Design & Analysis

Jenil Sangathiya, Shreyal Shah, Sparsh Dev Sharma, Aayush Patel

The CNL Leakproof Sampling Tool team collaborated with their client, Canadian Nuclear
Laboratories, to create a safe and effective design to extract a 100 ml sample from a sealed
stainless-steel tank. The designed mechanism followed the procedure of “Drill, Extract and
Seal". The focus of the project was to develop a mechanism that could be operated by one
person and could uphold safety standards while ensuring no leakage. The group identified
potential designs by researching various similar extraction concepts and sealing
mechanisms. The team utilized their technical design and analysis skills to overcome the
leakage challenges by developing multi-level sealing mechanisms.


Zachery Desjardins, Ayden Lamarre, Samantha Joy Pullan, Daoming Sun

The cutting membrane project team was commissioned by the client, from Dec-Tec, to
create a cutting membrane machine or an efficient setup. The purpose is to create a
working cutting machine or an efficient setup that requires less time to cut the material into
rectangles. The project team is creating multiple sketched designs to meet the client’s
standards.


Conner Ainscough, Chase Berg, Erik Karamehmedovic, Justin Reay

The eDNA sampling process takes samples of various species DNA which is pumped through
a filter at a chosen waterbody. Technicians are required to first get to the remote location
before eDNA sampling can begin. Some of the bodies of water tend to be in dangerous
locations which makes it difficult for technicians to get the samples required. This problem
calls for a solution that allows technicians to stay safe while sampling various bodies of
water. Drones allow for easy access to remote locations and can carry various weighted
payloads. The idea is to attach a pump system to the drone that can deploy the filter
system to the chosen location, while pumping a recorded amount of water. Using a drone
will allow for minimal environmental impact and provide minimal risk when reaching
sampling locations.


John Ho, Owen Hunter, Igor Hustiuc, Lyndon Nickel

The project presented to the team aims to solve an existing problem on the SAIT campus:
the on-campus bollards, short posts designated to separate pedestrian and vehicular traffic,
are consistently ripped from their anchors when impacted by a vehicle. The goal of the
design was to develop a bollard that absorbs energy during low-speed impact, has a
designated failure point that protects the anchor plate from damage and allows fast and
easy re-installation. This improved design will be easily repaired by the local maintenance
personnel by replacing a small number of parts. To satisfy the client's needs, the team
developed technically advanced designs and CAD models and performed extensive finite
element analysis to demonstrate and verify their energy-absorbing capabilities.


Priyanka Consul, Marshall Eastman, Eric Molchanov, Lloyd Viloria

The Resilient Motor Mount team collaborated with Engineered Air to develop a new and
improved motor mount design for horizontal fan coil units. The project aimed to enhance
the product’s life cycle, reduce costs, and optimize the design while maintaining the
simplicity of the original mount. By manufacturing the motor mount in-house, Engineered
Air sought to reduce reliance on external suppliers, minimize production expenses, and
streamline assembly. The new design balances durability, ease of installation, and material
efficiency while ensuring compatibility with existing systems. The team utilized CAD
software to create detailed models and conducted simulations to evaluate functionality,
structural integrity, and vibration resistance. This approach allowed for an optimized, cost-effective,
and manufacturable solution tailored to Engineered Air’s needs.


Zack Henry, Dhruv Patel, Rizwan Rashid, Moises Vargas

The Capstone GNCTR Braking team worked to develop a unique and innovative braking
system for the 2026 Great Northern Concrete Toboggan Race (GNCTR) held in London,
Ontario in hopes of repeating the club’s 2018 glory. The purpose of the project was to utilize
previous data from past teams, and identify opportunities to improve safety, weight,
strength, performance, and manufacturability. These aspects had to adhere to the GNCTR
rulebook, which defines strict guidelines that competing organizations must follow. The
team generated and evaluated multiple concepts to determine the best one for the
competition. To achieve this, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and dynamic simulations were
conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of the design. The results were used to improve the
final design according to the client’s needs.


