Education

Research Description

Dr. Ferguson’s research in the area of engineering design focuses on market-based product design and the design of complex engineered systems. His contributions toward technical feasibility modeling and product line optimization have been adopted by his industrial collaborators and have received interest from market research software companies in this area. Dr. Ferguson’s research has also helped define the area of reconfigurable system design, advanced understanding of how such configuration changes can mitigate unexpected system behavior, and studied how the information presented to designers can facilitate tradeoff decisions in the presence of multiple objectives.

Honors and Awards

• ASEE New Mechanical Engineering Educator Award, 2015
• ASME Design Automation Young Investigator Award, 2014
• NC State Outstanding Teacher Award, 2012
• National Science Foundation CAREER Award, 2011

Publications

Assessing Lifecycle Value Using Object-Based Modeling by Incorporating Excess and Changeability

Long, D., & Ferguson, S. (2021), JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4048218

The Cost-Sorted Distance Method for Identifying Minima Within Firefly Optimization Results: Application to Engineering Design

Elliott, C. M., Ferguson, S. M., & Buckner, G. D. (2021), JOURNAL OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4047554

Toward Quantifiable Evidence of Excess' Value Using Personal Gaming Desktops

Long, D., Morkos, B., & Ferguson, S. (2021), JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN, Vol. 143. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4049520

Design for the Marketing Mix: The Past, Present, and Future of Market-Driven Engineering Design

Donndelinger, J. A., & Ferguson, S. M. (2020). [Review of , ]. JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN, 142(6). https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4045041

Studying Dynamic Change Probabilities and Their Role in Change Propagation

Long, D., & Ferguson, S. (2020), JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN, 142(10). https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4046674

Benefits and challenges of using unmanned aerial systems in the monitoring of electrical distribution systems

Long, D., Rehm, P. J., & Ferguson, S. (2018), The Electricity Journal, 31(2), 26–32. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.TEJ.2018.02.004

A case study of evolvability and excess on the B-52 stratofortress and FA-18 hornet

Long, D., & Ferguson, S. (2017), Proceedings of the asme international design engineering technical conferences and computers and information in engineering conference, 2017, vol 4. https://doi.org/10.1115/detc2017-68287

Design for excess capability to handle uncertain product requirements in a developing world setting

Allen, J. D., Mattson, C. A., Thacker, K. S., & Ferguson, S. M. (2017), Research in Engineering Design, 28(4), 511–527. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00163-017-0253-8

Exploring architecture selection and system evolvability

White, S., & Ferguson, S. (2017), Proceedings of the asme international design engineering technical conferences and computers and information in engineering conference, 2017, vol 2b. https://doi.org/10.1115/detc2017-68290

Exploring how optimal composite design is influenced by model fidelity and multiple objectives

Joglekar, S., Von Hagel, K., Pankow, M., & Ferguson, S. (2017), Composite Structures, 160, 964–975. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2016.10.089

View all publications via NC State Libraries

View publications on Google Scholar

Grants

Collaborative Research: Research: Investigating Jonassen’s Design Theory of Problem Solving in Support of Pedagogical Change in Introductory Aerospace Engineering

National Science Foundation (NSF)(9/01/21 - 8/31/24)

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Collaborative Research: Research: Investigating Jonassen’s Design Theory of Problem Solving in Support of Pedagogical Change in Introductory Aerospace Engineering

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 9/01/21

End Date: 8/31/24

Abstract

Problem based learning (PBL) has demonstrated promise in providing a range of desirable learning outcomes that are often deficit in engineering undergraduates. However, implementation is challenging for faculty for a variety of reasons. In this research, we will investigate two acute challenges of PBL implementation: generating appropriately ill-defined problems and facilitating students’ problem solving. Two research questions govern the proposed work: RQ1: How can Jonassen's design theory of problem solving be operationalized to help faculty in developing a range of authentic problem solving opportunities? RQ2: How can Jonassen’s design theory of problem solving be operationalized to facilitate faculty-student interaction and scaffolding of problem solving? We propose to develop problem solving experiences for an introductory aerospace engineering course at an R1 institution as it transitions to integrate PBL experiences. This transition will be guided by the theoretical foundations of problem typology and problem-solving characteristics as described by Jonassen. Four central research activities are planned: 1) sampling current problems used in introductory aerospace engineering education and mapping them to learning objectives and dimensions of structuredness and complexity; 2) capturing and analyzing the problem generation process for four different problem types at varying levels of difficulty using structuredness and complexity serve as “controllable factors”; 3) observing and analyzing faculty-student interactions and student problem-solving trajectories with and without an instructional scaffold; and 4) dissemination and discussion of this research with engineering faculty and engineering educators to understand issues impacting extensibility and scalability of findings.

