Patrick Hillgardner Email & Phone Number

Champaign, Illinois, United States

• Take high-resolution CT scans of heat shield material samples for SpaceX for precise microscopy analysis using Dragonfly 3D.
• Apply deep learning and machine learning models for image segmentation in Dragonfly 3D to identify and derive key material properties (porosity ratio, thermal conductivity, ablative rate) and assess theoretical.

• Worked with the Monitoring and Diagnostics team to design, create, and implement instrumentation (thermocouples, accelerometers, proximity probes, magnetic pickups, and pressure transducers) into an existing CAD model.
• Created over twenty CAD models to aid in communication with customers and plant managers, and to train clients and new hires.
• Investigated unusual gas turbine engine data and analyzed control logic (Mark VI, Ovation) to diagnose problems that arose from various power plants using knowledge of the GE 7FA / SW 501F engines and the gas turbine.
• Examined problems such as compressor/turbine efficiency degradation and analyzed sensor data to determine the cause of performance losses.
• Created a prototype for a CAD web-viewer in Streamlit to be used for the company website using open-source Python libraries (PyVista).

Champaign, Illinois, United States

• Conducted research in aerodynamic optimization of an electric VTOL concept, focusing on integrating boundary layer ingestion and distributed electric propulsion technologies to maximize aerodynamic efficiency.
• Simulated fluid flow around multiple complex wing/propulsor configurations using Ansys Fluent to evaluate system performance and identify the most aerodynamic and cost-efficient design.
• Designed and analyzed wing configurations with varying nacelle geometries, aiming to balance drag reduction and thrust efficiency gains by integrating different degrees of flow diversion proportionate to the wetted.
• Explored various degrees of nacelle integration and propulsor placement on the wing to maximize the lift-to-drag ratio of each wing model.

Champaign, Illinois, United States

• Conducted one-on-one training sessions with students and faculty of the university to set goals, assess fitness levels, and develop personalized workout plans tailored to their objectives.
• Taught proper exercise techniques and mentored clients on the importance of mentality in fitness.

Champaign, Illinois, United States

• Led a group of potential new members and introduced essential behavioral codes for fostering a mutualistic relationship with the fraternity.
• Counseled potential new members on valuable life and leadership skills, as well as the age-old values of the fraternity.