropulsion and the Future of Space Exploration Written by: Andrew Bauer
Tags: aerospace engineering MEMS technology scales down micropropulsion systems to increase functionality and replace larger, more complex spacecraft.
Samplers Written by: Mingfei Mike Gao
Tags: entertainment The Organization of Sound.
The Engineering Behind Surfing Written by: Anthony Edwards
Tags: lifestyle, physics The mechanical properties of surfing.
The Little Plastic Bulb Written by: Tian Li Woon
Tags: electrical engineering The workings of an LED and its applications.

Volume VII Issue IIFall 2005

Refrigerators Written by: Zenzile Brooks
Tags: chemical engineering How does your food stay cold?
Rescuing or Imprisoning Digital Media Written by: Joshua Garcia
Tags: entertainment The Dichotomy of Digital Rights Management.
Shampoo Formulation: Perception and Reality Written by: Sarah Morrisroe
Tags: chemical engineering, lifestyle Hair that is already damaged cannot be permanently repaired, but there is a market in leading consumers to believe that shampoos can make hair stronger, shinier, and healthier.
Swimming: A Dragging Battle Against the Forces of Physics Written by: Tricia Gibo
Tags: sports & recreation, physics Swimmers use a combination of technique and technology to push the performance envelope.

Volume VII Issue IFall 2005

Tension Fabric: Waves of the Future Written by: Mark Weaver
Tags: civil engineering, material science The evolution of fabric as a material for building construction.
Terraforming Mars Written by: Denise Nemenz
Tags: space, aerospace engineering Making the red planet green.
The Evolution of GPS Written by: Adam Goetsch
Tags: communication, security & defense GPS is increasingly being used in our everyday lives, from personal navigation to military missile guidance systems.
The Four Most Important Parts Of Your Car Written by: Joseph Yeargan
Tags: transportation, material science Tires, while having a simple appearance, are the most influential devices on the behavior of your car.
The Violin: The Art Behind the Sound Written by: Farisha Salman
Tags: entertainment The engineering and technical subtleties that underlie the violin.

Volume VI Issue IISpring 2005

Biodiesel: A Realistic Alternative? Written by: Shelley Howard
Tags: energy & sustainability Can a new energy source lessen the world's dependence on fossil fuels?
Engineering Water: Finding Solutions to a Drying Well Written by: Cindy Goh
Tags: environmental engineering, energy & sustainability Engineering now offers the world new techniques for water purification and innovative technology that caters to different water needs.
Getting the Boot Written by: Adrian Lim
Tags: sports & recreation, ergonomics Although the base design of the soccer boot has changed very little over the past 70 years, the modern shoe contains numerous innovations that allow a player to push beyond the normal boundaries of performance.
Medical MacGyvers Written by: Alexis Seegan
Tags: health & medicine Discover how a group of engineers used everyday materials to create a breakthrough treatment for wounds.
Michelangelo's Motion Picture Written by: Vrunda Rathod
Tags: art, computer science How emerging 3-D scanning technology has helped art historians unearth secrets about renowned masterpieces.
The Botox Lowdown: Science, Safety, and Success Written by: BJ Gill
Tags: health & medicine, lifestyle How does Botox work, and is it safe?

Volume VI Issue ISpring 2005

Base Isolation Written by: Andrew Jacobs
Tags: civil engineering, building & architecture Base isolation technology can help buildings withstand severe earthquakes.
Broadband over Power Lines Written by: Philip Rendina
Tags: computer science How the power supply grid is being modified to deliver high-speed internet.
Doping in Sports: Blood Oxygenation Enhancement Written by: Michelle Venables
Tags: sports & recreation, health & medicine The controversial practice of artificial performance enhancement.
Search Engines: Guiding You in the Digital World Written by: Reid Hirata
Tags: computer science Curious on how to make your website show up first in search engines like Google? Investigating the way search engines rank sites.
Shedding Light on Blindness Written by: Andrew Wong
Tags: electrical engineering, health & medicine New technologies in prosthetic devices are helping bring light to people's eyes again.
The Beauty of Science: New Technologies in Art Restoration Written by: Sam Bagwell
Tags: biomedical engineering, lifestyle, physics, art Engineers find novel ways to protect historical works of art.