Ahmed Elsnose, Will Forgeron, Zhen Wang, Zehua Xiang

This project explores the development of an optimized monitoring system for Laser Wire
Directed Energy Deposition (LW-DED) to improve weld quality while keeping costs minimal. Key
process instabilities such as dripping and stubbing are analyzed using high-speed imaging and
spectrometry graphs. The study highlights the potential of machine learning for anomaly
detection through its monitoring system, emphasizing predictive modeling and closed-loop
control to enhance LW-DED reliability.


Jhonje Bascos, Eric Comeau, Moise Etame, Jay Gunio

The Mold Injection Crucible team was tasked with redesigning the crucible and ram for
SAIT’s automation lab's mold injection machine. The current design struggles with
inconsistent heat distribution, which leads to inefficient plastic melting and material waste.
The goal of the project was to get better heat transfer and prevent any plastic from off
gassing. This project required the team to have an in-depth look at the current mold
injection machine and determine what material, size and shape would best fit an ideal
crucible and ram. The redesigned project will allow for consistent production for a new part
every 15 minutes while keeping the temperature within ±1ºC. As a part of this project, the
team provided 3D CAD Models, heat transfer simulations, and installation and operating
instructions.


Udit Chadha, Kayden Gudmundson, Keane Lopez, Diego Pena

The Project ROTORUS analysis team is a student-led project that is working simultaneously with
two other capstone teams to mitigate the problems associated with the apex seal in a rotary
engine, while also keeping similar geometry. Being prone to failure, the apex seal requires a
mixture of oil and fuel to prevent excessive wear. With this in mind, the goal of this project was
to explore potential solutions by modifying the methods of sealing as well as the geometry of
engine components. This is an innovative design that considers topics such as thermal
expansion, material properties and thermodynamics.


Ben Padmanabhan, Cameron Struthers, Yoann Tan

The Race Car Loading Ramp project aims to redesign a car loading ramp to accommodate
the increased weight of the modified car. The existing ramp is inadequate and has displayed
excessive bending while being loaded, having warped due to welding heat and repeated
use. In collaboration with the client Ryan Blair, the project team assessed the requirements
and constraints of the current design, generating ideas and solutions that improve upon the
design criteria. This project entails in-depth research of available materials, analyzing
structural loading scenarios, creating 3D models and fabrication designs, and designing for
manufacturability to keep costs low while maintaining structural integrity and safety.


Owen Belton, Ashley Bowman, Allie Hines, Masha Malikova

Team Remedy was tasked to design a HVAC system for a single-story office space within
downtown Calgary. The primary objective of the project was to create a high-performance
system with aims to reduce carbon emissions while minimizing upfront costs and creating
long term savings. To approach this project, the team conducted extensive research and
completed a comprehensive analysis of the given space, allowing them to design the most
appropriate system while meeting client needs.


Alex Colwell, Haven Gill, Stephan Jansen, Thomas Larson

The client, Pipelines 2 Data, required a method to leak test their electronics module endcaps
in the Pipeline Profile and Leak Detection pipeline pigging tools. The student capstone team
worked with the client to develop a pressure apparatus concept capable of checking for
leakage across the endcap’s sensor and seals. The project’s goal was to find a method to
safely apply a pressure of 100 bar, detect potential leaks, and log the test data for further
analysis. The apparatus also provides protection against over-pressurization. The team
compared testing mediums, different ways to pressurize the system, methods of leak
detection, and analyzed how these factors can fit together into one comprehensive leak
detection pressure apparatus.


Hugh Donnachie, Mustafa Elrafihe, Shawn Ferguson, Esther Hanthorn

The Supersonic Ejector team worked with the client, Nikolay Bukharin, to redesign the
nozzle mechanism for the supersonic ejector unit. The goal was to adapt the nozzle to allow
for free adjustment, maintaining optimal distance from the mixing chamber, while
simultaneously providing adequate sealing to prevent fluid leakage. The team utilized an
iterative process, moving between the analysis, design, testing, and redesign processes as
required.


Amy Branco, Jaymes Kallar, Logan Oikle, Logan Simpson

The Supernovas EHD Drive team collaborated with SAIT’s Supernovas Team to further
develop their electrically powered drone, specifically focusing on optimizing its ionic
propulsion system. Originally entered in the seventh edition of the Canadian Reduced
Gravity Experiment Challenge, this drone was designed for flight in microgravity conditions.

