Daytona Beach College of Engineering Beyond Magazine

Dr. Eduardo Rojas, an associate professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, has been awarded a patent for his revolutionary technology. This innovation promises to significantly enhance spacecraft operations by providing accurate, real-time propellant distribution and quantity measurements.

Their dedication and expertise were instrumental in bringing this innovative concept to life. Extensive research and experimentation in the Wireless Devices and Electromagnetics Laboratory demonstrated the technology’s capabilities successfully. The implications of Dr. Rojas’ breakthrough are far-reaching. Accurate propellant measurements are crucial for mission planning, fuel efficiency and overall spacecraft performance. By providing real- time data, this technology can enable more efficient fuel management, reducing the risk of fuel shortages and improving the reliability of space missions. Dr. Rojas’ achievement is a demonstration of the dedication and talent of the faculty and students at Embry-Riddle. As this technology continues to be developed and refined, it has the potential to revolutionize the field of space exploration and pave the way for exciting discoveries.

Dr. Rojas’ invention involves using electromagnetic probes strategically

placed within spacecraft propellant tanks. Meticulously designed and calibrated probes emit electromagnetic waves that interact with liquid propellant. By analyzing the reflected signals, the technology can precisely determine the propellant’s spatial distribution and quantity. The development of this technology was a collaborative effort involving Dr. Rojas and two of his students, Nicholas Moline (’20) and Daniel Sommer (’19).

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