AY1415 FYP Available List 20140626

NUS Mechanical Engineering
Available List of Final Year Projects - AY2014/15

SN
Project
Code Project Title Group Project Supervisor
Co-Supervisor (indicate
dept or company if not
from ME) Project Description
Which specialisation
is this project
suitable for ? (Please
seek approval from
respective
specialisation
coordinator) -1st
is this project
seek approval from
respective
specialisation
coordinator) - 2nd
is this project
seek approval from
respective
specialisation
coordinator) - 3rd
is this project
seek approval from
respective
specialisation
coordinator) - 4th
Is this an industrial
collaborative project
? (State company
and provide letter
from company)
Please state
student's name if this
is a continuation of
an industrial
attachment project.
(A letter from IA
company is required)
Please state
is a continuation of
my UROP/RBVIP
project.
Please state
is a student-
proposed project.
(Student must obtain
prior approval from
FYP Coordinator.)
Indicate which
category best
describes your
proposed project ?
Please specify the
minimum
requirement or
knowledge needed to
embark on this
project.
1 AM01 Sound level meter on mobile devices AM Assoc Prof Lim Kian Meng NA In this project, the student will develop a mobile application to implement a sound level meter on mobile devices, such
as smartphones and tablets. The student should have an interest in acoustics and sound measurements. Knowledge
and skills in Android programming are also required.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development Programming;
Acoustics.
2 AM02 Study of sound attenuation in a sonic crystal AM Assoc Prof Lim Kian Meng NA A sonic crystal consists of periodic arrangement of structures so that the band gaps are generated to prevent the
transmission of waves at prescribed frequencies. In this project, the student will conduct experiments to study this
phenomenon and relate the experimental results to the theory.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation;#Design
Acoustics.
3 AM03 Particle concentration using ultrasound AM Assoc Prof Lim Kian Meng NA Ultrasound standing waves in an enclosed fluid channel can be used to concentrate micro-particles or biological cells. In
this project, the student will design the experimental setup and conduct experiments to study this phenomenon. The
results will be compared with theoretical and numerical models.
Investigation;#Computi
ng and Analysis
Ultrasound, Finite
element analysis.
4 AM04 Numerical calculation of acoustic radiation force AM Assoc Prof Lim Kian Meng NA The acoustic radiation force is a second-order effect acting on an object that is immerse in a sound field. This force can
be used to manipulate micro-particles in microfluidic channels. In this project, the student will use a numerical software
to calculate the acoustic radiation force. The student should have keen interests acoustics and numerical simulation.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
Acoustics; Numerical
simulation.
5 AM05 Dynamic analysis of stratosail AM Assoc Prof Lim Kian Meng NA The stratosail part of a balloon system that flies at high altitudes in the the atmosphere. The motion of this stratosail is
determined by the atmospheric forces and tension in the tether. The student will develop a dynamical model of the
startosail based on rigid body dynamics and perform numerical simulation to predict the trajectory of the system.
Analysis
Rigid body dynamics;
Numerical modeling;
Programming.
6 AM06 Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) 1 - Aerodynamics and
Performance
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will design and optimize the aerodynamics configuration and performance for a flying wing UAV. The UAV
must be portable and easily assembled by a single operator, with sufficiently range and endurance for urban military
operations. A proof of concept demonstration to validate computed aerodynamics and performance parameters is
required. Experience with CFD software and programming will be useful. Related projects may be viewed at
http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/AEG/index.html
Aeronautical
Engineering
None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Building materials
7 AM07 Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) 2 - Propulsion and Flight
control
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will design and optimize the propulsion and flight control configuration for a flying wing UAV. The UAV
must be portable and easily assembled by a single operator, with sufficiently stability for urban military operations. A
proof of concept demonstration to validate computed stability and propulsion parameters is required. Experience with
R/C aircraft and electronics will be useful. Related projects may be viewed at
http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/AEG/index.html
Aeronautical
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Electronics & building
materials
8 AM08 Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) 3 - Structures and
Manufacturing
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will be responsible for the structural design optimization for a flying wing UAV. The UAV must be portable
and easily assembled by a single operator. The design must also be sufficiently robust for urban military operations,
readily manufactured and field repairable if damaged. A proof of concept demonstration to validate structural
parameters is required. Experience with CAD software and R/C aircraft will be useful. Related projects may be viewed
at http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/AEG/index.html
Aeronautical
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Building materials
9 AM09 Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) 1 - Power and
Locomotion
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will design, build and test the power and locomotion subsystem for a multiple UGV system capable of
coordinated operations in an urban battlefield. The design should enable each UGV to cooperate and move across
rubble, drains, stairs and other obstacles commonly found in an urban battlefield. A proof of concept demonstration is
required to validate system performance parameters. Mechanical design and power systems experience will be useful.
Related projects may be viewed at http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/COSY/index.html
Automotive
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Electronics & building
materials
10 AM10 Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) 2 - Sensing and
Communications
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will design, build and test the sensing and communication subsystem for a multiple UGV system capable of
coordinated operations in an urban battlefield. The design should allow each UGV to avoid obstacles and identify friends
or foes (IFF). A proof of concept demonstration is required to validate system performance parameters. Instrumentation
and basic electronics experience will be useful. Related projects may be viewed at
http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/COSY/index.html
None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Electronics and
building materials
11 AM11 Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) 3 - Coordination and
Artificial Intelligence(AI)
AM Assoc. Prof Gerard Leng NA The student will design, build and test the coordination/AI subsystem for a multiple UGV system capable of coordinated
operations in an urban battlefield. The design should allow each UGV to execute both offensive and defensive formation
movement. A proof of concept demonstration is required to validate system performance parameters. Instrumentation
and programming experience will be useful. Related projects may be viewed at
http://dynlab.mpe.nus.edu.sg/mpelsb/COSY/index.html
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Electronics and
building materials
12 AM12 Dielectric Elastomer Actuators as Artificial Muscles:
Developing a smart system for electromechanical
actuation
AM Assts Prof Koh Soo Jin
Adrian
Marcelo H. Ang Dielectric elastomer consists of a thin membrane of polymer, sandwiched between compliant electrodes. Subject to a
voltage, the membrane thins down and expands in its area the dielectric elastomer performs as an actuator. When
the voltage is removed, the membrane is capable of producing a mechanical lifting force the dielectric elastomer
resembles an artificial muscle. It has been shown that the mechanical strain due to electrical actuation may be in
excess of 100%, which out-performs existing technologies like piezoceramics by up to 500 times. On the other hand,
the maximum stress that may be produced is about 7 MPa (or 7 N/mm2), which is comparable to the lifting capabilities
of mechanical cranes. In this project, the student will study and evaluate various existing designs of soft
actuators/robots and mechanical lifters. The student will further propose, develop and demonstrate a prototype of soft
robot/actuator or a lifter that could out-perform these existing designs. Working with another student, FE analyses will
be performed to evaluate the design.
ng and
Analysis;#Design
Basic knowledge in
control and
mechatronics, and
thermodynamics
13 AM13 Condition monitoring of railway tracks with soft and
stretchable sensors
Adrian
Koh Chan Ghee (CEE) The Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT) train system along the north-south line suffered two severe incidences of
breakdown in Dec 2011. In the first incident, four trains were stalled between City Hall and Braddell Stations. A second
incident followed two days later, with four trains immobilized due to power supply problems. More than 200,000
passengers were affected by these events. A subsequent report from the Committee of Inquiry (COI) attributed both
breakdown incidences to faulty claws holding up the third rail of the railway track. The third rail is an electrified,
additional rail on a two-rail railway track that supplies electrical power to a train, via a Current Collector Device (CCD),
connected to the train. Any loss of contact between CCD and third rail, or over-deflection of the CCD arm would result
in loss of power. The failure incidences saw simultaneous dislodging of three claws holding up the third rail, causing the
third rail to sag severely, and the CCD to lose contact with the third rail. Over-deflection of the CCD arm due to the rail
sag damaged the CCD. This caused permanent disruption to the electrical supply to the propulsion system, and the
trains stalled. Current techniques of third rail condition monitoring are expensive and remain difficult to deploy effectively
on the rail network. Hence, manual visual inspection is still being used for detection of faulty claws. In this project, you
shall study the use of a stretchable sensor, capable of measuring strains of up to 80%. This sensor is made of active
rubber, which capacitance changes with deformation. The feasibility of deploying this sensor to monitor the condition of
railway tracks will be studied. The possibility of large-scale deployment of this sensor on our public transit system will
also be investigated.
ng and
Analysis;#Design;#Pro
duct
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
Basic knowledge in
sensing and structural
health monitoring
14 AM14 Soft Generators as Energy Harvesters: Designing the
best device to convert energy
Adrian
NA Dielectric elastomer consists of a thin membrane of polymer, sandwiched between compliant electrodes. Subject to a
voltage, the membrane thins down and expands in its area the dielectric elastomer performs as an actuator. On the
other hand, for a pre-stretched and pre-charged elastomer, a relaxation in mechanical force creates a separation
between the electrodes, thus boosting the voltage between the electrodes the dielectric elastomer performs as a
generator. It has been shown that a dielectric elastomer generator is capable of converting energy at a magnitude of up
to 100 times that of electromagnetic generators and piezoceramics, with an excellent conversion efficiency of above
50%. The energy conversion performance of a dielectric elastomer generator depends on various material properties
like the mechanical stiffness, dielectric constant and dielectric strength. In this project, the student shall investigate,
evaluate and compare the energy conversion performance of existing polymer materials like natural rubber, acrylic
elastomer, silicone elastomer and PDMS. Alternatively, the student also have the option to propose a new, conductive
and compliant electrode, that may be doped with nanoparticles. This electrode may be used in combination with a
natural rubber elastomer, as a soft generator. Simple characterization experiments shall be performed on elastomer
materials, and simple theoretical analyses will be required to compute the energy conversion capability.
ng and
Analysis;#Design;#Fiel
d Testing and
Instrumentation
Basic thermodynamics
and energy conversion
Page 1 of 25
15 AM15 Intelligent Management of Charging Facilities for
Electric Vehicles
Adrian
Ben Lim Tong Beng
(Greenblast Pte Ltd)
The advent of electric vehicles (EVs) surfaces a need for charging facilities. Unlike refueling of fossil fuels, which takes
minutes, getting an EV to its fully-charged state may take hours. Hence, it becomes unfeasible to manage a charging
station like that of a gas station. However, charging of an EV is actually a more private affair individual charging
stations may be placed at parking lots, so that the user may put their vehicles to charge, while it is idle. Such systems
may be manageable for an area with a modest concentration of EVs. But if the density of EV becomes very large, for
instance, in that of a bustling city, management and supply of adequate of charging stations may become a challenge.
This problem may be particularly pertinent for the following reason EVs are limited in driving range, hence, they are
extremely well-suited for use as private transport in busy cities, where commuters make short trips to-and-from their
places of work and play. As more than 80% of all world cities have land areas less than 2000 km2, and more than 99%
of them having population densities of more than 1000 persons/km2, very large electric vehicular density in cities will
therefore be a reality. As costs of owning an EV become lower, a greater proportion of residents may choose to buy an
EV. A proper system of planning, designing and managing charging facilities will become paramount in ensuring good
urban planning with electric vehicles. We propose centralized charging stations for EVs, where batteries are stacked up
in racks to charge in buildings. In such an arrangement, vertical space is utilized, enabling more efficient use of land
space for charging. One requirement is EV batteries must be depersonalized that is, EVs draw from a common pool
of batteries, managed by the charging station owners. Another requirement is that the EV must be designed such that
the batteries may be easily loaded or unloaded to or from it. Such centralized facilities may then be managed like a gas
station, where EVs enter, drop their depleted batteries, and replace with a new one. This system dispenses the need
for infrastructural overhaul of the city to provide pervasive points of charging. The success of such charging facilities
depends on how the facility is managed. In particular, an intelligent management system (IMS) is required to identify,
sort and transport batteries to be installed/removed to/from EVs. This IMS may further be used to optimize charging
cycles for batteries, and collect data to analyze the performance and remaining life of a battery. This project seeks to
develop such a system. The system may be tested in a simulated environment, in order to further optimize and refine it.
None None None None Yes, Greenblast Pte
Ltd
NA NA NA Software
Development;#Product
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
Strong interest or
knowledge in
computational
software development,
in particular in
developing apps for
management of
inventory
16 AM16 Finite Element Analysis of Soft Smart Systems AM Assts Prof Koh Soo Jin
Adrian
Foo Choon Chiang Keith
(IHPC)
Dielectric elastomer (DE) consists of a thin membrane of polymer, sandwiched between compliant electrodes. Subject
to a voltage, the membrane thins down and expands in its area the DE performs as an actuator. On the other hand,
for a pre-stretched and pre-charged DE, a relaxation in mechanical force creates a separation between the electrodes,
thus boosting the voltage between the electrodes the DE performs as a generator. It has been shown that a DE is
capable of converting energy at a magnitude of up to 100 times that of conventional electromechanical systems. The
energy conversion performance of a DE depends on various material properties like the mechanical stiffness, dielectric
constant and dielectric strength. Device configuration is also an important factor in determining its performance. For
instance, if a DE is stretched equal-biaxially, the actuation and energy generation performance exceeds that of a DE
stretched uniaxially. In real device configurations, the stretch states of DEs are rarely homogeneous. Hence, a finite
element program is necessary for the prediction, design and evaluation of DE device systems. In this project, the
student(s) will be involved in the development of a finite element program that couples mechanical and electrical
loadings, enabling dielectric elastomer systems undergoing large deformation to be analysed. The code development
will advance the progress and design of DE systems.
Analysis;#Design
Strong interest and
knowledge in FEM and
computational analysis
17 AM17 Soft Generators as Energy Harvesters: The hunt for
optimal materials
Adrian
NA Dielectric elastomer consists of a thin membrane of polymer, sandwiched between compliant electrodes. Subject to a
voltage, the membrane thins down and expands in its area the dielectric elastomer performs as an actuator. On the
other hand, for a pre-stretched and pre-charged elastomer, a relaxation in mechanical force creates a separation
between the electrodes, thus boosting the voltage between the electrodes the dielectric elastomer performs as a
generator. It has been shown that a dielectric elastomer generator is capable of converting energy at a magnitude of up
to 100 times that of electromagnetic generators and piezoceramics, with an excellent conversion efficiency of above
50%. The energy conversion performance of a dielectric elastomer generator depends on various material properties
like the mechanical stiffness, dielectric constant and dielectric strength. In this project, the student shall investigate,
evaluate and compare the energy conversion performance of existing polymer materials like natural rubber, acrylic
elastomer, silicone elastomer and PDMS. Alternatively, the student also have the option to propose a new, conductive
and compliant electrode, that may be doped with nanoparticles. This electrode may be used in combination with a
natural rubber elastomer, as a soft generator. Simple characterization experiments shall be performed on elastomer
materials, and simple theoretical analyses will be required to compute the energy conversion capability.
ng and Analysis
Basic knowledge in
thermodynamics and
energy conversion
18 AM18 Creating a robotic hand using artificial muscles AM Assts Prof Koh Soo Jin
Adrian
Marcelo H. Ang This project seeks to create a robotic hand, with fingers and palms controlled by soft artificial muscle actuators. This
hand will be used as a component for subsequent development of an artificial muscle-based robotic arm.
ng and
d Testing and
Instrumentation
Basic knowledge in
control and
mechatronics, and
thermodynamics
19 AM19 Investigation of the acoustic properties of natural fibre
composites
AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA Thermoplastic composites with natural fibre reinforcements have been regarded as an alternative building or structural
materials to traditional glass fibre reinforced composites. The substitution of the traditionally used reinforcing glass fibres
by natural fibres such as flax, kenaf, or cotton can lead to a reduction of the components weight as well as potential
improvement of specific properties such as impact strength, crash behaviour, and sound absorptions. The main
objective of the project is to investigate the sound absorption characteristics of the natural fibre reinforced thermoplastic
composite specimens based on ISO 354 standard (Acoustic Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation
room).
ng and
Analysis;#Design
NA
20 AM20 Investigation of the Prevalence of Common
Pathomechanical Foot
Deformities of Singaporeans
AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA Flexible flatfoot (pes planus) and high-arch foot (pes cavus) are the most common pathomechanical foot deformities
encountered in pediatric orthopaedic and rehabilitation practice. Flexible flatfoot is defined as the postural appearance
of the foot, with a depressed medial longitudinal arch and a pronated subtalar joint under weight bearing conditions.
Flexible flatfoot rarely causes disability,
and asymptomatic children are brought to clinics by concerned parents because of the common layman perception that
flatfoot will be associated with pain in
adulthood. High-arch foot is the opposite of flatfoot. It is much less common than flatfoot and more likely to be
associated with an abnormal orthopaedic or neurological condition. Unlike flexible flatfoot, high-arch foot tends to be
painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the ankle and the toes, making it difficult to
wear shoes. The objective of the project is to assess the prevalence of these foot conditions among Singaporeans by
examining the data from the ongoing anthropometric study. The shape and severity of these deformities will also be
classified using the 3d contours
obtained from the imaging.
ng and
Analysis;#Design
NA
21 AM21 Design of Protective Helmets for mitigating the effect of
blast waves
AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA The recent Iraq and Afghanistan wars had resulted in approximately 130,000 deployed American soldiers suffered from
traumatic brain injury (TBI) and with another 5% of its service members suffered from its residual symptoms. These
recent events and conflicts have led to some studies on the possible ways of mitigating the blast effect. This proposed
project aims to investigate the protective effects of suitably designed helmets in mitigating the effect of
blast wave on the human brain. We will also explore the various means for reducing the weight burden of the protective
helmet on the human head.
Analysis;#Design
NA
22 AM22 Design of sonic crystals for traffic noise mitigation AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA Sonic crystals or periodic structures have been reported for applications as noise barriers. For example, a sculpture
consisting of hollow stainless steel cylinders located in Madrid was reported to have a sound attenuation peak at
1670Hz (Martinez-Sala et al., 1995). Kushwaha (1997) reported that multi-periodic system in tandem could create
sound attenuation in the human audible range of frequency. Martinez-Sala et al. (2006) reported the possible use of
periodic arrays of trees as green acoustic screens. The main objective of the project is to first perform a sound mapping
for a typical student hostel on NUS campus and then explore various potential designs of sonic crystals for noise
mitigation. The proposed project may be of interest to students staying in Eusoff Hall.
ng and
Analysis;#Design
NA
23 AM23 Nasal airflow studies for patients with facial trauma AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA The internal nasal airway of patients with various forms of facial trauma or deformities may be severely distorted.
Through time, this may lead to complications in the patient's breathing. Not many studies have been done on correcting
the complex internal airway due to facial trauma. The main objective is to investigate the nasal airflow based on
computational fluid dynamics studies for two patients with different forms of facial deformities before and after the
surgical corrections. The project involves image segmentation for the construction of 3D models as well as
computational fluid dynamics simulations using FLUENT.
Analysis;#Design
NA
24 AM24 Geometric analysis of 3D data from Anthropometric
Study
AM Assoc Prof Lee Heow Pueh NA Anthropometric design is one of the most important disciplines within the area of ergonomic approaches. With the
correct anthropometry layout, products and working tools can be used safely, comfortably and in a healthy manner. 3D
anthropometric data obtained from 3D full body scanner provide unprecedented information about the human shape
which is not available for past anthropometric surveys. At the same time, 3D geometric data presents tremendous new
challenges as well as opportunities in terms of statistical analysis and classification and also statistical analysis and co-
relation studies involving both 3d geometric data and traditional data obtained from questionnaire and manual
measurements. The main objective of the project is to perform a detailed statistical and geometric analysis for part of
the large database to be collected from the Singapore Anthropometric study.
ng and
Analysis;#Design
NA
Page 2 of 25
25 AM25 Effect of Pre-tension on Ballistic Resistance of High-
Strength Fabric
AM Prof Victor SHIM Dr GUO Yangbo High-strength fabrics are extensively utilised in body armour for protection against bullets, shrapnel, etc. Their ballistic
resistance is significantly influenced by how rapidly they can distribute the impact energy from the point of impact to the
rest of the fabric. One approach to increasing the propagation of impact energy, is to apply tension to the fabric before
the impact. This project involves examining the effects of pre-tension on the ballistic performance of high-strength
fabrics. Fabric specimens are pre-tensioned to different extents and inclined at various angles, using a test rig, and
subjected to perforation by small projectiles. The effects of pre-tension and impact angle on the ballistic limit and the
energy absorbed will be analysed and discussed. The results obtained will serve as recommendations on whether initial
stretching improves penetration resistance.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
26 AM26 Utilising Fabric to Protect Inflatable Blast-mitigation
Device Against Shrapnel
AM Prof Victor SHIM Dr GUO Yangbo Inflatable balloon-type devices are being considered for employment in mitigating shock waves from blast/explosion to
protect vehicles, aircraft, etc. However, such devices are vulnerable to puncture by the impact of shrapnel. This project
explores the use of high-strength fabrics to protect balloons, as a small-scale study. Bare balloons will first be subjected
to impact by small projectiles to determine the threshold projectile velocity/energy at which they burst. Subsequently,
balloons will be wrapped by a layer of high-strength fabric and subjected to projectile impact to examine the ability of the
fabric in enhancing resistance to perforation, and how this is influenced by parameters such as pressure inside the
balloon. The information obtained will be useful for design of inflatable devices for protection against impact loads.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
27 AM27 Using Crushable Polymeric Foam for Impact Absorption AM Prof Victor SHIM Dr GUO Yangbo Compressible/crushable polymeric foams are extensively employed in impact/shock mitigation. Their effective use
requires a knowledge of their dynamic properties. This project seeks to study the dynamic compressive properties of a
polymeric foam. As the constituent foam cells are elongated in the direction the bubbles rise during fabrication, the
mechanical properties of the foam depend on the angle at which it is loaded. Foam specimens will be fabricated and
subjected to dynamic compression at various angles and at various speeds, using a drop impact tester, to examine the
effects of loading rate and loading direction on the deformation and failure behaviour. The information obtained is useful
for the design of impact/shock mitigation devices using foam materials.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
28 AM28 Measurement and Analysis of Time and Frequency
Transfer by GPS
AM Assoc Prof Quan Chenggen Dr Liu Yan Ying
(NMC/A*STAR)
The national time scale Singapore Standard Time (SST) is local realization of international time scale Coordinated
Universal Time (UTC). UTC is a primary time standard by which the world regulates clocks and time. SST is derived
from five atomic clocks and always compared with UTC through Global Positioning System (GPS) time transfer network
to ensure less than 20 nanosecond difference. The standard time and frequency can be disseminated to the users by
calibration. The aim of this project is to develop a remote calibration method which will enable a real time comparison
between user's standard and national standard by means of GPS time and frequency transfer technique. The student is
required to: 1) conduct live GPS time & frequency transfer observation at two sites; 2) program coding using Matlab to
analyze the observation data; 3) evaluate measurement results. By completing the project, the student will acquire
knowledge of generation of atomic time and GPS positioning technique. The student will carry out the project at
National Metrology Centre (NMC), A*SATR, by closely working with NMCs technical specialists.
Investigation
NA
29 AM29 Solar PV cell measurement AM Assoc Prof Quan Chenggen Huang Xuebo
(NMC/A*STAR)
Photovoltaic (PV) cell is a solid state electrical device that converts the energy of light directly into electricity by the
photovoltaic effect. Assemblies of solar cells are used to make solar modules which are used to capture energy from
sunlight. Differential spectral responsivity (DSR) of reference PV cell is critical in accurate measurement especially
when a PV cell under different bias radiation levels. This project aims to study DSR measurement for large size solar
cell and compare the DSR measurement results with that measured at current voltage tester. The student will carry
out the project at National Metrology Centre (NMC), A*SATR, by closely working with NMCs technical specialists as
follows: 1) understand measurement principle of PV solar cell through literature review; 2) perform measurements of PV
solar cells using available facilities such as DSR measurement facility and currentvoltage tester at NMC; 3) data
acquisition, analysis of results and study the uncertainty measurement of PV cell.
