Cosmos in the Stacks: Technology, Combustion Engines

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Technology TL210

Combustion Engines

Library Third Floor

In Spring 2026, the Cal Poly Humboldt Library collaborated with a team of Engineering 205 students to create an interactive display demonstrating how an internal combustion engine works. Designed as a hands-on learning experience, the model allows visitors to manually crank the engine using a custom 3D-printed pedal and observe how its components move together through the combustion cycle.

LED lights help illustrate key stages of the process, including ignition and combustion, making processes that normally occur hidden inside an engine easier to see and understand. As visitors operate the model, they can explore the relationship between the movement of the pistons, timing, spark, and other mechanical processes that work together to generate power.

By combining mechanical engineering, 3D printing, electronics, and interactive design, the project transforms a complex engineering concept into an approachable learning experience. The display also showcases the creativity and technical skills of Cal Poly Humboldt students while inviting visitors to learn through hands-on exploration.