The primary objective of this project was to design an Electrohydrodynamic Ion Thruster
that more effectively produces thrust, at a lower price than the existing design, while
minimizing its weight. A research-based approach was taken, investigating refinements to
the thruster module’s geometry through mathematical analysis and iterative modelling.


Ethan Gatfield, Joshua Gazdag, Andrew Lowe, Markus Zerr

This project aims to develop a wastewater heat recovery system to improve energy
efficiency in residential buildings. By capturing and repurposing the heat from wastewater
sources, the system seeks to reduce energy consumption needed to heat up cold city inlet
water. The project focuses on designing a cost-effective, easy-to-install solution that
integrates seamlessly with existing plumbing systems. The teams approach involves
extensive research and calculations to ensure that the design achieves optimal performance
and reliability. Emphasis will be placed on innovative techniques to enhance system
efficiency. Ultimately, the project strives to provide an eco-friendly and sustainable solution
to energy conservation, resulting in lower utility bills for residents and a reduced carbon
footprint.


Neeladri Roy Barman, Arjun Singh Brar, Vladimir Rodríguez, Dineesha Vipulatheja

The Water Treatment by Hydrodynamic Cavitation project team explored a contaminated
water treatment method that has increasingly been seen by researchers as an opportunity
to address the problem for its benefits, including simplicity in the building of the
hydrodynamic circuit, low operation costs, efficiency in the degradation of organic
contaminants, and scalability.

The main purpose of the project was to design a small-scale water treatment reactor that
operates under the hydrodynamic cavitation principle to reduce contaminant levels in water
samples. The development of the design was chosen to provide effective results to treat
organic contaminants in water.


Anique Bhatti, Cole Bird, Nicolas Bland

The VRF to Modernize Existing Buildings project focuses on analyzing the benefits of
replacing outdated HVAC systems with modern HVAC and variable refrigerant flow systems.
This was completed through the investigation of improvements in energy efficiency, climate
control, and occupant comfort requirements. The practical implementation of these systems
was then considered through different building applications. Computational and
mathematical analysis were also used to calculate the heating and cooling loads of the
building design in accordance with ASHRAE standards. This project was completed in
cooperation with clients Modern Niagara.


Design & Development

Colby Erick, Michael Ladringan, Griffin Peters, Logan Pinaroc

The Alpine Innovators Sit Ski project team has been working with their client and consulting
with the Canadian Adaptive Snowsports Association to create a design that allows the client
to safely control a sit ski downhill with minimal assistance. The team has faced multiple unique
constraints, forcing them to conceptualize various design ideas. If the rider has limited upper
body mobility, the rider is fully dependent on the assistant for control of the device. Alpine
Innovators' goal is to change this by utilizing multiple engineering design principles to allow
the rider to feel the control on the sit ski.


Rajbir Bhalla, Landon Harker, Marvin Patel

The project team, Windata, has been tasked by their clients for the design and development
of a desktop wind tunnel. This project was to be utilized specifically for the PRDT-305-Model
Making and Prototyping Lab. The aerodynamics of clay model cars and their 3D printed
components, designed by students, are to be tested. The prototype developed was to be
compact in size, yet effective enough to display aerodynamic observations for educational
purposes.


Connor Halford, Noah Holmes, Sooraj Saji, Brett Watkin

The FireMaster project team collaborated with their client Larry Golem to develop an
innovative tool for maneuvering firewood in a campfire. The project goal was to create a
simple, easy-to-manufacture design that remains durable and allows one-handed use. This
project required the team to utilize the iterative design process at every stage, refining their
concept to meet the client’s vision. CAD software played a key role in developing a
functional and efficient product. Through creativity and precision, the team aimed to deliver
a cutting-edge solution that enhances firewood handling while maintaining practicality and
ease of use.