Investigation
NA
30 AM30 Self-cleaning polymer substrate obtained by
nanoimprinting
AM Assoc Prof Quan Chenggen Dr Donna, Zhou Xiaodong
(IMRE) & Wong Ten It
(IMRE)
Self-cleaning surface is of ample use, and it is achieved by surperhydrophobicity or superhydrophilicity of the surface. In
this project, the degree of superhydrophobicity by nanoimprinting on a polymer surface will be investigated. (1) The
nanopatterns will be designed for superhydrophobicity; (2) The nickel mold will be fabricated by e-beam lithography
followed by electroplating; (3) The nanopatterns on the nickel mold will be nanoimprinted on the polymer; (4) The
contact angles of different solutions on the polymer will be tested. The project will be carried out at Institute of Materials
Research & Engineering (IMRE), A*STAR. The student will be trained with state-of-the-art nanostructure fabrication and
characterization tools in the cleanroom, as well as the methods of undertaking scientific research.
Investigation
NA
31 AM31 Microfluidic polymer chips for biosensors AM Assoc Prof Quan Chenggen Dr Donna, Zhou Xiaodong
(IMRE) & Wong Ten It
(IMRE)
Microfluidic for biosensors is a green technology that saves a lot of reagents. In this project, we will fabricate the
polymer based microfluidic chips. (1) The microfluidic chips with at least two polymer layers will be designed; (2) A mold
will be fabricated for molding of the polymer layers; (3) The polymer layers will be molded and bonded together; (4) The
microfluidic polymer chips will be optically tested with biological samples using fluorescent dyes. The project will be
carried out at Institute of Materials Research & Engineering (IMRE), A*STAR. The student will be trained with
cleanroom skills and research methodologies.
Investigation
NA
32 AM32 Design of an electrostatically-driven MEMS micromirror AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Texas Instruments digital light processing (DLP) is a very successful commercial projection technology that utilizes
microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based micromirror arrays. Each micromirror element in the array is
electrostatically-driven by two driving electrodes to rotate about a single axis to manipulate the light incident on it. This
project focuses on the similar concept. The student is expected to investigate various MEMS electrostatically-driven
micromirror designs within a limited design area to achieve large mirror rotation angle, high speed operation, and low
driving voltage.
Analysis;#Design;#Fea
sibility/Case Studies
NA
33 AM33 Design of large amplitude two-dimensional MEMS
resonators
AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Two-dimensional microelectromechancial systems (MEMS) resonators that can vibrate and scan along two orthogonal
directions are useful for many practical applications. Such resonators can be found in MEMS gyroscopes, miniature
optical scanners, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) systems. This project focuses on the design of such MEMS
resonators with large vibration amplitudes. A good design should support two vibration modes each is designated to
scan a predetermined direction at the required frequency. All other structural vibration modes should be located outside
the operation frequency band. In this project, structural modal analysis using Finite Element Method (FEM) is expected.
The student will be trained to use FEM software such as Abaqus, if he/she is not familiar with the method.
Analysis;#Feasibility/C
ase Studies
NA
34 AM34 Design of miniature tunable lenses for video
endoscopes
AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Endoscopes have become an increasingly important aid in the fields of engineering and medicine. They help doctors to
inspect duct-shaped hollows and/or cavities inside the human body while avoiding invasive and traumatizing surgical
procedures. In recent years, a great number of innovative imaging techniques have been combined with endoscopes
demonstrating powerful capabilities. However, most of the current endoscopes still use non-tunable lenses at their distal
ends thus with no autofocus and zooming capabilities, which demonstrates distinct drawbacks. This project thus
explores the feasibility of using MEMS tunable microlenses, more specifically MEMS Alvarez lenses that consists of
paired optical elements having complementary cubic surface profiles and can substantially vary its optical power through
very small lateral displacements, in a video endoscope to achieve the desirable autofocus and zooming functionalities.
NA
35 AM35 Flexure stage driven by piezo actuators AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA A flexure stage generates motions through flexural deformation. Such a stage has outstanding advantages including
good positioning accuracy and repeatability and is widely used in many high-precision micro and nano positioning
systems. A piezo actuator converts energy from electric domain to mechanical domain through the well-known
piezoelectric effect. Usually, the output displacement of a piezo actuator is limited to only a few tens of microns. This
project investigates designs of flexure stages driven by piezo actuators. To overcome the short stroke limitation of the
driving piezo actuators, compliant displacement amplification mechanisms connecting the actuator and the stage are
expected. The student is expected to conduct the structural design and perform finite element (FE) simulations to
determine the performance of the stage design.
NA
36 AM36 Design of a grating-based hyperspectral imaging
system
AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Hyperspectral imaging system records a vast portion of the electromagnetic spectrum at each pixel within their field of
view. It is well-known that any given material should have unique spectral signatures in certain wavelength bands. As a
result, hyperspectral imagers are not only able to acquire images of an object but also enable identification of the
materials that make up the object. Therefore, they are widely used, especially with platforms including unmanned aerial
vehicles (UAVs), in many applications for example target identification and tracking, border patrol, surveillance and
reconnaissance. This project will focus on modelling and simulation of a diffraction grating based hyperspectral imaging
system using commercially-available ray-tracing software ZemaxTM. Its optical performance including resolution,
spatial, and spectral distortions will be investigated.
NA
37 AM37 Ultra-sensitive displacement sensing with
nanophotonics
AM Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Displacement sensing is a very important topic in metrology area. Its applications can be found in
microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based accelerometers, atomic force microscopes (AFMs), micro-cantilever-
based biochemical sensors, and many others. This project focuses on an ultrasensitive displacement sensing
mechanism using movable nanophotonic waveguides. It is based on the fact that the direct coupling of light from one
waveguide to another in an end-to-end configuration is very sensitive to the alignment accuracy between them. If there
exists a small misalignment between two waveguides, large coupling losses can be induced, resulting in an attenuated
transmission that can be sensed by a photodetector. In this project, the student will investigate the sensitivity and
dynamic-range of such displacement sensors based on silicon nano-wire waveguides and study the effects of various
end-to-end waveguides coupling configurations.
NA
38 AM38 Investigation of thermal effect in HAMR head AM Assoc Prof Quan Chenggen Dr Xu Baoxi (DSI) Heat assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) is a promising technique for the next generation of magnetic recording with
recording density beyond 1Tb/in2. However, HAMR head reliability is a main barrier for mass production. In this project,
the thermal performance of HAMR head will be studied by simulation for different head structures. The main tasks
include: understanding of high density storage system requirements in thermal respect; searching of material
parameters; modelling of the head structure; simulation of head thermal performance and analysis of the results. Based
on simulation result, an improvement solution will be proposed. The project will be carried out at Data Storage Institute
(DSI), A*STAR and the simulation software is available at DSI.
Investigation
NA
Page 3 of 25
39 AM39 High-speed scanning MEMS mirrors with distributed
suspensions
AM Assoc Prof. Chau Fook
Siong
NA High-speed scanning MEMS mirrors are useful for a wide range of applications, for example laser printers, laser
projection displays, and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems. However, one of the major problems for this type
of scanners is that at high speed operation the MEMS mirror plates may lose their rigidity and deform dynamically
during scanning due to the excessive out-of-plane acceleration/deceleration forces, thus introducing dynamic
aberrations in the optical scanning systems. This project thus investigates a possible solution to reduce the deformation
using distributed spring suspension designs. Finite element (FE) simulations are expected. The student will be trained to
use FEM software such as Abaqus, if he/she is not familiar with the method.
NA
40 AM40 Mechanical and optical investigation of membrane-
based liquid tunable microlenses
AM Assoc Prof. Chau Fook
Siong
NA Miniature lenses are now widely used in many practical applications including smart phones, endoscopes, and micro
surveillance cameras. Making these lenses tunable is very attractive, as they can provide the imaging system with the
desirable autofocus and zooming functionalities. This project focuses on a specific tunable microlens, where the lens
shape can be changed by applying pressure. The lens consists of a liquid-filled chamber covered with a deformable
elastomer membrane. When a pressure is applied, the membrane deforms, thus changing the radius of curvature and
hence the focal length of the microlens. In the first stage of the project, mechanical simulation of membrane
deformation under different conditions using FEM will be conducted. In the second stage of the project, optical
simulation with ZemaxTM will be conducted using the results of mechanical simulation as inputs. The focal length
variation, size and shape of the focal spot will be investigated.
NA
41 AM41 Surface roughness measurement of a semiconductor
material by a laser scattering technique
AM Assoc Prof Tay CJ NA Surface roughness is of critical importance in the performance, reliability and life of a product such as a computer hard
disk. Surface roughness can be measured using a contact method such as the use of a stylus. This method however
can result in damages to the surface and hence rendering the disk useless. Hence, a non-contact method would be a
more suitable alternative method.
Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility of using a laser scattering technique to correlate the roughness of a
semiconductor material with the intensity of a laser. In this project, a study will be carried out to investigate the effect of
a laser intensity on the laser scattering method. Various laser diameters will be deployed and the influence of the laser
diameter will be studied. The results will be compared with existing methods such as the Taylor Hobson Stylus
Profilometer and the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). Based on the laser scattering method, an empirical roughness
equation comprising various correlation parameters will be established.
None None None None NA NA NA NA NA NA
42 AM42 Design of an experimental test rig for non-contact
surface roughness measurement
AM Assoc Prof Tay CJ NA In the measurement of surface roughness of a test sample using a laser, in addition to the deployment of a laser,
various other optical components are required. To ensure accurate measurements are carried out, the optical
components are often mounted on rigid supports with good vibration isolation. However, during measurement the
optical arrangement is often varied depending on the experimental requirements and specifications. Currently such
variations are carried out manually and as a result measurement errors would be introduced.
In this project, an experimental test rig will be designed to conduct such a measurement. It is envisage that the design
will be able to accommodate the various optical components and their subsequent movements. The design should
include a guide rail system on which the optical components can be shifted in a particular direction with a prescribed
distance and at relative ease. The design should also incorporate a system where by the optical components can be
easily aligned after a change of experimental configuration. The project will also involve fabrication and commission of
the prototype and subsequent measurement of test samples.
43 AM43 3D Freeform Optics Measurement Using a High
Precision Stylus Profilometry
Project Description:
AM Dr. Wang Shihua (NMC) Assoc Prof Tay CJ High-precision optical systems have been widely employed in space, science and engineering applications. Daily
consumer products such as digital cameras, multi-media projectors and vehicles car dashboard displays also employ
such systems. This project will focus on the development of a contact stylus method for the measurement of freeform
optical surfaces. The freeform surface topography obtained will be compared with that of design specifications. The
resulting deviations from the design values will provide a quantitative feedback for the evaluation of the quality of the
fabricated freeform optics.
None None None None NA NA NA NA NA The student choosing
this project is required
to have a CAP of 4
and above and interest
on experimental work.
44 AM44 Measure of contact pressure in a pipe gasket AM Assoc Prof Tay CJ Assoc Prof Toh SL There are various methods of assembling pipelines, such as flanging, welding and brazing. These joints are the potential
weak points in the pipelines, and the failure in the joints can lead to dire consequences. One of the more common
methods of assembling pipelines is the use of flanges. In a flanged system, a gasket is placed between two flanges and
bolts are used to tighten the connection. To ensure the effectiveness of the flanging system, the pressure acting on the
flanges has to be evenly distributed on the flange surfaces. In this project, a sensor will be developed to measure the
pressure acting on the gasket placed between the flanges. The project is mainly experimental and involves the design
and testing of a sensor based on the strain gauge technique. A numerical analysis using finite element method will also
be conducted to obtain an optimum design configuration
45 AM45 Detection of damage in aircraft fibre reinforced
composite panels
AM Assoc Prof Vincent Tan NA Fibre-reinforced composites are replacing metals as the main structural materials in the next-generation aircrafts (80%
volume of the latest Boeing 787 Dreamliner is made of composites). Despite their already significant application, a
particular type of composite damage - kissing bond has been difficult to detect using conventional techniques. As
opposed to complete delamination, in which voids are formed in multi-layer panels, kissing bonds are regions of
weakened adhesion between layers. In a joint project with SIA Engineering, a technique that is showing good potential
will be evaluated in laboratory based tests. This project will involve fabrication of composite plates with kissing bonds
deliberately inserted and the exploration of a nonlinear ultrasound technique to detect this type of damage.
Aeronautical
Engineering
None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Inverstigation
NA
46 AM46 Characterization of continuous carbon nanotube fibers AM Assoc Prof Vincent Tan NA Carbon nanotubes (CNT) are essentially concentric cylinders comprising single layers of carbon atoms bonded together
in a regular structure. Discovered in the 1990s, they have been shown to have extremely high strength. However actual
applications harnessing their superior mechanical properties remain elusive because the common ways to grow CNTs
produce fibers which are no longer than a few centimeters in length. A more recent way to produce CNT fibers through
spinning of gaseous carbon from a furnace has resulted in continuous fibers several meters in length. The aim of this
project is to conduct tensile tests on these fibers at low and high speeds to determine their mechanical properties with
the aim of incorporating them into bullet resistant fabrics.
Inverstigation
NA
47 AM47 Fabrication and testing of hybrid energy absorbing
systems
AM Assoc Prof Vincent Tan NA Shear thickening fluids display a sudden increase in viscosity when they are sheared at high speed. This characteristic
makes them attractive as energy absorbing materials which remain flexible until they stiffen when impacted.
Foams are commonly used to absorb impact energy by compression at a relatively constant stress over an extended
distance without significant rebound. In this project, different foams will be procured and then bonded together to test
hybrid designs. The student will study the effect of soaking foams in shear-thickening fluid to improve the impact energy
absorption of the system. Free-fall drop tests and ballistic tests will be conducted on the foams to characterize the
improvements in energy absorption improvements.
Inverstigation
NA
48 AM48 Effects of ply stacking configuration on ballistic
performance of fibre-reinforced composites
AM Assoc Prof Vincent Tan NA Modern high-performance composites often comprise several layers of unidirectional carbon fibres embedded in an
epoxy matrix. The orientation of the fibres in the constituent layers of the composite structure determines its mechanical
properties. The commonly used configurations include angles of 0, 45, 60 and 90 degrees. In the shells of crustaceans,
however, a different strategy is employed. The layers of unidirectional chitin-protein fibres continuously rotate through
the thickness of the shell. In this project, the ballistic performance of this bio-inspired ply stacking configuration will be
examined through ballistic tests and computational simulations. A comparison of failure theories for composite laminates
will be conducted. Impact experiments will be carried out to establish actual performance figures.
Inverstigation
NA
49 AM49 Development of design specifications for a curry-puff
making machine.
AM (Industry) Ms Wan Siew Ping Prof Tay CJ Production of curry-puff requires unique pastry folding and kneading actions which current western built machineries are
not able to provide. Before any machinery can be designed, a clear understanding of the processing steps requirements
must be obtained and built into the design specifications. This project includes the study of the processing steps and
time-study as well as literature search and benchmarking of currently available machinery. The information gathered will
subsequently be employed in the development of design description and specifications for a curry-puff production
machinery.
None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Product Development NA
50 AM50 Fatigue testing of composite materials under seawater
environment
AM Assoc Prof Vincent Tan NA The high strength-to-weight ratio of composites is one of the primary reasons why they are now widely used in modern
aircrafts. Other than the aerospace industry, there are many potential applications of composites. The oil and gas
industry is currently looking into the feasibility of replacing deep water steel risers with composite ones. Risers are
conduits several kilometres in length running from the seabed to the platforms on the ocean surface. With offshore
production moving to ever deeper waters, steel risers are fast approaching their design limits because of stresses from
their high weight. This project will look into the effects of seawater on the strength and the long-term durability of
composites. Composite material specimens will be pre-conditioned in water of various salinities and subjected to cyclic
loading to determine the fatigue life of composites in seawater. The main scope of the project is to perform static and
fatigue tests of composite specimens. The final objective is to propose a relationship between the reduced strength of
composites and the parameters of the cyclic load (magnitude, frequency and duration of the load).
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Inverstigation
NA
51 AM51 Mechanical design for automatic multi-axis optical
alignment system
AM (Industry) Li Hao Assoc Prof Zhou Guangya For precision optical system such as lasers, high resolution optical microscope and optical tomography system,
precisely optics alignment is very common and critical. Traditionally, it is manually done by expert or specialist regularly
to maintain the system performance. The process is not only expensive but also time consumable, which is greatly
reduce the practical commercial value for these systems. This project is to develop a multi-axis automatic optical
alignment module for a super-resolution optical imaging system. It is implemented by using user-friendly hardware
programming language labview and high-precision motorized stage.
Automotive
Engineering
None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation;#Product
Development
GPA>3.8 is preferred.
Page 4 of 25
52 BN01 Does Abnormal Embryonic Blood Flow Mechanical
Forces Cause Congenital cardiovascular malformation?
BN Yap Choon Hwai, Assistant
Professor, BME
NA Forces exerted by blood flow in the embryo have been known to influence the growth and development of the
cardiovascular system. We hypothesize that abnormal blood flow forces is the reason some babies are born with
cardiovascular malformations. In this FYP, we will test this hypothesis. Microsurgery will be performed on chick embryos
to change the embryonic blood flow patterns, and 3D ultrasound and OCT imaging of cardiovascular geometry (as well
as image processing) will be performed at multiple time points to observe the growth morphology of the embryo. Post-
surgery chick embryos will be compared to sham-controls (normal embryos) to understand effects of alterations of
blood flow on embryonic development. The knowledge generated may be useful for designing novel foetal surgery in
future to treat congenital malformations. You will work with existing research engineer in the Yap lab on this project,
building on methods already developed previously.
Inverstigation; #
Computing and
analysis
NA
53 BN02 Novel Methods for Measuring Heart Valve Regurgitation BN Yap Choon Hwai, Assistant
Professor, BME
Poh Kian Kiong, Senior
Consultant, NUH
Mitral heart valve regurgitation (leakage through the valve) is highly prevalent in the elderly, and ultrasound is routinely
used to evaluate the severity of regurgitation. With the advent of 3D ultrasound, it is possible to design an improved
method to more accurately measure the amount of regurgitation: using a combination of 3D Colour Doppler Ultrasound
and Engineering Computations. You will assist an existing research team to test a new method to measure heart valve
regurgitation in an artificial flow loop. You will 3D print idealized and realistic mitral valve geometries, which would have
a hole in it to create realistic regurgitation flow. You will then use a research medical ultrasound to gather Colour
Doppler ultrasound data of regurgitation flow field, and use these data to test whether our new quantification method
can accurately gauge the severity of regurgitation. We hope to commercialize this new method eventually. You will work
with an existing research team on this project, and will be advised by Dr. Yap Choon Hwai (expert in biofluid
mechanics), and Dr. Poh Kian Kiong (Cardiologist, NUH Heart Centre).
Inverstigation; #
Computing and
analysis
NA
54 BN03 Design of a Robotic Catheter Guidewire for Automatic
Stent Delivery:
Developing the Ultrasound Sensing Guidance System
Professor, BME
Ren Hong Liang, Assistant
Professor, BME
Intravascular catheters are a class of medical device that is growing in importance. They are used in balloon
angioplasty, vascular stents and artificial heart valve implantations etc. To date, catheters are operated manually,
leaving room for human errors; and X-ray imaging is required for visualization, resulting in harmful radiation exposure.
We are currently developing a robotic guidewire system that can navigate itself through vascular channels, using
intravascular ultrasound instead of X-ray for motion sensing. The FPY project will focus on a subset of the development
work: setting up the ultrasound sensing system of the robotic guidewire, essentially converting an existing ultrasound
speckle tracking
codes to enable real-time processing, and experimental demonstrating the accuracy of the real-time speckle tracking in
vitro. You will join an existing research team on this project, and will be advised by Dr. Yap Choon Hwai (Expert in
Biomechanics), Dr. Ren Hong Liang (Expert in Robotics), and Dr. Winn Maung Maung Aye (Cardiothoracic Surgeon).
Dr. Alberto Corias will also be available for consultation on coding issues.
Inverstigation; #
Computing and
analysis
NA
55 BN04 Using Advanced Soft Robotics Material for Making
Hemodialysis Blood Pump to Minimize Blood Damage
Professor, BME
Lina Choong, Senior
Consultant, SGH
In this project, we will explore the use of an advanced robotic material, known as Dielectric Elastomer, for building blood
pumps. Dielectric elastomer is a class of soft active material, which has an elastomeric body containing paste-like
electrodes, such that when voltage is supplied to the material, large but
controlled deformations can be achieved. The material has recently been featured in the news as artificial muscle. We
will explore the use of this material to build an extracorporeal blood pump for hemodialysis, using the principals of
impedance pumps and roller pumps, such that the pump will cause less blood damage than currently-available
commercial blood pumps. The project involves CAD-modeling, 3D-printing and silicone casting, and testing the
prototype in an artificial flow loop. You will be advised by Dr. Yap Choon Hwai (expert in biofluid mechanics), Dr. Zhu
Jian (expert in robotics materials), and Dr. Lina Choong (hemodialysis physician, SGH).
Inverstigation; #
Design; # Product
Development
NA
56 BN05 Extracorporeal Blood Pump with a Novel Pumping
Mechanism
Professor, BME
Lina Choong, Senior
Consultant, SGH
The most commonly used blood pump in hemodialysis is the roller pumps. Studies, however, have shown that these
pumps cause substantial blood damage, necessitating blood replacement therapy in patients. It is currently known that
under-occluding the roller pump can substantially reduce shear
stresses, but this also reduces pumping efficiency greatly. Our preliminary studies, however, have shown that we can
make use of impedance pumping theory to maximize the flow rate of the under-occluded roller pump by having the
roller pump function at near to resonance frequency. We thus have a pump that
is friendly to blood and yet has sufficient pumping efficiency. This project involves fully characterizing the performance of
this new pumping mechanism, which may be commercializable. You will be advised by Dr. Yap (expert in biofluid
mechanics), and Dr. Lina Choong, senior consultant, SGH (hemodialysis
physician)
Inverstigation; #
Design; # Product
Development
NA
57 BN06 Mechanical Characteristics of The Human Placenta in
Babies with Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Professor, BME
Citra Nurfarah Zaini Mattar,
Consultant, NUH
Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) is a disease where the baby cannot get enough nutrients and oxygen transferred
from the mother, due to vascular disease of the placenta. We strive to improve our understanding of what happens to
the placenta during this disease, so as to improve doctors ability to
detect and mitigate IUGR. At present, the vascular compliance of the placenta is not well-studied. This project involves
getting real human placenta samples from NUH, after delivery of babies, and performing 3 measurements: (1) the
vascular resistance of placenta; (2) vascular compliance of placenta; and (3) mechanical properties of placenta
samples. We will perform measurements for both normal
babies and IUGR babies to understand the differences. You will be co-advised by Dr. Mattar, Consultant, NUHS (Fetal
Maternal Medicine Physician), and Dr. Yap (Expert in biomechanics).
Inverstigation; #
Computing and
analysis
NA
58 BN07 CORVUS-INSPIRED FLAPPING DRONE FOR
AERIAL SURVEILLANCE
BN Assts Prof Yeow Chen Hua NA The Corvus Splendens or the House Crow is found in many parts of the world, especially in Asia, mainly attributed to its
opportunistic nature and omnivorous diet. Due to its widespread distribution worldwide, the corvus can be a potential
tactical model for surveillance drone design. In this project, the student will study the corvuss appearance, and crowing,
flying and sitting behaviours. The student will then develop a bio-inspired flapping drone that resembles the corvus in
terms of the appearance and behaviours, and perform evaluation tests to assess its surveillance capabilities.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design NA
59 BN08 MANTIS-INSPIRED SURGICAL TOOL FOR
MINIMALLY INVASIVE ROBOTIC SURGERY
BN Assts Prof Yeow Chen Hua NA The praying mantis is known for its grasping raptorial forelegs that are capable of a wide range of movement and
precise manipulation within a narrow workspace. In this project, we seek to adapt the manipulative capability of the
mantis in the design of a bio-inspired robotic surgical tool for minimally invasive surgery. The student will study the
foreleg kinematics of the mantis and gain insights towards developing a prototype that can be controlled to target, grip
and cut delicate tissues within a constrained workspace during surgery.
