Dr. Martin Cwiakala, aerospace engineering instructor at The Center for Advanced Technical Studies, recently brought innovation and imagination to life during a hands-on summer camp at the University of South Carolina. Titled Adventures in Telepresence Amusement Park Ride via Augmented Reality, the camp was part of USC’s continuing education program and introduced students to engineering, technology, and immersive learning.
Using K’NEX Amusement Park kits and other model systems, students designed and built miniature rides, then equipped them with wireless analog cameras—similar to those used in drone racing. With head-mounted displays, campers experienced their rides in first-person perspective, simulating the thrills of a real amusement park.
Students also delved into electricity and motion control, integrating slot car components to engineer ride controllers. The camp culminated with students arranging their rides into a full amusement park layout and evaluating the visitor experience using live camera feeds. Public speaking sessions helped participants present their work confidently to professors, peers, and guests.
“When the students brought their rides together to arrange the amusement park, the engagement was next level,” said Dr. Cwiakala. “Strong opinions were present, and students supported their choices with sound reasoning. It was impressive.”
Camper Akil Ross Jr. agreed, saying, “The teamwork, presenting, and learning about electricity was the best part.”
The success of the summer camp is just the beginning. The amusement park telepresence concept will be piloted with first-year aerospace students at The Center this fall. Students will collaborate with residents of The Heritage at Lowman to design rides based on their interests. Their work will be featured during Physics Day at the South Carolina State Fair in October.
The concept is also expanding to Dutch Fork Middle and Harbison West Elementary schools, where high school students from The Center will serve as mentors.
“The ultimate vision for this project is a STEAM competition with strong community engagement,” said Cwiakala. “A unique feature is that attendees can directly interact with student creations, building connections through shared experience.”
To view videos of the students’ summer camp rides, visit https://tinyurl.com/2025Rides.
