Academic Projects
Solar energy is expected to play a key role in a paradigm shift in which cities become sustainable energy producers, but the densely-populated urban environment is particularly complex and involves radiation phenomena that are difficult to capture. This project develops and characterizes modeling and simulation capabilities for solar harvesting in urban environments. These capabilities seek to balance and navigate the trade-offs between modeling accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility while maintaining theoretical consistency. Novel mathematical and statistical models, algorithms, and programs are developed and explored based on tens of thousands of simulations.
As a vital element of early shape exploration, divergence can be time-consuming and challenging, with iterative cycles where idea fixation and creative blocks must be overcome. This work assesses the perceived value of Shapi, a tool developed to assist early shape exploration. It is an autonomous assistant that provides local and global shape variations in the form of rough sketches based on an initial human sketch. These shape variations are "What-If" scenarios and cognitive facilitators that may spark new ideas or enable a deeper understanding of the shape and the identification of interesting patterns. In a survey, the majority gave high ratings in terms of exploration (75.5% ≥ 4 out of 5), interpretation (83.7% ≥ 4), adaptation (77.6% ≥ 4), value (73.5% ≥ 4), creativity (69.4% ≥ 4), and general interest in the tool (79.6% ≥ 4).
I led a team of research interns and undergraduate research assistants to develop Albatros Create (Copyright-registered). This software is a generative and interactive tool based on geometric visualization and mathematical control. It guides the definition of the parameters that determine the aerodynamic surfaces of Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines, with or without Wavy-Leading-Edge (a concept bio-inspired by the flippers of humpback whales). It is integrated with SolidWorks to automatically obtain 3D CAD models of the parameterized surfaces.
ALBATROS CREATE
A small solar device with two equivalent axes of active tracking. The rover automatically adjusts the photovoltaic surface trying to maximize the amount of light being harvested. The device adapts to considerable changes in the lighting environment and the displacement of the platform itself. It can be used for charging batteries that can power other electronics once S-rover returns fully charged. Also, it can be adapted to perform simple robotic tasks that require displacement for extended periods of time. The design comprises mostly standard components, 3D-printed parts, and laser-cut parts.
Primavera was the first Colombian solar car. It was designed and built to compete in the World Solar Challenge, traversing nearly 3,000 km. My role: I developed a Concentrating (>1000 suns) Photovoltaic System designed to be deployed from the interior of the car while it was not moving. It increased solar power generation by up to 15% with a photovoltaic area of only 0.03% of the main panel. I also designed the internal ribs of the vehicle, the assemblies between the chassis and the bodywork, and helped develop a method for optimizing the series-parallel topology of the battery pack.
I have extensive experience researching V-Trough photovoltaic concentrators, which use low-cost flat mirrors to multiply the energy that can be generated. I proposed a new mathematical model and performance indicators and developed a new variation of Genetic Algorithms that can be biased toward intuitive values. I used these algorithms to optimize the parameters of these devices, including how they can adjust their geometry to track the sun's movements. I also developed the software “VTDesign” (Copyright-registered) to guide the parametric design of V-Trough concentrators. It allows the user to rapidly iterate and compare alternatives through a cost-effectiveness analysis and visualizing optical performance.
Catleya was a project to test sounding-rocket components by means of a stratospheric-balloon platform. Its design was inspired by the Cattleya orchid. Each "petal" was designed to hold solar cells, as well as solar concentration experiments or merchandise from the sponsors of the project. The interior of the platform was designed to hold several cameras, sensors, and telemetry equipment. My role: I participated as a system integrator and main designer in the development of the first version of the platform, including doing conceptual design, CAD, design for manufacturing, and rendering.
This work proposes a method for comparing wind turbines based on only nominal specifications and a standard characterization of the local wind conditions. Two key variables are not usually available at a preliminary stage: the total efficiency and a feasible hub height. Through a systematic statistical analysis of the trends in a constructed dataset of 176 turbines, regression models for the estimation of both variables are fitted and validated. These models are the core of the proposed selection method. When available information is limited or unreliable, this work can help estimate the cost of energy for a given horizontal axis wind turbine and location.