60 BN09 Computational fluid modelling of effect of fluid induced
shear stress on the liver specific functions
BN Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NA Culturing hepatocytes at high seeding densities on a layer of collagen has been shown to elevate metabolic functions
such as albumin production in vitro as compared to a culture with a lower seeding density. In addition, the close packing
of the cells under a high seeding density condition maintained a
cuboidal morphology and good cell to cell contact, similar to that of cells found in vivo. In order to achieve the above
conditions for the cell culture, a bioreactor was designed to support a perfusion for high density hepatocyte culture.
Experimental results have so far been very encouraging showing high liver-specific functions with high cell viability. The
current study will incorporate computational fluid dynamic modelling to investigate the impact of fluid induced shear
stress on the liver specific functions such as albumin and urea production
analysis
NA
61 BN10 Computational study of blood flow characteristics in the
left ventricle: a patient-specific study
BN Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NGUYEN Vinh Tan, IHPC
ASTAR
Cardiac or heart failure is a significant problem that affects millions of people worldwide and can be broadly understood
as a condition where the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Left ventricle (LV) diastolic
dysfunction, which commonly occurs in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and/or the elderly, carries a
substantial risk for the subsequent development of heart failure. This project aims to establish a computational platform
for the study of ventricular flow patterns in patients afflicted with diastolic heart failure which lends the possibility of
developing novel diagnostic
and treatment solutions for them. Student will work with scientists from external research agency and interact with
clinicians from hospital.
analysis
NA
62 BN11 Design and Development of a Trans-catheter Mitral
Valve
BN Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NA Heart valve disease is a serious problem, especially in countries with an increasingly ageing population like Singapore.
The mitral valve is a dual-flap valve in the heart that lies between the left atrium and the left ventricle. When diseased,
the valves can become abnormally thicken and displaced into the left atrium during systole. If left untreated,
complications include mitral regurgitation, infective endocarditis, congestive heart failure, and cardiac arrest. Treatment
involves the replacement of the diseased valve with an artificial valve via open heart surgery, which is extremely risky for
patients that are too old or ill. Recently,
trans-catheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) offers hope to patients unsuitable for surgery as the aortic valve is
implanted through a minimally invasive approach. However, the implantation of a trans-catheter mitral valve faces an
inherent technical difficulty of anchoring the valve securely over the native leaflets due to the lack of real estate for
anchorage and the high pressure during ventricular systole. The aim of this project is to design and develop an
anchorage mechanism that is able to fixate a trans-catheter heart valve securely over the native leaflets. This project
involves carrying out design iterations with
Solidworks and rapid prototyping. In addition, mechanical analysis of the device will be done by finite element analysis.
Inverstigation
NA
63 BN12 Development of an in vitro physiological fluidic set-up
for the assessment of endovascular implant
BN Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NA Aortic aneurysms are localized dilatations of the aorta due to degeneration of the arterial wall. The aim of this project is
the development of an in-vitro fluidic set-up for endovascular implant based on patient specific aortic aneurysm data.
The student will experience in reconstruction of medical images and rapid prototyping of aortic aneurysm models. The
student will experience dry lab testing and acquire technical know-how of setting up fluid flow experiments. Finally, the
student will become conversant with the analytical skills crucial in biomechanical engineering industries.
Inverstigation
NA
64 BN13 Hemodynamic Testing of Transcatheter Caval Valves BN Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NA In view of the invasive heart valve surgery, transcatheter technology has been developed to allow older patients to
undergo valve replacement procedure. In this project, transcatheter caval valves has been developed to replace the
diseased native tricuspid valve. These valves have to undergo hemodynamic testing before proceeding to animal
studies. They are tested in mock circulatory systems which emulates the cardiovascular system. The heart chambers
are replicated using silicone shaped models of heart cavities. These models have to be transparent so that particle
image velocimetry (PIV) can be carried on these models. PIV is used to study the flow properties such as instantaneous
velocity measurements downstream and sometimes upstream of the valve.
Inverstigation
NA
Page 5 of 25
65 BN14 Image guided robotic catheterization and stent delivery
system
BN REN Hongliang
Department of Biomedical
Engineering
NA Intravascular catheters are used in balloon angioplasty, vascular stents and artificial heart valve implantations etc. To
date, catheters are operated manually, with human trials, errors, and extensive radiation exposure. The overall project
objective is to develop ultrasound guided and robot assisted catheterization system aiming at safe intravascular
navigation. This is a team work project and the students need to work on inter-linked topics collaboratively. It will consist
of several sub-projects and each for one FYP student, including ultrasound guidance, catheter robot, and stent delivery
respectively. The student will work on an image guided catheter robotic automation system with flexible platform design
and image servoing. The project will involve working with an existing research team and will also involve demonstrating
the functionality of the system in an in vitro phantom of the cardiovascular system.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
66 BN15 Modeling soft continuum robots for Minimally Invasive
Surgery
BN REN Hongliang/ Department
of Biomedical Engineering
LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,
Otolaryngology
Minimally invasive or non-invasive surgical procedures are emerging as main paradigm shifts from conventional open
surgeries. The working arms of current commercial surgical robots are mostly based on straight rigid-links which make
maneuverability in tight small cavity challenging. We aim to develop new soft continuum robotic intervention system for
undertaking delicate manipulations and one of the key problems is to model the system dynamics in terms of curvilinear
targeting and non-planar manipulation. The students can also test out their models on the developed in-house robots.
This study involves continuum mechanics, modeling, and algorithm development.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
67 BN16 Disposable and printable surgical robot BN REN Hongliang
Department of Biomedical
Engineering
NA Clinical studies indicate that the safe and delicate manipulations during minimally invasive surgery require innovative
robot design, robotic control to avoid critical regions, particularly for personal or patient-specific surgeries. Towards a
disposable and printable robot assisted surgery, the objective of this
project is to further improve the current novel robot with more functional items including robot structure, sensors, therapy
delivery probe, and control. A couple of prototypes are already available and the students can either improve or design
new robot. This project involves device development and close interaction with multiple-disciplinary researchers
including the surgeons from university hospital.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
68 BN17 In-vivo oncological surveillance via a micro-camera
system
LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,
Otolaryngology
Treatment monitoring of transoral or transnasal tumors is crucial, given the high rate of local and regional recurrences
within 5 to 10 years from treatment, which demands careful and prolonged follow-up. Considering the techniques for
post-op treatment monitoring, this project aim to develop in-vivo oncological surveillance via an intra-body micro-camera
system and thus provide reliable and accurate evaluation of morphological and dimensional changes of tumors along
treatments.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
69 BN18 Computational motion planning for intracorporeal snake
robot in minimally invasive surgery
LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,
Otolaryngology
Flexible snake robot, with multi degree of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and
operations. Conventional rigid articulated robot system has the limits in confined and complicated area. In this study, we
will address the one of the key challenges for snake robotic intervention system -
motion planning for deformable continuum robot in confined deformable environments. This will involve computer based
surgical simulation and motion planning.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
70 BN19 Active vision for Computer-Integrated Surgical systems BN REN Hongliang/ Department
LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,
Otolaryngology
Visual servoing is an emerging approach to guide surgical robots automatically using visual information. Image
processing, computer vision and control theory are combined in order to control the motion of an active vision system
depending on the visual information. We will investigate methods of image based visual servoing and position based
visual servoing for surgical robots in in-vivo environments. The student can work on the preliminary hardware setup and
focus on system integration and visual servoing algorithms.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
71 BN20 Droplet-Based Microfluidic Platform for High-
Throughput Single Cell Analysis
BN Chen Chia-Hung NA Our understanding of cellular bio-processes is facilitated by the tools available to study them. In the proposed research
work, an integrated microfluidic platform will be innovated to combine a droplet generator and a picoinjector in a
microfluidic chip. The droplets will be used as test tubes with pico-liter volume to encapsulate the individual suspended
cells for the single cell analysis with high throughput manner (~4000 cells/s). The capability to gather statistical
information of single cells will revolutionize the current analytical methods for cell biology and can be utilized for
searching the complex intra-cellular signal transduction pathway effectively.
Inverstigation
NA
72 BN21 Biological Micro Gel Designs for Tissue Engineering by
Using Droplet-Based Microfluidics
BN Chen Chia-Hung NA The biological gel-like material possesses the mechanical features that are intermediate between ordinary liquid and
ordinary solid to allow the cells growth and regeneration. In this project we would like to fabricate the special gel
particles by using droplet-based microfluidics. The unique features to accurately
control the material morphology with a variety of shapes, structures and surface functionalities allow me to design its
properties as the functionalized micro-gels for advanced tissue engineering.
Inverstigation
NA
73 BN22 Steerable Microneedle for Eye Surgery BN Yu Haoyong Ren Hongliang This project aims to develop a microneedle for drug delivery into the retina. The microneedle will be fabricated with
MEMS techniques. There will also be flexible sections built into the needle so that the tip of needle can be steered to
increase the workspace of the needle
None None None None Singapore National
Eye Center
NA Cheng Xin Yi NA Product Development NA
74 BN23 Design of a wearable upper limb assistive robot BN Yu Haoyong NA The aim of this project is to develop a novel myoelectric powered orthosis tailored to the unique needs of neurological
injury patients with upper-limb paresis. The device will consist of a light-weight, portable powered upper-limb orthosis
with cable drive and a novel control platform which includes a surface
electromyography (EMG) pattern recognition algorithm. The aim of this device is to restore functionality to paretic limbs
of stroke survivors so that they can regain independence.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Product Development NA
75 BN24 Design of a Bio-inspired Lizard Robot with soft robotics
approach
BN Yu Haoyong NA The bodies and limbs of animals are compliant for survivability and energy efficiency purpose. Yet conventional bio-
inspired robots use very stiffness material and actuators. This project aims to develop a lizard robot with compliant limbs
and spines design to achieve robust motion and optimal energy efficiency using new soft robotics design and fabrication
techniques, such as additive manufacturing.
76 BN25 Design and optimization of flapping wing mechanism for
an insect inspired micro
aerial vehicle (MAV)
BN Yu Haoyong NA This project aims to design a practical mechanism to achieve the primary wing flapping and control motion with best
efficiency in terms of energy and weight for a insect inspired flapping wing MAV. This will involve the kinematics and
dynamics analysis of the candidate mechanisms based on the understanding of the insect wing kinematics and flight
dynamics. Implementation issues, such as material, fabrication, and assembly and system integration will also be an
important part of the task.
Aeronautical
Engineering
None None None Temasek Lab at NUS NA NA NA NA NA
77 BN26 Study of hepatocytes in a stretched and relaxed model BN Leo Hwa Liang NA In this project, a novel device has been designed and prototyped to investigates the effects of mechanical stresses on
hepatocyte cells. As the liver is where most drug metabolism occurs, the objective is to create a drug testing platform
where in vitro conditions can better reflect in vivo conditions. Hepatocytes have been known to maintain their
polarisation for longer periods under suitable amounts of mechanical stress. Longer periods of polarisation maintain
cellular functions better and allow for longer experiments to be done. Students will make use of the device prototype to
carry out cell culture work with hepatocytes. This serves to collect experimental data on what levels of mechanical stress
is optimal on hepatocytes and to establish proof of concept for the prototype design. Students will come into contact
with various areas such as PDMS curing, 3D modelling and prototyping, with cell culture being the main focus of
this project. Students will get to collaborate with scientists and clinicians from external agencies to carry out this project,
as well as other professionals depending on the progress of the project.
Inverstigation
NA
78 BN27 Design and process development of hip/knee implant
with advanced 3D printing technology
BN Dr Chong Yok Rue,
Desmond (BME)
Dr Saeed Maleksaeed
(SIMTech / A*STAR)
Total Joint Replacement (TJR) is a surgical treatment for severe arthritis of the human joint. After joint replacement, the
mechanical loading conditions of the bones are altered due to the implantation of the prosthesis and results in a
phenomenon known as stress-shielding" which could lead to implant loosening and eventual failure. The project will
involve the development of 3D printing biomaterials of titanium for joint implants where its mechanical properties are to
be matched with the bone to minimize the effect of stress-shielding. Computer simulation (FEA) and experimental
techniques will be used to design and test the new prosthesis implants. This project is in collaboration with Singapore
Institute of Manufacturing Technology, A*STAR.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
SIMTech requirement
on students CAP: 4.0
and above
79 BN28 Simulating the Mechanical Behaviour of the
Intervertebral Discs under Compression
BN Assoc Prof Toh Siew Lok NA Lower back pain is predominantly caused by the degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). The IVD consists of 2
distinct regions - the inner nucleus pulposus (NP) and outer annulus fibrosus (AF). During physiological loading, the NP
gets compressed and bulges, while the AF withstands the bulging and keeps the structure of the IVD intact. This project
aims to develop a numerical model to simulate the compression of the IVD. The scope of this project will include:
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
80 CT01 User Interface Development of A Desk-top 3D Food
Printer
CT (Industry) Sun Jie (IDMI, CUTE) Prof Hong G.S. 3D printing caters to highly specific needs, where the objects that need to be made are unique individually. This is
especially useful for prototyping, replacing of special parts and precision engineering. This form of technology has
brought about a lot of advantages for the innovation, and the research and development from industries. Upon
acknowledging these advantages of 3D printing, the idea of 3D Food Printer was inspired, giving rise to the birth of 3D
food printing technologies.
This project aims to develop user interface design with associated tools for 3D food printer, so that users can quickly
come out their customized food design (e.g. cookies, chocolates, bread, etc.) with this interface. Programming skills on
GUI is highly preferred.
None None None None CUTE, IDMI NA NA NA Software Development This project aims to
develop user interface
design with associated
tools for 3D food
printer, so users can
quickly come out their
customized food
design (e.g. cookies,
chocolates, bread,
etc.) with this interface.
Programming skills on
GUI is highly prefe
81 CT02 Supply Chain Vulnerability Analysis for Investigating the
Impact of External Disruptions by Complex Systems
Technologies
CT (Industry) Dr Li Zhengping Assts. Prof Velusamy
Subramaniam
This project stems from a thrust in A*STARs Complex Systems Initiative which aims to address the complexity and risk
issues of supply chain operations and networks.
It intends to develop supply chain vulnerability analysis technologies for investigating the performance impact of supply
chain disruptions by complex systems approaches.
None Automotive
Engineering
None Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis;#Design
NA
Page 6 of 25
82 CT03 Simulation based production flow design CT (Industry) Dr. Jeon Sumin Assts. Prof Velusamy
Subramaniam
This project focuses on simulation based production flow design problem in manufacturing. The goal of this project is to
develop dynamic simulation model to adapt varying product design requirement in batch processing manufacturing.
In industrial practice, product design can affect and therefore change production flow in batch processing. Dependent
on product design results, some processing may or may not be needed to be added in order to cater for the product
design requirement.
In this project, we propose simulation based coordination mechanism for production flow design.
From the simulation study, we will estimate cycle times, lead times and measure the system performance in terms of
efficiency and effectiveness. By doing this, this research can provide a very useful and practical approach in evaluating
for production flow design in batch processing
Automotive
Engineering
None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Design;#Feasibility/Ca
se Studies
NA
83 CT04 Data mining for customer relationship management CT (Industry) Dr. Xu Chi Assts. Prof Velusamy
Subramaniam
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) entails all aspects of interaction that a company has with its customer. The
traditional CRM model of design-build-sell from the product-oriented view has been replaced by sell-build-redesign
from the customer-oriented view. The mass customer service has also been challenged by one-to-one customer
service. These changes require organizing and interpreting the enormous and incremental customer data which
becomes prohibiting by manual analysis in todays business operations. Data mining is an effective way to resolve this
issue by automating the process of discovering valuable hidden knowledge from the data.
This project intends to develop scalable data mining algorithms to discover frequent itemsets, subsequences or
substructures from large business transaction data that can be used to answer the CRM-related questions such as what
are purchase behaviour patterns and what are the distinct characteristics of the customers. The algorithms will be
implemented in a prototype.
None Automotive
Engineering
None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis;#Software
Development;#Hybrid
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Student requirement:
GPA > 3.8 is preferred
84 CT05 Fuel Consumption of a logistics truck CT (Industry) Dr. Zhang, Nengsheng Assts. Prof Velusamy
Subramaniam
This project is an attempt to estimate the fuel consumption of a logistics fleet in Singapore. The final deliverables include
a formula for computing the second-by-second fuel consumption of a truck that takes into account of the speed and
load of the truck among other vehicle parameters.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
NA
85 CT06 Hybrid Method in Vehicle Routing Problem CT (Industry) Dr. Zhang, Nengsheng Assts. Prof Velusamy
Subramaniam
The Vehicle Routing Problem(VRP) is a combination of the Bin Packing Problem(BPP) and Travelling Salesman
Problem(TSP). This project is an attempt to improve the optimality of the solutions of single objective variation of VRP
given by metaheuristics methods through an integration with well-known exact and heuristics algorithms whilst reducing
the possible increase in computation time. The final deliverables include an analysis of algorithms; advantages,
disadvantages, suitability of algorithms for different variations of VRP, etc.. An implementation of an algorithm in
MATLAB or C# is an added bonus.
None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
NA
86 CT07 Development of a biomimetic jellyfish robot CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) are used for valuable functions such as the study of marine life, sea and
seabed environmental conditions and exploration, oceanography, monitoring of ocean currents, detection of chemical
agents, etc. It is significant to study and develop UUVs, especially for Singapore, a country surrounding by the sea. In
this project, the student will develop a prototype of a biomimetic jellyfish, using soft active materials. The main body of
the biomimetic jellyfish can be actuated by dielectric elastomers to eject water from the robot body, in order to induce
jet propulsion. Tentacles can also be made of dielectric elastomers. How to optimalize the mechanical design of this
soft robot will be explored.
Investigation;#Design;
#Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
87 CT08 Development of an artificial heart using soft active
materials
CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian Yap Choon Hwai (Dept of
Biomedical Engineering)
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Singapore, and accounts for 31.9% of all deaths in 2010. The
artificial heart is typically used to bridge the time to heart transplantation, or to permanently replace the heart in case
heart transplantation is impossible. Classic artificial hearts (say, the AbioCor) are mainly based on hard actuators, say,
electric motors. In this project, the student will develop an artificial heart (a soft pump), using dielectric elastomers,
which are similar to natural muscles in the aspects of large deformation and high energy density. When a membrane of
a dielectric elastomer is subject to a voltage through its thickness, the membrane will decrease in thickness and expand
in area. In this manner, this material can convert electric energy directly into mechanical energy. Subject to an AC
voltage, this soft pump will vibrate and then achieve the flow of liquid.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
na
88 CT09 Soft actuators for tactile feedback CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA Computer and video games can improve our daily lives. Currently, one can play video games through audio and visual
channels. For example, when one plays a game of a race car, you can hear the noise, see the car moving, and then
control the car. This is a typical gaming scenario. Can it be improved? In this project, we attempt to improve video
games by developing a soft actuator. This soft actuator can be embedded in the gaming controller to induce tactile
feedback. We will focus on a soft actuator dielectric elastomer. When subject to AC voltage, the soft actuator will
vibrate. When the actuator is embedded into a gaming controller, based on circuit designs, the actuator may vibrate with
different modes, according to the events that happen in the software or the user interface. The project is inspired by a
Vivitouch product (www.vivitouch.com). How the Vivitouch product works can be found in a youtube video as follows:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OxUc7ve5Z8.
na
89 CT10 Development of a soft hand CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA People enjoy designing engineering machines to mimic nature creatures. However, most of engineering machines are
made of hard materials, while natural creatures are always soft. In this project, we attempt to design a soft robotic hand,
using electroactive polymers dielectric elastomers. This hand can have a soft skin and a simple structure, and can be
light. It can be actuated electrically, and have a fast response. We wish this soft hand can improve the interaction
between the robot and the users.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
na
90 CT11 Development of a mask to mimic facial expressions CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA Have you watched the TV series NIKITA recently? An interesting scenario is that one tries to use electroactive polymers
(EAPs) to develop a mask, which can change the face easily.
In this project, the students will test dielectric elastomers one class of EAPs, and then use these materials to
develop different patterns and mimic facial expressions. In the last decade, dielectric elastomers are found to exhibit a
combination of attributes, which includes large deformation (with an actuation strain more than 100%), high energy
density (order higher than ceramics), etc. As a result, dielectric elastomers have an interesting title artificial muscles.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
na
91 CT12 Development of a soft valve using soft active materials CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA Valves are popularly employed in mechanical systems to control flow of fluid. Most of current valves are made of hard
materials, say, steels. In this project, students will use soft active materials dielectric elastomers to develop a soft
valve. In the last decade, dielectric elastomers are found to exhibit a combination of attributes, which includes large
deformation (with an actuation strain more than 100%), high energy density (order higher than ceramics), fast response,
low noise, etc. These attributes ensure dielectric elastomers to be good candidates for actuators in soft devices and
robots. This soft valve will work with a soft pump to achieve circulation and movement of fluid.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
92 CT13 Development of an artificial skin CT Assts. Prof ZHU Jian NA An artificial skin has extensive applications in autonomous artificial intelligence, medical diagnostics, replacement
prosthetic devices, etc. In this project, the student will develop an artificial skin a soft sensor using soft active materials
dielectric elastomers. When a membrane of a dielectric elastomer is mechanically deformed, both the capacitance of
the membrane and the dielectric resistance change. By measuring the capacitance and resistance, one can measure
the deformation of the membrane. Dielectric elastomer sensors offer several potential advantages over traditional ones
including operation over large strain ranges, ease of patterning for distinctive sensing capabilities, flexibility to allow
unique integration into components, stable performance over a wide temperature range and low power consumption.
How to improve the accuracy of this soft sensor will be explored.
Analysis;#Design
NA
93 CT14 Automated layout planning of robot workcell CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA An appropriate shop floor layout for a robotic workcell will enhance productivity and efficiency of a manufacturing
operation. For a particular task at hand, there are often many factors (e.g., reachability, collision, and cycle time, etc.) to
consider during the planning and optimization stages of the robotic workcell. The objective of this project is to
investigate the automation and optimization of the layout-planning process of robotic workcells.
Analysis
NA
94 CT15 Motion planning for mobile manipulators CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA A mobile manipulation system refers to a robotic system that has one or more manipulators mounted on a mobile base.
Such a system is able to significantly extend the workspace of the individual manipulators by leveraging on the
maneuverability of the mobile base. The placement of the mobile base is crucial to the operation of the mobile
manipulation system. The objective of this project is to investigate the optimal placement of the mobile base when the
mobile manipulation system is performing polishing or welding tasks.
Analysis
NA
95 CT16 Control of a variable-air-volume terminal unit CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA Thermal comfort of a human is depends on the surrounding temperature. In HVAC system, the Variable-Air-Volume
(VAV) terminal unit is a key component to control the temperature inside an occupied space. A VAV terminal unit
consists of an airflow sensor, a PID controller, an actuator, and a damper. The VAV terminal unit receives cold air from
the air-handling unit and regulates the air delivered to the space served. In cooling mode of operation, the damper
opens and allows more air flow into the space. As the temperature in the space increases, the damper closes to limit
the discharged cold air. The objective of this project is to design a closed-loop control VAV terminal unit to satisfy the
thermal comfort requirement, and to evaluate its efficiency and stability throughout its operating range.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis;#Design
NA
96 CT17 Design of a high temperature pneumatic actuator CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA A pneumatic rotary actuator is a device that converts a pneumatic energy into a rotary motion. It is normally used to
rotate a mechanism or a system. The objective of this project is to design a quarter turn rotary type pneumatic actuator
which will used in the industrial fire safety application, such as to operate an HVAC smoke extract damper. The actuator
designed shall be able to withstand a temperature of 250C. The scope of the project include the design of the
operating mechanism of the actuator (e.g., by rack and pinion, etc.), prototyping and evaluating its performance.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design NA
97 CT18 Comparison and compensation of work piece CAD
model for industrial robotic task execution
CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA It is a common issue in computer-integrated manufacturing that the scanned 3D model of a work piece differs from its
originally designed 3D model. This issue often leads to errors in processing the work piece by a robot. This model error
can be determined using existing model difference identification (MDI) algorithms. An error compensation control
algorithm is then designed to compensate for this model error. The objective of this project is to apply MDI techniques
and to design an error-compensation control that enables a robot to adaptively execute a task involving the processing
of the work piece.
