High-Speed PCB Impedance Analyzer; An Actor-Network Theory Analysis of Virginia's Hybrid HOV Exemption, 2000-2011 55 views

This portfolio examines how engineering systems depend not only on technical design, but also on the larger networks that allow them to function reliably. The technical research focuses on a high-speed PCB impedance analyzer for microfluidic impedance cytometry, a label-free cell analysis method that measures electrical impedance changes as individual cells pass through a microfluidic channel. The project addresses limitations of existing cytometry methods by proposing a compact system capable of signal generation, impedance measurement, digital processing, and low-latency sorting support. The sociotechnical research analyzes Virginia’s hybrid and clean-fuel HOV exemption from 2000 to 2011 using Actor-Network Theory. It argues that the policy failed not only because of roadway capacity limits, but because Clean Special Fuel plates, commuters, enforcement practices, legislators, congestion, and public backlash became misaligned over time. Together, these projects show that successful engineering requires more than a working artifact or well-intended policy. Technical systems must also be designed for the institutions, users, constraints, and expectations that shape their long-term performance.

BS (Bachelor of Science)

Microfluidic Impedance Cytometry; Biomedical Sensing; PCB Design; Actor-Network Theory; HOV Policy; Transportation Policy; Sociotechnical Systems

School of Engineering and Applied Science Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technical Advisor: Keith Williams STS Advisor: Benjamin Laugelli Technical Team Members: Andrew Clements, Alex Clunan, Ryan Scott

English

2026-05-08