WIND TURBINE SELECTION
In this project, I analyzed the wind resource in the Medellín valley to estimate the energy production that could be attained with big wind turbines (60m diameter) in the surrounding hills. I proposed a strategy for manufacturing and installing such devices considering the local industrial capabilities. I selected a blade design with a Wavy-Leading-Edge inspired by the humpback whale's flippers. I also explored new concepts for urban wind devices.
WIND TURBINE FOR MEDELLÍN
I have developed several testing platforms for exploring different solar concentration and tracking approaches, and for validating mathematical models. I have also developed devices for visually aligning with the sun, and for allowing a regular pyranometer to measure global and beam radiation interchangeably. I have conducted several experimental campaigns in Colombian deserts, urban settings, and indoors with regular solar panels, V-Troughs with flat mirrors, and high-concentration devices with fresnel lenses.
Antares was an initiative to design a portable, modular, and affordable solar concentrator for residential and rural use. The project was divided into two phases. The first was for the Bihar state in India, and it was focused on providing a decentralized solution for water pumping. The concept was used to participate in the international challenge "Greenpeace Energy [R]evolution: a watershed moment in India". The second was for the rural regions in Colombia. We studied the local cultural dimensions and got immersed in the context. We conducted interviews and surveys to understand the needs of potential users. Several creativity techniques were used to think outside the box and break preconceptions, and we built models at different scales to explore ergonomics and usability. My role: Participated in the research on the context and user needs, concept and functional design, CAD modeling, mathematical modeling, and rendering.
I analyzed the prospect of installing small wind turbines (<5m diameter) on one of the roofs of Universidad EAFIT in Medellín, Colombia. To select the type of turbine, I performed a thorough classification of the wind turbine types and sub-systems and a conceptual design analysis. I made basic fluid flow analyses to identify the most suitable location and used 1-year wind data to characterize Medellín's wind speeds in terms of direction and frequency. This was used to perform energy and cost-effectiveness estimations.
In this personal project, I designed an electric concept supercar for the coming future (2043). The trends suggest evermore intelligent cars. But, what about the pleasure of driving a high-performance car? What about enjoying trips outside of the cities? Prophecy drives you autonomously anywhere in the city while you relax, and it can give you all the control of its 2000 hp if you dare to ride it.
Muvo is a one-person vehicle for handicapped people. The user accesses using her wheelchair, secures it to the floor, secures herself safely to the wheelchair, and then she is ready to carry on with an independent life. To exercise the upper body, the user can propel the vehicle by pedaling with her hands with the aid of an electric motor, or she can just relax and choose to be driven entirely by the motor. It is designed to be a practical, cost-effective, and elegant solution. My role: Participation in concept and functional design, research, sketching, 3D modeling, rendering, animation in 3ds max, video creation, and prototyping.
The goal: To design a human-powered collapsible boat that is fast, light, and fun. Míkonos is a unipersonal pedal boat designed to be used in calm waters for exercising or sightseeing. The boat can be easily disassembled and transported in a small car. My role: Participation in concept and functional design, research, most of the 3D modeling, rendering, and prototyping.
An interactive game that seeks to motivate young people to join the art network C8 in Medellín city by inadvertently making art while playing. The game consists of playing the drums to control the movements of the central surface. Each player tries to get the ball in the other's court. The ball is covered in wet paint, so it creates strokes as it rolls. What starts as a competitive conflict, ends in music and a unique painting. The project seeks to show that making art can be casual and fun. My role: Participation in concept and functional design, user research, sketching, 3D modeling, rendering,
and prototyping.
A product designed to assist a farmer during tomato harvesting. Tomato agriculture presents a series of challenges in terms of ergonomics and uneven terrain. Additionally, tomatoes are particularly fragile. My role: Participation in concept and functional design, user research, 3D modeling, rendering, and prototyping.
LP4-ASSISTANT
From deep inside of Lamborghini, Hurricane comes to wipe out dirt with style and power. A portable vacuum cleaner designed to fulfill the cleaning needs of a sophisticated middle-aged man in his apartment. The styling design was inspired by the Lamborghini Reventon. If you are looking for an elegant, exclusive, powerful, and attractive product, Hurricane is what you are looking for.
