Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
individual
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Ana Paula Guevara, Senior
Lead Presenter's Name
Ana Paula Guevara
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Engineering
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Mandar Kulkarni
Abstract
This project aims to restore and modernize an instructional cantilever beam model with a C‑shaped cross‑section used in Aerospace Structures courses, addressing the need for updated, hands‑on teaching tools that connect theoretical stress–strain concepts to real experimental data. The existing model, previously limited to qualitative demonstrations, is being rehabilitated and instrumented with a bonded strain gauge capable of detecting resistance changes under applied bending loads. These signals are processed through an Arduino‑based data acquisition system, which converts electrical resistance into strain values and displays them in real time on an LCD interface. The project’s objectives are to return the beam model to functional condition, integrate modern sensing and microcontroller technology, and create a reusable demonstration platform that enhances student understanding of structural behavior. The expected outcome is a fully operational system that allows students to compare analytical strain predictions from beam theory with experimentally measured values, reinforcing core concepts in deformation, bending, and material response. Preliminary work has included structural inspection, surface preparation for strain gauge bonding, and initial microcontroller testing. Once completed, the upgraded model will support multiple aerospace structures courses, improve laboratory instruction, and introduce students to instrumentation techniques commonly used in aerospace testing and structural health monitoring. This project ultimately strengthens the connection between theory and experimentation while promoting sustainable reuse of instructional equipment.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Included in
Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation Commons, Engineering Mechanics Commons, Mechanics of Materials Commons
Restoration and Instrumentation of a Cantilever Beam Model Using Strain Gauge Measurement
This project aims to restore and modernize an instructional cantilever beam model with a C‑shaped cross‑section used in Aerospace Structures courses, addressing the need for updated, hands‑on teaching tools that connect theoretical stress–strain concepts to real experimental data. The existing model, previously limited to qualitative demonstrations, is being rehabilitated and instrumented with a bonded strain gauge capable of detecting resistance changes under applied bending loads. These signals are processed through an Arduino‑based data acquisition system, which converts electrical resistance into strain values and displays them in real time on an LCD interface. The project’s objectives are to return the beam model to functional condition, integrate modern sensing and microcontroller technology, and create a reusable demonstration platform that enhances student understanding of structural behavior. The expected outcome is a fully operational system that allows students to compare analytical strain predictions from beam theory with experimentally measured values, reinforcing core concepts in deformation, bending, and material response. Preliminary work has included structural inspection, surface preparation for strain gauge bonding, and initial microcontroller testing. Once completed, the upgraded model will support multiple aerospace structures courses, improve laboratory instruction, and introduce students to instrumentation techniques commonly used in aerospace testing and structural health monitoring. This project ultimately strengthens the connection between theory and experimentation while promoting sustainable reuse of instructional equipment.