Peter Finzell

Created a novel biologically inspired algorithm to improve performance of hybrid power systems. Achieved all of the deadlines and goals set by the DOE crosscutting research team. Tested controller on a thermal simulation model, custom designed bench-top test rig and a gas turbine/fuel cell hybrid facility at the DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.

• Programmed controller in C++, Labview and Graphical Application Programmer (GAP)
• Designed, prototyped and built an adjustable bench-top test rig for controller validation
• Performed a design of experiments (DOE) the bench-top test rig and on the hybrid power facility
• Developed PI controllers for comparison with custom algorithm
• Analyzed simulated response of PI controllers and tuned gains using Matlab
• Assembled and calibrated an NI data acquisition system to gather sensor data
• Integrated virtual and physical systems using a virtual engineering software package (VE-Suite)

Directed a group of students in Mali, Africa to implement design projects to improve existing technologies. Performed a full engineering design cycle analysis on projects from initial concept to field testing in rural Mali, Africa

• Implemented several senior design projects including water valves, water pumps and battery boxes
• Coordinated the installation of solar charging stations for battery powered lighting
• Gained an appreciation for the challenges and limitations when designing for developing countries

Developed an iPhone application in objective-C to navigate a 6-sided virtual reality enclosure using the gyroscope and accelerometer

Collaborated in the development of turbocharger valves for large diesel engines.

• Produced test fixtures to test turbocharger valves
• Assisted in the development and analysis of new and existing valve design using Solidworks
• Modified engineering drawings and documentation using geometric dimensioning and tolerances (GD&T)
• Utilized loop analysis and DFM to identify and analyze risks and problem areas

Assisted with design modifications to existing refrigerator parts through testing of current designs, compiled a report of replacement and service calls and proposing changes to existing design and documentation

• Designed potential refrigerator part modification in Pro-E
• Created specialty test fixtures to determine if existing designs were meeting expectations
• Organized service call data into bi-weekly claims reports to drive design modifications
• Generated website content for Frequently Asked Questions