AarushShah

I don't just solve engineering problems—I derive them from first principles, model them mathematically, and validate them experimentally. From photovoltaic systems to submarine communications, I transform theoretical physics into measurable, working solutions.

Aarush Shah
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WhereTheoryBecomesReality

Aarush Shah·Mechanical Engineering Student | Applied Mathematics Geek | Energy Systems Researcher·Mumbai, India | West Lafayette, Indiana
Aarush Shah

"The equations don't lie. They show you exactly what matters—and what doesn't. Engineering is making that truth tangible."

Mostengineersstartwithmechanisms.Istartwiththemathematicsthatgovernthem.AsaMechanicalEngineeringstudentatPurdueUniversity,I'vepublishedresearchonbioluminescentphotovoltaicsystems,modeledsubmarineelectromagneticcommunicationusingmodifiedvectorcalculus,andsimulatedbridgevibrationswithfourth-orderRunge-Kuttamethods—allbeforemysophomoreyear.Myapproachissimplebutrigorous:understandthephysicsdeeply,derivethegoverningequations,buildmathematicalmodels,validateexperimentally,anditerateuntiltheorymatchesreality.FromrenewableenergysystemstopropulsioncalculationswithPurdueSpaceProgram,Idon'tjustapplyengineering—Ideriveitfromfirstprinciples,oneequationatatime.Whetherit'sthermodynamics,photovoltaics,orexperimentalfluiddynamics,myfoundationremainsconstant:mathematicalrigor,experimentalvalidation,andhands-onprototypingthattransformsabstracttheoryintomeasurable,workingsystems.
01

Mathematically Rigorous

Not just applying formulas—deriving them. From modified Biot-Savart equations for underwater electromagnetics to custom ODE systems for bridge vibrations, I build mathematical frameworks tailored to each unique problem.

02

Published Researcher

Published work on bioluminescent photovoltaic energy generation. Experienced in hypothesis formation, mathematical derivation, experimental design, data analysis, and research communication. Research isn't just academic—it's how I learn.

03

Practical Prototyper

Theory needs validation. I've built waste-heat energy bricks, AI wearables for the blind, gesture-controlled lighting systems, and experimental setups for viscosity-temperature studies. Electronics, sensors, 3D printing, and mechanical design—whatever makes the idea real.

04

Effective Communicator

Complex physics shouldn't feel complex. Experienced in public speaking, technical presentations, and teaching—translating differential equations and thermodynamics into intuitive narratives that engage any audience.

05

Interdisciplinary Thinker

Following curiosity across renewable energy, thermodynamics, photovoltaics, computational modeling, experimental physics, and quantitative finance. The best solutions often live at the intersection of disciplines.

"
The equations don't lie. They show you exactly what matters—and what doesn't. Engineering is making that truth tangible.

Experience

Early engineering work shaped by math, modeling, and hands-on learning.

2025 — Present

Mechanical Engineering Student

Purdue University

  • Maintaining strong academic performance while pursuing research-driven learning across thermodynamics, heat transfer, and applied mathematics
  • Deep-diving into renewable energy systems, photovoltaic fundamentals, and energy conversion efficiency modeling
  • Developing proficiency in Siemens NX for mechanical design and foundational understanding of finite element analysis (FEA) principles
  • Actively engaging with faculty and peers in discussions bridging theoretical physics and practical engineering applications
2025 — Present

Propulsion Team Member

Purdue Space Program — High Altitude Rocketry

  • Contributing to propulsion system calculations including thrust analysis, fuel efficiency modeling, and trajectory optimization for high-altitude rocket launches
  • Collaborating in cross-functional team environment balancing aerodynamics, structural integrity, and propulsion performance constraints
  • Participating in iterative design reviews, learning real-world engineering workflows from concept to test to refinement
  • Gaining hands-on experience understanding trade-offs in rocket propulsion: thrust-to-weight ratios, specific impulse, and altitude performance
2023 — Present

Independent Researcher & Engineering Experimenter

Self-Directed Research

  • Published research on bioluminescent photovoltaic power generation—exploring nighttime energy harvesting through biological light sources
  • Developed novel electromagnetic communication models for submarine systems using modified vector calculus and Biot-Savart derivations
  • Built multiple experimental prototypes validating theoretical models: waste-heat energy bricks, AI-powered wearables, gesture-controlled systems
  • Mastered numerical simulation techniques (RK4, iterative solvers) and experimental validation methodologies including frame-by-frame video analysis
  • Continuously exploring intersections of renewable energy, applied physics, computational modeling, and quantitative engineering

Projects

Published Research

Bioluminescent Photovoltaic Energy Harvesting

Pioneered research investigating whether bioluminescent organisms can generate measurable electrical power through photovoltaic cells during nighttime conditions. Developed comprehensive mathematical models of bioluminescent light intensity decay, spectral emission characteristics, and PV cell efficiency under low-light conditions. Designed and constructed experimental apparatus measuring actual power output from bioluminescent sources. Validated theoretical predictions against empirical measurements, achieving correlation within expected margins.

