Microwave Theory and Techniques Society
Exploring the complexity of wireless communication.
The mission of Purdue IEEE MTT-S is to explore microwave technology through events that highlight the background and applications of high-frequency technology. The events that Purdue IEEE MTT-S holds cater to the needs of both undergraduate and graduate students. The members of this committee host outreach activities to educate others about the opportunities and benefits of microwaves in communication and radar. The large range of experience levels present give a variety of perspectives in this field and allow for mentorship relations to form for the professional development of all members. Between seminars, roundtable discussions, and demonstrations, the members of MTT-S eagerly support the community that came out of Purdue University's groundbreaking research in radio frequency and microwave engineering. The chapter is recruiting to add freshmen on through Ph.D. candidates into the ranks in an effort to expand relevance.
Projects
Spin Radar System
For this semester MTT-S is creating a radar system for the Spin Scooters using the Acconeer's XM122 Radar sensors. The intent of this radar system is to display obstacles in the rider's blind spots and notify them before a collision occurs. The radar sensor will detect objects within 5 meters of the XM122 radar sensor and then objects will be displayed on an LCD screen, once the radar is too close to an obstacle, the buzzer and LED will signal the rider to be careful and slow down. We hope that through this project, the members of MTT-S would be able to understand how microwave signals are received and transmitted using the radar sensors and display as well as gain more knowledge about microprocessors and its functionality. Furthermore, this project hopes to decrease the number of scooter accidents on campus. In future semesters if the club wishes to continue building the radar system, we hope to have a similar implementation for bicycles and even for cars.
Microwaves in Internet Delivery
Purdue IEEE MTT-S spent the year focusing on competing for a second time in a row at the area's largest conference, IMS (International Microwave Symposium), in their student design competitions. Moreover, the officers as well as some of the more-involved members spent the fall semester developing a workshop for an FM transmitter. This included tasks such as circuit design, PCB layout, and documentation. Every Thursday, members learned about various topics such as classes of power amplifiers, modulation schemes, and RF front end components. Knowledge gained on these topics will help out as the club prepares to compete in the IMS student design competitions next summer. Check out our demo video!
RailFUN and FM Radio Workshop
In addition to working on the power amplifier and wireless harvester to prepare for IMS (International Microwave Symposium), we worked on an electromagnetically powered projectile launcher. This involved three main tasks including circuit design, mechanical design, and CAD design. We also worked on a FM radio workshop where we designed PCB and worked with radio signal logics to make personal FM radios.
Leadership
Nathaniel Thompson
Team Captain