A researcher at Michigan State University will use a National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Award to improve the design of electric motors and generators using 3D printing technologies — and a little inspiration from spiders.
Shanelle Foster, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, will apply the versatility of 3D printing and the help of a $500,000 grant to reduce pollution by electric motor-driven systems. The five-year project begins this month.
“Inclusion of intricate design features that improve electric motors can be a nightmare when conventional manufacturing techniques are used,” Foster said, “so I have been applying 3D printing technologies to better their performance. The technologies offer unique options in size, shape and diversity of materials.”
For the full story, visit the College of Engineering website.