Analysis
NA
Page 7 of 25
98 CT19 Computer animation of cells and ECM deformation CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA Cells migrate to perform numerous biological functions such as wound healing. Studies have shown that cells remodel
and deform the extracellular matrix (ECM). Microfluidic devices are experimental platforms which mimic the actual
interactions in our bodies. We acquire time-lapse images of cell and ECM interactions from these experiments with a
confocal microscope.
This project aims to apply and develop techniques to automatically visualize cell migration and ECM deformation from
experimental data. Visualization software can be written in MATLAB and interfaced with IMARIS
(http://www.bitplane.com/). This project is in collaboration with the BioSyM IRG under SMART.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
99 CT20 Manipulation of a magnetic micro-bead CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA The ability to manipulate beads individually and (effectively) simultaneously will enable more sophisticated manipulation
of cells, molecules, and other micro-structures. Such manipulation requires fine control of a custom-designed magnetic
needle. The objective of this project is to evaluate, by computer simulation, the performance of a controller for
manipulating the displacement of a single magnetic bead in a viscous fluid using a magnetic needle. The controller will
adjust the current flowing through the magnetic needle based on the position of the bead measured by a computer
vision system.
Analysis
NA
100 CT21 Development of a device for silk strand formation using
shear flow
CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA It has been observed that stirring, shaking and mechanical agitation promotes silk strand formation from a protein
solution. The objective of this project is to conduct experiments to investigate the effect of silk strand formation by the
shear flow in a protein solution. The student will be required to: (i) improve on the existing mechanical setup by
controlling the speed and idle time which leads to variable shear forces in a protein solution, and (ii) determine the fluid
shear stress and strain caused in the protein solution.
NA
101 CT22 Microinjection of silkworm eggs CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA To improve the yield and the quality of silk production by transgenic silkworms, DNA materials are injected into silkworm
eggs. The injection process is currently carried out manually, which results in low success rate because the silkworm
eggs are usually brittle and manual operations lack the required precision due to various factors (such as human
fatigue). An automatic microinjection system with force control is being developed for microinjection of silkworm eggs.
The objective of this project is to investigate methods of force control during the microinjection in order to minimize the
deformation of (or the damage to) the silkworm eggs.
Investigation
NA
102 CT23 Development of a database for CAD model
management
CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA In manufacturing processes, 3D scanning is an important step to obtain the CAD model of a work piece. The scanned
work-piece model then undergoes shape-based retrieval to find the nominal/original model of the work piece from an
existing CAD database. The objective of this project is to design and implement a database using SQL for managing
CAD models generated from CAD/CAM software (such as SolidWorks) and from scanned data of actual parts. The
tasks include the design and implementation of a GUI and an interfacing between the database and an end-user
application program.
Analysis
NA
103 CT24 Work piece registration and shape-based retrieval of
CAD models
CT Assoc Prof Peter Chen NA In manufacturing processes, 3D scanning is an important step to obtain the CAD model of a work piece. The scanned
work-piece model then undergoes shape-based retrieval to find the nominal/original model of the work piece from an
existing CAD database. The objective of this project is to develop, test, and evaluate algorithms for processing 3D
scanning data and determining shape correspondence (similarity assessment) for shape-based retrieval of CAD model.
Analysis
NA
104 CT25 Virtual Camera Calibration for Single-lens Stereo Vision
System with Distortion
CT Assoc Prof Lim Kah Bin NA Biprism-based single-lens stereovision system has the ability to capture stereo image pair by positioning a biprism in
front of the camera. The virtual cameras generated by this biprism play an essential role in this system, and the
calibration for the virtual cameras is the fundamental and significant procedure of the single-lens stereovision.
Comparing with the conventional two-camera stereovision system, our system involves a tough issue of atypical image
distortion induced by the biprism, especially when using big-angle biprism, which would lead to a poor calibration results
if applying the existing calibration methods. Our project will guide the student to understand the atypical distortion
caused by the biprism. Experiments will be taken to analysis and seek the specific distortion model for the system. At
last, the student will be able to apply these knowledge to calibrate the virtual cameras in our system.
ng and Analysis
Mathematics and
Programming
105 CT26 Distortion Analysis of the Biprism in Single-lens Stereo
Vision System
CT Assoc Prof Lim Kah Bin NA By employing a biprism in front of a camera, our stereo vision system could capture two images from two different
viewpoints at the same time. This carries some important benefits like low cost, simple setup, compactness and few
system parameters. However, the problems also rise up by using the biprism. One of them is the particular image
distortion caused by the biprism, which will impact the image quality. This distortion problem will be tough since the final
distorted image couples distortion affects both from biprism and lens, and they appears to be in different forms. Our
project will guide the student to understand the concept of image distortion. Several experiments will be taken to
analysis the distortion performance of the biprisms with different geometric parameters, which aims to isolating the
biprism distortion from the lens distortion.
ng and Analysis
Mathematics and
Computing
106 CT27 Parameter Analysis of Single-lens Bi-prism based
Stereovision System
CT Assoc Prof Lim Kah Bin NA The ability of 3D vision system in recovering 3-D structure of an object expands its usage into many important fields
such as medical devices, military and entertainment (3D movies). Unlike the conventional stereovision system which
employs two cameras, we introduced a new approach which uses a single camera together with a bi-prism to generate
a pair of images of the same scene. This technique is to generate two virtual cameras to achieve the stereovision effect
and is equivalent to the conventional two camera system. Parameter analysis is an important aspect in order to
understand the system better. We have achieved some headway in establishing the theoretical foundation in this area.
This project will lead student to parameterize the baseline of the system.
ng and Analysis
Mathematics and
Programming
107 CT28 Understanding the Geometry of the Prism of Single-lens
stereovision system
CT Assoc Prof Lim Kah Bin NA 3D vision or stereovision refers to the ability of perceiving the 3-dimensional structure of an object from 2 or more
images. It has been widely used in many areas such as medical fields, industry and navigation system. The conventional
approach of stereovision system requires 2 or more cameras to capture images of the same scene simultaneously. Our
research group has developed several approaches to solve this problem. This project aims to examine the effect of the
geometry of the bi-prism on field of view and accuracy of the system; the student may modify or develop hardware and
software in this project. This project will guide student in understanding the basic concept and explore the field of view of
the system.
ng and Analysis
Mathematics and
Programming
108 CT32 Electro Impulse Sleep Therapy Device for Deep Sleep CT Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong NA Our fast-paced society has forced many people to adopt unhealthy sleeping habits. However, sleep is crucial for
rejuvenating our bodies and allowing us to retain our focus on lifes daily demands. This research aims to discover a way
for people to pass through the earlier stages of sleep faster and accelerate entry into the final stages. We have
developed prototype devices that incorporate traditional Chinese acupuncture, and conducted sleep experiment using
Electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brains electrical activity. The student will continue this project from existing
prototypes and research.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
109 CT33 Man-machine Interface for Medical Augmented Reality
using Tablet Computer
CT Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong NA Augmented reality (AR) has been used in computer aided surgical system to improve surgical outcomes. The fusion of
visual perception of a real patient with a visual perception of medical images of the patient acquired before the surgery
can be achieved by directly displaying the computer graphics images on the video image of the patient acquired using
the camera of a tablet computer. We have developed a prototype medical AR system and conducted experiments on a
phantom model. The student will continue this project from the existing system and research.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development NA
110 CT34 Integrated portable digital video nasendoscope -
Inpodivina
CT Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong David Lau (Gleneagles
Hospital)
Videoendoscopes have been used extensively for ear, nose and throat (ENT) examination. However, the current
systems are bulky and difficult to transport, for example, from the clinic to the patient ward. Small scale ergonomic
portable device with good quality optics at low cost and replaceable components are desired to benefit patients,
particularly in the developing world. Instead of conventional monitor and embedded vision processing unit, tablet
computer can be used as detachable display unit. The student will continue this project from an existing prototype and
research.
111 CT35 Shared-control robotic system for surgical needle
insertion
CT Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong NA Percutaneous surgical procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation of liver tumours, are increasingly popular due to
benefits gained from reduced invasiveness. The effectiveness of the treatment is highly reliant on the accuracy of the
percutaneous insertion, and lack of precision could lead to unintended damage of the neighbouring organs. Robot
manipulators have been used to assist the surgeon in executing needle insertion. The student will continue this project
from an existing master and slave prototype robotic system.

112 CT36 Shared-control robotic system for laser retinal treatment CT Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong NA Laser retinal treatment is an evidence-based treatment for various retinal vascular diseases especially in diabetic
retinopathy and maculopathy. Most commercial laser systems depend on direct visualization of the retina real-time
during treatment. However inadvertent macula and foveal burns, and excessive peripheral photocoagulation can result
in permanent retinal scotoma. We are developing a shared control robotic system to improve the safety of laser retinal
treatment. The student is required to assist in the design, development and programming of the robotic system.
113 CT37 Development of Propulsion Mechanism for Robot
Manta Ray
CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
Assoc Prof Yeo Khoon Seng Manta ray possesses unique propulsion mechanism compared with other underwater species. Beside possessing good
manoeuvrability, its movement is also fast and efficient. The aim of this project is to develop prototypes of propulsion
mechanism for a robot manta ray. The design approach should be biologically inspired. The mechanism will be mainly
driven by electric motors. The forward thrust and efficiency of the propulsion mechanism will be studied using
appropriate experimental setup.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation;#Hybrid
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
114 CT38 Navigation and Control of Unmanned Surface Vehicle CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
Assts Prof V Subramaniam This project is open to student who is a member of or will join our USV team (http://www.sharkyusv.info/home.html)
which will compete in the coming Maritime Robotx Challenge 2014 (http://www.robotx.org/). Please contact us if you
need more information on this project
Assume that the GPS positions of waypoints are provided and that the USV is equipped with GPS sensor, the aim of
this project is to control the USV so that it can navigate through the waypoints within a certain error bound. The overall
algorithm will be implemented onto a physical vehicle. Good programming skill (e.g. C/C++ programming, etc) is
desirable for this project.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
Page 8 of 25
115 CT39 Unmanned Surface Vehicle Obstacle and Collision
Avoidance
Meng
NA This project is open to student who is a member of or will join our USV team (http://www.sharkyusv.info/home.html)
need more information on this project.
The purpose of this project is to explore low cost solution for obstacle and collision avoidance for USV based on low
cost sensors (such as vision, GPS, IMU, etc). A new algorithm will be implemented and tested on our physical surface
vehicle. The algorithm should enable the vehicle to move from a start point towards an end point while avoid colliding
with obstacles randomly placed between the start and end points.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development NA
116 CT40 Underwater Search for Unmanned Surface Vehicle CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
Mandar Anil Chitre (ECE) This project is open to student who is a member of or will join our USV team (http://www.sharkyusv.info/home.html)
The aim of this project is to implement a detection system for our Unmanned Surface Vehicle to successfully identify
and locate a specific underwater device that is emitting an acoustic signal. The detection system should also detect the
depth of the emitting source. All the information will be transmitted using the event organizer communication protocol.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
117 CT41 Propulsion Control for an Unmanned Surface Vehicle CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
The aim of this project is to implement a control system for the propulsion of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle which has
two separate thrusters. Given the desired direction of the vehicle from the motion planner, the algorithm should perform
a low level control of the thrusters to achieve the desired motion. The vehicle should be able to manoeuvre around a
tight spot and possess motion in both forward and reverse directions.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
118 CT42 GUI and Safety Feature Implementations for an
Unmanned Surface Vehicle
Meng
The aim of this project is to implement a GUI for monitoring and remote control of our unmanned surface vehicle.
Safety feature for the vehicle will also need to be implemented in accordance with the competition requirements. The
vehicles thrusters should be able to be cut off through wireless signals or an emergency switch.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
119 CT43 Remote Monitoring of Rehabilitation Process CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
NA Gait restoration after stroke is a major concern of neurological rehabilitation. However, most of the rehabilitation
processes are mainly carried out in the hospital environment. Without continuous rehabilitation at home, it is difficult for
the patient to reach high level of gait restoration. The aim of this project is to develop a remote monitoring software
system which enables the subject to regularly carry out the rehabilitation exercise at home while being monitored
periodically by physiotherapists from the hospital.
Investigation;#Softwar
e Development
NA
120 CT44 Assistive device to aid elderly for indoor mobility CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
NA The elderly and disabled often risk falling while moving around in home environment due to weak lower body strength
and knee/joint pain. The aim of this project is to explore mechanical, low-cost, compact solutions to assist the elderly
and disabled for indoor mobility. The developed system can be commercialized through startup during or after the
project.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design;#Product
Development
NA
121 CT45 Design of High Performance Rotary Damper for a
Force Control Actuator
Meng
NA In this project, the aim is to design an effective rotary damper that can be used in our series damper actuator (SDA) to
achieve torque control. The damper has to have smooth torque versus angular velocity function. Physical experiment
will then be carried out to obtain the actual dynamics of the damper. A well designed damper will enable SDA to have
good force control performance. Such force control actuator is key technology for social robots which are required to
interact with human
Development
NA
122 CT46 Design of Lightweight Robot Manipulator CT Assoc Prof Chew Chee
Meng
NA In recent year, lightweight robot manipulator is gaining popularity due to its relatively safe characteristics when deployed
in human environments. In this project, we aim to design and implement a low cost lightweight robot manipulator so that
it can be widely applied in human environments.
Development;#Hybrid
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
123 CT47 Formation Control using Mobile Robots CT Assts Prof V Subramaniam NA In the previous FYP, the student had designed and built several mobile robots. This year, the student is expected to
refine the design further and implement formation control with these robots.
Analysis;#Software
Development;#Design;
#Field Testing and
Instrumentation
NA
124 CT48 Design and Build of a quadrotor flying vehicle CT Assts Prof V Subramaniam NA The student is required to design and build a quadrotor flying vehicle. There are such vehicles on sale in the market,
however, the motors and controller are not easily accessible. The students design must make this possible.
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
NA
125 CT49 Development of a presence and location detection
system for multiple object detection.
CT Assoc Prof Hong Geok Soon NA An increasingly common requirement of computer systems is to extract information regarding the people present in an
environment. As the sensor network and ubiquitous computing communities increasingly focus on creating environments
that are seamlessly aware of and responsive to the humans that inhabit them, the need to sense people will become
ever more pressing. Human-sensing encompasses issues from the lowest level instantaneous sensing challenges all the
way to large-scale data mining. For example, we might ask of our sensors: Is there a person in this room? How many
people are in this room? What is each person doing? What does each person need? Can we predict what they are
going to do next? This project focuses on the extraction of five commonly needed spatio-temporal properties: namely
presence, count, location, track and identity. This project requires students with sound knowledge background in
computing and computer programming.
ng and Analysis
NA
126 CT50 Analysis of Battery management system for Lithium ion
battery.
CT Assoc Prof Hong Geok Soon Prof Wong Yoke San Battery pack consists of numerous battery cells stacked up in series to meet the voltage requirement and in parallel to
meet the current demands. However, these cells are usually imbalanced due to inevitable differences in chemical and
electrical characteristics from manufacturing. In addition, during operation, voltage and temperature differences in the
cells can worsen the electrical imbalances and decrease the power performance and durability of the battery pack. To
address these problems, these cells are to be monitored and balanced to maximize the overall battery pack
performance. This project aims to model and performs a comparative study of various existing balancing techniques
and algorithms.
The project involves mathematical modelling of the lithium ion cells and SciLabtm simulation of batteries performances
under different configuration and algorithms.
ng and Analysis
NA
127 CT51 Development of a DAQ system for On-line Monitoring
of Drilling processes.
CT Assoc Prof Hong Geok Soon NA High-aspect-ratio drilling involves machining of holes with much longer depth with respect to the holes diameter. Such
process encounters challenging problems such as deviation of the axis of the hole, high vibration with tool wear,
monitoring of drill cutting tool wear, etc. To address such problem, usually multiple sensors will be mounted on the
system to measure signals like, vibration, dynamic forces, acoustic emission, etc. These signal are processed to extract
key performance indicators for monitoring and diagnostic purposes. This project involves in the development of the
data acquisition and monitoring platform. This includes data logging, data storage and retrieval, HMI for on-line data
monitoring and playback, various mathematical transformations etc. This project requires students with sound
knowledge background in computer programming in C++.
ng and Analysis
NA
128 CT52 Rotary electric actuators for a 3-DOF translational
parallel mechanism
CT Professorial Fellow Poo Aun
Neow
NA This project is on the development of a rotary electric-motor-driven mechanism to drive which can be used to drive one
axis of a small mechanism. The student is expected to put together the position feedback control system, to perform an
analysis of the dynamic model, in the form of a block diagram and transfer functions, and to perform experimental
investigations to determine dynamic performance.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design; # Product
development
NA
129 CT53 Development of a 3-DOF linearly-driven translational
parallel mechanism
Neow
NA This project is on the development of a small 3-degrees-of-freedom translational parallel mechanism with linearly-driven
actuator points. The mechanism is required to provide translational motions in the X-, Y- and Z-axes when its three
actuators moves linearly.
development
The student should
have working
knowledge on the use
of Solidworks.
130 CT54 Neural network control of a small CNC machine. CT Professorial Fellow Poo Aun
Neow
NA This project is a continuation of a previous project on the application of neural networks for modelling the dynamics of a
CNC machine and to use the model for its precise control. The machine is available and operational and the student will
make use of the neural network toolbox in MATLAB for his/her studies.
ng and analysis;
#Software
development
MATLAB
131 CT55 Development of a 3-DOF delta robot. CT Professorial Fellow Poo Aun
Neow
NA This project is on the development of a small 3-degrees-of-freedom delta robot. The robot will be actuated at three
points, each with a rotary actuator and translational motions in the X-, Y- and Z-axes
development
The student should
have working
knowledge on the use
of Solidworks.
132 CT56 Linear actuators for a 3-DOF translational parallel
mechanism
Neow
NA This project is on the development of a linear actuator to drive which can control the position of an actuation point
through a small distance. The actuator will be driven by an electric servo-motor with a ballscrew-nut arrangement to
convert the rotary motion to linear motion.
development
The student is
expected to design,
construct and test the
system for its dynamic
response.
Page 9 of 25
133 CT57 Study on the Dynamics and Control of a Quadcopter
system
CT Assoc Prof Ong Chong Jin NA This project looks at the dynamical modelling and the control strategies of a Quadcopter system. The intention is to
understand the critical parameters of the system for the purpose of flight manoeuvres. The student is expected to come
up with a general dynamical model and the identification of the various parameters associated with a particular
quadcopter.
Investigation; #
Design; # Hybrid i.e.
mixture of experiment
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
The student is also
expected to design
simple controllers for
the system based on
the model.
134 CT58 Control of a group of a Quadcopter system CT Assoc Prof Ong Chong Jin NA This project looks at the various control strategies of a system of say 3 to 4 quadcopters. The investigation is to look for
a viable control strategy so that a system of quadcopters is in a self-organized formation movement or operates in a
leader-follower formation. The project consists of mainly designs on the higher level of formation or consensus control
with the possibility of implementation on the some small quadcopter system.
Investigation; #
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
135 CT59 Development of a facial recognition software system CT Assoc Prof Ong Chong Jin NA This is a continuation project and involving the development of a classification system that identifies a person from
among many images. One important aspect of the project is to identify important features of a face and the
development of a software system using these features and machine learning algorithms for classification purposes.
analysis; #Software
development; # Design
Students are expected
to have good
programming skills for
this project.
136 CT60 Control of an actuator arm of a hard disk drive CT Assoc Prof Ong Chong Jin NA Increasing storage capacities of Hard Disk Drives have imposed higher demand on the control performance of its
actuator arm. This project looks into the control of the pick up arm of a hard disk drive and evaluates the current control
strategies for HDD. The aim is to improve the dynamical performance of the actuator arm to meet higher storage
density requirement.
Investigation; #
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
137 CT61 Real-time computer-controlled multi-axis position
feedback system.
Neow
NA In this project, the student will set up a Linus-based PC with a real-time operating system to implement multi-axis digital
position feedback control systems.
Investigation;
#Computing and
analysis; # Software
development
NA
138 CT62 Design of a Robotic Face to emulate human
expressions
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr Tiffany Dai (I2R) Human-robot interaction is an important capability with very impactful applications in the future. The capability for a
robot to express human emotions is important in human-robot interaction. A robot has been designed and realized for
human-robot interaction, specifically with a child. This project aims at improving the design of the robotic head that
incorporates actuators and appropriate control algorithms to allow the robot to express different emotions. The robotic
face has eyes that blink and move, and mouth that opens and closes according to emotions. Other actuators to achieve
additional facial expressions would be explored.
None None None None Institute for Infocomm
Research
NA NA NA Software
Development;#Design
basic programming,
solid works
139 CT63 Motion planning for intracorporeal snake robot in
minimally invasive surgery
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr Ren Hongliang (Dept of
Biomedical Engineering)
Flexible snake robot, with multiple degree-of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and
will address the one of the key challenges for snake-like flexible robotic intervention system - motion planning for
deformable continuum robot in confined deformable and intracorporeal environments. The planning can be either fully
automatic or semi-automatic and is critical for clinical outputs. This will involve computer based surgical simulation,
motion planning, algorithm development, validation using existing flexible robots in phantom or clinical experiments.
Depending on the research progress, the participants may work with surgeons from NUH if feasible.
Analysis;#Software
Development
programming
140 CT64 Autonomous navigation for intracorporeal flexible robot
based on multi-sensor fusion in minimally invasive
surgery
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr Autonomous navigation for
intracorporeal flexible robot
based on multi-sensor fusion
in minimally invasive surgery
Flexible snake robot, with multiple degree-of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and
will address the one of the key challenges for snake-like flexible robotic intervention system - intervention navigation for
deformable continuum robot in confined deformable and intracorporeal environments. The navigation module will be
built on the information fusion of multiple sensor data including visual feedback, range sensor data, among others. The
navigation module can be either unsupervised or supervised and is critical for clinical outputs. This will involve sensor
integration, signal processing and estimation, algorithm development, validation using existing flexible robots in phantom
or clinical experiments. Depending on the research progress, the participants may work with surgeons from NUH if
feasible.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design programming
141 CT65 Development of a sensor-fusion platform based on the
Robot Operating System (ROS) with Koh NiakWu
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr Koh Niak Wu (Cosmiqo) Objective: To exhibit sensor/data-fusion capabilities using the ROS architecture in a warehouse environment
Description: Warehouses have constantly been viewed as storage locations but there is a push towards developing
value-enhancing capabilities. One such value lies in the integration of sensors that capture and analyses real-time data
of warehouse activities. Some examples are to determine (i) the health of lights for repair and maintenance after which
a trigger is sent to the supplier and (ii) stock movement via load sensors / cameras / Kinect. This project will also
leverage on Arduino's for test-bedding. Through this analysis, management dashboards can be designed.
None None None None Cosmiqo NA NA NA Software Development programming
142 CT67 Vision based Object Detection, Identification, and
Tracking using GPU for an autonomous car
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr James Fu (SMART) This final year project (FYP) is part of a bigger project supported by the SMART FM IRG (Singapore MIT Alliance for
Research and Technology Future Mobility Interdisciplinary Research Group on Future Urban Mobility) that aims to
achieve a personal transport vehicle that is autonomously navigating in the NUS campus, to provide mobility on
demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation for 1-2
passengers. An autonomous car with sensors is available as the experimental testbed. This FYP project aims at
studying, improving, developing and applying computer vision based algorithms for object detection and identification.
The application is for autonomous driving, where the objects to be detected are those typically found along the round
(cars, pedestrians, lampposts, etc). The identified objects will be very useful for the localization and navigation of the
autonomous vehicle
None None None None SMART NA NA NA Software
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
programming
143 CT68 Vision Based Road Detection for an Autonomous Car CT Marcelo H Ang Jr James Fu (SMART) This final year project (FYP) is part of a bigger project supported by the SMART FM IRG (Singapore MIT Alliance for
demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation . An
autonomous car with sensors is available as the experimental testbed. This FYP aims at using a vision system with 1 or
more cameras to detect and locate road segments. The road segments are mainly the traversable areas by a vehicle in
an urban environment.
