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A Futuristic Orthotic Design
Author : Rashanna Wickramasinghe, Grade 12
High School : Sierra Canyon School, Los Angeles, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : August 25, 2021
Flat feet, also called pes planus, is a condition in which there is little to no arch on one or both feet, and this hinders the proper foundation one’s body needs. About 25% of the American population suffer from the lack of arch support. There are different types of flat feet, the two most common being flexible and rigid. Current treatments help only temporarily by managing the pain in one’s feet, ankles, shins, and back, while surgery comes at the expense of great pain and hazards. I asked myself how I could create a solution that would eliminate the risks of surgery, correct the root problem, and also is suitable for both types of flat feet. I focused on orthotics, and after researching its various parts and its functions, studying exactly wherein the foot support was fundamental, and taking inspiration from nature’s unique features, I designed a multi-part solution that manages the symptoms that come with both types of flat feet while also correcting the underlying issue. It consists of a customizable orthotic that provides comfort and strength to the feet, and a fusion device that utilizes natural forces combined with the physiotherapy process to lead to long-term results. Using biomimicry and green chemistry, the Orthotic and Fusion Device can be adjusted according to the user’s needs and progress of treatment. Both work together to generate the most desirable results and grants those suffering from flat feet the utmost relief and stability while avoiding the unnecessary hazards of surgery.
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Microplastic-Collecting Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Author : Anshul Chennavaram, Grade 11
High School : California High School, San Ramon, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : August 25, 2021
The purpose of this research paper is to address the global devastating impact of microplastics on marine life. Microplastics are small pieces of plastic that are smaller than 5 mm. As a result of the cosmetics and clothing industries, more microplastics than ever are entering the ocean from storms, water run-off and winds. These microplastics are found at alarming rates in the digestive systems of many marine animals. Furthermore, because of the food-chain it is now being found in many human organs as well causing serious health issues. My solution design, a Microplastic-Collecting Autonomous Underwater Vehicle cleans up microplastics in coastal areas using a four-part filtration system to separate microplastics from water to collect, store, and recycle for commercial or other purposes. This solution incorporates Whole System Design Thinking and takes into consideration all aspects of the collection and storage process, communications, energy needs, and ensures that the collected microplastics will never be returned into the ocean.
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Solution to Marine Mucilage and Harmful Algal Blooms
Author : Christian Chang, Grade 10
High School : San Ramon Valley High School, Danville, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : August 12, 2021
Due to the warming climate, the amount of mucilage and algal blooms are steadily increasing. This causes harm to the environment and the human population. Currently, there are no effective solutions to combat this issue. This research article addresses the problem with an effective, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient solution. The solution design uses biomimicry to incorporate nature’s principles, and green chemistry for an innovative design. Furthermore, the article addresses carbon sequestration. The solution design allows for easy recycling of the mucilage/algae, which can be processed into biochar. During the process, the carbon dioxide produced from the burning are captured and can be sold or put into the ground to mitigate climate change. Mucilage and algal blooms will always continue. However, the solutions presented in this article show how we can adapt to this issue in a sustainable way.
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Pathogen Resistant and Elimination Surface
Author : Pranav Akella, Grade 11
High School : California High School, San Ramon, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : July 30, 2021
This research article addresses the issue of surface-acquired infections. Currently, high-use surfaces accrue numerous harmful pathogens, which then are transmitted to and infect thousands of people every year. Current solutions address parts of the problem, but are riddled with flaws that make them either ineffective or unviable, such as not considering human error, cost, and difficult means of implementation. This research article presents a solution that not only is effective but also eliminates many of these flaws. The solution implements nature’s methods of pathogen resistance through the utilization of nanopillars and electric current. Through these methods, it is able to ensure a surface stays virtually pathogen-free, while also being easy to implement and easy to maintain. This solution can ensure high-use surfaces stay pathogen-free with minimal effort and maintenance and can help eradicate surface-acquired infections for good.
