Diego Espinoza

Challenge: Support industrial energy optimization goals under the supervision of the lead mechanical engineer.

Action: Collected and analyzed consumption data from compressors, fans, and cooling towers. Proposed replacement of 340 kW and 180 kW motors with high-efficiency models and developed PLC-based control strategies for air compressors. Assisted in calibration of sensors and maintenance supervision.

Result: Identified energy-saving opportunities in the industrial services line (23% of total plant consumption) and proposed measures with a 1.5-year payback, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.

Advanced Manufacturing – CNC Programming with Fusion 360 (2024-2)

Challenge:Bridge 3D design and real-world manufacturing using CNC technology.

Action:Created toolpaths, defined machining parameters, and simulated CNC operations in Autodesk Fusion 360. Result: Produced accurate simulations and gained hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing workflows.

Electric Scooter Design – Mechanical Design Course (2024-1)

Challenge:Develop a lightweight, robust scooter frame capable of withstanding user loads and dynamic stresses.

Action:Designed and modeled the complete 3D assembly in Autodesk Inventor, performing finite element analysis (FEA) to locate stress concentrations at welded joints. Result: Optimized frame geometry for improved durability and manufacturability.

Energy Consumption Assessment – Electrical Machines Course (2024-1)

Challenge:Estimate the total energy usage of university fabrication laboratories.

Action: Calculated equipment, lighting, and computer lab power demands using technical datasheets and Excel-based analysis.

Result:Quantified total energy demand and proposed reduction measures for sustainable laboratory operation.

Mechanical Power Transmission Design – Machine Dynamics Course (2023-2)

Challenge:Design a functional power transmission system for a mechanical setup.

Action:Selected and dimensioned pulleys, gears, sprockets, chains, and geared motors; modeled and analyzed the system in Autodesk Inventor.

Result:Delivered a validated transmission design meeting torque and speed requirements efficiently.

Energy Conversion Systems Simulation – Energy Conversion Course (2023-2)

Challenge:Simulate a thermodynamic power cycle to analyze energy efficiency.

Action:Modeled compressors, turbines, boilers, and heat exchangers in Aspen HYSYS, analyzing performance metrics.

Result:Demonstrated system efficiency improvement through optimal component configuration.

Robotic Arm Control – Robotics Course (2022-2)

Challenge:Program a robotic arm capable of multi-axis motion control.

Action: Used Arduino and matrix transformations to program servo motors and simulate translational and rotational movements.

Result:Achieved precise arm motion control, deepening understanding of robotic kinematics and automation.

3D Printing Project – Independent Initiative (2024)

Challenge: Explore rapid prototyping and small-scale manufacturing through additive processes.

Action: Operated a small 3D printing venture producing customized mechanical prototypes using Autodesk Inventor and slicing software.

Result: Delivered functional parts and developed practical understanding of design for manufacturability and additive production workflows.