Ricardo Jacome
UTRGV Mechanical Engineering student Ricardo Jacome, completed his UTCRS REU experience at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. His research interests were related to the dynamic reactions of systems under various inputs. Thus, he worked collaboratively with UTCRS REU participant Tiffany Treviño on multibody simulation for intersecting slopes at Highway Railway Grade Crossings (HRGCs). Through simple surveying methods Mr. Jacome and Ms. Treviño evaluated 12 different sites throughout the state of Nebraska. Afterwards, they implemented the measurements taken into Adams MSC software to simulate the dynamic reactions of a vehicle driving over slopes with the geometry found in the field. Their modeling can be implemented to find whether a vehicle’s dynamic reaction could result in severe consequences, such as the vehicle losing control or becoming airborne. Furthermore, their findings with respect to the areas surveyed can help the local authorities to address those sites which are potentially more dangerous.