Dean Puckett
Mechanical engineering
Hometown: Los Angeles, California, United States
Graduation date: Spring 2027
FURI | Spring 2025
Enhancing Fluid Dynamics Learning with 3D Virtual Reality Visualization
Understanding fluid dynamics can be challenging because it often relies on 2D visuals that make it hard to see how fluids really behave. This project aims to fix that by creating a 3D virtual reality environment using the Unity game engine where users can explore CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) data in an interactive way. By placing students in this immersive and engaging environment, they can understand complex flow patterns more easily. The results of this project could give educators and students a powerful tool to make engineering topics like fluid dynamics more accessible and easier to comprehend.
Mentor: Mohamed Kasbaoui
It’s hip to be square.
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Featured project | Spring 2025
Dean Puckett, a Fulton Schools mechanical engineering undergraduate student, chose to participate in FURI to apply the knowledge he gained in his classes in a hands-on setting. Puckett’s project, conducted under the supervision of Mohamed Kasbaoui, a Fulton Schools assistant professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, focuses on creating a virtual reality, or VR, environment to help learners better understand fluid dynamics.
What made you want to get involved in this program? Why did you choose the project you’re working on?
I chose my project, specifically, because it combines fluid dynamics and VR technology, which I found both challenging and exciting. It also gives me the chance to develop new skills while exploring ways to display data in an interactive 3D environment.
How will your engineering research project impact the world?
This project improves how complex fluid dynamics data is visualized, making it easier to understand the flow of fluids in a 3D space. By integrating the data into a VR environment, viewers can be engaged in a completely new way, which could enhance learning greatly. This method has the potential to be used in fields like aerospace, education and environmental science.
Have there been any surprises in your research?
Yes, one surprise was how challenging it was to efficiently animate multiple frames of computational fluid dynamics data. I expected the data to transfer easily into the Unity game engine, but I quickly realized that creating smooth animations required continuous problem-solving.
How do you see this experience helping with your career and advanced degree goals?
This experience has strengthened my skills in data visualization, 3D modeling and programming, which are all valuable in fields like aerospace and mechanical engineering. It has also allowed me to develop problem-solving skills and the ability to manage complex long-term projects. These experiences and skills I’ve learned will be incredibly useful in future internships, research opportunities and a career in engineering.
Why should other students get involved in this program?
Not only does FURI provide you with great real-world experience, but it also provides opportunities to expand your professional and academic network. Also, FURI is a great way to enhance your resume for any future job and internship applications. Participating in FURI can display skills of leadership, teamwork and perseverance.