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
programming
144 CT69 Vision based traffic light detection for autonomous
navigation.
demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation. Localization
is a crucial capability for autonomous navigation. Localization means finding the location and orientation of the vehicle
within a known map of the environments. An autonomous car with sensors is available as the experimental testbed.
This FYP aims at using a vision system with 1 or more cameras to perform localization.
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
programming
145 CT70 Vision based odometry for localization of an
autonomous vehicle
demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation. This FYP
aims at using a vision system to detect traffic light signals at intersections. An autonomous car with sensors is available
as the experimental testbed.
Development;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
programming
146 CT72 Design and development of a robotic tool to achieve
delicate motion capabilities for a human
CT Marcelo H Ang Jr Jayant Iyer (SGH) This project involves the design and development of a robotic system to aid a human operator in doing delicate motions
such as peeling the skin of a grape or tomato. Such a capability is very useful for many applications. One target
application is for eye surgery during cataract operations. In this surgery, a layer covering the eye (cornea) is cut and
peeled off, to remove the lens and insert a new one. This project builds upon the past final year project which has
realized a prototype for such oeprations.
None None None None Singapore General
Hospital
NA NA NA Software
Development;#Design
programming, design
147 EBTS01 Emissivity of water at boiling temperature EBTS
(Industry)
Dr. Isakov Dmitry Assts. Prof Lee PS Emissivity is an engineering parameter used to compare emitted IR radiation by an object at certain temperature in
comparison with the black body at the same temperature. This definition is not suitable to situations when phase change
happens in the material, like boiling of water. The project will explore this phenomena.
None Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory
#Feasibility/Case
Studies
148 EBTS02 Studying the cryofreezing process of solid tumors in
blood vessels.
EBTS Chua Kian Jon Ernest NA This project entials the fundamental heat transfer study of complex tumors embedded in compoicated vascularized
blood flow systems. Numerical and emperimental works will be conducted.
ng and Analysis
Project suitable for
students with interest
in bio-heat transfer.
149 EBTS03 Investigating the performance of composite desiccant
systems for air-conditioning
EBTS Chua Kian Jon Ernest NA Project entails experiments to determine the best types of desiccant to be synthesized to a composite desiccant for
effective air dehumidifcation with reduced pressure drop and low temperature regeneration.
Energy and
Sustainability
ng and Analysis
Knowledge in
heat/mass transfer of
materials will be
valuable.
Page 10 of 25
150 EBTS04 Development of energy-efficient composite membranes
for air dehumidification
EBTS Chua Kian Jon Ernest NA Student will be expected to synthesize dehumidification membranes as well as to conduct experiments to evaluate the
membranes performance.
Energy and
Sustainability
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NO minimum
knowledge required for
this project. Student
will be trained for the
membrane synthesis
and testing.
151 EBTS05 optimization of micro combustor for micro-TPV power
generator
EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA As one of the most important components of micro-TPV system, micro combustor is expecting to produce a high and
uniform temperature distribution along the wall. In this project, the candidate will help to optimize the design of the mciro
combustor.
Energy and
Sustainability
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
with sound knowledge
on heat transfer and
thermodynaics
152 EBTS06 Impact of methane addition on the performance of
diesel engine
EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA Compared to diesel fuel, methane is a cheaper but cleaner fuel, in this project, the candidate is expecting numerically
investigate the impact of methane addition on the performance and emissions of diesel engine, promoting its application
in transport.
Automotive
Engineering
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
have a solid
knowledge on IC
engine
153 EBTS07 Knocking analysis on hydrogen assisted diesel engine EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA Hydrogen can be used for diesel engine to promote combustion of diesel, however, if too much hydrogen is induced,
knocking will happen. In this project, the candidate will investigate the knocking tendency and the effect of various
factors.
Automotive
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
With solid knowledge
in IC engine
154 EBTS08 Research on diesel engine fueled by methanol and
diesel
EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA Fuel properties have a significant impact on the fuel atomizatio, evaporation and combustion. In this project, the
candidate is expecting to investigate the combustion process and emissions formation of diesel engine fueled by diesel
and methanol
Automotive
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
With a solid
knowledge on IC
engine
155 EBTS09 Numerical investigation on reactivity controlled
compression ignition engine
EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA Reactivity controlled compression ignition engine is called the next generation IC engine with high efficiency and low
emissions. In this project, the candidate will investigate various factors on the performance of RCCI engine.
Automotive
Engineering
None None None NA NA NA NA Software
Development;#Hybrid
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
With a solid
knowledge on IC
engine
156 EBTS10 Investigation on cavitation development in fuel injector
holes
EBTS Assts Prof Yang Wenming NA Cavitation formation in fuel injector holes has a significant impact on spray development, subsequently on combustion
and emissions formation. In this project, the candidate will numerical investigate the formation of cavitation in fuel
injectors.
Automotive
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
With a knowledge on
IC engine
157 EBTS11 Building integrated solar concentrators EBTS Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of low-cost and building-integrated solar concentrators Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design Solar concentration
158 EBTS12 Waste thermal energy harvesting EBTS Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of waste thermal energy harvesting devices Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design small-scale thermal-
fluidic interaction
159 EBTS14 Microfluidic solar indoor lighting EBTS Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of microfluidic solar indoor lighting devices Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design Microfluidic sunlight
manipulation
160 EBTS15 Droplet-based optofluidic devices EBTS Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of microfluidic devices for droplet combinations Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design Understanding of
microfluidic
phenomena
161 EBTS16 Portable multiple energy harvesting EBTS Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of lightweight and multiple energy harvesting devices Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design Waste energy
harvesting
162 EBTS17 Enhanced convection cooling of compact electronic
devices
EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA As compact electronic devices diminish in size while their power increases, the dissipation of heat generated becomes a
major limiting factor to making them smaller. Convection cooling continues to be an economical and efficient technique
used in these devices, which require ever-increasing heat dissipation rates. In this project, novel methods to enhance
the convection cooling of compact devices will be studied. The computations will be done with available computational
fluid dynamics (CFD) software.
None Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
None NA NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
NA
163 EBTS18 Using thermosyphon flows to enhance cooling of
compact electronic devices
EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA Thermosyphon flows have the advantages of simplicity, relatively small size, fewer or no moving parts and low cost in
achieving high heat transfer rates. Such flows may be used to cool compact electronic devices. Novel approaches in
using thermosyphon flows to enhance cooling of the devices will be explored. The project will require the use of
computational thermal-fluids software for studying the flows.
None Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
164 EBTS19 The use of solar energy for cooling internal spaces in
buildings
EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA Solar energy is a renewable energy source, with great potential and attractiveness for meeting more of the worlds
energy needs. The use of solar energy is generally less cost effective than the use of conventional fuels especially for
applications such as cooling. In the project, novel approaches of using solar energy for cost-effective cooling of internal
spaces in buildings will be explored.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Feasibility/Case
Studies
NA
165 EBTS20 Energy efficient cooling of indoor spaces in buildings EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA Various parameters affect the air velocity and temperature distribution in indoor spaces. These include the location of
air inlets and outlets, diffuser design and objects in the space. Novel approaches for effective cooling of such spaces
are explored using available computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
166 EBTS21 The enhanced cooling of compact devices using
microchannel flows
EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA Increasingly powerful compact electronic and other devices require higher heat removal rates per unit volume.
Microchannel flows may be used to achieve the high rates of cooling required. In this project, available computational
fluid dynamics (CFD) software will be used to study novel approaches to enhance the cooling of compact devices using
microchannel flows.
None Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
167 EBTS22 Enhanced cooling of surfaces using impinging jets EBTS Assoc Prof Christopher Yap NA Higher rates of heat transfer may be obtained with an array of impinging jets than with a single impinging jet or
conventional forced convection cooling methods. However, the interference of adjacent jets and walls reduces the
effectiveness of such cooling. Novel methods to reduce the interference and enhance cooling are studied. The
resulting heat transfer will be computed and experimentally verified. An existing experimental rig may be used with
appropriate modifications.
None Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
168 EBTS23 A portable power and heat source employing
combustion in the microscale
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang Assts. Prof Yang Wenming This is a continuing research project. Micromechanical systems have wide applications. Our research is aimed at
studying combustion in the microscale so as to derive a power and heat source for a range of industrial, medical,
domestic and defence applications. This is one of two projects dealing with combustion of a clean fuel. In this project, a
model of a combustor with energy recuperation will be developed with the view to developing an efficient portable
power source. The portable power source can be used to drive micro power plants, micro refrigerators, micro
compressors and pumps, and radiant heating devices.
This is a long-term project seeking to improve the dynamics aand efficiency of combustion. An experimental set-up has
been developed to study combustion in narrow channels with a view to developing an efficient micro combustor.
Computer simulation will also be employed. Results of this project will have significant application potential for portable
and stand-alone power systems.
This continuing project will involve analysis, design and fabrication, and experimentation.
Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis;#Design;#Hyb
rid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
169 EBTS24 Vaporizing liquid micro thrusters for micro spacecraft
Part B
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang NA This is a continuing project and is one of two projects offered in this area. Micro thrusters have been widely used in
aerospace applications for years. The micro thruster is used for attitude adjustment, station keeping, orbit transfer and
propulsion of micro-satellites or mini-spacecraft. To meet increasing demand for micro satellite applications,
miniaturized propulsion systems will need to be developed further so as to offer substantial improvement in performance
and cost compared to the alternatives currently available so as to realize the successful, large scale deployment of
microsatellites in the 10 to 100 kg class. The ideal propulsion system would minimize mass, complexity and power
requirements, while maximizing thrust precision and fuel economy.
A vaporizing liquid in the micro thruster is used to produce thrust. An improved experimental set up has been designed
to measure the thrust produced in a real space (vacuum) environment. Analysis and computer modelling will be
performed to predict the performance. By using suitable materials and fabrication techniques, we seek to develop a low-
cost, fully automated addressable micro propulsion device capable of operating at elevated temperatures and low
vacuum. Results from the study will contribute towards micro satellite and micro propulsion applications. This project is
one of two being proposed to develop micro propulsion systems for micro satellite applications.
Energy and
Sustainability
d Testing and
Instrumentation;#Hybri
d i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
Page 11 of 25
170 EBTS25 Envelope systems for improved energy efficiency of
buildings Part A
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang Assoc Prof Christopher YAP This is a continuing project. Commercial buildings account for a significant share of the total electrical energy
consumption of Singapore. In a recently completed BCA-funded project, a special facility called the Guarded-Hot-Box
(GHB) has been created to enable experimental investigations on the thermal performance of building envelope
systems and components. The GHB can be used to determine the thermal transmittance of fenestrations and wall and
roof structure, including a variety of green envelope systems.
In this project, we will perform energy simulation to study the integrity and thermal performance of envelope systems
and windows. The simulation will be validated by experimental investigations using the GHB. We will study the design of
thermal breaks and window systems with the view to enhancing the building envelope standard, the ETTV and RETV,
currently in use.
Results from the study will contribute to improving energy standards and improved design of envelope systems and
components qualified under the Green Mark Incentive Scheme. This project is one of two projects addressing thermal
performance of building envelope systems. This is one of two projects being offered in the same area.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis;#Field Testing
and
d i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
171 EBTS26 Envelope systems for improved energy efficiency of
buildings Part B
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang Assoc Prof Christopher YAP This is a continuing project. Commercial buildings account for a significant share of the total electrical energy
consumption of Singapore. In a recently completed BCA-funded project, a special facility called the Guarded-Hot-Box
(GHB) has been created to enable experimental investigations on the thermal performance of building envelope
systems and components. The GHB can be used to determine the thermal transmittance of fenestrations and wall and
roof structure, including a variety of green envelope systems.
In this project, we will perform energy simulation to study the integrity and thermal performance of envelope systems
and windows. The simulation will be validated by experimental investigations using the GHB. We will study the design of
thermal breaks and window systems with the view to enhancing the building envelope standard, the ETTV and RETV,
currently in use.
Results from the study will contribute to improving energy standards and improved design of envelope systems and
components qualified under the Green Mark Incentive Scheme. This project is one of two projects addressing thermal
performance of building envelope systems. This is one of two projects being offered in the same area.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis;#Field Testing
and
d i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
172 EBTS27 Vaporizing liquid micro thrusters for micro spacecraft
Part A
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang NA This is a continuing project and is one of two projects offered in this area. Micro thrusters have been widely used in
aerospace applications for years. The micro thruster is used for attitude adjustment, station keeping, orbit transfer and
propulsion of micro-satellites or mini-spacecraft. To meet increasing demand for micro satellite applications,
miniaturized propulsion systems will need to be developed further so as to offer substantial improvement in performance
and cost compared to the alternatives currently available so as to realize the successful, large scale deployment of
microsatellites in the 10 to 100 kg class. The ideal propulsion system would minimize mass, complexity and power
requirements, while maximizing thrust precision and fuel economy.
A vaporizing liquid in the micro thruster is used to produce thrust. An improved experimental set up has been designed
to measure the thrust produced in a real space (vacuum) environment. Analysis and computer modelling will be
performed to predict the performance. By using suitable materials and fabrication techniques, we seek to develop a low-
cost, fully automated addressable micro propulsion device capable of operating at elevated temperatures and low
vacuum. Results from the study will contribute towards micro satellite and micro propulsion applications. This project is
one of two being proposed to develop micro propulsion systems for micro satellite applications.
Energy and
Sustainability
rid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
173 EBTS28 Thermal environment of urban canyons for
weatherproofing of sustainable cities
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang NA This is a continuing project. The objective of this project is to develop an effective engineering tool to study the thermal
performance of the urban environment so as to establish ways to improve zone thermal comfort, energy efficiency and
increase resilience against adverse climatic effects. The project will identify sources of energy wastage and heat
generation.

Use of air conditioning, urban transportation systems, street orientation, and residential and non-residential buildings all
have their impact on the micro climate of an urban canyon. Also, building height, proximity, and street width influence
the heat generation and dissipation characteristics of heat sources and sinks. Construction materials and other urban
landscape features can alter surface radiation exchanges, energy interactions and atmospheric flows.
A model has been developed to enable simulation of the urban space. Local weather information covering temperature,
humidity, direct and diffuse solar radiation, rainfall, and wind speed and direction will be used in the simulation.
This project will involve data gathering, analysis and computer simulation. Results of this project will have significant
impact in the design of efficient and comfortable urban systems for sustainable living.
Energy and
Sustainability
ng and Analysis;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
NA
174 EBTS29 A modular portable power source employing a micro
combustor-emitter
EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang Assts Prof YANG Wenming This is a continuing research project. Micromechanical systems have wide applications. Our research is aimed at the
development of micro-scale devices for a range of industrial, medical, domestic and defence applications. This is one of
two projects dealing with combustion of a clean fuel. In this project, a micro combustor with energy recuperation will be
studied with the view to developing an efficient portable power source. The portable power source can be used to drive
micro power plants, micro refrigerators, micro compressors and pumps, and radiant heating devices.
This is a long-term project seeking to improve the device design and performance. An experimental set-up has been
developed to study combustion in narrow channels with a view to developing an efficient micro combustor as an energy
source for micro power plants. Computer simulation will also be employed. Results of this project will have significant
application potential for portable and personal power systems.
This continuing project will involve analysis, design and fabrication, and experimentation.
Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
rid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
175 EBTS30 Energy-efficient and low-carbon buildings of the future EBTS Prof Chou Siaw Kiang NA This is a continuing project. Commercial buildings account for a significant share of the total electrical energy
consumption of Singapore. More recently, there has been strong interest in addressing energy efficiency and carbon
foot-print of buildings that require air conditioning. In an on-going collaboration with BCA, the team is developing an
engineering tool that can account for the relative contributions of technology and systems options to a buildings energy
efficiency and carbon rating.
This project will investigate green energy systems, develop energy estimating algorithms and indices, and establish
base lines for energy efficiency benchmarking and evaluation of energy efficient technologies for air-conditioned
buildings. The project will employ DOE.2, a well-known energy performance simulation code. In addition, a new Design
for Energy Efficiency (DEE) engineering tool will be tested with the aim of developing energy efficiency benchmarks
and diagnostics guide for building design and operation. Algorithms will be added to support carbon footprint
calculations.
Results of the project will have significant impact on improving the design and operation of energy efficient low carbon
buildings in tropical climates.
Energy and
Sustainability
ng and Analysis;#Field
Testing and
d i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
176 EBTS31 Novel heat exchanger design and experimentation EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS Mr Tan Yunn Boon (DSO) The objective is to explore the use of dimple technology (Tornado Like Technology) for enhancing heat exchanger
design and verify the design with experimentation. Such high performance compact heat exchanger are good for
defense and aerospace applications
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None DSO NA NA NA Design;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
177 EBTS32 Development of light weight heatsink for high thermal
performance applications
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS Dr Chua Beng Wah
(SIMTech)
This project will develop an advanced hybrid heatsink with high heat thermal efficiency using an innovative processing
technique. Such high performance heat sink can be used for thermal management of high power electronics in
automotive applications.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None SIMTech NA NA NA Design;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
178 EBTS33 Experimental investigation of Flow and heat transfer in
branched wavy microchannel
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS NA Wavy microchannel can enhance heat transfer but it incurs a high pressure drop penalty. This project will be
experimentally validate a novel approach which introduces secondary branching flow to mitigate the pressure drop
tradeoff.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Design;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Page 12 of 25
179 EBTS34 Experimental investigation of flow and heat transfer of
Nanofluids in wavy microchannel
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS NA This project experimentally investigates nanofluids in wavy microchannels. Nanofluids enhance heat transfer due to their
anomalous enhancd thermal conductivity while wavy microchannels augment heat transfer due to boundary layer
thinning and dean vortices
Energy and
Sustainability
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
180 EBTS35 Simulation and Experimental Study of Circular Oblique-
finned heat sink
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS NA This project aims to apply the oblique fin configuration, which has been proven as efficient liquid cooling technology, into
heat sinks with circular footprint for the purpose of enhancing cooling of electrical devices with circular bases.
Energy and
Sustainability
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
181 EBTS36 Design and performance of the generator and
condenser of a Li-Br absorption cooling system
EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA The components of a Lithium-Bromide absorption system are the generator, condenser, evaporator, absorber and a
heat exchanger. In this project, the student will first conduct a thermodynamic study of each of the components.
The student will then apply basic principles of heat and mass transfer and thermodynamics to study the design and
performance of the generator and condenser, two components of a Lithium-Bromide absorption cooling system. Basic
models have been developed by a past year final project. The student will conduct quantitative studies to improve on the
design and performance of the two components.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
182 EBTS37 Design of the absorber and evaporator of a Li-Br
absorption cooling system
EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA The components of a Lithium-Bromide absorption system are the generator, condenser, evaporator, absorber and a
heat exchanger. In this project, the student will first conduct a thermodynamic study of each of the components.
Basic principles of heat and mass transfer and thermodynamics are applied to study the design of the two key
components of a Lithium-Bromide cooling system the absorber and the evaporator.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
183 EBTS38 Design of the condenser of a vapour compression
cooling system
EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA The objective of this project is to study and develop the equations to generalize the performance of the condenser of
vapour compression cooling system. The simulation study is to be conducted using MATLAB.
This is a continuation of a completed final year project in which the basic equations have been developed and the
design carried out. The student is expected to improve upon the design study and to develop a generalized design.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
184 EBTS39 Technical and economic considerations HFC-alternative
refrigerants
EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA HFCs (eg R134a) has been phased out/replaced HCFC (R22) as a result of the Montreal Protocol due to its ozone-
depleting characteristics. HFC refrigerant, however, has very high global warming potential and some countries are in
the process of phasing out HFC refrigerants. The objective of this project is to consider the technical and economic
aspects the replacement of HFC by natural refrigerants such as hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide. The implications of
the phasing out HFC for Singapore will also be studied.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
185 EBTS40 Improvements to the Brazilian Proposal for burden
sharing in GHG emission reductions
EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA In 1997, Brazil submitted Brazilian Proposal (BP) to UNFCCC as part of the negotiations for Kyoto Protocol. The
proposal aims at quantifying the global surface temperature rise caused by historical emissions, to establish a simple but
uniform measure for each Annex I Partys contribution towards global surface temperature rise and to set differentiated
emission reduction targets for Parties based on the impact of their historical emissions to temperature rise and to arrive
at the decision on the future level of Annex I Parties greenhouse gases emissions.
The BP was quantitatively analyzed, and the effects of improvements to the BP on burden sharing of emission
reductions were successfully performed in a FYP in AY 2013/14. The objective of this project is study quantitatively the
impacts of other improvements to the BP.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
186 EBTS41 Analysis of carbon tax and emission trading schemes EBTS Assocs Prof Ho J C NA Climate change is global phenomenon and the greatest and most debated environmental threat facing humankind
today. The Kyoto Protocol (KP) is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change, which commits its Parties by setting internationally binding emission reduction targets. Under the
Protocol, countries must meet their targets primarily through national measures. International Emissions Trading is one
of the three market mechanism offered by the Protocol to meet their targets.
The objective of this project is to conduct a study of the EU and other emission trading schemes, and the implications
and lessons for Singapore.
FYP is mainly analysis, some computation can be expected
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
NA
187 EBTS42 Comparative Performance of PV-Thermal Systems EBTS Prof Andrew Tay NA A solar photovoltaic (PV) module converts solar energy into electricity while a solar thermal collector converts solar
energy into heat. A solar PV-Thermal (PVT) module is a hybrid of the two which can produce both electricity and heat in
the same module. Different designs of PVT modules have been proposed. A test system has been set up at the rooftop
of Block EA to compare the outdoor performance of PV, solar thermal and PVT modules side-by-side. The test system
has been set up but there are some teething problems which needs to be rectified before accurate comparative
performance can be made. This is the main objective of this project.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Field testing and
instrumentation
NA
188 EBTS43 A study of the effect of moisture on the performance of
solar photovoltaic modules
EBTS Prof Andrew Tay NA A solar photovoltaic module converts solar energy directly into electricity. It consists of a silicon solar cell which is
encapsulated with a polymeric material. When the module is exposed to the environment, moisture will diffuse through
the encapsulant and affect the performance of the cell. In this project, mini solar PV modules will be soaked in
environments at varying levels of humidity for various periods and their PV performance characteristics monitored using
an I-V curve tracer. By analysing the I-V curves, the effect of moisture ingress into the mini modules will be determined.
Computer simulation of the moisture diffusion into the module will also be carried out using a commercial software to
determine the distribution of moisture within the module over time. This is a challenging project but the results will be
very significant in determining the performance of solar PV in the tropics.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixtures of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software.
NA
189 EBTS44 Performance of a Solar PV-Thermal System Installed in
a Hostel
EBTS Prof Andrew Tay NA A solar photovoltaic (PV) module converts solar energy into electricity while a solar thermal collector converts solar
energy into heat. A solar PV-Thermal (PVT) module is a hybrid of the two which can produce both electricity and heat in
the same module. It is believed that the use of PVT modules could make PV modules more economically viable. For all
the above reasons, a PVT system has been installed in a hostel on campus to study its performance in a real system.
The hot water produced is used for the showers. The system is computer controlled and all the data required to study its
performance are also acquired using the computer system. There will also be some modelling of the performance and
economics of PVT systems.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Feasibility and
instrumentation
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
190 EBTS45 Characterization of the Thermal Resistance of
Electronic Components
EBTS Prof Andrew Tay NA The useful life of an electronic component is highly dependent on its operating junction temperature which can be
calculated from the junction-ambient thermal resistance. Hence the accurate characterization of the thermal resistance
of electronic components is very important. This thermal resistance can be measured by an instrument called a Thermal
Transient Tester (T3ster). The T3ster can also be used to measure the thermal resistance of each of the many thin
layers of materials used in modern electronic components. The objective of this project is to use a T3ster to
characterize the junction-ambient thermal resistance of some electronic components.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
NA
191 EBTS46 Avionics cooling using heat pipes EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS Mr Chua Yong Sheng (DSO) This project will investigate the use of heat pipesfin heat sink for avionics cooling. The effect of low temperature and
high acceleration load on heat pipe performance will be studied and different designs to mitigate these effects will be
examined.