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Fistula Detection Method
Author : Nishanth Vemuri, Grade 12
High School : Irvington High School, Fremont, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : July 30, 2021
This research article aims to tackle the major issue of fistula identification. Currently, a surgery might result in an infection that can grow to a hollow tube connecting two organs or tissue, also known as a fistula. Detection methods at the moment are either too expensive for individuals or not very accurate in detecting fistulae. The solution mentioned in this paper identifies a fistula in its early stages through a four-step process. Through using brand-new techniques inspired by nature, the solution this article talks about identifies fistulae in an accurate and unique manner. By utilizing a multi-faceted approach, results of identifying a fistula are either confirmed or denied as the process continues. When the process is progressed through, the veracity of the results is increased. Through biomimicry, such as using a canine’s extreme sense of smell and a dolphin’s unique echolocation strategy, the device can accurately identify fistulae even in the harshest conditions. The solution in this paper aims to be a simple process and have a device reusable for patients, effectively identifying fistulae easily and effectively.
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Space Debris Removal Satellite
Author : Nikhil Vemuri, Grade 10
High School : Irvington High School, Fremont, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : July 30, 2021
The purpose of this research paper is to propose a solution to a problem that has been disregarded for decades: space junk. This problem now threatens in-orbit satellites and our future dreams of space exploration. Only a few missions have been completed to capture and burn up some debris, but much progress has not been made to clean up space junk. This article provides a solution to clear up a lot of space junk.
This solution is inspired by nature’s biological strategies and aims for smaller space junk (~1 mm). Using biomimicry, helped create the design for this solution because nature evolved for millions of years. This solution strives to last long and be reusable so the mission will last for years; thus, helping to create clear skies.
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Auto-Adjust Knee Brace
Author : Aryan Prabhakar Sripada, Grade 12
High School : Washington High School, Fremont, California
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : July 30, 2021
The purpose of this research article is to address the problem of joint and muscle pain, specifically that experienced in the knee. This problem has brought to light the areas in which the current knee braces lack. People struggle to find proper fits or long-lasting solutions.
My solution is a knee brace designed to change based on the pain levels that the user experiences or the support that the user desires. This knee brace will feature multiple sizes that can then be adjusted to provide a greater fit. Using biomimicry, I was able to create a solution that utilizes the strategies of multiple naturally occurring, potentially pain-relieving processes. This article will go over my solution in depth and discuss the material and function of all features of the knee brace.
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The EcholoCycle Handlebar Orientation System
Author : Jasmine Alamparambil, Grade 10
High School : Moreau Catholic High School, Hayward, CA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : July 30, 2021
The visually impaired are treated well and assisted often, but most have little to no means of independent transportation. They rely on others, such as family, friends, or drivers, to take them anywhere. While transportation is an essential part of any individual’s life, developing transportation for blind or partially sighted people is a challenge that must take many factors into account. In this paper, I work to develop a form of transportation modification that can be used by those with impaired vision without difficulty, safety concerns, or harm to the environment.
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A Sustainable and Futuristic Landfill Design
Author : Kennesha Garg, Grade 9
High School : American High School, Fremont, CA, USA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : May 20, 2021
16% of anthropogenic methane originates from landfills because of anaerobic decomposition and ineffective landfill gas (LFG) extraction. Leachate, or toxic water that permeates through trash, risks contaminating the groundwater by seeping underground. My solution mitigates this impact by using biomimicry, green chemistry, and industrial designing, and it ensures that different safety systems and protocols are present to make landfills into sustainable and reliable architecture. Not only does my solution address today’s needs, but also takes the evolving future into consideration by creating annual revenue, utilizing modern technology, and bringing us one step closer to reducing climate change.
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Multi-Layered Aerosol Repellent Facemask Design
Author : Arjun Nanduri, Grade 9
High School : Lake Nona Highschool, Orlando, FL, USA
Process Used : Whole System Design Thinking
Publication Date : March 10, 2021
The purpose of this research article is to address the overwhelming infectious rates of airborne diseases resulting in many deaths throughout the world. This problem has brought to question the effectiveness and utility of current facemask solutions. With rising death counts day by day, a functional solution is needed. My solution design, a new cost-effective mask uses a multi-layered solution to step-by-step ensure pathogens are barred from entry, differing from conventional surgery masks and other basic solutions. Furthermore, in comparison to other multi-layered masks, this solution design fixes the air you breathe combining both aspects of charcoal to purify the air and a new technology in the form of hygroscopic wool, trapping excess moisture within along with the pathogens, outclassing other masks. Using biomimicry, such as the nanoscopic bumps of the lotus leaves (or similar hydrophobic material) further prevents the moisture from entering, thus allowing the creation of a better and more efficient mask, ensuring the air you breathe is free of aerosols when using this mask.