UMaine’s Mechanical Engineering Design Open House May 8

More than 60 mechanical engineering students will showcase their capstone projects May 8 at the University of Maine’s Mechanical Engineering Design Open House.

Students have spent the year working in groups to develop a range of projects. One team has designed a surgical device that can be used for adult circumcision, which is linked to the reduction of HIV transmission rates in Africa. Another developed a snowmobile powered by compressed natural gas.

The majority of projects have focused on the development of heat pumps and other energy-related devices. Each team of mechanical engineers has worked diligently to design, construct and test their devices.

In addition to the showcase, the afternoon will begin with a 1 p.m. lecture by UMaine professor emeritus of mechanical engineering Dick Hill titled, “Engineering as a Liberal Study.” Hill is known for his practical perspective on energy based on sound engineering principles. His talk will use examples from bricklaying to fire hydrant design to show how an engineering education changes one’s view of daily life.

The open house will take place in Crosby Lab and the adjacent Cloke Plaza until 6 p.m.