Energy and
Sustainability
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
CAP > 3.8 is preferred
192 EBTS47 Development of PCM Enhanced Liquid Cold Plate EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS Mr Kong Xin Xian
(GCoreLab)
This project evaluates the effectiveness of phase change material (PCM) in smoothening the transient heat/temperature
spikes experienced in a liquid cold plate. Numerical simulations and experimental validations will be performed.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None GCoreLab Pte Ltd NA NA NA Design;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
193 EBTS48 Development of an enhanced direct cooled heat sink EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS Mr Kong Xin Xian
(GCoreLab)
This project develops an enhanced direct cooled heat sink which utilizes a flow modulation structure to progressively
inject cooling fluid directly onto the surface of the heat generating component thus eliminating the thermal interface
resistance.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None GCoreLab Pte Ltd NA NA NA Design;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
194 EBTS49 Numerical Study of a Pulsatile Flow Enhanced Heat
Exchanger
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS NA This project numerically studies the effect of flow pulsation on enhancing heat transfer in microchannel heat exchangers
which are used for electronics cooling applications.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis;#Design
195 EBTS50 Experimental Study of a Pulsatile Flow Enhanced Heat
Exchanger
EBTS Assts Prof Lee PS NA This project experimentally studies the effect of flow pulsation on enhancing heat transfer in microchannel heat
exchangers which are used for electronics cooling applications.
Energy and
Sustainability
196 EBTS51 Simulation and Development of the non-Droplets
contact surface for industry application
EBTS
(Industry)
Dr. Lin Wen-Jong Assts Prof Lee PS The non-(or less) droplets contact surface is important for industry application such as front windshield window for car or
steam cooker for food process. The droplets could affect the safety of car with driver and the taste of food.
This study will use the commercial simulation software and high speed camera to look the surface and droplets
characteristics including the droplet surface tension, droplet temperature, droplet viscosity, surface roughness and so
on.
The result could be used for window glass design and food process equipment to reduce the droplets inside/outside
product.
None Automotive
Engineering
None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
Page 13 of 25
197 EBTS52 Simulation and Development of the polymer heat pipe
for heat dispersion
EBTS
(Industry)
Dr. Lin Wen-Jong Assts Prof Lee PS In the electronic products, it is concern and solve the problem of cooling on the electronic components during the long
operation time such as PC, PLC. Although it is more efficient to enhance the cooling effect by adding the fans on the
top of metal heat sink but it causes more heat and noise from the fan.
Metal heat pipe has widely been used to removal heat from the device. However, it is heavy and not suitable for
portable. This project will use commercial CAD and CFD software to create and simulate the vertical polymer heat pipe
to find out the relationship among capillary effect, thermo siphon, and heat.
None Automotive
Engineering
None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
NA
198 EBTS53 Microscale explosive boiling with Silicone oil EBTS PS Lee NA This project experimentally investigates explosive boiling, an abrupt phase change phenomenon which occurs when a
liquid is subjected to very high temperature rise rate resulting in the sudden formation of vapor micro-bubbles.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
199 EBTS54 Point source thermography EBTS
(Industry)
Dr. Isakov Dmitry Prof Andrew Tay This project is focused on analysis of thermal response from different material subjected to stationary and moving point
heat sources. Most of the thermography approaches are based on cooling phenomena. However simple analysis of
fundamental law of energy conservation can show that the heating phenomenon contains significant amount of
information, which is at least as valuable as information obtained from cooling. In this project the point heat source
response of the sample will be evaluated for samples with different embedded defects. The analysis will be performed
both theoretically and experimentally
None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation
200 EBTS55 Ultrasonic NDT enhanced by local heating EBTS
(Industry)
Dr. Isakov Dmitry Prof Andrew Tay Feasibility study of multi-physics NDT based on surface waves that are modified by localised heating. Through this
measurement the unique dependence for each material between elastic properties and temperature can be
reconstructed for each location and a unique set of parameters defined for each material. By extracting these
parameters at different locations on the sample the map of material properties will be reconstructed.
None Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory
#Feasibility/Case
Studies
201 EBTS56 Analyzing Performance of Concentrated Photovoltaic
Systems using Two Axis Solar Tracker
EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA Solar energy by far is the largest renewable energy source that can be possible successor of fossil fuels. Conversion of
sun light directly into electricity using photovoltaic systems is simple and most popular method for utilization of solar
energy. Concentrated photovoltaic systems using multi-junction solar cell have higher solar energy to electricity
conversion efficiency among currently available photovoltaic systems. Concentrated photovoltaic systems are designed
such that they must face towards sun duration operation and need a two axis solar tracking system to track motion of
sun. A two axis solar tracker has been developed by using microcontroller for which a tracking program is written.
Tracking program is based on active/passive hybrid tracking algorithm. The objective of this project is to investigate
performance of concentrated photovoltaic systems using two axis solar tracker.
202 EBTS57 Study on the adsorption isotherms and kinetics of newly
developed zeolite materials
EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA Adsorption process forms the core of cooling, desalination and dehumidification processes. It uses low-grade waste
heat at 60-80C which is available in abundance from exhaust of refineries and power stations. The adsorption cycle has
no major moving parts and hence it has low maintenance.
The adsorption uses an adsorbent which can be either silica gel or zeolite. These adsorbents are environment benign.
The thermally driven adsorption systems are one of the promising green technologies to solve the current energy and
environmental issues.
The project focuses on the experimental and theoretical studies of the water adsorption equilibrium uptake on a family
of newly developed zeolite adsorbents, namely Functional Adsorbent Materials such as SixAlyPzO2.nH2O-Z02 and
AlyPzO2.nH2O-Z05. Two adsorbents will be tested and compared with the conventional water adsorbent silica gel.
203 EBTS58 Experimental study of a cogeneration plant EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA Cogeneration (also named as combined heat and power, or CHP) is a technology of simultaneous production of
electricity and useful heat from a single energy source. Traditionally, the two energy forms are produced separately
from power plants and boilers. The latter has a typical combined efficiency of 45%, while a CHP system is able to
operate at efficiency of as high as 80% with a proper designed heat recovery system. In the current work, an energy-
efficient and environmental-friendly cogeneration system is to be studied experimentally. The system uses a Capstone
C30 micro-turbine generator as prime mover. Heat recovery components of the system include a heat recovery steam
generator, an absorption chiller, an adsorption chiller and a desiccant dehumidifier. Parametric analysis will be
conducted to understand the best operation conditions for each component.
204 EBTS59 Waste Heat Driven Desiccant Dehumidifier EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA Dehumidification is one of the practical solutions to energy saving in an air conditioning plants when low temperature
waste heat is used to power the process. By making use of an adsorbent and adsorbate pair (such as silica gel and
water), the desiccant dehumidifier could harness the waste heat sources of industrial processes or renewable energy for
dehumidification without causing additional thermal pollution to the environment and simultaneously enhance the overall
energy utilization efficiency. A 2-bed silica gel and water adsorbent and adsorbate pair dehumidifier is fabricated and
installed in air-conditioning laboratory. The system is in operation and testing is in progress with different operational
parameters. The objective of the project is to investigate the dehumidifier performance at different inlet conditions for air-
conditioning energy saving.
205 EBTS60 Heat transfer improvement of a adsorbent embedded
heat exchanger by introducing binder
EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA Adsorption process forms the core of adsorption chiller and desiccant dehumidifier. In conventional adsorption machine,
adsorbent is embedded into heat exchanger by wire meshes. Poor contact between adsorbent material and heat
exchanger fins, and among adsorbent solids encountered in this method results in low heat transfer efficiency, and
hence the performance of the adsorption machines. The objective of this project is to improve heat transfer of
adsorbent embedded heat exchanger by introducing binder. The adsorbent used in this study is silica gel (Type 3A or
RD). Experiment will be conducted to study the influence of the binder on the heat exchanger thermal resistance and
adsorption capacity.
206 EBTS61 Multi Effect Desalination and its Hybridization with
Adsorption Cycle to Recover Desorption Condenser
Heat.
EBTS Prof. Ng Kim Choon NA ME_AD is a hybrid desalination cycle. In this novel desalination cycle, desorption heat from AD condenser is re-
circulated to steam generator of MED. This hybridisation not only increases the water production, it also reduces the
fouling chances due to low temperature operation. ME_AD cycle is zero thermal energy input cycle because desorption
heat supplied to AD is considered as low grade waste heat (55-85C). A 3-stage MED system is installed in air-
conditioning laboratory. The plant is in operation and testing is in progress with different parameters to map the
performance of the system. The objective of the project is to investigate the ME_AD performance and compared it with
conventional MED system.
207 FM02 Pressure Surges in Fluid Systems with different type of
Air Valves
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to do numerical studies on the transient pressure responses in different fluid systems with
different type of Air Valves. Different Air Valve Characteristics will be investigated in this project. A computer
programme is available for modifications. The student is expected to work within the Fluid Transients research Group.
This project is related to Water, Oil and Gas Technologies.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis
The student is strongly
encouraged to take up
ME3233 Unsteady
Flow in Fluid Systems
in Semester 2.
208 FM03 Numerical Studies of Pressure Surges in Natural Gas
Flow Systems.
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to study the transient pressure responses in natural gas fluid systems, system profiles and
pipeline materials. Different valve closure functions will be investigated. A computer programme is available for
modifications. The student is expected to work within the Fluid Transients research Group. This project is related to
Water, Oil and Gas Technologies.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis
ME3233 Unsteady
in Semester 2.
209 FM04 Experimental investigations of Fluid Transients with
different type of surge tanks
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to study experimentally the abilities of different type of surge tanks suitable for the
suppression of the extreme pressure variations in unsteady fluid flow systems.. The student is expected to work within
the Fluid Transients research Group. This project is related to Water, Oil and Gas Technologies.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
ME3233 Unsteady
in Semester 2.
210 FM05 Experimental Study of Check Valves Responses in
Multiple Pump Operations.
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to investigate the pressure surges and valve slamming problems caused by check valves
in a fluid system under various multiple pumps operating conditions. An experimental test rig in the Fluid Laboratory is
available for modification in this study. The student is expected to work within the Fluid Transients research Group. This
project is related to Water, Oil and Gas Technologies.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
ME3233 Unsteady
in Semester 2. .
211 FM06 Numerical investigations of air vessels for the
suppression of pressure surges.
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to do computer model studies of the abilities of different type of enclosed air vessels
suitable for the suppression of the extreme pressure variations in fluid systems due to the failure of pumps in different
mode of operations. The student is expected to work within the Fluid Transients research Group. This project is related
to Offshore Oil & Gas and Water Technology.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis
Student is strongly
the module ME3233
Unsteady Flow in Fluid
Systems in Semester
2.
212 FM07 Experimental Studies of Vortices and Swirl Angle of
Flow at Intakes
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA Vortices cause some concerned in interpreting of the model results of flow at intakes In many applications, submerged
vortices cause more damages than attached surface vortices. An experimental investigation is to be carried out here to
investigate the co-relationship between the occurrence of surface vortex, submerged vortex and the swirl angle of the
flow. The student is also expected to design and test/investigate various type of anti-vortex devices. This project is
related to Water, Oil and Gas Technologies.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
ME3233 Unsteady
in Semester 2.
213 FM08 Numerical studies of open surge tanks for the
suppression of pressure surges.
FM Assoc. Prof. T.S. Lee NA The purpose of this project is to do computer model studies of the abilities of different type of open surge tanks for the
suppression of the extreme pressure variations in unsteady fluid systems due to the failure of pumps in different mode
of operations. The student is expected to work within the Fluid Transients research Group. This project is related to
Offshore Oil & Gas and Water Technology.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis
Student is strongly
the module ME3233
Unsteady Flow in Fluid
Systems in Semester
2.
Page 14 of 25
214 FM12 Effect of bubble size on aeration process FM Prof Chew Yong Tian NA Aeration to supply oxygen through air bubbles in water is an important process in fish farming and waste water
treatment. Large amount of energy is wasted if the air bubbles carry the energy away without transferring the oxygen
effectively during the short transit time when the bubbles are too large.
Previous project produced some results but there were uncertainties due to variance of bubble sizes. This project aims
to refine the experimental setup in order to find the optimum bubble size experimentally by injecting bubbles of different
sizes in a column of water and measuring the oxygen concentration time history. The energy in producing the bubbles
normalized by the amount of oxygen diffused will be very useful data for optimizing the design of aeration process.
Investigation
NA
215 FM13 Design and investigation of an air curtain for rain
removal from wind screen
FM Prof Chew Yong Tian NA The present automotive wind screen wiper is a mechanical device that removes rain water by wiping motion. The
wiping frequency increases with increasing intensity of rain. However it fails to ensure clear vision when the rain is
heavy.
Previous project investigated the air velocity needed to remove rain during heavy storm. The present project will design
an improved system and investigate the effectiveness of using air curtain to remove the rain water.
NA
216 FM14 Measurement of lift and drag force on a rotating
cylinder
FM Prof Chew Yong Tian NA When a cylinder is rotating in a freestream flow, lift is generated. This is known as Magnus effect. Although this is a
classic fluid mechanics problem, controversy still remains in the literature on the behaviour of lift coefficient with
increasing rotational speed.
Previous year student has obtained some useful results on the asymptotic values of lift coefficient. However the
asymptotic values as a function of Reynolds number are uncertain due to different aspect ratio of the cylinder and
blockage effect. The present project will conduct the experiment in a larger water channel to increase aspect ratio and
reduce blockage effect.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation;#Field
Testing and
Instrumentation
NA
217 FM15 The effect of shape on segregation FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Experimental investigation of how different particle shapes influences segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation
none
218 FM16 The effect of concentration on segregation FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Experimental investigation of the influence of relative concentration on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation
none
219 FM17 The effect of concentration on segregation FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Numerical investigation of the influence of relative concentration on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
basic programming
220 FM18 The effect of size on segregation FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Numerical investigation of the influence of size ratio on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
basic programming
221 FM19 The effect of size on segregation FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Experimental investigation of the influence of size ratio on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation
none
222 FM20 Visualising viscous flows - laminar boundary layer FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Development of a computer program to aid in visualising characteristics of a laminar boundary layer None None None None NA NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis
basic programming
and good
understanding of
viscous flows
223 FM21 Visualising viscous flows - turbulent boundary layer FM Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Development of a computer program to aid in visualising characteristics of a turbulent boundary layer. None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation
basic programming
and good
understanding of
viscous flows
224 FM24 The numerical study of self-induced flapping of flexible
tandem foils
FM Assts. Prof Rajeev Kumar
Jaiman
NA The structural flapping problem is of interest not only for its prevalence, but also for the simplicity of the problem
statement and the richness of the behavior. While we observe this phenomenon often in our daily lives, there are
applications of natural flapping behavior to the pursuit of turbulence reduction, efficient propulsive swimming and the
next generation aerospace vehicles. This proposal focuses on the flapping stability and response of tandem thin wing
structures of high extensional rigidity and low bending rigidity. The project will use in-house solver for coupling the
NavierStokes equations to thin-membrane dynamics of arbitrarily large motion.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
225 FM25 Assessment of Taylor bubble dynamics using LBM and
Navier-Stokes Solvers
Jaiman
NA A gas bubble moving through liquids in a round tube can exhibit various behaviours of both theoretical and practical
interest. The motion of the deformable bubble relative to the tube wall can either be driven by buoyancy force, as in a
vertical tube in an earthbound environment, or be pushed by a liquid flow due to an externally applied pressure gradient,
or both. When the buoyancy force is time-independent, the consequent bubble motion is expected to be steady.
Accuracy of phase-field LBM and the Navier-Stokes solutions will be systemically assessed with the aid of experimental
data.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None None NA NA NA NA Computing and
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
226 FM26 The numerical study of the wake dynamics of heaving
flexible foil
Jaiman
NA Due to high transverse velocity of the foil relative to the free stream velocity during flutter instability, the angle of attack is
high. At high angles of incidence of the flow on the foil, the potential flow model shows its incapability in capturing the
wake correctly. Our experience with potential flow calculations shows a reverse von Karman vortex sheet for a drag
producing fluttering foil at low mass ratios which is incorrect. This indicates the necessity of calculating the flutter
boundaries using viscous simulations with fully-coupled fluid-structure interaction. We explore the viscous effects on
flutter boundary and wake vorticity.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
227 FM27 Development and application of nonlinear flexible
multibody dynamics solver
Jaiman
NA Although linear theories are predominately used in structural design of offshore structures it is known that several
components of offshore units exhibit nonlinearity. These nonlinearities are usually due to geometric effects rather than
material effects. Current FEM codes dealing with structural nonlinearity use either total Lagrangian or the updated
Lagrangian methods in the variational formulation. In this project we propose to use the more recently developed co-
rotational formulation for analyzing geometric nonlinear offshore structural components. The corotational formulation
implicitly assumes that displacements and rotations are finite while displacements are small. Thus it is naturally apt for
analyzing geometrically nonlinear and materially linear structures commonly used in offshore deepwater units.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
228 FM28 Direct numerical simulation of vibrating bluff body with
near-wall effects
Jaiman
NA In this project, we will focus on studying how a plane wall would affect the dynamics of a vibrating bluff-body. In
particular, wall-induced lift force is due to two competing mechanisms in a vibrating cylinder. First, the presence of a
nearby wall breaks the axisymmetry of wake vorticity distribution. Second, from inviscid theory one can argue that the
flow relative to the cylinder will accelerate faster in gap between the cylinder and the wall. The resulting low pressure in
the gap will induce a lift force directed toward the wall. In-house solver will be used for this flow-induced vibration study.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
229 FM29 Numerical investigation of Taylor vortices over a riblet
mounted surface
FM Assts. Prof R.K. Jaiman Prof. TT Lim In near-wall regions, vortices aligned with flow are shown to impose additional turbulent drag. Recent research on the
drag reduction has demonstrated that surfaces with directional grooves (i.e., riblets) exhibit lower viscous drag
compared to a smooth wall. In literature, the mechanism of riblets is attributed to control of near-wall streamwise
vortices. However, there is an alternative finding showing that the behaviour of these vortices is not as important as
perceived earlier. This project aims to investigate surface geometrical effects on the vortex dynamics through a
numerical study of Taylor-Couette flow containing sustainable vortices arising from flow instability. Simulations will focus
on the flow physics when several surface geometries are introduced for varying vortex arrangements on riblet.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
230 FM30 High Intensive Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) interaction
with a tissue mimicking hydrogel
FM Prof Khoo Boo Cheong Evert Klaseboer (IHPC),
Siew-Wan Ohl (IHPC)
In this project, a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) transducer (bowl shaped, 80 mm in diameter) is used to
generate cavitation bubbles in water. The bubbles oscillate and collapse near a tissue mimicking polyacrylamide
hydrogel phantom. The observation is done using a high speed camera which is capable of taking photographs up to
0.5 million frames per second. The aims of the study are to control the generation of the ultrasonic bubbles, to
understand the interaction of the bubbles with the tissue, and to remove attached substances (such as grease) on the
phantom. The knowledge gained has direct implications in the use of HIFU in medical and biological applications.
Investigation
NA
231 FM31 Bubble gun: the interaction of an oscillating bubble near
a suspended particle
FM Prof Khoo Boo Cheong Evert Klaseboer (IHPC),
Siew-Wan Ohl (IHPC)
A spark generated bubble oscillates and collapses in a free field liquid. If there is a particle nearby the bubble may jets
towards the particle causing it to translate in high speed in the liquid. In this project this phenomenon is investigated
using a high speed camera system. The bubble is generated using an in-house spark bubble generator. The student will
need to design the fixtures, to investigate the shooting of the particle by the bubble by operating the high speed
camera. Several parameters may be varied such as the size of the particle, its density, the relative size of the oscillating
bubble etc.
Investigation
NA
232 FM32 Numerical Study on interaction of multiphase flows with
thin film
FM Professor Shu Chang NA The interaction of multiphase flows with thin film is an interesting phenomenon in nature. Fundamental understanding of
this phenomenon is important in industrial applications. In this project, the student will use our newly-developed two-
phase flow model to do numerical study. Some interesting phenomenon can be extracted from the numerical results. It
is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical computation to do this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
233 FM33 Simulation of Incompressible Flows by Using Lattice
Boltzmann Flux Solver
FM Professor Shu Chang NA In recent years, the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) has become an efficient approach to simulate incompressible
flows. Unlike Navier-Stokes solvers, LBM does not need to solve partial differential equations and resultant algebraic
equations. It only involves algebraic operation. The method is simple and easy for implementation. In this project, we will
use the lattice Boltzmann flux solver, which combines the good features of LBM and Navier-Stokes solvers, for the
simulation of incompressible flows. It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and
numerical computation to do this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
234 FM34 Numerical simulation of incompressible viscous flows
around moving objects
FM Professor Shu Chang NA Currently, numerical simulation of flows around moving objects in a complex domain is one of the most challenging
problems in the computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In this project, the student will use our newly-developed boundary
condition-enforced immersed boundary method (IBM) to simulate incompressible viscous flows around moving bodies.
It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical computation to do this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
235 FM35 Numerical Simulation of Rain Effect on Aerofoil FM Professor Shu Chang NA It was found that the degradation of aerodynamic performance induced by rain during the flight of aircraft is the major
cause of aircraft accidents. In this project, the student will use a multiphase flow model to simulate the rain effect on the
aerofoil. It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical computation to do
this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
Page 15 of 25
236 FM36 Numerical Simulation of Natural Convection by
Immersed Boundary Method
FM Professor Shu Chang NA Natural convective heat transfer from a body to a finite space enclosing it has a lot of industrial applications, which
include nuclear reactor design, cooling of electric equipment, aircraft cabin insulation and thermal storage systems. In
this work, the student will simulate the natural convection in a confined region by using our newly-developed immersed
boundary method (IBM). It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical
computation to do this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
237 FM37 Numerical Simulation of Flows past Two Circular
Cylinders
FM Professor Shu Chang NA The studies of flow around one or arrays of circular cylinders are of practical importance in engineering. In many areas
of engineering, circular cylinders form the basic component of structures. In this project, the student will use the
immersed boundary method (IBM) to simulate incompressible viscous flows around two circular cylinders. It is advised
that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical computation to do this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
238 FM38 Transient effects in flapping wing FM Prof Khoo Boo Cheong Dr Tay wee beng (TL) In recent years, the knowledge of the aerodynamics of flapping flight has been expanding rapidly. However, due to the
complexity involved, many fundamental questions still remain unanswered, especially those concerning transient start-
up/ stopping effects. Simple 2D/3D canonical studies can be used to understand the role of these effects in flapping
wing. This involves simulating a thin plate undergoing impulsive acceleration / deceleration and pitching motion. The lift,
thrust and vorticity contour will be investigated to obtain a better understanding of the underlying aerodynamics of
transient effects in flapping wing.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
239 FM39 3D model of a nodule harvestor FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA The concept of deep ocean harvesting of useful polymetallic nodules has gained a great deal of interest in the early
80s, but only recently started to gain momentum in countries like Indian, Korea, Japan, China and Singapore. Various
concepts of harvestors have been proposed, taking from dredging, agricultural practices. It is desired to turn some of
these designs into a 3D models using our existing 3D printing facility in the Department. These model may be subjected
to testing in CEE towing testing facilities.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
240 FM40 Pulsating flow of oil/water mixtures FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA Pulsating flow is one where the steady pressure gradient driven the flow is superimposed by an oscillatory noise. In this
flow, it has been found that the flow rate can increase over and above that of a steady pressure gradient one at the
same value. We have investigated this flow enhancement for a suspension, and it is desired to what happens in an
oil/water mixture. Oil/water mixtures of different proportions will be tested with our rheometer and will be subjected to
this flow regime, and the flow enhancement, if any, will be analysed.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
241 FM41 Shape of a cloud of particles released in a viscous fluid FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA The slump test is one of the early methods in assessing the workability of concrete, used mainly to indicate of enough
water content in a concrete mix. It consists of lifting an inverted cone containing a concrete mix, and measuring the
height of the unsupported column of concrete mix (the slump). This measurement yields information on the yield stress
and consistency of the material. It is desirable to perform a simulation based on existing Dissipative Particle Dynamics
code. You are to verify the code, prepare the data input, organize and interpret the output for the slump test for a yield
material.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
242 FM42 Simulation of a cloud of particles released in a viscous
fluid
FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA A cloud of small particles released in a quiescent viscous fluid can induce a toroidal circulation flow, resembles that of a
falling drop. A good method for simulation this flow has been proposed by Nitsche and Batchelor (JFM 340, 1997, 161).
