Two cutting-edge interactive exhibits highlight the exceptional talents of TU students and their contributions to innovative educational technologies.
After an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum (TASM), students demonstrated the two simulators and invited attendees to interact with them and learn about the development process of each exhibit firsthand. Adding these two new exhibits brings TU’s total TASM exhibits to five. The exhibits include partners The University of Tulsa Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and CymSTAR. CymSTAR is a training systems integrator that provides simulation modifications, training services, engineering capabilities, and products to all branches of the defense forces and aerospace community.
“The projects showcased at TASM are a testament to the rigorous educational framework we’ve developed here at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering,” said Kaveh Ashenayi, Hans A. Norberg Endowed Chair in Electrical Engineering. “Our students have applied their academic learnings to solve real-world challenges, reflecting their potential to transform industries and enhance technological education through innovation.”
Engineering the skies: The F-16 Simulator
Students Zackary Gunter, Alex Izett, Spencer Luttenberg, Blake Mumma, and Jonathon Elliot created an immersive F-16 simulator under the guidance of academic mentors and industry professionals from CymSTAR, allowing visitors to enter the pilot role and navigate various aerial challenges. It’s designed to entertain and provide a deep understanding of aerodynamics, avionics, and flight control systems, showcasing the practical applications of classroom learning in a real-world scenario.
Navigating new worlds: TASM Tower
Students Ethan Beard, Sarah Downs, and Isaak Mitchell developed a three-person interactive game that simulates space lander missions on lunar and Martian surfaces. This project emphasizes problem-solving, teamwork, and applying theoretical knowledge in space technology, providing an engaging platform for visitors to explore and learn about the complexities of space navigation.
“I am immensely proud of our students’ accomplishments in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application to benefit society. Their success in creating these groundbreaking exhibits demonstrates their technical prowess and readiness to lead and innovate in the global tech landscape,” said Andreas A. Polycarpou, James R. Sorem Inaugural Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
The impact of collaboration on education
“These new exhibits not only reflect the innovative capabilities of our students but also the strength of collaboration between academia and industry,” noted TASM Executive Director Tonya Blansett. She praised the students for turning theoretical knowledge into interactive learning experiences that can captivate and educate museum visitors of all ages.
Museum curator Alex London added, “By involving students in the creation of these exhibits, we are preparing them for future roles in STEM fields and helping to ignite a passion for science and technology in our community.”
These exhibits mark a significant achievement for TU and its students. It offers them a platform to display their skills and prepare for successful careers in engineering and technology. It also reinforces TASM’s commitment to educational innovation and its role in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of STEM subjects among the wider community.