Technology students featured in undergraduate research journal

Two undergraduate research teams from the College of Technology are featured in the most recent Journal of Purdue Undergraduate Research (JPUR).

The two projects focus on biofiltration for indoor air quality and the application of lean principles in a medical setting.

Biowall research

Three students in mechanical engineering technology -- Junior Cho, Jordan Mansfield and Kyle Krockenberger -- conducted a study of the biowall, which was designed for Purdue's entry in the 2011 U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon competition. Their research found the biowall to helpful in improving indoor air quality. It also found the system increased energy use costs. They suggest further research for a more efficient design of the system.

The research team was mentored by Bill Hutzel, professor of mechanical engineering technology.

Read the full research report online: Using Plants to Reduce Energy: Evaluation of Energy, Indoor Air Quality, and Biofiltration Performance of a Biowall.

Lean principles and nursing

The second team featured in JPUR included Kyasha Edmond, Vinchessica Gray, and Nakia Taylor from industrial technology and Cameron Brown from industrial engineering. They conducted a case study with nurses to identify their knowledge and implementation of lean principles. They identified areas at a local hospital that would benefit from additional education or better efficiencies. They also identified areas for more targeted research and study, all with the goal of improving the operation of the healthcare system.

The team was mentored by Shirl Donaldson, a post doctoral research assistant, and Hank Kraebber, professor of mechanical engineering technology. The team conducted their research as part of the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP).

Read the full research port online: A Case Study Conducted with Nurses: Insight into the Implementation of Lean Principles and Techniques in a Medical Setting.

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