Team Members
Matthew Borne, Austin Duchene, Xavier Epplin, Dylan Errigo, Avery Featherstone, Elijah Flores, Evan Harper, Justin Nguyen, DJ Sanchez, Luke Santamarina
Abstract
The Moochanics rumen simulator is a novel bioengineering platform that replicate the digestive environment of the bovine rumen for research and agricultural applications. Ruminants such as cattle rely on a complex, multi-chambered stomach where microbial fermentation in the rumen enables the conversion of fibrous plant matter into energy. Understanding and optimizing this process is essential for advancing sustainable agriculture, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving animal health. However, in vivo studies are expensive and time-consuming. The Moochanics simulator provides a cost-effective, controllable, and reproducible alternative. Developed through interdisciplinary collaboration between engineering and animal science, the system integrates fluid dynamics, thermal regulation, and microbiological culture to mimic rumen mixing, temperature, pH, and anaerobic conditions. Its modular design allows precise variation of mixing speed, templature, and other key operating parameters, enabling high-throughput testing of feed additives, probiotics, medicines, and methane-mitigation strategies. By bridging engineering design with agricultural science, the Moochanics rumen simulator accelerates innovation in livestock nutrition and environmental sustainability. It is a transformative tool for advancing both fundamental research and practical solutions in animal agriculture.
Pitch Video
3D Interactive Product Model
The following is an interactive 3D model of the product design. You can view and rotate the product assembly in different orientations and views, including an exploded view to see the various parts that make up the assembly.