Volume V Issue VFall 2004

Curves of Steel: CATIA and the Walt Disney Concert Hall Written by: David Balian and Kristina Ferris
Tags: building & architecture, computer science Find out how computers helped make Frank Gehry's unique vision a reality.
If you GNU what I GNU Written by: Jeffrey Beupre
Tags: computer science How the open source software revolution is affecting our world.
Ion Propulsion: Exploring Space in the 21st Century Written by: Christopher Shelner
Tags: aerospace engineering, physics The use of Ion propulsion for space craft promises increased fuel efficency, faster speeds, and the opportunity for deep space exploration.
The Changing Face of Paintball Written by: Michael Jarantilla
Tags: sports & recreation, mechanical engineering Paintball, once a slow-paced weekend activity, has evolved into a high adrenaline sport with the development of sophisticated weaponry.
The Chemistry Behind Moisturizers Written by: Marianne Case
Tags: chemical engineering, lifestyle Most of the moisturizers, creams, and lotions we use on a daily basis consist of an emulsion of water and oil components, and researchers are looking into incorporating liposomes to help restore the skin's protective lipid layer.

Volume V Issue IVFall 2004

Alternative Building for the Future Written by: Laura Jones
Tags: building & architecture, energy & sustainability, environmental engineering, material science A look at sustainable technologies and self-sustaining homes.
Bamboo: An Alternative Movement Written by: Sara Nakasone
Tags: building & architecture, energy & sustainability, material science This article explores the applications of bamboo as an alternative renewable resource in buildings.
Directional Audio Written by: Philip Hirz
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, lifestyle Find out how engineers are projecting sound in narrow beams.
Immersion Through Video Games Written by: Steve Woyach
Tags: entertainment, lifestyle Engineering the suspension of disbelief.
The Engineering of Beer Written by: Erik Tolmachoff
Tags: chemical engineering, food & drink Learn about the science behind one of earth's oldest and most popular beverages.
The Harp: Engineering the Perfect Sound Written by: Lisa Chow
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, material science Exploring the engineering advancements in the quality, stability and efficiency of the harp.

Volume V Issue IIISpring 2004

A Genetic Solution to Malaria: More Harm Than Good? Written by: Christopher Romero
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine Mutated mosquitoes may combat malaria.
Collaborative Engineering Creates Artificial Mega-Structure at the Port of Los Angeles Written by: Kalia Shibao
Tags: civil engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, material science Engineers bringing together big business and environmental awareness on a massive scale.
Immersed in Reality Written by: Ammar Chinoy
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, lifestyle The technology, potential application and hurdles surrounding tele-immersion.
Satellites: Made to Soar Written by: William Liu
Tags: aerospace engineering, communication, electrical engineering Learn the history behind a ubiquitous tool of modern communications.
The Digital Image Sensor Written by: Kenneth Newton
Tags: electrical engineering, lifestyle An examination of the technology behind the digital camera and the expanding field of digital vision.
The Frisbee Written by: Gautam Dandavate
Tags: entertainment, physics, sports & recreation Find out why complex physics govern a simple toy.

Volume V Issue IISpring 2004

Building Blocks of Thought: Engineering the Neuron Written by: Chris Kampmeier
Tags: biomedical engineering, electrical engineering Discover the technologies and principles that are helping engineers endow machines with human-like capabilities.
Futuristic Rail Systems vs. the Humble Bus: An Infrastructural and Environmental Dilemma Written by: Sofia Mohaghegh
Tags: civil engineering, transportation To reduce dependence on pollution-causing cars and buses, The Gold Line is one solution for Los Angeles' streets and freeways.
Phytoremediation Written by: Marisa Margaretich
Tags: chemical engineering, energy & sustainability, environmental engineering Find out how special plants are working to remove toxic chemicals and bacteria from polluted soil, helping to treat contamination.
Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) and Their Implications for the Future Written by: Michael Bannon
Tags: computer science, electrical engineering RFIDs: The barcodes of the future that let you buy anything with your phone.
Wastewater Technology: Engineering a Healthier Society Written by: Boniface Kinnear
Tags: biomedical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering Explore the little-known science of wastewater treatment.

