Building Things
That Matter

Designing an efficient cargo transport solution for forest environments presented unique challenges: navigating narrow trails, maintaining stability on uneven terrain, and providing sufficient payload capacity while remaining lightweight and maneuverable.

The single-track design emerged from analyzing trail constraints and load distribution requirements. The plywood chassis balances structural integrity with weight optimization, while the electric drive system provides precise speed control essential for safe forest navigation. The rear-trailing wheel configuration allows tight turns while maintaining tracking stability.

Through iterative testing in various terrain conditions, the system demonstrates reliable performance across steep grades, loose surfaces, and obstacle-rich environments. The modular design enables quick reconfiguration for different cargo types and operational requirements.

Electronic waste represents a significant environmental challenge, with functional components often discarded due to minor failures in integrated systems. This project explores how thoughtful mechanical design can extend component lifecycles while creating unique, functional computing solutions.

The plywood chassis provides excellent thermal properties and electromagnetic shielding while offering complete customization for component layout optimization. Precision-cut mounting systems ensure secure component installation while maintaining accessibility for future modifications or repairs.

By integrating salvaged laptop components with purpose-built cooling and power systems, the platform demonstrates how creative engineering can transform e-waste into productive, aesthetically pleasing computing solutions. The modular design philosophy enables continuous evolution as components and requirements change.

Building a complete manufacturing capability requires understanding both subtractive and additive processes. The CNC lathe system integrates LinuxCNC control with Geckodrive precision motor control, enabling automated production of turned parts with consistent quality and dimensional accuracy.

The 3D printer fleet spans multiple kinematic architectures - Delta, Cartesian, CoreXY, and H-Bot systems - each optimized for specific manufacturing requirements. This diversity enables exploration of design constraints and capabilities unique to each mechanical approach, from high-speed printing to precision miniature components.

The Stirling engine project demonstrates thermodynamic principles through practical implementation, requiring precise machining tolerances and careful material selection. The integration of traditional machining with modern CAD/CAM workflows showcases how classical engineering principles remain relevant in contemporary manufacturing.

Energy storage and distribution systems require careful consideration of safety, efficiency, and environmental impact. The 72V battery pack delivers 18kW of power for electric vehicle applications, incorporating thermal management and protective systems essential for safe high-energy operation.

The hydraulic ram pump demonstrates how natural stream pressure can be amplified to transport water significant vertical distances without external power input. This zero-energy solution moves water 30 meters vertically across 410 meters horizontal distance, showcasing how understanding fundamental physics enables elegant engineering solutions.

Audio power systems require clean, stable electrical supply with minimal noise interference. The modular power supply design provides multiple voltage rails with precise regulation, enabling professional-quality audio applications while maintaining electromagnetic compatibility.