Mutiu Olaniyi, Leighton Slomp, Kai Wang

The Margo Squawk Box project team worked with their client, Margo Supplies, to develop an
innovative design to help customers deter birds from sensitive areas. The main objective of
the project is to develop a new and improved version of their current Squawk Box product,
and to provide a more versatile and compact product, all while maintaining weather
resistance and simplicity of use. This project required the team to use CAD software,
maintain communication with their client, and work closely with industry standards to
provide a well-defined and quality product.


Nilave Dey, Albert Kolen, Peter Peng, Theodore Schmidt

The Mobile Respiratory Unit Project team collaborated with staff and students of the SAIT
School of Health and Public Safety to create an innovative plan for a new respiratory
training unit to enhance the respiratory program’s acute care laboratory simulations. To
prepare for a new and flexible learning environment the team was tasked to generate a
design for a robust acute care respiratory unit with the criteria that it must be portable,
collapsible and the ability to accommodate an assortment of training gear. Through
collaboration with clients to develop and deliver the plans, the project team designed and
tested a number of concepts and generated a working solution which would be an effective
solution for the lab environment.


Timur Mestoev, Chit Chau, James Nguyen, Uchenna Ezenekwe

The Mill Liner Measurement Tool project team collaborated with Kumtor Gold Company to
develop a more efficient and accurate way to measure mill liners. Manual measurement
methods cause delays and inefficiencies, leading to operational and financial losses. The
team designed a sensor-based solution that enhances precision, reduces downtime, and
integrates seamlessly into existing workflows. Built for extreme mining conditions, the tool
is compact, durable, and capable of storing or transferring data, ensuring a reliable and
cost-effective solution for mill liner measurement.


Jarom Bisgaard, Hassan Hussain, Wyatt Mensinger, Qadro Yusuf

PROJECT Rotorus is made up of three collaborative yet independent teams with the common
goal of creating innovative solutions to engine and transmission adversities in the
automotive industry. Team engine’s focus was to explore the geometry of the Wankel rotary
engine and generate a series of designs that improve upon its sealing and compression. The
team’s design process utilized 3D modelling, concept generation and research to produce
concepts that are both easy to manufacture and service.


Ejay Bitara, Garret Commandeur, Adam Johnson, Re Shahzad

PROJECT Rotorus is made up of three collaborative yet independent teams with the common
goal of creating innovative solutions to automotive systems. Team Transmission looks at the
complexity of modern transmissions and their intricate design, causing them to be difficult
to assemble and repair. The team's goal is to create a more ergonomically sustainable and
accessible design by taking into account all users throughout its lifecycle.


Brett Falkiner, Hunter James, James Perovich

The Wearable Tracheotomy Simulator project team worked with their client, Instructor Erin
Choquette of SAIT’s School of Health and Public Safety Respiratory Therapy Program, to
improve the realism and functionality of SAIT’s original simulator design. The project’s goal
is to create a low-cost and functional wearable tracheostomy training tool, which can
effectively teach tracheostomy cleaning and maintenance to Respiratory Therapy Program
students.


Gouravdeep Singh, Gursharan Singh, Harfateh Singh, Rahul

Search and Rescue (SAR) operations often struggle to deliver communication devices, food,
and emergency medical supplies on time because of inaccessible terrain and dangerous
environments. This project aims to design an efficient drone-based delivery system by
developing an optimized detachable mechanism to carry things and ensure safe and timely
delivery. To achieve this, the project involves analyzing current SAR drones, generating new
design concepts, and selecting the most effective detachment system. By using CAD
modeling and simulations, the proposed design will be evaluated for use before moving to
the prototype.


Zach Lavin, Ashton Lock, Mia Paige, Ty Stewart

The Shock Re-Design team has been tasked with redesigning the existing shock absorbers
to address issues related to durability, performance, and maintenance. The current shocks
suffer from inconsistent compression ratios, piston bending, and excessive maintenance
requirements, all of which negatively impact reliability. These failures are primarily
attributed to cost-driven design constraints, making the shocks prone to premature failure.
The project aims to improve the design by identifying the failure points and optimizing
performance through CAD modeling and simulation. The redesigned shocks will be designed
to ensure compatibility with the existing vehicle chassis. Although prototyping may be
considered, the primary objective is to produce detailed and accurate CAD models that
validate the proposed improvements.