Volume V Issue IFall 2003

A Look At Surveillance Cameras Written by: Keith Nogueira
Tags: security & defense, computer science Find out what they watch and what they're looking for.
Improving the Bicycle Written by: Matthew Mutchler
Tags: lifestyle, transportation From velocipede to ten-speed, see how the bicycle has evolved since its inception.
Lie Detection: The Science and Development of the Polygraph Written by: Katherine To
Tags: security & defense, biomedical engineering The article examines the evolution of the polygraph, the physiological assumptions and the problems of measurement and error that surround the science of lie detection.
Reconfigurable Computing: Virtual "On-the-Fly" Hardware Swapping Written by: Christopher Zeleznik
Tags: computer science New hardware in computers allow them to do what you want when you want it.
The Quest for the Perfect Racket: Advances in Tennis Racket Design Written by: Takayuki Oidemizu
Tags: sports & recreation, mechanical engineering Innovation in racket materials and shape have changed Tennis into a game of both skill and equipment.
The Science of Time Travel Written by: Mark Villanueva
Tags: physics Traveling through time is a fascinating possibility with its distinct theoretical paradoxes and potential practical problems
The Search for a Blood Substitute Written by: Suzanne Schimmeyer
Tags: health & medicine In times of short supply, scientists and engineers look toward artificial hemoglobin and perfluorocarbons to fill in until natural blood can be replenished.
Total Hip Replacement Written by: Andrew Still
Tags: health & medicine Explore the science and engineering behind modern hip prostheses.
UPSET: Triggering Natural Cell Death in Cancer Written by: Matthew Behrend
Tags: biomedical engineering Learn how researchers initiate cellular self-termination with the flip of a switch.

Volume IV Issue IIIFall 2003

Ballistics of Modern Firearms Written by: Gideon Juve
Tags: physics, security & defense Examine how the scientific principles of projectile motion are applied to the development of modern firearms.
Continuous Glucose Sensing: A Leap in Diabetic Treatment Written by: Kate Bauer
Tags: health & medicine A leap in diabetic treatment that individualizes care can mean healthier and safer lives.
Engineering a Smooth Ride: Creating the Perfect Ski Through Shaping and Vibration Damping Written by: Brent Nash
Tags: sports & recreation, entertainment, lifestyle Skiing is a sport and recreational activity enjoyed by numerous people around the world. Learn about how engineers have devised methods to mitigate ski vibration and improve ride quality.
Touring Titan Written by: Jasmin Singh
Tags: aerospace engineering, space The Cassini-Huygens mission was launched in 1997 to reach Saturn and explore the chemical environment of that inhospitable planet. Take a scenic tour from Earth to Saturn with the help of engineering!

Volume IV Issue IISpring 2003

Curveballs and Knuckleballs: Engineering Principles at Work in America's Favorite Pastime Written by: Brian Amanatullah, Adam Nazar
Tags: sports & recreation, aerospace engineering Learn about two wily pitches that can give pitchers the upper hand in the great American game of baseball.
Engineering Outdoor Spaces: USC's McCarthy Quad Written by: Neil Gokal
Tags: civil engineering, building & architecture, lifestyle Explore the economic, spiritual, and environmental aspects behind the engineering of the remodeled McCarthy Quad at USC.
Formula One Race Cars: Blurring the Lines between Art and Science Written by: George Stratis
Tags: mechanical engineering, sports & recreation Learn about the sophisticated technologies and engineering processes behind world-class race cars.
Photo-Realism: An Exact Science? Written by: Jason Scott
Tags: entertainment, computer science Should special effects strive to depict an accurate presentation of reality, or what the human mind best interprets as reality?

Volume IV Issue ISpring 2003

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Are You at Risk? Written by: Melissa Price
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine, ergonomics How improper wrist use can lead to serious pain.
Engineering a More Fish-Friendly Dam Written by: Erik Thompson
Tags: environmental engineering, energy & sustainability Fish philanthropy - engineers save salmon with specially engineered dams.
Multiple Access Schemes for Mobile Phones Written by: Caleb Yang
Tags: communication, computer science, electrical engineering Making waves in wireless communication - how your cell phone accesses the network to place a call.
The Pivot Advantage Written by: Marc Habib
Tags: sports & recreation, lifestyle, material science Efficient diving fins are needed to allow underwater propulsion. New higher efficiency diving fin technology makes swimming a breeze for scuba divers.