HURRICANE
A lamp designed to provide a space-filling light. It is inspired by the movement OP-Art to create the optical sensation that the sight of the viewer is "advancing", going through the lamp, until it reaches one of the central mirrors and keeps going indefinitely. Also, the asymmetric way in which the cable supports the body from only one side, suggests that the lamp "should" be falling down, creating an interesting psychological effect of tension and resolution. My role: Participation in the user, context, and needs research, concept and functional design, and prototyping.
OP-LAMP
Whoever enters this bar is going to feel 20 years ahead into the future. This exclusive bar inspired by the Tron movie was designed to offer a unique experience. The perfect place for stylish people willing to have an interesting conversation with Lounge music in the background. My role: Concept design, 3D modeling, and rendering.
B-TRON
It was constructed with a wooden body and has a printed image pasted to the surface
On the back, Moon-it has a protective acetate film to prevent the ball from falling out
A happy user
It was constructed with a wooden body and has a printed image pasted to the surface
How would it be to play golf on the moon? Moon-it is a simple and fun, yet challenging game. There are three craters in the game surface for you to score; one for 100 points, one for 500 points, and one for 1000 points, the most defiant. With each crater score, a sound and an LED are turned on, showing the points gained. As a player, you can tinker with the ball's initial position and the time and pressure used to push the shooting button in order to have an advantage over your opponent. It seems simple, but this is all about practice and intuitive calculations. My role: Concept design, manufacturing, photos, and image editing. Participation in the circuit design.
MOON-IT
We love coffee in Colombia, we really do. It is much more than an energy beverage, it is the perfect excuse for social bonding, taking a break, and reflecting on the day. Being away and missing home, I designed this lightweight and practical table for integrating my daily coffee with my routine in a more comfortable way, such as having breakfast in bed. I chose the humpback whale as its soul because it is the symbol of my relationship with my fiancée, the strongest connection from home. The table can also be used for supporting a laptop or a sketchbook. It was entirely manufactured by joining laser-cut acrylic parts.
HOME SUPPORT
A project to redesign the "Spigen Tough Armor Case" for the Samsung Galaxy S8. Why? It is not easy enough to locate and press the correct button without also pressing others unintentionally. What if it also gets more interesting? What if it is redesigned to evoke automotive features and curves?
GET A GRIP! - PHONE CASE
Tab is a product designed to assist the elderly with their daily pill management. It has a comfortable handle that provides a helpful mechanical advantage to easily cut and pulverize pills. It also has storage compartments for every day of the week. My role: Participation in the user, context, and needs research, concept and functional design, and prototyping.
TAB
Deco is a Pyrex refractory tray designed based on two directives: its styling design should be based on the deconstructivism design movement and it should be resistant to high temperatures and thermal shocks. My role: Participation in the research for material selection, concept design, 3D modeling, rendering, finite element analysis interpretation, and physical resistance optimization.
DECO
Rendering with Creo Parametric
Rendering with Creo Parametric
A project to redesign the shape style of the Dyson vacuum cleaner DC24 based on the Audi R8 aesthetics. It was designed for a contemporary and sophisticated family looking for performance as well as stylish products. My role: Participation in research, concept design, 3D modeling, and rendering.
DYSON-R8
The goal: To design and make a functional prototype of a laptop-supporting structure with additional features, like active cooling, USB port extensions, and an iPhone holder. My role: Conceptualization, 3D modeling, rendering and participated in the prototyping process.
CAT PRINT
The goal: To multiply a personal object through Resin Casting. I chose my Alebrije. Alebrijes are Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures. They are often made of wood and painted by hand. Every Alebrije is unique in its colorful details. They are a great example of the creativity, skill, and craftsmanship that seems to be present throughout Mexican culture.
CASTING
This is a Screen Shot of one small part of the process chart the team developed to describe every step of the prototyping process, with the corresponding engineering conditions
This is a high-precision prototyping project. The blueprints of a cannon were given to the team and the objective was to manufacture it using manual mills, lathes, and fixed drills. My role: I participated in defining the detailed manufacturing plan and in manufacturing and assembling the parts.