Nathan Beckner, Dillan Ray Figarola, Evan Grimstead, Richard Mangaluz

The Shredder project, developed as a solution for the MET Automation program at SAIT, tackles
the challenge of recycling plastic waste generated from 3D printing. The goal is to design an
efficient shredding unit capable of processing 3D prints and other plastics into small reusable
pellets for injection molding. The shredder will be driven by a small motor that can handle a
variety of plastics, while accommodating different part sizes. The project will deliver a functional
CAD model, a motor-driven control system, and a simulation of the shredding mechanism in
action to ensure effective operation.


Mustafa Ali, Alessia Ferrise, Alex Navickas and Benjamin Springer

The Stratos team worked hands on with their client and users to analyze existing snorkel
designs and develop new concepts that combine modern technology with an attractive
aesthetic. The team will consult users through feedback surveys to aid the design process,
concept generation and selection, identifying overlooked problems with current market
solutions. The goal is to generate new, sleeker designs that utilize modern design methods
such as 3D scanning and 3D modeling, coupled with features such as a dust extraction
system and customizable elements. This endeavour required the team to implement an
array of design and communication skills to align with the client expectations and user
needs.


Devprakash Patel, Ilia Panahnoori, Ankush Singla

Effective Intubation requires accurate airway design due to anatomical differences in
pediatric patients. The project's focus was to design a proportionally larger tongue, a floppy
epiglottis, an anteriorly positioned larynx, a precise trachea, and external mechanisms such
as the base for a mannequin, jaw flexibility, and a head support mechanism. The model
replicates the human airway axis by modeling and redesigning existing parts to serve
realistic practice for medical professionals. IntubeX Airway aims to achieve higher success in
intubation rates thus meeting the client's need for enhanced training.


Design & Automation

Henglin, Huu Kiet Pham, Lovedeep and Quoc Cuong Pham

In this era of rising expenses, SAIT requires a safe and effective delivery method. This project goal was to create an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) that could deliver parcels within SAIT’s campus. Currently the AMR team is focusing on creating a navigation system that allows the robot to travel between automation lab and the studying area near Second Cup, avoiding obstacles using IFM AVG vision system combined with LiDAR. This remarkable project demanded the team to demonstrate exceptional skills in programming and concept development to effectively address SAIT’s requirements.


Mantaj Singh, Ans Khan, Palakjeet Kaur, Eric Bonso

The project explores the fusion of robotic systems with 3D printing processes to develop
adaptable and flexible additive manufacturing methods. The ABB IRB 140 enables
multiple direction printing which surpasses traditional layer-by-layer printing restrictions.
The advanced innovation presents the potential to transform automated fabrication
technologies by delivering both increased precision and adaptability for constructing
complex parts.


Isidro Gerardo Buenafe III, Janea Joy Caringal, Christian Allen Escarlan, Saroje Nicolai Merioles

The ARIS High Temperature Control System Project team, together with their client SAIT- ARIS developed a system and a prototype to recreate laboratory testing in the Oil & Gas industry. The project’s aim was to accurately measure temperature and flow rate of an oil-water mixture at controlled temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 °C in a closed loop atmospheric system. It features an automated monitoring system to assess the sensors’ performance. Research on similar systems from EP Ehrler Prüftechnik Engineering and Xylem were referenced to identify key features the team planned to incorporate in the prototype. The anticipated outcome is a reliable and efficient test bench fitting for practical application with improved sensor performance. The Capstone project findings and prototype testing will be validated through compliance with industrial standards and practical validation of the design.


Gabriel Calata, Maguire Epoch, Nic Gillespie, Adam Rokman

Transforming a manual process into a highly efficient automated solution. By developing a precise control system and incorporating a pneumatically actuated cutting mechanism, we not only improve precision but also allow operators to focus on higher-value tasks. This immense effort requires extensive research into roll-forming technologies, unique design exploration, and tedious prototyping.

The result?

A functioning scale prototype that revolutionizes precision and efficiency. Come see our prototype to observe the future of automated manufacturing in action!