Photovoltaic PhysicsBioluminescence ModelingSpectral AnalysisExperimental DesignData Analysis
Advanced Research

Underwater Electromagnetic Communication Modeling

Developed novel mathematical framework for modeling helical electromagnet behavior in underwater environments. Modified classical Biot-Savart law to account for seawater conductivity, permeability variations, and attenuation effects. Derived custom integral relationships governing magnetic field propagation through conductive media. Implemented numerical simulations in Python visualizing 3D field distributions, signal strength decay, and optimal transmission parameters. Explored feasibility of low-frequency magnetic communication for submarine-to-submarine or submarine-to-surface applications.

Vector CalculusElectromagnetic TheoryModified Biot-SavartPython SimulationNumPy
Computational Engineering

Nonlinear Bridge Vibration Analysis via RK4

Developed sophisticated simulation of bridge structural vibrations under dynamic loading conditions. Formulated coupled system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations capturing mass-spring-damper dynamics with realistic damping coefficients and stiffness parameters. Implemented Runge-Kutta 4th-order numerical integration method in Python for high-accuracy time-stepping simulation. Generated comprehensive phase portraits, displacement-time plots, and frequency response visualizations revealing damped harmonic behavior, resonance frequencies, and stability characteristics under various loading scenarios.

Nonlinear ODEsRunge-Kutta MethodsPythonNumPyMatplotlib
Experimental Thermodynamics

Experimental Viscosity-Temperature Relationship Study

Designed and executed comprehensive experimental study quantifying temperature-dependent viscosity behavior in multiple fluid samples. Developed controlled temperature bath apparatus with precision thermometry. Implemented high-speed video capture and custom frame-by-frame motion analysis software to track falling sphere velocities through fluids at varying temperatures. Applied Stokes' law derivations to calculate dynamic viscosity from terminal velocity measurements. Generated empirical viscosity-temperature curves showing exponential decay relationships consistent with Arrhenius-type temperature dependence. Validated experimental results against theoretical predictions and published fluid property data.

Experimental DesignThermodynamicsVideo AnalysisStokes' LawData Regression
Renewable Energy Engineering

Thermoelectric Waste-Heat Energy Harvesting Brick

Designed and fabricated functional prototype brick-shaped device harvesting electrical energy from waste heat using thermoelectric generator (TEG) modules. Analyzed Seebeck effect principles and heat transfer characteristics to optimize thermal gradient across TEG junctions. Integrated heat sink geometry, thermal interface materials, and electrical circuitry for maximum power extraction. Tested across various temperature differentials, measuring voltage output, current generation, and power conversion efficiency. Explored practical applications for industrial waste heat recovery, building thermal energy harvesting, and passive power generation in high-temperature environments.

Thermoelectric EffectHeat TransferTEG ModulesThermal DesignPower Electronics
Assistive Technology

AI-Powered Assistive Wearable for Visually Impaired

Engineered complete wearable assistive device leveraging computer vision and AI for real-time object detection and audio feedback for visually impaired users. Designed custom PCB integrating camera module, processing unit, battery management system, and audio output circuitry. Implemented machine learning object detection models optimized for edge computing. Developed ergonomic 3D-printed enclosure designed for comfortable all-day wear. Integrated real-time audio interface providing intuitive spatial object descriptions through bone-conduction or earpiece speakers. Managed power consumption for multi-hour operation on compact rechargeable battery.

Computer VisionMachine LearningObject DetectionPCB DesignBattery Management
IoT & Embedded Systems

Real-Time Gesture Recognition Lighting Control

Developed IoT-enabled gesture-recognition system for hands-free lighting control using ESP32 microcontroller and MPU-6050 inertial measurement unit. Implemented real-time signal processing algorithms filtering accelerometer and gyroscope data to extract meaningful motion patterns. Designed custom gesture classification logic recognizing distinct hand motions (swipes, rotations, taps) with high accuracy and minimal latency. Integrated wireless communication for lighting system control via WiFi or Bluetooth protocols. Calibrated sensor fusion algorithms eliminating drift and noise for robust gesture detection across varying user motions and environmental conditions.

ESP32MPU-6050 IMUSignal ProcessingSensor FusionGesture Recognition
Team

Purdue Space Program — Propulsion

Supporting propulsion calculations and design work for high-altitude rockets.

PropulsionTeam Engineering

Let's Build Something Meaningful

Whether you're exploring renewable energy systems, need mathematical modeling expertise, seeking research collaboration, or just want to discuss engineering ideas where theory meets reality—I'm always excited to connect with fellow problem-solvers, researchers, and innovators.

Aarush Shah
"
The best projects start with a question worth exploring—and the determination to model, build, and validate until you find the answer.