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Dr. Hovannes Kulhandjian with a student
Fresno State's research continues to grow, setting records in grant funding for the sixth consecutive year.

Fresno State Engineering Research Fuels New Innovations

FRESNO STATE —  Faculty from Fresno State‘s Lyle College of Engineering are making significant strides in research, with new innovations receiving local and global recognition.  These breakthroughs are set to impact industries ranging from emergency services to transportation safety and prosthetic technology.

Firefighting: Human & Animal Detection in Low Visibility

To begin, Dr. Hovannes Kulhandjian, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, has been awarded a patent for his groundbreaking invention, a “System and Method for Human and Animal Detection in Low Visibility.”  This handheld device, designed for firefighters, helps locate humans and animals in heavy smoke during emergency situations.  In addition to firefighters, this patent application can be applied in military settings as well.  Particularly, in search and rescue operations in environments filled with heavy smoke.  The technology, which uses an infrared camera and radar sensor, processes data in real-time to classify and identify objects of interest.

Reflecting on his achievement, Kulhandjian expressed his excitement about the patent, stating,

Dr. Kulhandjian with a student looking at a computer screen.

Dr. Kulhandjian and a student collaborate on research in Fresno State’s engineering lab.

“Receiving the ‘Notice of Allowance‘ from the U.S. Patent Office was an exhilarating moment.  After nearly three years of anticipation, having it approved is truly gratifying.”

Kulhandjian continues, “This marks my inaugural patent application, and the validation of its acceptance is incredibly rewarding.”

Importantly, the invention was initially conceived as a senior design project with student collaboration and continues to evolve.  Following the patent approval, Kulhandjian plans to develop a fully functional prototype and seek partnerships for commercialization.  Therefore, his long-term goal is to see this invention used widely, helping in firefighting practices globally.

International Attention for “CrossBot” Invention

Next, in addition to his work with Firefighting technology, Kulhandjian has garnered international attention for his “CrossBot” invention.  Moreover, this robot uses machine algorithms and video cameras to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Consequently, guiding them safely through intersections.  Initially inspired by a shortage of crossing guards at his children’s schools, the CrossBot has since been featured in media outlets across the globe.

“This robot is not limited to just schools, it can also be used to help more vulnerable populations like the visually impaired and elderly cross the road,” Kulhandjian said.

In turn, Kulhandjian plans to continue the development of the CrossBot and eventually file for a patent.

Prosthetic Arm Control Technology

Prosthetic arm and real arm touching at the tip of the finger

Fresno State researchers are developing advanced prosthetic arm control technology using Brain-Computer Interface.

Additionally, Kulhandjian, in collaboration with Dr. Anahit Hovhannisyan from the Biology Department, is developing a prosthetic arm control using Brain-Computer Interface.  Consequently, which leverages neural signals to control prosthetic limbs, providing a non-invasive solution for amputees to operate artificial limbs with precision.  Therefore, eliminating the need for implants.  Which, in turn, enhances accessibility, while reducing health risks.

“It’s rewarding to see the hard work pay off,” Kulhandjian said. “The late nights and sleepless hours weren’t in vain, and it’s even more fulfilling to witness the success of the student’s who’ve collaborated with me on these projects.”

As a result of his research endeavors, Kulhandjian received the 2023-24 Provost Award for Distinguished Achievement in Research, Scholarship, or Creative Accomplishment.

Civil Engineering Innovation & NASA Grant

Meanwhile, Fresno State’s commitment to cutting-edge research extends beyond electrical engineering.  Dr. Xiangxiong Kong, assistant professor of civil engineering, has been working pm a virtual reality module for civil structural inspections.  Thus, being a project that combines engineering with creative input from faculty in the College of Art and Humanities.

Additionally, Kong’s contributions have gained recognition from NASA.  Consequently, awarding Kong a $49,996 grant for his research project, “Human-Centric Digital Twins in NASA Space Missions.”  Moreover, this research aims to support NASA’s space missions using Kong’s skill in remote sensing applications within civil engineering.

Record Research Funding & Future Impact

Overall, Fresno State’s research continues to grow, setting records in grant funding for the sixth consecutive year.  The university was awarded $78.3 million in grants and contracts for the 2023-24 academic year.

“Research is a critical component of what we do as faculty and we are also providing an advanced research experience for students,” Kong said.

Dr. Xiangxiong Kong wearing a suit and tie with glasses.

Dr. Kong is advancing research in civil engineering with projects for structural inspections and contributions to NASA’s space missions

“If you have an innovation that has patent potential, that also gives students a very authentic taste of what they can do in the industry so we must continue pushing forward in research.”

Ultimately, Fresno State’s faculty, with their innovative patents and research endeavors, are not only pushing the boundaries of technology but are also making a tangible difference in real-world applications, from firefighting to space exploration.

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