After designing a simple circuit based around a microchip and creating a few prototypes, they recruited Richard into the project. He developed a prototype 3-D printed enclosure for the circuit board, worked with Mayumi on more prototypes and made several revisions. The group is using the MakerSpace and 3-D printers at UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub as they develop a version that could provide the solution. “It works and it works well,” said Mayumi.

Stocker says he is amazed by the progress Mayumi and Richard have made in researching and testing this new technology.

“Mayumi impressed me right from the start, doing a literature search in which she found relevant publications that I had not discovered. Richard has impressed me especially with his understanding of the circuitry, and the 3-D printed enclosures that he has designed and refined through multiple revisions,” he said.

The students have presented their work at several conferences and will soon be published. Their manuscript was recently accepted for publication by The Physics Teacher, a peer-reviewed journal that features papers on physics research. It is also being submitted by the university for a U.S. provisional patent application.

“Working on this project has been a rewarding learning experience that aligns with my aim to serve as a bridge in my field and community,” said Mayumi. “Having the chance to work closely with the UC Blue Ash staff, guided by Professor Darling and mentored by Professor Stocker, has continually shown me how supportive and encouraging this campus community is.”

Richard adds that he appreciates the opportunity to apply engineering design thinking in a real-world context.

“This project provided me with foundational research experience and strengthened my leadership and technical skills, especially through designing and testing a 3D-printed case, given that one of our biggest challenges was trying to balance accessibility with affordability,” said Richard.

Next steps in the project will be testing the new technology with students. The plan is to build enough prototypes that they can be swapped for light bulbs in an actual physics lab. Richard will help lead this work as part of his Honors program experience and will be comparing student understanding in the lab groups using light bulbs and sound bulbs.

Featured photo: (L to R) Richard Chinchihualpa, Mayumi Chinchihualpa and Professor Dean Stocker.