Isaiah Porter, Ekam Singh, Roy Soriano, Artem Zakhozhai

A universal test stand launching ideas into the universe. The project team created a specialized apparatus, serving as a critical testing stage before sending thrusters into space. Ionic thrusters use accelerated ions as propellant. They require precise testing in low-gravity conditions to ensure reliability. This stand, developed for the SAIT Supernova's thruster, accurately measures thrust, weight, and controls high voltage, ensuring safe operation and simplifying the process of turning theories into practical innovations. It bridges groundbreaking ideas with reality, confidently moving innovations from concept to cosmos.


Richelle Caligan, Dhruv Dave, Mark Rasberry

When you leave work at end of a long shift do you prefer to have all your limbs attached? If you answered yes, then Lab Safety can help with that! The Mechatronic Lab Safety team has worked closely with their client, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), to provide a dynamic and responsive system for monitoring equipment and personnel safety. With the introduction of Omron Light Curtains, LiDAR, and Safety PLC, the team has designed an extensive safety profile to limit robot speed and movement when hazards are detected within range of equipment. The intent of this capstone is to protect the students, staff, and visitors that enter the mechatronics lab, as well as increase the efficiency of those working with the equipment.


Duc Hung Bui, McCoy Micha, Naderi Hamed, and Norgaard Connor

Manufacturers must maintain consistent quality in their products to keep up with today’s fast-paced market, stay competitive, and maximize their returns. The redesigned MES storage system for SAIT is the ultimate solution to these goals. The system minimizes downtime and optimizes workflows by streamlining the data collection process, integrating seamlessly with other systems, ensuring a steady resource supply, and enhancing overall equipment efficiency. The result? Smoother operations, boosted productivity, and a solid foundation for success.


Ryan Bianchini, Ali Hassen, Varinder Singh

Man vs. Machine, Instinct vs. Logic, a new demonstration is coming to you in the next Open house located at SAIT to demonstrate Mechanical Engineering Technologies.

Utilizing concepts such as palletizing, material handling and human-machine interfacing, the team is developing a new demonstration to enable visitors to play Tic Tac Toe against a robot. With the sole purpose of presenting concepts taught in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program, this team is creating an exciting way to represent the program at the next open house.

Come in for this year's showcase to see what the team developed for the latest Open house demonstration.


Errold Esteban, Jo Nufable, Gary Tabion, Marica Taneo

Can children choose chocolates from a clever, candy-distributing robot? Certainly! In collaboration with Phoenix Contact, this capstone team transforms a hobbyist open-loop robot arm into a closed-loop demonstration unit powered by PLCnext Technology. The system brings automation to life at tradeshows and public showcases, actively distributing mini chocolate bars through custom feeders along with an interactive eHMI interface. The first live demonstration will take place at a hospital and will bring joy to young patients while showcasing PLCnext's technology and capabilities. This project highlights the power of design and automation while adding a touch of delight to every user.


Savannah Henderson, Cole Jesenovec, Ethan Rudney, Markus Vandenhoek

In a world where danger and delivery are constant. Follow Zeus, Ambush, Noisy-Boy, Midas and Atom as they embark on their most daring journey yet, safely delivering product between the two Automation rooms (CA117, CA119). MPS Delivery, a capstone coming soon to a classroom near you.

The Robotino MPS delivery team has been tasked by SAIT to develop the Festo Robotino robots alongside fleet management software to safely pick and deliver products from two MPS stations. The robot will use mapping software along with a vision system to avoid any collisions with a constantly changing classroom environment.


Allan Barahona, Neil Codamon and Jose Emmanuel Mercado

The goal of this Design and Automation project is to evaluate and recommend a next-generation vision system to replace and improve the outdated system of the MET automation facilities. With the use of the CNTR300 Vision System Setup and Control laboratory as their basis, the team will set out to describe the capabilities, compare system performance against the current configuration, and investigate potential hardware and software integrations of a few handpicked vision systems provided by their client. The project will not only provide a data-driven suggestion for a suitable and cost-effective replacement. But also, a thorough road map that facilitates better automation workflows as well as successful learning experiences. In the end, this project will produce a strong, future-proof vision system that encourages ongoing creativity and practical education in the field of design and automation.