As a Design Engineer at Johnson Controls, I served as a pivotal member of three teams specializing in the design of HVAC systems. I spearheaded innovative projects that resulted in patented technologies and trade-secret approved solutions. My responsibilities spanned the entire design lifecycle, including benchmarking industry standards, conceptual design, detailed modeling and drafting, developing prototypes and fixtures, and conducting design failure mode and effects and analysis. Additionally, I contributed in creating product literature and coordinating releases to manufacturing. This role illustrates my ability to drive practical design innovations within an industrial setting and demonstrates my capacity to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. By actively participating in the development of new designs, I directly contributed to Johnson Controls’ innovation pipeline.
The project focused on developing an innovative louver blade and jamb system for HVAC applications to address challenges posed by wind-driven rain (US Patent 11,946,664). Utilizing advanced wind-driven rain simulations, I contributed in designing new configurations for the blade and jamb that significantly improved their effectiveness in blocking rainwater while maintaining minimal impact on air pressure drop. The proposed solution emphasized beating competitors in performance through detailed benchmarking and iterative development. This work not only enhanced the functionality and reliability of the HVAC system under adverse weather conditions but also contributed to the innovation pipeline by culminating in a patented solution, showcasing its potential for real-world impact.
The project involved developing a universal adapter assembly (US Patent 10,962,137) designed to connect Johnson Controls' actuators with various valves in the HVAC industry. This innovation allows a single actuator to seamlessly interface with multiple valve configurations, addressing compatibility challenges and enhancing versatility. Specifically, the adapter features interchangeable connectors, a drive shaft, and a mounting bracket, allowing flexible operation with different valve configurations. My role encompassed benchmarking, conceptual design, detailed modeling, DFMEA, tolerance analysis, prototyping, fixture design, reliability testing, and contributing to product literature for manufacturing release. This work culminated in a patented solution that simplifies operations and expands the applicability of actuators across diverse valve systems.
The project focused on conceptualizing a futuristic, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance thermoelectric design for an HVAC rooftop unit (Utility Patent filed: US 16/107,900). Specifically, the design incorporates a heat exchanger featuring a thermoelectric device coupled with dual sets of fins. This design envisions a sustainable solution that minimizes environmental impact while reducing maintenance requirements. It addresses the industry’s growing demand for greener HVAC systems, laying the groundwork for future advancements in sustainable building technology. My role involved ideating the design, performing heat transfer calculations, emphasizing environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability.
Universal gear testing fixture
The project involved designing a universal fixture for the reliability testing of spur gear trains used in actuators, which was approved as a trade secret. The fixture was engineered to accommodate a wide range of gear train configurations, ensuring versatility and compatibility across various actuator models. This design aimed to streamline the testing process, reduce the need for multiple specialized fixtures, and enhance testing efficiency.
