University Library FACE 2005 Entries-research

21st Annual Faculty Academic Contributions Exhibit- Research and Discoveries
  The following items were part of the 2005 exhibit.  Items not donated are the personal property of Texas Tech University faculty and are not owned by the Texas Tech University Libraries.

Quantum Switches and Circuits" U.S. Patent 6,819,474

Kenneth Ketner, Paul W. Horn Professor

Abstract: Quantum switches, referred to as trisistors, operate on the basis of interactions between two elementary particles (EP), such as photons, electrons, phonons, etc. A first EP is used as a control input to the trisistor and interacts with a second EP, thereby inducing a detectable state change in the second EP that determines the trisistor 's output value. The physical property which determines the particular EP state could be, for example, polarization, spin direction or energy level. The trisistors are connected primarily in series rather than in parallel as in previous quantum computing devices. The trisistors can be combined to form various typesof logic gates, circuits, and other computer components. To implement the changes of state of the trisistors, one preferred embodiment employs nonlinear optics using a thin section of crystal. 
The patent can be obtained through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, click here.

"Flight 93 National Memorial Proposal: Walk of Heroes Memorial Wetlands" 

Raimund McClain, Assistant Professor of Architecture

Abstract:This proposal was submitted in the Flight 93 National Memorial Design Competition in December 2004 and exhibited in Shanksville, PA in January 2005. This proposal is dedicated to the passengers and crew of United Flight 93 of September 11, 2001. The memorial takes on special meaning because it must surpass being only a recollection of disaster and must balance the exigencies of history and heroic sacrifice. Here, recollection of the event is both a remembering and resistance. On an axis precisely perpendicular to the Flight Path stretches a constructed Wetlands. The wetlands attracts native and migrating birds, wildlife, an ecosystem perpetuating life in this reconstructed landscape.

"Flight 93 National Memorial Proposal: The Walks of Bravery" 

Kristina Yu, Assistant Professor of Architecture

Abstract:This proposal was submitted in the Flight 93 National Memorial Design Competition in December 2004 and exhibited in Shanksville, PA in January 2005. These Walks are a series of paths that represent the 40 members of Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. The Walks follow the topography and wind toward the Jetty Walkway. They meander through the Gridded Orchard of Trees, planted in a matrix of 40 by 40. The walks are met by other paths and pass the Reflection Pond. The Walks of Bravery all lead to the Jetty Walkway that is in alignment with the flight path. From the Viewing Platform one can look out and see the Crash Site directly.

"Texas Tech Visiting Scholar Housing and Wind Turbine Line" 

Brain Rex, Assistant Professor of Architecture

Abstract: The project is a speculation on how the space on our campus between the Main Administration Building and the Student Union Building could better serve the university commuity than in its present incantation as a parking lot. The project looks for ways to both facilitate free speech and fashion a campus identity, while providing a vital and active center for the university learning community.