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A Breathable Polymer Film for Use in Virus Transmission Reduction Platforms in Non-hospital Settings

Polyzen(9/15/20 - 5/31/21)

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A Breathable Polymer Film for Use in Virus Transmission Reduction Platforms in Non-hospital Settings

Sponsor: Polyzen

Start Date: 9/15/20

End Date: 5/31/21

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted a lack of protective equipment not only in high-risk hospital settings, but also in non-hospital settings which require close contact with patients such as ophthalmology, optometry, dentistry, and others. The protection factor of N95 masks and plastic face shields are not sufficient in these settings, and a more protective device is required. The goal of this project is to develop a breathable film or fabric that can serve as a platform technology for multiple form factors, such as powered air purifying respirators. This project will focus on improving the protective factor of such devices while keeping costs low enough to support wide deployment in the fields mentioned above. Usability, performance, and cost will be primary factors governing design and manufacturing decisions.

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Assessing computer vision effectiveness by exploring training data construction and transfer learning

Corvid Technologies(9/01/20 - 12/17/21)

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Assessing computer vision effectiveness by exploring training data construction and transfer learning

Sponsor: Corvid Technologies

Start Date: 9/01/20

End Date: 12/17/21

Abstract

Computer vision and machine learning technology has shown promise as a potential solution for many problems. However, as we rely more heavily on computer vision (CV) and machine learning (ML), the importance of understanding the proper formulation of training data is increasingly important. This project explores fundamental questions about training data construction by understanding how algorithm predictive performance is impacted.

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Impact Protection Design Solutions Using AI/Neural Networks

Windpact(10/01/19 - 6/30/20)

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Impact Protection Design Solutions Using AI/Neural Networks

Sponsor: Windpact

Start Date: 10/01/19

End Date: 6/30/20

Abstract

The work will investigate the use of AI for the design and development of padding protection systems. We propose using AI for developing forward models and inverse mapping capabilities.

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Algorithm optimization and tuning for Under Armour

Under Armour(11/15/18 - 6/28/19)

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Algorithm optimization and tuning for Under Armour

Sponsor: Under Armour

Start Date: 11/15/18

End Date: 6/28/19

Abstract

This project involves optimization of existing code from Under Armour.

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UAS Roadmap

NC Department of Transportation(8/01/17 - 7/31/19)

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UAS Roadmap

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/01/17

End Date: 7/31/19

Abstract

Accurately mapping wetlands at the road planning stage is critical for timely, cost-effective, and compliant projects. Assessing wetland impacts on proposed road corridors have required trained personnel to identify, measure and evaluate acreage impacts to jurisdictional wetland. NCDOT’s Wetland Predictive Model (WPM) is a GIS and remote sensing-based tool designed to reduce the need for these costly and time-consuming activities by creating a preliminary map of wetlands without the need for field measurements. To do so, the WPM uses lidar-derived terrain variables such as elevation and slope alongside soil maps and other geospatial data as inputs to a predictive model. WPM inputs such as lidar data are expensive and time-consuming to collect, and so are available only infrequently. Likewise, other geospatial data such as high-resolution satellite imagery and digital soil maps are not always available at the frequency necessary for accurate wetland mapping in potential corridors. Even when up-to-date observations are available, they may lack the spatial or spectral resolution necessary to aid in wetland identification.

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Powering Energy Efficiency & Impacts Framework: Mapping a comprehensive energy strategy for the Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments Region

US Dept. of Energy (DOE) - Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE)(10/01/16 - 12/31/18)

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Powering Energy Efficiency & Impacts Framework: Mapping a comprehensive energy strategy for the Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments Region

Sponsor: US Dept. of Energy (DOE) - Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE)

