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In partnership with Design Innovation and �鶹ӰԺ Police, local startup Immobileyes, Inc. challenged students to create an innovative design for an effective tool police can use in active shooter situations. 

The four-month-long competition paired student teams with experts from Immobileyes, Inc., Design Innovation and KSU police to create an innovative design for the product-prototype dubbed the NINJA, a throwable device that distracts an active shooter with temporary visual disruption through lasers, intense light and audio distractions.

Students worked collaboratively throughout the design process with experts from the Immobileyes, Inc., Design Innovation and university police teams to create a product that best suits the function and needs of a stressful, time-sensitive situation.

“The DI Hub was originated for collaboration,” Jeff Futo, an officer with KSU police, said. “Bringing cross-disciplines together to share their expertise and perspectives is exciting and leads to efficacious innovation. We are practitioners; our students are the creative innovators.”

Six groups consisting of more than 20 students presented their prototypes on Thursday, Feb. 23, ending the first phase of the design process. 

Phase II concluded April 18 with the presentation of working prototypes. Judges advised each team on the design parameters and judging criteria, including cost, longevity, carrying ability, shape and LED implementation. The review team incorporated these criteria into its selection, as well as how each team worked, communicated and responded to the feedback provided through the process, as well.  

Based on these factors, the final awards are:

1st Place - $1200: Polyvolt  "Immobileyes Design"

Team members: Brian Courts, Lucas Cragel and Garrett Hartley

2nd Place - $800: G.A.N.G. "Ninja Star"

Team members: Nicholas Cindrich, Grant Kudrav, Austin Thebner and Greg Wenner

3rd Place - $375: DI Ninjas  "Sonic Flash"

Team members: Cliford Fumbui, Godwin Shitta and Delonte Williams

The contest was a success for Immobileyes, Inc., which received further funding for the NINJA, said Atossa Alavi, the co-founder and chief executive officer of the company. 

“This is by far the most interesting, engaged student body,” she said. “This was truly amazing.”