For many, West Virginia University's Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering's senior design expo is a time to breathe a sigh of relief, signaling the end of years of hard work culminating in the presentation of a final project before graduation. For others, it's the time to help others breathe a little easier.
A senior fromWest Virginia University'sStatler College of Engineering and Mineral Resourcesrecently captured top honors for creating a device that uses electromagnetic waves to detect underground objects, including utility lines, landmines or other metallic or non-metallic objects.
On any given morning, long before classes begin at West Virginia University, you will find Powsiri Klinkhachorn walking through the halls of the Engineering Sciences Building, carrying a box. Ask him what's inside and his answer is simple: "Robot parts."