Volume III Issue IIFall 2002

A Simple Complexity Written by: Charles Cao
Tags: entertainment, computer science Rubik's cube has riddled players of all ages and skill levels for generations. The cube's origin and engineering principles are key to its success today. Read on to learn simple techniques to solve the popular game.
Catch a Wave: Radio Waves and How They Work Written by: Andrew Schnickel
Tags: entertainment, physics How Radio Waves Work
Minerva: A Pioneer in Everyday Robots Written by: Gunes Ercal
Tags: computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering Meet Minerva, a robot that guides tours at the Smithsonian Institution and brings artificial intelligence technology to the forefront of robot-person interaction.
The Development of Ossicular Replacement Prostheses for the Treatment of Conductive Hearing Loss Written by: Arthur Balteria
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine Discover the advancements that have been made in the development of protheses that can correct hearing loss.
The Engineering Behind the Perfect Cup of Joe Written by: Alan Richardson
Tags: food & drink, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering The chemical and mechanical engineering processes behind brewing coffee.

Volume III Issue IFall 2002

Chemical Engineering Your Dinner Written by: Gavin G. Erie
Tags: food & drink, chemical engineering, lifestyle Learn about the chemical engineering processes behind the everyday activities of cooking and food preparation.
Engineering Rock and Roll: A Casual Introduction to Signal Processing Written by: Russell Myers
Tags: entertainment, electrical engineering Learn about the harmonics and nature of sound of Rock and Roll.
Founding Fathers of Video Games Written by: Joseph Hogue
Tags: electrical engineering, entertainment, computer science Tracing the beginnings of video gaming
Is Safeguarding America's Nuclear Power Plants Impossible? Written by: Joseph Pilarcyzk
Tags: security & defense, energy & sustainability With the events of September 11th, 2001 still fresh in the minds of all Americans, it has become increasingly important to ensure that our country is protected from other possible threats to security. This creates the need to protect nuclear power plants
The Myoelectric Arm: It's Electrifying Written by: Jeremy Dailami
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine Muscle-controlled prostheses

Volume II Issue IVSpring 2002

Fuel Injection Written by: Brandon Franzke
Tags: chemical engineering, transportation Improving engine efficiency with smart fuel injection systems.
Shaky Ground: The Design of Suspension Bridges Written by: Ryan Kelly
Tags: building & architecture, civil engineering, transportation The Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapsed on November 7, 1940 - how can we learn from this?
The Design and Use of Soybean Oil-Filled Breast Implants in Augmentation Mammioplasty Written by: Meena Singh
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine, lifestyle Breast implant technological concerns.
The Digital Versatile Disks Written by: Baris Inan
Tags: entertainment, electrical engineering Digital Versatile Disks are paving the way toward a new tomorrow in the entertainment industry.
Why The World Trade Center Towers Collapsed Written by: Molly Kistler
Tags: building & architecture, civil engineering, security & defense Surprisingly, the World Trade Towers behaved as designed during the attack on September 11, due to the architectural and structural engineering that erected them.

Volume II Issue IIISpring 2002

Another Atomic Age Written by: Ben Simpson
Tags: computer science, electrical engineering, physics Faster and more powerful than any PC computer sold today, quantum computers have the potential to change computing forever. However, the challenges it still faces requires much more than we may think (or want).
The Engineering Behind Shoe Design Written by: Unknown Unknown
Tags: lifestyle, sports & recreation, material science Shoe design and construction are engineered with a wearer's feet and legs in mind. Though gait analysis, testing, and fabrication, no piece of the puzzle is left un-stitched.
The Engineering Behind the Microwave Oven Written by: Jaime Clevenger
Tags: food & drink Within 10 years of its inception, the microwave oven found its way into 60% of American homes and has never left since.

Volume II Issue IIFall 2001

Designing Vision Written by: Mueller
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine From Benjamin Franklin to today's laser eye surgery, lenses have proved vital to understanding and correcting vision problems. Through physics, we know why and how our eyes do (and don't) work.
Dynamics of Car Seat Design Written by: Wert Bryan
Tags: transportation, lifestyle Back and leg pain after a car ride is no anomaly for commuters. However, continuing developments in seat design and comfort may make your next drive feel like a cushioned dream.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles: A History of Technological Innovation Written by: Joaquin Kurz
Tags: energy & sustainability, lifestyle, environmental engineering, transportation Hybrid vehicles have had a longer history than we may think. However, a recent boom in popularity is inspiring new innovations to meet the needs of sustainable wheels on the road.
Rebuilding the Ancient World via Computer Modeling Written by: Melissa Carrasco
Tags: building & architecture, history & society Computer modeling gives archeologists a way to recreate 3-D models of ancient architecture, bringing hundred-year-old ruins back to life.

