Dietrich Vogel

Fluid mechanics research on rotating bodies and fluid layer interactions (Dr. Su 01/2014- 05/2014) In the Spring of 2014, Dieter researched oil and water interactions. The undergraduate research focused on observing an oil layer over rotating bodies of water. Research was directed to publish a paper on the mixing forces imposed by rotating fluids on the oil - water boundary. Research successfully determined undocumented forces that mixed the oil and water layer. The outcome of the research was a series of videos and pictures that documented subduction forces that mixed the oil-water layer. Research findings were assembled into a poster and later presented to the academic community.

Industry implications might be vast. This fluid phenomenon could be a method for moving the oil water boundary layer into a collector to collect effective amounts of oil from the environment in event of a leak or spill. Pharmaceutical implications could include minimum impact mixing or an alternative to peristaltic pumping. This was interesting research and like most interesting research it has prompted more opportunities than answers.

Wind Farm Location Feasibility Study (High School Senior Project: 2010) Throughout Dieter’s senior year at EGHS he worked on a project to propose a wind farm which would be located near the top of Greenwich bay. The project included a wind speed analysis, environmental impact study as well as a financial analysis of the costs and payoff period. Initially an area was selected due to the proximity with a water treatment and waste management facility. After deploying sensors and retrieving data, it was determined that a 750kW turbine would be ideal for the wind speed in the suggested area. Additionally, the area was measured to be large enough to safely contain up to three wind turbines. The environment was not determined to be a coastal zone so permitting would be a medial task. A wind farm of three 750 kW turbines would take advantage of federal assistance packages and endure a break even period of 7 years. The payback period was calculated by adding Federal financial incentives for renewable energy and power created multiplied by the expected future cost of energy; then subtracted the fixed cost of installation and maintenance. A formal plan was drafted and submitted to the town council of East Greenwich. Over the summer of 2010, the plan was voted on and although the council determined the plan to be financially beneficial, it was denied due to fear of vibration influences on birds in the area. Dieter then went on to college and accepted the decision of the town council.

As a sophomore in high school, Dietrich competed in a spaghetti bridge building contest. Along with a partner; they designed, built and tested a bridge made entirely of spaghetti and Elmer's water soluble glue. Bridge building software was used to test initial thoughts and determine design feasibility. The design was selected based on it's structural redundancy and use of similar sized spaghetti pieces. The bridge won awards including lightest bridge, most efficient design, and carried the second most weight before failure.