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Development of Next Generation Column Guard - Final Phase of a Multi-Year Senior Capstone Project

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Conference

2025 ASEE North Central Section (NCS) Annual Conference

Location

Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia

Publication Date

March 28, 2025

Start Date

March 28, 2025

End Date

March 29, 2025

Tagged Topic

Diversity

Page Count

12

Permanent URL

https://peer.asee.org/54659

Paper Authors

biography

Robert Michael Gannon University

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Robert J. Michael, Ph.D., P.E., Associate Professor in the Mechanical Department at Gannon University, obtained his B.S.M.E. degree from Akron University where he graduated summa cum laude, and his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in mechanical and aerospace engine

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biography

David Gee Gannon University Orcid 16x16 orcid.org/0000-0002-6864-4131

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Faculty Advisor, ASME Student Chapter

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Abstract

This paper presents the final results of an engineering design project involving undergraduate engineering and business students. The project involves the design, development, and prototyping of a next generation pallet rack column guard. The guard allows for the engagement and protection of a storage rack upright (column) from an impact force by an external object such as a forklift. The guard protects the storage rack by absorbing and damping the resulting impact force. The guard is constructed from an injection-molded thermoset elastomer. Elastomers can store and release more potential energy per unit mass (or volume) than steel and plastic guards. This translates to greater energy absorption which will help preserve the structural integrity of a rack upon impact thus protecting the general public in retail (big box) stores and warehouses. The final phase includes impact testing and developing a sales and marketing strategy – a collaborative effort between engineering students and the school of business. The results are presented in detail with emphasis on how engineering and business students collaborate.

Michael, R., & Gee, D. (2025, March), Development of Next Generation Column Guard - Final Phase of a Multi-Year Senior Capstone Project Paper presented at 2025 ASEE North Central Section (NCS) Annual Conference, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia. https://peer.asee.org/54659

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