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Sliding Panels to Reduce Indoor Convection

In this project, I served as an engineering-design leader tasked with reducing convection currents in the Duke University SmartHome. The ultimate solution is a sliding panel system using a set of large, wheel-mounted acrylic panels that can be individually positioned across the home's open concept area. 

Skills & Tools: SolidWorks, Fusion360, McMaster-Carr, Trotec Laser Cutter

Project Overview

The product was heavily influenced by the mechanical nature of a sliding door. Each of the four acrylic panels were sized, cut, and retrofitted with wheels ordered from McMaster-Carr. Each panel contains four of these wheels which each rest on the large metal track. With retractability in mind, there are two layers on the track, permitting two panels on the lower layer and two panels on the upper layer. With a custom-designed hook, users can position each panel wherever they deem comfortable. When fully deployed, any convection current that exists between the space is theoretically blocked, thereby creating two independent currents and re-establishing comfort and thermal harmony for the residents of the SmartHome! 

Technical Drawings

Shown below are some technical drawings I did for this project!

Final Poster Presentation

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