Previous Projects
Below are completed projects and research work from prior years. These span physics, engineering, and natural philosophy, ranging from tabletop experimental investigations to rigorous theoretical treatments of fundamental phenomena.
Graduate Research
Gravitational Radiation: Maxwell-Heaviside Formulation
Theoretical exploration of gravitational radiation using analogs of the Maxwell-Heaviside equations. Derives gravitational field equations, retarded potentials, and radiation patterns similar to electromagnetic dipole radiation. Investigates predictions of energy flow and gravitational wave propagation through an alternative mathematical formulation of gravity.
Undergraduate Research & Projects
Disk Cam Synthesis & Optimization
Custom-built cam design and optimization tool developed using Visual Basic for Applications. Enables systematic input of motion parameters, precise calculation of cam geometry and kinematics, visualization of motion profiles, and direct export to both CAD models and 3D-printer-ready G-code. A cost-effective platform for mechanical design, analysis, and rapid prototyping.
Nonlinear Human Population Growth Modeling
Investigates nonlinear models of human population growth using physics-based approaches. Fits historical population data to power laws derived from chemical kinetics, optimizes and compares multiple models, and forecasts future populations. Analyzes parameter sensitivity and demonstrates how different models diverge significantly in their long-term predictions.
Zener Diode Gravitational Wave Detection Apparatus
Experimental investigation of a tabletop apparatus designed to detect potential gravitational waves through current fluctuations in Zener diodes. Minimizes statistical noise through careful measurement and extended observation periods, testing for correlations with lunar gravitational influence. Represents a novel, low-cost approach to exploring gravitational wave phenomena.
Technical Notes & Solutions
Horizontal Frame Centering Algorithm
A practical mathematical solution for evenly spacing picture frames on a wall. Derives equations to determine optimal frame placement such that gaps between frame edges and wall edges are uniform, with analytical formulas for calculating frame center positions given wall width, frame width, and frame count.
Published Work & Thesis
Master's Thesis: Gravitational Radiation
A rigorous theoretical investigation of gravitational radiation using analogs of the Maxwell-Heaviside equations. Derives gravitational field equations, retarded potentials, and radiation patterns analogous to electromagnetic dipole radiation. Explores an alternative mathematical formulation of gravity and examines predictions for energy flow and gravitational wave propagation.