Overview
The Carleton University Simulator Project (CUSP) is a final year engineering design project with the goal of developing a flight simulator with 6 degrees of freedom to simulate edge-of-envelope flight conditions like flat spins and deep dives emergency situations that cannot be preformed safely in actual aircraft. With a commitment to equipping the future mechanical engineers, CUSP serves as an incubator for invaluable skills and industry-relevant knowledge revolving research, analysis, and design. Through this immersive experience, we aim to empower students with the competence and connections that will propel them toward a successful career.
CUSP is not just about engineering; it’s about opening doors to inclusion and diversity in the field. We aim to eliminate boundaries in engineering by offering students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and design. As these students take on the intricate dance of engineering and design, we hope that their perspectives are forever transformed by the awe-inspiring complexities of the field.
The scope of our project reaches beyond the classroom, promoting collaboration with students and faculty across various disciplines to enhance the development of a versatile flight simulator. This simulator’s applications extend far and wide, enabling the emulation of edge-of-envelope flight conditions, such as flat spins and deep dives, as well as emergency situations that are too perilous to replicate in actual aircraft. Furthermore, it serves as a platform for general vehicle simulation and for research in human perception and sensory experiences. CUSP’s mission is not merely to teach but to inspire, and in doing so, it strives to leave an indelible mark on the future of engineering education and research.
The Background
The Carleton University Simulator Project (CUSP) is more than just an engineering endeavor; it’s a cause driven by the belief in the transformative power of education and research. CUSP champions the cause of equipping the next generation of engineers with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Our cause is to create a level playing field, making sure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of engineering, research, and design. We’re dedicated to breaking down barriers, fostering diversity, and nurturing inclusion, ensuring that everyone who has the passion and drive to learn and innovate can do so. CUSP’s cause extends to the wider community, where the knowledge and advancements generated through the project can benefit not only students but also the fields of aerospace, human perception, and beyond. It’s a cause that strives to make a lasting impact and leave a legacy of knowledge, diversity, and progress.
The Rollout
Funding invested into Carleton University Simulator Project (CUSP) provides the critical resources necessary to turn visionary ideas into tangible reality. These funds are essential for procuring top-quality materials, cutting-edge tools, and advanced software, enabling CUSP to make significant strides in the development of simulator hardware and software controls. To create a simulator that meets the highest standards of safety and precision, financial support is crucial. It ensures that the mechanical lab space, where this cutting-edge technology resides, adheres to the strictest safety conditions, safeguarding both the students and the equipment itself. The commitment of donors and sponsors to provide these resources not only drives innovation but also underscores the paramount importance of safety and excellence in the pursuit of groundbreaking engineering and design. Funding for CUSP is an investment in education, innovation, diversity, community, and safety. It’s an investment that not only benefits the students directly involved but also has a broader impact on the fields of engineering and research, creating a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
The Impact
The impact of the Carleton University Simulator Project (CUSP) extends far beyond the boundaries of traditional education. CUSP’s core objective is to empower a diverse array of students with tangible skills, inspiring a passion for engineering, and providing them with opportunities that are otherwise out of reach. By offering hands-on experience and encouraging collaboration across disciplines, CUSP not only shapes the future engineers but also contributes to the broader field of research and development. The ripple effect of this initiative reaches into industries, where CUSP graduates armed with practical knowledge and a strong network are poised to make meaningful contributions. Furthermore, the project’s potential applications in simulating challenging flight conditions and human perception research have the potential to advance aerospace and scientific fields. CUSP is a catalyst for positive change, fostering inclusion, innovation, and paving the way for a brighter, more diverse, and interconnected future for engineering and beyond.