Start Date: 10/01/16

End Date: 12/31/18

Abstract

Households in the five counties of the Upper Coastal Plains Council of Government (UCPCOG) spend an average of 35.92% of their total income on energy, compared to 10% for the average US household. Reducing the energy burden of low-income and energy intensive homes is a major challenge for local governments in the UCPCOG region. There are a number of federal, state, local programs that are targeted on improving energy efficiency for low-income households; however, these programs are run independently, leading to little, if any coordination. Our proposed framework allows for integrated planning, combined evaluation of impacts, and tracking of real energy savings from these programs. Our Powering Energy Efficiency & Impacts Framework includes an enterprise geodatabase of all the federal, state, utility, and local programs in the region. The spatial database will allow for a number of data analyses, including segmentation and cluster analysis. The data will be overlayed with various other external data to identify and target low-income households in the region. Our tool will be integrated with Resispeak, a utility energy analysis software, which will help track energy savings associated with the programs. Resispeak will also be used to identify homes with high energy intensity and to provide targeted outreach for applicable energy efficiency programs. This framework will allow UCPCOG and local governments in the region to conduct integrated planning, and informed decision-making, while creating a platform for independently run programs to collaborate, track associated energy savings, and increase program impacts.

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Workshop: NSF CAREER Writing Workshop for Early Career Professionals; Charlotte, NC; August 23, 2016

National Science Foundation (NSF)(8/01/16 - 7/31/17)

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Workshop: NSF CAREER Writing Workshop for Early Career Professionals; Charlotte, NC; August 23, 2016

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 8/01/16

End Date: 7/31/17

Abstract

The goal of this workshop is to provide PhD students, postdocs, and early career faculty in the engineering design community with a specific forum to learn and discuss best practice when preparing for a NSF CAREER proposal. A second goal of this workshop is to encourage interaction between junior and senior faculty and strengthen the community bonds by providing a forum to discuss career development and planning. Such a workshop is necessary because CAREER proposals are inherently different from general unsolicited proposals to a NSF program, and those preparing to submit a CAREER must consider 1) how their proposed efforts relate to their overall career vision, 2) how such a proposal should be structured, 3) how to make the right connections that support the proposal, and 4) how to incorporate feedback from previous panels. This workshop will be held at the ASME International Design Engineering Technical Conferences & Computers & Information in Engineering Conference (ASME IDETC/CIE) as part of the Design for Manufacturing and the Life Cycle Conference. This workshop will take place on Tuesday, August 23, 2016 from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, NC and approximately 140 attendees will be expected (subject to room availability).

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CAD Apps for Core Courses in AE and ME Curricula: Bridge Funding 

The MathWorks, Inc.(1/01/16 - 5/31/17)

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CAD Apps for Core Courses in AE and ME Curricula: Bridge Funding 

Sponsor: The MathWorks, Inc.

Start Date: 1/01/16

End Date: 5/31/17

Abstract

The proposed work is essentially a bridge effort. The goal is to advance the work that was performed in the previous instructional grant, in preparation for an NSF grant that will broaden the impact of our work. The primary objective is to develop a design tool that can be used with each of the five CAD apps and support further instructional software testing and assessment. Currently, when using any one of the apps, the user selects nodes, connects them to create a structure, applies boundary conditions, then applies loads, and finally runs the program after which results are displayed in different forms (movies, static drawings, tabular  data, pop‐ups, etc). The user essentially runs one case. 

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Building a Business Case for UAS Use in Public Power Operations

American Public Power Association(12/16/14 - 11/30/16)

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Building a Business Case for UAS Use in Public Power Operations

Sponsor: American Public Power Association

Start Date: 12/16/14

End Date: 11/30/16

Abstract

The objective of this project is to explore the value proposition of using UAS (unmanned aircraft systems) to support the operation and maintenance of municipal power systems. Constructing the business case for this integration will involve identifying municipality needs that can be addressed by UAS, categorizing UAS capabilities, quantifying the the advantages of using UAS, modeling the cost of UAS operations, and defining optimal deployment strategies. To meet the multidisciplinary challenges associated with this project, researchers from North Carolina State University will team with employees from ElectriCities of North Carolina, Inc. to work with member municipalities in the state of North Carolina. If successful, deliverables of this project will include a quantifiable assessment of the advantages provided by UAS, a framework for UAS deployment in the selected municipalities, a software-based tool that will allow municipalities to explore how deployment strategy is influenced by various business objectives, and the identification of UAS technological advancements needed to maximize UAS advantages in public power distribution systems. It is expected that this work will benefit public power by increasing system reliability, by providing scalable and generalizable decision support tools for UAS integration, and by providing opportunities for public power to obtain further cost savings by integrating with other industries who use the same system infrastructure.

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