We will build and expand on a modular miniature smart‑city testbed with multiple autonomous vehicles and instrumented infrastructure. Achieve robust single‑car autonomy (perception, localization, control) then scale to coordinated multi‑vehicle traffic (junction rules, L3 autonomy, collision avoidance). Add energy‑aware routing with autonomous charging and task allocation. Build on the existing hardware-software framework int he lab, […]
February 28, 2026
Hydropolis: Urban Infrastructure and Hydrology Research
Hydropolis creates sustainable, resilient, and biodiverse communities by analyzing ecosystems and designing interventions like green spaces, waterway rehabilitations, and infrastructural innovations across urban and rural contexts. Our hybrid approach combines engineering, design, and communication science to reimagine infrastructure and how it is understood. We investigate an array of exciting topics that include water quality management […]
February 28, 2026
Design of a Grading-Sorting System for Agriculture Post-Harvest Handling
Design and prototype an automated grading and sorting system for post-harvest agricultural products that improves efficiency, accuracy, and product quality. The system will integrate machine vision, sensing, and mechanical handling to classify produce by size, shape, color, and defects. Emphasis will be placed on gentle handling to minimize damage, modular design for different crops, and […]
February 28, 2026
Smart 3D Food Manufacturing Enabled by Nutrient Optimization Algorithms
The goal of this project is to develop a 3D food printing system capable of producing customized food products tailored to the specific dietary needs of different population groups. By integrating nutritional science with precise formulation and printing technologies, the project aims to deliver personalized foods with controlled nutrient composition, and portion size to support […]
February 27, 2026
AI Agents for a Sustainable Food Supply
Interactive AI agents will be used to revolutionize how we develop, deploy and manage our food supply, and prepare students for a workforce prioritizing agentic AI literacy. UGA excels in developing new crop varieties and providing agronomic advice. AI agents can be used to aid key breeding decisions as well as provide advice on crop […]
February 23, 2026
This project will develop MEMS sensor networks to monitor transportation networks for the safety of both transportation infrastructure and traffic. Issues involved: 1) How to develop low-cost but reliable sensor networks to monitor the safety of both transportation infrastructures and traffic?, 2) How to deploy the sensors in the field with minimum perturbations to existing […]
December 2, 2024
Agriculture productivity and livestock health are significantly influenced by factors such as ammonia levels, methane emissions, temperature, humidity, and soil moisture. Traditional sensing solutions often lack precision, durability, or affordability for widespread deployment, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This VIPR team will address these challenges by developing smart, affordable, and customizable sensors. The sensors […]
December 2, 2024
Project MACAW: Managing Avian Collisions At Windows
This team will identify hotspots and timing of lethal bird collisions with windows on the UGA campus. Students will: uncover the ecological and design drivers of collisions; assess knowledge and educate UGA students, staff, and faculty about the issue; develop monitoring protocols; and propose innovative solutions to prevent collisions by engaging with multiple stakeholders at […]
December 2, 2024
This VIPR team will provide students with hands-on opportunities to explore how emerging technologies—sensors, automation, and AI—can address real-world challenges in traditional manufacturing. Students will define case studies, assess technical and operational needs, and develop innovative solutions. Each project culminates in functional demonstrations that translate engineering theory into practical applications for advanced manufacturing. This team […]