Volume II Issue IFall 2001

Connect to Education Written by: Kim Vu
Tags: communication Though controversial, distance and distributed learning offer advantages to those otherwise unable to physically travel to a classroom. By promoting efficiency, teaching effectiveness, and student accessibility, a new revolution in learning may be here.
Corneal Rings: A Revolutionary Invention in the Field of Corrective Eye Surgery Written by: Corey Crosser
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine Corneal rings provide a long-lasting, reversible, and flexible alternative to laser eye surgery, especially those suffering from myopia or astigmatism. It is not without its drawbacks, but the price for better vision may soon be within reach.
DNA Fingerprinting Written by: Kristopher Kubow
Tags: biomedical engineering, health & medicine By understanding the principles behind DNA fingerprinting, disputes can be settled, crimes can be solved, and perhaps, we will sign our names with "AATGAA."
The Future of the Panama Canal Written by: Halley Stieber
Tags: civil engineering, transportation Though it is considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, the Panama Canal faces many challenges to meet the economy and environment's needs.

Volume I Issue IVSpring 2001

Dynamic Soaring Written by: George Sechrist
Tags: aerospace engineering By learning from the graceful flight of the albatross, engineers are trying to construct the more energy efficient method of flight. Not an easy task unless you're born with wings.
Intelligent Transportation Systems Written by: Scott Franke
Tags: civil engineering, transportation, lifestyle ITS takes national transportation technology to the next level, proposing safer, more efficient, high capacity freeway systems.
The Long Case Clock: Engineering Behind a Grandfather Clock Written by: Jessica Chappell
Tags: physics, history & society This device of beautiful form and practical function require knowledge of physics and engineering to keep its hands ticking.

Volume I Issue IIISpring 2001

A World of Petroleum Written by: Anna Wegis
Tags: chemical engineering, lifestyle This ubiquitous resource is not just used for fuel. We have petroleum to thank for everyday luxuries ranging from fabrics and cosmetics to medicines and sports-car bodies.
Space Flight: The History and Future of Rocket Science Written by: Paul Gargantiel
Tags: aerospace engineering, space From "Black Powder" to nuclear fission and all the physics in between, space flight has relied on both the technology of the times as well as the desire to see and explore the universe.
The Petronas Towers Written by: Brandi Henry
Tags: building & architecture Once the world's tallest towers, the Petronas are an engineering feat that involved more than following drawings on paper. With technology and innovation, the skyscrapers of the future are getting closer to touching the sky.

Volume I Issue IIFall 2000

Dynamics of the M16 Assault Rifle Written by: Scott Schimmeyer
Tags: physics, security & defense, sports & recreation Although "The Black Rifle" may be seen as a fearful piece of machinery, it is a surprisingly simple device that stands as a military defense.
Engineering Kites Beyond Flight Written by: Albin Cheenath
Tags: aerospace engineering, sports & recreation Kites have continued to capture the fascination of people of all backgrounds. Though they are simple to construct, their deformative structure makes them more difficult to control than an airplane.
Silicon Smarts: Artificially Intelligent Computers Written by: Jie Ma
Tags: computer science Despite the history of controversy Artificial Intelligence has had, it continues to progress in expert systems, robotics, and neural networks. The next robot you see may be more human than machine.
The New and Improved Reality Written by: Lauren Chun
Tags: computer science, communication From a casual walk on the street to a life-threatening emergency, augmented reality may provide answers to real-time problems.

Volume I Issue IFall 2000

Pyschoacoustics and Surround Sound Systems Written by: Andrew Turner
Tags: electrical engineering, health & medicine Human perception of pitch, loudness, and time create an immersive environment that have served as the inspiration behind three-dimensional sound space.
Roller Coasters Written by: Jeff Wurfel, Mark Garciano
Tags: aerospace engineering, physics, sports & recreation, entertainment The roller coasters we know and love (or hate) today have a long history full of physics, fun, and safety. It's hard to believe these thrill-machines are safer than cars on the road!
Talking to Your Computer Written by: KeAloha Over
Tags: communication, computer science Computers have notoriously had difficulty recognizing human speech. However, improvements in this field may push voice recognition software to be a part of everyday life.
The Engineering Behind Automotive Airbags Written by: Jesse Patterson
Tags: chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics Airbags have become a standard in automobile safety, yet it was only recently implemented in cars. By combining physics and chemistry, these hidden inflatables have been utilized in very surprising ways.

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