Sam Snow

Mechanisms, Machine Design, Computer-Aided Design, Mechanics of Materials, Additive Manufacturing, Computer-Aided Engineering & Manufacturing, Sustainable Energy Engineering, Control Systems

Autonomous Rover Navigation and Mapping System

MATLAB, Obstacle Detection, Path-finding Algorithm, Virtual Mapping

• Designed and programmed a military-themed rover to navigate toward user-selected coordinates via a virtual map interface using real-time sensor feedback.
• Developed a master control function with subroutines for navigation, object detection, and movement, enabling adaptive speed and direction through dynamic algorithmic decision-making.

Automated Battery Sorter

Senior Design Project - University of Tennessee, Knoxville | Spring 2025

• Led mechanical design and CAD modeling of an automated battery sorter using SolidWorks.
• Integrated a camera, laser sensor, and Arduino system with a CNN-based AI model to classify and sort batteries through real-time image recognition.

6-Bar Mechanism Dynamic Analysis Tool

MATLAB, Kinematic and Dynamic Modeling, Parametric Analysis, Joint Force Calculation, Motion Simulation

• Developed a parametric MATLAB tool to analyze link kinematics and dynamics of a 6-bar system, including position, velocity, acceleration, and center of mass computations.
• Performed joint force and input torque analysis, validated via hand calculations, and calculated max angular velocity to ensure cable integrity under dynamic loading.

Planetary Gear System Design

SolidWorks, Mechanical Design, Motion Studies, Technical Drawings, Tolerance Analysis

• Designed and modeled a functional planetary gear-set, including fully defined parts, gear ratio calculations, and tolerance-specific drawings.
• Created dynamic assembly and motion studies with visualizations and an animated video to demonstrate operation.