Think of a Thermos®...knowing when to keep its contents hot or cold. Or garage door stopping its descent when an object or person moves beneath it. They're "smart," right? Students choosing this project must develop a totally new, "smart" tool that successfully combines traditional hand-operated functions with embedded, intelligent control. It is also the responsibility of the team to identify and define potential customers and their needs through the product. The final tool should contain significant intelligence and demonstrate highly automated operation. This project more than others allows students the greatest opportunity for innovation and creativity.

The following teams are developing "smart" tools:

Team Alpha:
Laura Beauchamp, Mike Delaney, Jason McLaughlin, Mike Roisum, and Matt Sturgis

Team Alpha loves windows and the natural light they bring into homes. But they've noticed that not being able to control the sunlight that enters a window affects many aspects of homeownership: privacy, temperature, fading furniture and carpets, and household plants. That early morning sun can also be annoying to late-risers. So Team Alpha has decided to create a device that easily attaches to standard vinyl blinds. Their "smart" tool automatically adjusts the blinds to accommodate for different light levels. Check out their plans by clicking [here].

Team Unum:
Frankie Bott, Tim Culbertson, James Hyde, Chris Tilton, and Jose Viso

Team Unum is designing the AuRA valve. AuRA stands for Automatic Regulating Air Valve, but Aura is also the goddess of the morning wind. Team Unum says that this valve will simplify and increase the accuracy of inflation for use with athletic balls, as well as automotive and bicycle tires. In fact, they've claimed that the AuRA valve will be accurate within 5 percent of specified pressure, weigh less than 3 lbs., and cost -- if it were to be produced commercially -- under $30. Check out their lofty claims and their plans [here].

Team Pratham:
Reed Langton, Gabriel Letona, Nick Martin, Matt Ryan, and Fraterno Vila

Whether due to carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, the task of opening jars or bottles can be difficult. Team Pratham is creating an intelligent automatic jar/bottle opener that will open tightly sealed lids and caps. They guarantee this will put an end to running jars under hot water or asking someone else to "loosen" the lid. To find out more about this new product, click [here].

Team Uno:
Bunker Curnes, Shawn Houlahan, Stephanie Rohrs, Steve Schwall, and Chuck Smith

Team Uno is developing an umbrella that actually follows the sun's position throughout the day and automatically adjusts itself to provide constant shade: A bad idea for sunbathers but a great one for sun-sensitive souls who want to enjoy the Great Outdoors. For more information on the team's SmartShade, click [here].