It is desired to investigate this further to provide information on two different swarm of different densities (to each other
and to the liquid).
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Analysis
NA
243 FM43 Yield-Stress Rheology of Kaolin Clays FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA Sediment from seabed is a weak yield stress material, with yield stress of the order 0.1 kPa. It is desirable to have a
model material based on different Kaolin grades. Different rheological tests on the material will be carried out, including
shear, oscillatory shear, vane test, etc., to form a complete description of the model material. You will prepare the
samples, carry out the test, and provide the interpretation of the results.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
244 FM44 Particle-based simulation of the slump test FM Prof N Phan-Thien NA The slump test is one of the early methods in assessing the workability of concrete, used mainly to indicate of enough
water content in a concrete mix. It consists of lifting an inverted cone containing a concrete mix, and measuring the
height of the unsupported column of concrete mix (the slump). This measurement yields information on the yield stress
and consistency of the material. It is desirable to perform a simulation based on existing Dissipative Particle Dynamics
code. You are to verify the code, prepare the data input, organize and interpret the output for the slump test for a yield
material.
Analysis
NA
245 FM45 Surface heat transfer around 3-dimensional obstacles in
supersonic flow
FM Assts Prof David Estruch-
Samper
NA Real high-speed vehicle designs very often present surface protuberances on the surface, sometimes due to machining
inaccuracies or bolts and hinges between different sections, among many other possibilities. These obstacles however
disturb the flow and alter the nominal predictions which most times do not take such imperfections into account. The
present experimental investigation will aim at obtaining a measure of heat transfer in the vicinity of 3-dimensional
obstacles under supersonic flow conditions. A parametric study is to be obtained through testing a set of different
geometries at the NUS Supersonic Wind Tunnel.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
246 FM46 Schlieren-based image processing for measurement of
shock wave unsteadiness
Samper
NA The schlieren optical technique allows to visualise density gradients and thus to qualitatively determine key features in
compressible flows; for example, compression or expansion regions and boundary layer thickness. When combined with
high-speed imaging, schlieren diagnostics offer the potential of providing time-dependent information about the flow.
The present project will focus on the development of image processing methodologies that can be used to obtain
accurate measurements of shock wave unsteadiness and improve the understanding of unsteady supersonic flows. The
project will also involve some hands on experience in high-speed wind tunnel testing.
Aeronautical
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
247 FM47 Experimental study of supersonic shock-wave/boundary-
layer interactions
Samper
NA Shock-wave/boundary-layer interactions (SWBLIs) are present in all practical supersonic aerodynamics applications and
often have a strong impact on the vehicles performance as a result of the local increase in pressure and temperature.
Under turbulent flow conditions, the flow physics are further complicated and predictions are often subject to very large
errors. As a result, there is a pressing need for further data that contributes towards getting a whole picture of these
aerodynamic phenomena. The present project will consist of an experimental study on the interaction induced by a two-
dimensional discontinuity in the form of a step. The effect of step height will be accurately documented to characterise
the strength and unsteadiness of the interaction. This project is to be fully based at the NUS Supersonic Tunnel and is of
a highly challenging nature.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
248 FM48 Numerical study of hypersonic entry capsule
aerodynamics
Samper
NA Future space exploration mission designs will most likely rely on blunt capsule geometries which have been shown to
provide reliable performance during atmospheric re-entry. The primary design requirement is to achieve a safe and
efficient means of decelerating the capsule during the early stages of re-entry when it travels at hypersonic speeds. This
project will aim at performing a parametric study of entry capsule aerodynamics at a range of different flight conditions
based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Analysis of the related flow physics will allow to further
understand the strengths and limitations of the geometries for a hypothetical mission application.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
249 FM49 Lateral jet injection in scramjet chambers FM Assts Prof David Estruch-
Samper
NA The development of high-speed vehicles relies heavily on further advances in supersonic combustion systems, which
eventually aim at injecting a fuel into the combustion chamber steadily for smooth engine operation. The main technical
challenge in such developments is the fact that supersonic flows result in very complex flow topologies, involving: strong
pressure gradients, three-dimensional shock waves and sometimes even regions of flow separation with strong
unsteadiness. Altogether, it remains impossible as of today to ensure a smooth supersonic combustion process in high-
speed airbreathing systems. The present project will aim at documenting the complex flow topology induced by the
injection of a lateral jet into a supersonic freestream by performing tests at the NUS Supersonic Wind Tunnel. This
project is of a highly challenging nature.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
250 FM50 Effect of nose bluntness on supersonic blunt cylinder
geometries
Samper
NA The geometry of the forebody of a high-speed vehicle is of high importance in part because it determines the
development of the boundary layer along the rest of the vehicle, hence affecting its overall performance. This project will
aim at accurately documenting 5 different nose geometries by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
simulations and parameterising the design to develop the understanding of such cases. Selected geometries may be
selected for wind tunnel testing, although the possible experimental part of the study would only be minor for this project.
Aeronautical
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
251 FM51 Micro Vortex Generator control of airfoil flow separation FM Assts Prof David Estruch-
Samper
NA Micro Vortex Generators (MVGs) are small elements that can be placed near the leading edge of an airfoil to produce
local vortices, thus energising the boundary layer and making it less prone to separate. They are therefore becoming
popular candidates for passive flow control applications in a wide range of applications however since they inherently
rely on accurate predictions of turbulent flow, there is need for further experimental studies on canonical geometries for
validation purposes. The present project will consist of an experimental study on the flow characteristics downstream of
a square-planform MVG geometry. Experiments on a set of isolated MVG geometries will be performed in a blow down
wind tunnel at velocities below 20 m/s and based on hot wire Velocimetry measurements. Subsequently, the best
selected geometries will be applied on an airfoil to further document the aerodynamic efficiency of such devices
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
252 FM52 Roughness-induced control of separation in
incompressible flow
Samper
NA The use of surface roughness to enhance wall-bounded turbulence has a wide range of potential applications: from
common sports ball aerodynamics to future hypersonic airbreathing engines, and most often with the purpose of
delaying or even fully avoiding the occurrence of flow separation. The present study is to be performed in a low-speed
experimental facility and aims at investigating the efficiency of different sets of rough surfaces placed at selected
locations within the region of flow separation. The study aims at further understanding the sensitivity of the flow to
surface roughness and to provide further understanding on potential applications at other flow conditions.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
253 FM53 Experimental characterisation of turbulent supersonic
boundary layers
Samper
NA The characterisation of free stream turbulent flows in supersonic experimental facilities is highly challenged by the fact
that shock waves take place ahead of instrumentation such as Pitot probes when they are placed within the flow. As a
result of such difficulties, the great majority of data to date suffers lack of detail and accuracy in such documentation,
leading to high uncertainties when it comes to validating numerical models. The present project will aim at developing
accurate methods to characterise turbulent boundary layers at the NUS Supersonic Tunnel and will further assess the
complex nature of the flow in the test section, carefully taking into account corner effects and flow gradients. Eventually,
suitability of different turbulence models for numerical prediction of the present flow will be assessed. This project is to
be fully based at the NUS Supersonic Tunnel and is of a highly challenging nature.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
Page 16 of 25
254 FM54 Efficient Aerodynamic Reduced-Order Modeling Based
on CFD and POD
FM Assoc Prof John T. Kim Assts Prof Rajeev K. Jaiman Aerodynamic Reduced-Order Model (ROM) will be constructed out of computationally heavy Computational Fluid
Dynamics (CFD) program using the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD). Unsteady aerodynamic loads and
pressures will be sampled in real time and used to calculate dynamically optimal aerodynamic modes. The resulting
modes are then used to project the original full-dimensional solution space into a sub-dimensional space of a much
smaller order. To account for the effects of varying structural inputs, or Mach number, gradients of the responses will be
also included in the data. The aerodynamic ROM will be very useful in estimating unsteady aerodynamic loads quickly
and accurately, e.g., for aeroelastic applications.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
255 FM55 Nonlinear Beam Modeling for Structural and Aeroelastic
Analysis of HALE
FM Assoc Prof John T. Kim NA A simple nonlinear beam model that can account for large deformations of a long flexible wing will be studied for
structural and aeroelastic analysis of HALE (High Altitude, Long Endurance) airplanes. HALE is frequently used for the
purpose of military and commercial surveillance. This study will be focused on the dynamic aspects of the structure,
e.g., natural frequencies and modes, as well as aeroleastic applications, e.g., flutter prediction. The nonlinear beam will
be dynamically linearized and the eigenvalue problem will be solved to yield the solutions. For the flutter solution,
unsteady aerodynamics from 2D Strip Theory will be added.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
256 FM56 Analysis of Nonlinear Aeroelastic Limit Cycle Oscillation
of 2D Wing
FM Assoc Prof John T. Kim NA In this study, the nonlinear aeroelastic limit cycle oscillations (LCO) caused by free-play in a control surface attached to
a wing will be studied. LCO is the most frequently encountered phenomenon in both commercial and military aircraft
and poses a serious threat to the structural integrity and safety of the airplanes. For a simple analysis, a two-dimensional
typical section will be modelled with a control surface that has a nonlinear stiffness characteristic due to the free-play.
Unlike conventional approaches, a frequency-domain method based on Harmonic Balance will be invoked and the
nonlinear relations between amplitude, frequency, and critical flight speed will be searched and investigated.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis
NA
257 FM57 Active control of wing flutter using flap actuator FM Prof Lim T.T Dr Cui Yongdong, Dr Lu
Zhenbo (Temasek
Laboratories @NUS)
This is a joint project with Temasek Laboratories @ NUS, and the aim is to investigate the effectiveness of flap actuator
in suppressing flutter of a flexible wing. The study focuses on (a) how flap motion affects the structure dynamics and
aerodynamic behaviours of the wing, and (b) whether the flutter can be suppressed using the flap actuator utilising the
control algorism developed by another research group. This project will be conducted in the low speed wind tunnel in
Temasek Laboratories.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
258 FM58 Experimental Investigation of a UAV Wing Tip Vortex
Attenuator.
FM Prof Lim T.T NA Long endurance flight for a UAV is one of the important indicators of flight performance. It enables the UAV to
complete its surveillance in a larger mission radius. To date, the endurance limit of UAV is dictated by the on-board
battery power source. This project aims to improve the endurance limit from the aerodynamics viewpoint, and it focuses
on two aspects: (a) designing and testing of a wing tip vortex attenuator to minimise wing tip vortex formation, and
hence the induced drag, and (b) capturing vortex energy from the wing tip vortices. The CAD UAV wing model is
currently available, and the project will involve a conceptual aerodynamic CAD design of a vortex attenuator installed on
the UAV wing tip. The proposed wing model will be fabricated and tested in a wind tunnel to examine its aerodynamic
force characteristics and flow field around the wing tip. The vortex attenuator design is to be optimized for minimal drag
and will be benchmarked against a pre-mod wing.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
259 FM59 Surface manipulation on torque measurement in Taylor-
Couette Flow
FM Prof Lim T.T NA Taylor-Couette flow refers to viscous fluid confined in a gap between two counter-rotating or co-rotating circular
cylinders. In most laboratory studies, the outer cylinder is held stationary while the inner cylinder is rotating. This flow
configuration is often used to study the characteristics of turbulent flow. Generally, when the rotation speed of the inner
leads to the increase in the torque or drag. The aim of this project is to investigate the effect of surface manipulation on
torque or drag generation in Taylor Couette Flow. The outcome of this study will provide a useful insight into drag
generation mechanism by wall bounded vortices. In addition to experiments, the student taking this project may be
required to conduct CFD studies.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
260 FM60 Experimental Study on Wankel Rotary Pump FM Assoc Prof Loh Wai Lam NA Multiphase pumping is one of the most essential technologies in offshore oil and gas industry. There are various types of
multiphase pumps available in the market with their own different merits and demerits. Well fluid of high gas content,
especially slug flow creates most severe challenge to all pumps. Mechanism designed to handling gas is good starting
point to seek for alternative multiphase pump design. Wankel Rotary Engine as an internal combustion engine has the
potential to work as a multiphase pump with proper modification.
In this study, student is required to review the working mechanisms of the existing multiphase pumps, and the Wankel
Rotary Engine. Student is also required run experiments with existing Wankel Pump prototype to study its performance
characteristic as a pump when handling pure liquid and gas-liquid flow.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
ng and Analysis
NA
261 FM61 Experimental Study on Centrifugal Pump for Two-
Phase Flow
FM Assoc Prof Loh Wai Lam NA Centrifugal pump is one the most widely used pump type among all pump types. As a pump of roto-dynamic
mechanism, centrifugal type of pump is originally designed to handle pure liquid and its performance drops dramatically
even when a very small amount of gas enters the pump intake. However, in offshore oil and gas industry, multistage
centrifugal pump is quite widely used to handle gas and liquid mixture.
In this study, student shall experimentally study the performance characteristic of a centrifugal pump when handling gas-
liquid mixture. The experimental testing shall involve the following four aspects:
Single-stage centrifugal pump handling pure water
single-stage centrifugal pump handling gas and liquid
multi-stage centrifugal pump handling pure water
multi-stage centrifugal pump handling gas and liquid
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
262 FM62 CFD Study on Centrifugal Pump Inducer FM Assoc Prof Loh Wai Lam NA A major problem encountered in many pumping applications is a lack of adequate net positive suction head (NPSH),
which will lead to suction cavitation and consequently damage the pump impeller. To achieve reduction in the NPSH
requirements of a pump is usually costly if it involves increasing the height of a vessel or maintaining higher than normal
inventory levels. Inducers are a low cost alternative that reduce the NPSH required by pumps. An inducer is an axial
flow impeller with blades that wrap in a central hub. An inducer serves as a small booster pump for the main impeller.
This project is to study an existing inducer-impeller couple with the help of Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD)
software. The scope of this study mainly involves pump performance comparison between with and without the inducer
attached prior to pump impeller.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
ng and Analysis
NA
263 FM63 Water desalination using ceramic membranes FM Assoc Prof Loh Wai Lam NA Management of produced water is a major issue offshore. Produced water is the formation water that comes to the
surface with oil and gas. Produced water is harzardous, it has to be treated to meet the statutory quality standard prior
the disposal to the environment. The treatment of produced water often consists of a two steps approach such as (1)
removing oil and grease and other organics, and (2) removing salts and other inorganics and other toxicants from the
produced water. This proposed work will take the second step efforts to review the current desalination techniques and
investigate the performance of ceramic membrane in removing salt content from the feed stream. Filtration experiments
will be conducted using both microfiltration and dead-end ceramic membrane and factors determining the filter
performance will be investigated. The understanding and knowledge attained from this study will be useful for the design
of a future compact produced water treatment system."
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
264 FM64 Optimal flapping motions on a two-dimensional
oscillating airfoil(s)
FM Assts Prof Lua Kim Boon NA Research and development on micro air vehicles (MAV) with sizes and weights comparable to those of natural fliers
have motivated much study in flapping wing dynamics. To describe the relevant flow physics, one has to understand the
vortex formation and the forces (lift + thrust) generated by the flapping wing. The previous studies suggested that the
wake regime and the forces experienced by the wing are function of amplitudes of translation or rotational motions, the
phase angle difference between the heaving and pitching motions and the oscillating frequencies. In the present
project, higher order harmonics of translation and rotation motion profiles will be introduced to enhance thrust generation
and check for optimum wing motion profile. In addition, force measurements on (two) tandem flapping wings
configuration may be performed. The project involves both experimental and numerical (CFD) studies.
Aeronautical
Engineering
ng and Analysis
NA
265 FM65 Effect of rotation on aerodynamic force and vortex
generation on a 2D translating wing
FM Assts Prof Lua Kim Boon NA Flapping wing aerodynamics has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its potential application in micro
air vehicles (MAVs). In a simplified 2D scenario, a flapping motion is a combination of back-and-forth translation and
rotation motions. While the translational phase has been studied quite extensively, relatively few studies are focused on
the rotation motion despite earlier claims by researchers it is beneficial to aerodynamic force generation. This project
involves both experimental and numerical (CFD) investigations. The motivation is to examine how different rotational
motions affect transient force behavior and vortex formation on a 2D translating wing. The outcomes of the present
study may contribute to our understanding of the aerodynamics on flapping wing and to future MAV design.
Aeronautical
Engineering
ng and Analysis
NA
266 FM66 Influence of wing kinematics on the oscillation position
of a hovering insect.
FM Assts Prof Lua Kim Boon NA Flying insects display exceptional flight agility and maneuverability, and they have become the source of inspiration in
the development micro air vehicles (MAV). The unsteady mechanisms utilized by insects to generate high lift are highly
dependent on wing kinematics. Studies carried out in our laboratory show that wing kinematics affect the oscillation
magnitude of the insect's hovering position. From MAV designers perspective, minimizing oscillation magnitude of a
MAV's hovering position is important in terms of using on board cameras. In this project, a parametric study is to be
conducted on the effect of wing kinematics on the oscillation magnitude of hovering position. The project involves both
computational fluid dynamics study and experimental measurements on a three-dimensional mechanical flapper.
Aeronautical
Engineering
ng and Analysis
NA
268 FM69 Computational Aerodynamics of Wing-in-Ground Effect
Vehicles
FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay NA A wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicle is a marine-craft equipped with wings which enables it to cruise very close to the
surface of the water. A WIG-craft cruises on a cushion of high-pressure air generated aerodynamically between its
wings and the water surface. There is an enhancement in lift due to the chord-dominated ground effect. There is also a
reduction in induced drag due to the span-dominated ground effect arising from the ground interrupting the wingtip
vortices and downwash behind the wing. There is thus an improvement in aerodynamic efficiency due to the increase in
lift and reduction in induced drag. The objective of this project is to perform computational aerodynamic studies on a
WIG-craft using potential- and viscous-flow solvers.
Aeronautical
Engineering
analysis
NA
Page 17 of 25
269 FM70 Study of different collision models for Direct Simulation
Monte Carlo (DSMC)
FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay NA The Navier-Stokes equations with no-slip wall boundary conditions are generally invalid for low-density gas flows, or
when the continuum assumption breaks down. Such flows are of vast importance in MEMS applications, where the
characteristic length scale of the microdevices is small compared to the mean free path of the gas molecules. Such
flows are also of relevance during a spacecrafts re-entry into the earths atmosphere. Atomistic or probabilistic methods
such as the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method, which solves the Boltzmann equation for fluid flows, can be
employed as a computational tool for understanding the physics of such flows. The objective of this computational
project is to use and modify an existing code to simulate various flows using different molecular collision models.
Aeronautical
Engineering
analysis
NA
270 FM71 Numerical Studies of Cross-Flow Fan for Propulsion FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay NA The Cross-Flow Fan (CFF) serves as a potential candidate for the propulsion of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL)
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). The CFF employs an impeller with forward curved blades enclosed within a housing,
which consists of a rear wall and vortex wall. Unlike conventional radial machines, the fluid flows transversely across the
impeller, passing the blading twice from the inlet to the outlet. The CFF retains the advantages of both a ducted lift fan
and a fixed-wing aircraft, and may also be utilized for thrust-vectoring applications. The CFF may even be embedded in
a fixed wing for lift enhancement, thrust production and stall control. The objective of this project is to perform
computational studies to investigate the CFF flow field and performance.
Aeronautical
Engineering
analysis
NA
271 FM72 Investigation of valveless pulse detonation engine FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay Li Jiun-Ming (NUS Temasek
Laboratories)
The pulse detonation engine (PDE) is a type of propulsion system that has the potential to substitute conventional air-
breathing engines. Unlike traditional gas turbine Brayton engines (such as turbojets, turbofans and turboprops) where
the fuel is burned by deflagration, PDEs rely on detonation combustion where a detonation wave is propagated into the
fuel/oxidizer mixture. The high pressure due to the detonation eliminates the need for a compressor and other
turbomachinery components, thus resulting in a significantly lighter engine with fewer moving parts. Furthermore, PDEs
are potentially capable of producing thrust with greater efficiency and have a higher specific impulse than deflagration-
based gas turbine engines. In previous projects, some thermodynamic and performance analyses of the PDE have
been performed. In this project, some numerical simulation studies will be performed to study liquid-fuel droplet
vaporization, ignition and detonation, as well as the RDE (rotating detonation engine). Knowledge of the material
covered in ME3232 Compressible Flow will be beneficial. Due to the nature of this project, the student should be a
Singaporean.
Aeronautical
Engineering
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
272 FM73 Numerical prediction of human core body temperature
from non-invasive measurements
FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay Dr. Seng Kok Yong (DMERI,
DSO National Lab)
Core body temperature (Tc) can be a good indicator of impending heat exhaustion for occupations involving exposure to
heat, heavy workloads and protective clothing. However, continuously measuring Tc in an ambulatory environment is
difficult, often requiring the use of invasive means. In this project, the student will work with real-life data to develop a
numerical model that estimates Tc versus time profiles based on non-invasive measurements such as heart rate, human
anthropometry and clothing characteristics.
analysis
NA
273 FM74 Numerical prediction of antidote response for
organophosphate poisoning
FM Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay Dr. Seng Kok Yong
(DMERI, DSO National Lab)
To overcome the threat of organophosphate nerve agents, medical countermeasures are being developed. Computer
models are useful for predicting the internal exposure of nerve agent exposure and antidote therapy. The objective of
this project is to develop a computer model to predict treatment effects in nerve agent challenge, with an emphasis on
characterising and propagating parametric uncertainty to output variability using the Monte Carlo approach. Due to the
nature of this project, the student should be a Singaporean.
analysis
NA
274 FM75 An Experimental Study of Wind Forces on a Solar
Panel Module
FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The wind flow over a solar panel module generates lift and drag forces that could cause the modules to detach.
Through wind tunnel testing, the pressures on the panels are determine to evaluate the optimal tilt angle of the module.
Investigation
N.A.
275 FM76 Numerical Simulation of Nanofluid Convection in
Avionics
FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The colloidal suspension of nanoparticles in a fluid is known to enhance convective heat transfer. One application is in
miniaturized aerospace electronic devices. The convective nanofluid flow in the avionics is simulated using a
commercial software.
Analysis
N.A.
276 FM77 Numerical Simulation of Natural Convective Flow in a
Reservoir or Lake
FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The natural convection, by solar heating and cooling, of pollutant and oxygen in a lake or reservoir determines its water
quality. Numerical simulations will be made using a commercial software to simulate the natural convective flow and
mass transfer.
Analysis
N.A.
277 FM78 A Study of Flow past a Linearly Tapered Cylinder FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The vortex flow downstream of a tapered circular-cylinder does not remain uniform over its span. A wind tunnel study
will be conducted to determine the drag coefficient and Strouhal number along the span of a tapered cylinder.
Investigation
N.A.
278 FM79 Flow past a Square Cylinder with a Rectangular Slot FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The modified square-cylinder has a spanwise slot of constant width that permits slot flow from its front face to the wake.
It simulates wind flow past buildings with a passage. A wind tunnel study will be made of the drag reduction and vortex
flow.
Investigation
N.A.
279 FM80 A Computer Simulation of Wind Forces on a Solar
Panel Module
FM Assoc Prof Low Hong Tong NA The wind flow over a solar panel module generates lift and drag forces that could cause the modules to detach.
Through a numerical model, using commercial software, the pressures on the panels are determined to evaluate its
optimal tilt angle.
Analysis
N.A.
280 MN01 Digital Taste & Flavour Devices MN (Industry) Ellen Yi-Luen Do (IDMI,
CUTE)
Assoc. Prof Lu Wenfeng
(Mfg)
Digital Taste & Digital flavour assists users as it can introduce more taste to their daily diet. The technology is using
very weak electrical stimulation on human tongue to generate salty, sour, bitter, minty, spicy, tastes, which can increase
the flavouring of the food without being detrimental to health.
Meanwhile, if we provide user the salty taste while he/she is drinking something minute sweet, he/she can taste sweeter.
Besides, when the user smells sweet flavour while taste something sour, he/she can taste much sour than it used to be.
Base on these, students are requested to do some research and build a sweetness / sourness adjustable device by
using digital taste & digital flavour technology.
None None None None CUTE, IDMI NA NA NA Laboratory
#Field Testing and
Instrumentation
* Java, C Language,
Circuit,
Soldering,Product
design, User
Experience Design
281 MN02 Develop a cutting tool to slice soft pastry with hard nuts
inside
MN (Industry) Ms Wan Siew Ping Assoc Prof Lee Kim Seng Special biscuits which is made from soft pastry with embedded hard nuts needs skills in cutting the pastry into thin slices
of 2mm thk. The production of such biscuits needs large number of skillfull labour to handle the knife for long hours.
Even though skilfull, the quality of cut is no good and yield is not high.
Therefore a good cutting machine that can cut the soft pastry with embedded hard nuts will be a very good productivity
tool. Before the machine can be built, a new type of cutting method has to be developed.
This project covers the design and development of a ultrasonic powered wire cutter proto-type from a given initial
concept.
None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Product Development NA
282 MN03 Design and Testing of a Soft Inchworm Robot of
Dielectric Elastomer Actuator
MN Prof Michael Wang NA The students will conduct an experimental research study of a soft robot made of soft materials and dielectric elastomer
actuators with functions of inchworm locomotion. The robots have capability of motion. The first part is the design of the
devices. The second part is construction of the devices. The third part is experimental testing of the devices for robotic
applications. This project may involve a group of three students.
None Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None NA NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation;#Feasibilit
y/Case
Studies;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
283 MN04 Design and Testing of a Soft Robot Gripper of Dielectric
Elastomer Actuator
MN Prof Michael Wang NA The students will conduct an experimental research study of a soft robot made of soft materials and dielectric elastomer
actuators with functions of gripping. The robots have capability of grasping an object. The first part is the design of the
devices. The second part is construction of the devices. The third part is experimental testing of the devices for robotic
applications. This project may involve a group of three students.
None Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
y/Case
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
284 MN05 Experimental sudy on cell-dependent scaffold
fabricated using an E-jet bio-fabrication system
MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh NA A novel 3D Bioprinter platform is used to design and fabricate specific scaffolds with the consideration of exchange of
nutrients and waste metabolites, in addition to cell spatial control. To achieve this aim, the cell-dependent scaffold
should consider
Investigation
interest on biomedical
and/or materials
preferred not must
285 MN06 Process and tooling development of a new Reverse
Electrodialysis (RE) stack and spacer for sea water
treatment
MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh Hari R (GEW) Sea water desalination is a technology to remove dissolved salts and organic matter from sea water and recover usable
water for industrial, municipal and irrigation purposes. In a world of increasing water shortage where sustainable
methods are sought for
Knowledge of basic
mfg processes
286 MN07 Integration of Cell 3D printing with Scaffold Fabrication
for tissue regeneration
MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh Thian Eng San (MS) 3D printing has recently caught tremendous attention in industry and academia again after evolving from the concept of
rapid prototyping originated 25 some years ago. It has been widely used in tissue engineering and is considered as one
of the most promising techniques for tissue regeneration and drug screening use. In this project, you will prove and
incorporate the cell printing idea into our already developed scaffold fabrication system and investigate various process
parameters suitable in our bio-fabrication system to achieve such goals.
y/Case Studies
material or bio
engineering preferred
not must
287 MN08 Design and fabrication of biomedical scaffolds via E-
jetting process
MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh NA In recent decades, the electrohydrodynamic technology, such as electrospinning and electrospraying, based on principle
of the dynamics of electrically charged fluids, have attracted a lot of interests and rapidly developed. In this project, you
will work on a precision XYZR Table from AeroTech to fabricate biomedical scaffolds by using a novel technology
named E-jetting to create bio-mimic scaffolds for tissue repair, which is based on the anatomy of native tissue and
exiting scaffold design in lab.
y/Case Studies
materials or bio
engineering preferred
not must
288 MN09 Fabrication of Dentin-Like Scaffolds Through Combined
3D Collagen Printing and Biomineralisation
MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh Dr. Amr S Fawzy (Dentistry) Dentin is the most abundant mineralized tissue in the human tooth. Dentin has been characterized as biologic composite
of collagen matrix filled with nanometer-sized calcium-deficient, carbonate-rich apatite crystallites. The structure-
property relationship of dentin collagen fibrils is critical for understanding many aspects of diseases related to dentin
such as caries, age-related changes of dentin and degradation of demineralized dentinal collagen fibrils with time.
Continuing from previous projects, the aim of this project is to fabricate and verify artificial dentin-like structure for
potential future clinical applications through combined collagen printing (based on a 3D e-jetting platform developed),
cell culturing and guided-tissue biomineralization.
y/Case Studies
Interesst on biomedical
engineering (dental)
289 MN10 Ceramic 3D Printing for functional devices MN Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh Lu Li (MS) While 3D Printing has been considered as one of the most innovative manufacturing technologies created in the last 30
years, the functional 3DP systems produce metal and ceramic components are still not easily available on market due
to the high cost (usually over $1M+) and high maintenance cost, thus limiting its wide adoption in the local SMEs and
industry. The main objective of this project is to experiment on a laser sintering/melting 3DP system provided by a local
SME for producing multi-layers or 3D functional components using advanced ceramic or metal materials, e.g. titanium,
stainless steel, ceramic (ZrO2, Alumina, SiO2) for precision and medical components.
y/Case Studies
Interests on 3DP or
materials preferred not
must
Page 18 of 25
290 MN11 Biomedical scaffold fabrication using a dual E-spinning
and E-spray platform
MN Prof Wong Yoke San NA Micro-dispensing techniques have been used in industry to print flexible circuitry, displays, devices, etc. owing to its
flexibility and cost-effectiveness in printing multi-layered material structures. This project concerns a fabrication process
in tissue engineering scaffolding. It aims to optimize the existing process and characterize the properties, like
mechanical property, morphology, etc, for the fabricated scaffolds
y/Case Studies
manufacturing
technology
291 MN12 Development of a kinetic sculpture MN Prof Wong Yoke San NA A kinetic sculpture features movement of one or more of its components. This project aims to understand the basic
concept and develop a sculpture with continuously changing patterns or transformation without relying on any power
sources, such as using solar, wind, or rainwater.
#Product
Development;#Feasibil
ity/Case Studies
Design
292 MN13 Automation System /Integrated Machine MN (Industry) Lee Leong Kar Assoc Prof Lee Kim Seng -In House automation development and improvement
-Provide & review automation concepts, detail design, Born, Drawing,
Design cost analysis.
-Provide technical advices/solution and support to achieve better quality, productivity.
-Assist assembly, setup & troubleshooting of machine
-Implement optimum automation system to ensure quality and shorter
cycle time.
Automotive
Engineering
None None None Innogrity Pte Ltd NA NA NA Design NA
293 MN14 Design and Testing of a balloon actuator of Dielectric
Elastomer Actuator
MN Prof Michael Wang NA The students will conduct an experimental research study of a balloon actuator made of soft materials and dielectric
elastomer actuators with functions of soft deformation. The robots have capability of actuation for robotic hand. The first
part is the design of the devices. The second part is construction of the devices. The third part is experimental testing of
the devices for robotic applications. This project may involve a group of three students.
None Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
y/Case
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
294 MN15 Recast: GE 3D Printing Design Quest - GE Jet Engine
Bracket Optimization
MN Prof Michael Wang NA This project is a recast of the recent 3D printing challenge, as a project for a group of three students. More details are
given at:
http://grabcad.com/challenges/ge-jet-engine-bracket-challenge
Loading brackets on jet engines play a very critical role: they must support the weight of the engine during handling
without breaking or warping. The brackets offer weight-reduction opportunities, because they were designed for
conventional manufacturing technologies and are not fully optimized for both performance and weight. By substantiating
Additive Manufacturing in this particular case, we will enable significant weight savings throughout the engine. The
student will use topology optimization tools to develop optimal designs that meet the weight and size envelope
requirements by simulation for performance based on the load conditions. The design will be manufactured using
additive manufacturing and subjected to the defined load cases.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None NA NA NA NA Feasibility/Case
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
Bracket Simulation
given at:
optimal design that meet the weight and size envelope requirements will be evaluated by simulation for performance
based on the load conditions given in Requirements Section. The design will be manufactured using additive
manufacturing and subjected to the defined load cases.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
y/Case
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
Bracket Fabrication
given at:
student will use 3D printing machines to fabricate the optimal designs that meet the weight and size envelope
requirements created by simulation for performance based on the load conditions. The manufactured parts using
additive manufacturing will be tested subjected to the defined load cases.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Automotive
Engineering
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
y/Case
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
297 MN18 Off-line UAV Perching Point Selection based on 3D
Maps
MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In this project, the student is expected to develop algorithms to determine suitable perching points on roof-tops for a
helicopter-UAV to monitor a given target using an on-board camera. The 3D map of the urban area (terrain and
buildings) is given as input.
Analysis;#Software
Development
The student is
expected to do
programming using
C++.
298 MN19 On-line UAV Perching Point Selection based on 3D
Maps
MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In this project, the student is expected to develop algorithms to determine suitable perching points on roof-tops for a
helicopter-UAV to monitor a given target using an on-board camera. The geometric data of urban area (terrain and
buildings) are given in the form of laser scanned point cloud.
Analysis;#Software
Development
The student is
expected to do
programming using
C++.
299 MN20 Interactive Demo-ware for Free-form Surface Modelling
Methods
MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In geometric modelling, several parametric modelling methods are available for representing free-form surfaces, each
having its characteristics. For the students who study this subject, it is much desirable to have an interactive graphical
aid that helps visualise these methods with a user-friendly interface. In this project, an interactive demo software is to be
developed to demonstrate the characteristics of various surface models, and composite surface construction methods.
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
300 MN21 Production Planning Towards Energy Efficiency MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA The aim of this project is to study the energy consumption model of 3-axis milling process based one experimental data
(which have already been collected). The student is expected to analyze the data and identify critical parameters and
their relationships to energy consumption. Based on this finding, new strategies in production planning are to be
proposed in order to reduce the energy cost.
Analysis;#Software
Development
The student is
expected to do
programming in JAVA.
301 MN22 Machine Power Consumption Modelling MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In this project, the student is expected to study the power consumption profile of machining process via 3D milling.
Empirical formula are to be developed from experimental data.
Analysis
NA
302 MN23 Interactive Demo-ware for Space Curve Modelling
Methods
MN Assoc Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In geometric modelling, several parametric modelling methods are available for representing space curves, each having
its characteristics. For the students who study this subject, it is much desirable to have an interactive graphical aid that
helps visualise these methods with a user-friendly interface. In this project, an interactive demo software is to be
developed to demonstrate the characteristics of various curve models, and composite curve construction methods.
303 MN24 Study of high-aspect-ratio drilling process MN Prof Wong Yoke San NA High-aspect-ratio drilling involves machining of holes with much longer length to the diameter. In this project, the
problems of high-aspect-ratio drilling, such as deviation of the axis of the hole, high vibration with tool wear, are to be
identified and preliminary study based on cutting force is to be conducted to determine the use of force sensing for
monitoring the process. This involves literature review and experimental study.
y/Case Studies
NA
304 MN25 Development of a Web-based interactive teaching aid
for portable devices.
MN Assoc Prof K S Lee NA This project explores the multimedia tools in the development of comprehensive web-based on-line teaching
materials/tutorials such as e-Book to enhance the learning process of students. As the internet is well established in
Singapore and most part of the world, the course can easily be accessed anywhere and anytime as compared to
classroom learning.
The objectives of the project are:
1. To conduct a literature study on web-based interactive development suitable for portable devices
2. To develop a suitable web-based interactive educational course materials in the form of interactive package such as
e_Book with element of simulations, animations and assessments etc for access through students portable devices
such as ipad, iPhone etc.
3. To develop suitable interactive quiz based on the course.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design Student should be
interest in on-line
development, Flash,
HTML5 & Web
publishing tools.
305 MN26 Development of Technology-Enhanced contents for
ME4262 Automation in Manufacturing module for
students with hand held devices.
MN Assoc Prof K S Lee NA This project explores the Technology enhance tools in the development of on-line teaching materials/tutorials to
enhance the learning process of students. As the internet is well established in Singapore and most part of the world,
the course can easily be accessed anywhere and anytime using hand held devices as compared to classroom learning.
1. To conduct a literature study on Technology enhance development tools
2. To develop a suitable web-based multimedia interactive educational course materials in the form of interactive
package with element of simulations, animations and assessments etc.
3. To develop suitable interactive quiz based on the course.
4. To explore further the development of eLearning contents that students taking the modules can easily download from
anywhere using muti-portable handheld smart devices
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design Student should be
interested to work in
the area of Technology
Enhance Learning and
have good knowledge
of Flash, HTML5 &
Web publishing tools.
Page 19 of 25
306 MN27 Development of an on-line 3D auto grading system for
CAD tutorials
MN Assoc Prof K S Lee NA 3D Solidworks CAD Design Software has been widely used by education institutes. However, grading of students work
is still been done manually which is tedious and inefficient.
This project explores the feasibility of using the Automatic programming interface (API) to develop an auto
marking/grading of SolidWorks tutorials. API is a source code based specification which serves as an interface for
software components to communicate with each other.
1. To learn the use of SolidWorks and SolidWorks API,
2. To write a program for automatic marking/ grading of Solidworks file by using Application Programming Interface
(API).
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development Student should have
good knowledge of
SolidWorks modelling
and programming
307 MN28 Develop design library and documentation system for
modular museum showcase
MN (Industry) Ms Wan Siew Ping Assoc Prof Lee Kim Seng The design and manufacturing of museum show-case is a very high mixed low-volume engineering business. In order to
meet good leadtime, easy of assembly at site with good style and low cost, Industry uses modular design concept and
standardisation of designs so that non-engineering staff can retrieve correct design drawings for manufacturing.
Work need to be done to understand the design, clean up the design drawings and develop a library system for ease of
retrieval of designs drawings for manufacturing.
This project covers the design and development of the design library and documentation system in 3D models in
Inventor CAD.
None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Design NA
308 MN29 Design and development of a Miniature flapping wing
mechanism
MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar NA The kinematics of an insect-like flapping wing for MAVs requires three-dimensional motion which is essentially spherical
in character. Designing the motion using simple kinematics which results in light weight and small in size is essential. In
this project an attempt will be made to design, develop and test a miniature flapping wing mechanism to mimic the
flapping behaviour of a bird.
Development
NA
309 MN30 Design and development of a flexure based micro
fixture
MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar NA Fixtures are devices that are used for locating and clamping a workpiece during manufacturing operations such as
machining, assembly, inspection etc. Micro fixtures are gaining importance as the component sizes are becoming small.
In this project an attempt will be made to design and fabricate a simple micro fixture using the concepts of flexure
Development
NA
310 MN31 Hybrid Micro Machining of holes MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Prof Wong Yoke San Micro machining of small hole is difficult using a single process. Research earlier suggests that making the tool on the
machine and machining using the same tool yields precise and accurate features. However the machining
characteristics of such a process are yet to be fine-tuned. In this study the student is expected to investigate on hybrid
micro machining using the combination of Laser and EDM and come up with the relevant parameters that affect the
machining of the features.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
311 MN32 Straightness control in deep-hole drilling process MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Prof M.Rahman Deep holes with thin walls are often required for components used in oil and gas industries such as non-magnetic drill
collars which are made up of difficult to machine materials. Current market demand for such holes is- 8mm in diameter
over the length of 5 meters (aspect ratio: 625). Currently, gun drilling is being used to drill these high aspect ratio holes.
However, it fails to obtain required straightness tolerance of 1 mm deviation per 1 meter length. This project aims to
reduce straightness deviation by controlling cutting forces developed during the drilling process by innovative tool design.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
312 MN33 Development of novel micromachining set-up MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar NA Micro features such as micro-pins, micro-groves, etc. are often required in biomedical and microfluidic devices. Some of
the challenges to fabricate these features are their shape complexities and accuracy requirements. In addition,
conventional micromachining processes are incapable of meeting these requirements. In this project, a simple yet novel
concept to use a piezoelectric tube for micromachining will be tested. The movement of piezoelectric tube is precisely
controlled using four independent voltage signals which can generate complex and accurate shapes. The student will be
responsible for the development of a prototype for the proposed concept
Investigation
NA
313 MN34 Gun drill tool wear characterization MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Prof M Rahman Gun drill is an atypical tool originally developed to manufacture gun barrels in the last century. This tool is capable of
machining holes having a large length-to-diameter (as high as 600:1). Its a unique self-piloted tool in which cutting and
burnishing operations are both carried out at the same time. This work is aimed at characterizing the wear at the guide
pads which burnishes the hole and imparts self-piloting propensity to the tool.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
314 MN35 Deep hole drilling tool design MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Prof Rahman Gun drill, BTA tool other self-piloting tools are used for deep hole drilling application. Gun drill as the name suggest was
originally designed for drilling and boring gun/rifles. It is a time-consuming and expensive process prone to frequent tool
failure. Currently deep holes are prominent features in automotive components, aircraft and aerospace pats,
construction, medical equipment, mold and tool and die, hydraulics and pneumatics apparatuses. Hence this disparity
between tool performance and market demand can be addressed by optimizing the tool design.
This project aims at optimizing the guide pad design and configuration with respect for the given cutting edge geometry.
Followed my experimental validation of the new design and comparing with G and C type guide pad configuration
available in the market
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
315 MN36 Parameter Extraction for Customised Spectacle Frame
Design
MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Mr Neo Ken Soon Rapid advancement in 3D printing technology in terms of color and material has opened up huge opportunity for
customization of wearable. One such application is the customization of spectacle frame. More important than just color
and material, it is important to consider the shape for comfort fit as well as for aesthetic purpose. The aim of the project
is to extract parametric data for the design of spectacle frame from 3D facial information. The scope of work will include
determination of spectacle frame design parameters, acquisition of 3D facial data and manipulation in a CAD system
and developing algorithm for parameter extraction. Student should be interested in programming and working on CAD.
Analysis;#Design
NA
316 MN37 Generative Design for Customisation of Spectacle
Frame
MN Assoc Prof Senthil Kumar Mr Neo Ken Soon Rapid advancement in 3D printing technology in terms of color and material has opened up huge opportunity for
customization of wearable. One such application is the customization of spectacle frame. From the aesthetic angle,
customization requires different designs in terms of shape. The aim of the project is to make use of a generative design
platform to explore design possibilities based on parametric data for the design of spectacle frame. The scope of work
will include creating a genetic model in a parametric CAD system and then to use a generative design platform to
explore design possibilities. Student should be interested in programming and working on CAD.
Analysis;#Design
NA
317 MN38 Geometrical Modelling of Ribcage from Clinically-
Routine X-Ray Images
MN Assoc Prof Francis Tay Eng
Hock
NA The human ribcage has been widely geometrically modelled using 3 dimensional CT scans so far. The geometrical
model helps clinicians to better diagnose and measure ribcage deformities. In addition, in surgical correction modelling,
the model provides surg
Analysis
NA
318 MN39 Investigation of the Kinematics of the Spine during
Lateral Bending
Hock
NA Kinematics of the human spine has been extensively studied for development of 3 dimensional dynamic models of the
spine and their verification and validation. However, the studies have generally focused on the lumbar and cervical
regions of the spine, and
Analysis
NA
319 MN40 Design and development of wearable respiratory sensor MN Assoc Prof Francis Tay Eng
Hock
NA Commercial polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) film will be provided to develop the wearable respiratory sensor. The
principle of proposed respiratory sensor is based on piezoelectric sensing mechanism to detect the pulsatile vibrations
and periodical deform
320 MN41 Optimization of Cuffless Blood Pressure Derivation
Algorithm Through Field Test
Hock
NA In this exciting project, a recently developed hardware will be provided to real-time measure electrocardiograph (ECG)
and photoplethysmograph (PPG). The systolic and diastolic blood pressure will be continuously derived from ECG and
PPG based on availabl
Analysis
NA
321 MN42 Data Mining in 3D Printing MN Assoc Prof Francis Tay Eng
Hock
NA In this project, various data mining methods are explored in the field of 3D Printing to track and understand the
technology and the commercialization of 3D printing. These methods include market intelligence, patent mapping and
statistical analysis.
Analysis
NA
322 MN43 Data Mining in Fuel Cells Industry MN Assoc Prof Francis Tay Eng
Hock
NA This project explores and applies data mining tools such as patent mapping, statistical analysis and market intelligence
on the fuel cells industry.
Analysis
NA
323 MN44 Data Mining in the Medical Devices Industry MN Assoc Prof Francis Tay Eng
Hock
NA In this project, the student will explore and aplly data mining methods including statistics, patents, market surveys and
market intelligence methods in the medical devices industry.
Analysis
NA
324 MN45 Dynamic Simulation of Virtual Serial Robot in
Augmented Reality
MN Assoc Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee The goal of this project is to develop software for visualizing the trajectory of a virtual 6-DOF serial robot in augmented
reality given a path that the robot is supposed to take. The simulation must take into account the dynamics of the robot.
The purpose of this is to be able to identify deviations easily from the path and adjust the dynamic parameters so as to
minimize the deviations before programming a real robot.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development This project will require
C++ programming.
325 MN46 FEA of 2D truss structure in mobile AR environment MN Assoc Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee The student is expected to build an AR application on mobile device which enables finite element analysis of 2D truss
structure. This application can be used for education purpose. The user can define a truss structure simply by drawing
nodes and beams on a paper, then the structure information will be captured by a camera and displayed on the screen,
automatically. Once the user draws a new point/segment on the paper, the screen will generate a new node/beam as
well.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development Programming
knowledge is
advisable.
326 MN47 Mixed Reality CPR Training Kit MN Assoc Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee Sudden cardiac death is the second main cause of death in Singapore, simply because members of the public are
inadequately trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The project aims to develop a training kit that can teach
CPR through a simulation of a person in need of CPR. The previous phase of this project saw the creation of a
prototype device on which trainees practice their breathing and chest compression technique monitored by sensors. In
the current phase, a virtual patient whose physiology responds to the sensor output is to be developed.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development This project would
require either C++ or
Java programming.
327 MN48 Robot Path Planning from CAD Models in Augmented
Reality
MN Assoc Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee Industrial robots are used for tasks like welding and painting which require careful and precise path planning. Path
planning in augmented reality can speed up and enhance the process through intuitive user interfaces that are
registered to the users physical space. The goal of this project is to develop an augmented reality interface that makes
use of CAD models of workpieces and other objects in the robots workspace as guides for defining paths. One
example is to be able to define points on the edge of a pipe end as points on a path
328 MN49 Product Design Feature Identification for
Remanufacturability Assessment
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Remanufacturability assessment is to determine whether a component or a part of a product is feasible for
remanufacturing. From technical perspective, product CAD models can provide useful information, e.g., material
selection, geometric features, fastening methods, etc., for remanufacturability evaluation. This project needs to identify
typical/critical features from CAD models that could have impact on the different aspects of remanufacturing, i.e.,
disassembly, refurbishing, etc. Furthermore, each individual feature can be analyzed to quantify the remanufacturability
of the part
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software
Development;#Design
This project requires
prerequisite
knowledge on
SolidWorks SDK as
well as C/C++
programming skills for
software development
Page 20 of 25
329 MN50 Visualization of FEA results in markerless augmented
reality
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Marker-based tracking has been commonly employed in AR applications for the ease of implementation. However, it is
inconvenient to apply fiducial markers in some situations, especially in an outdoor environment. Markerless methods are
preferred, which rely on tracking natural features such as geometrical primitives, object contours and regions of interest.
The project is aimed to integrate a FEA system with PTAM platform, which is a markerless tracking system for AR. The
student is expected to achieve the integration, and developed a few cases with this integrated system.
knowledge is
advisable.
330 MN51 Robotic Welding Simulation in The Robot Operating
System (ROS)
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Robotic welding usually requires computer-based simulation using virtual robot prior to transferring the welding paths
into actual robot motions. The Robot Operating System (ROS) presents a flexible framework for robot software
development. The objective of this project is to develop a virtual environment for robotic welding simulation. By defining
the welding paths on the virtual workpiece, the virtual robot should be able to simulate the robot motions by following the
paths accurately and smoothly. Furthermore, a graphical-user interface will be necessary such that the welding
parameters can be tuned and reflected during simulation
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development This project requires
C++ programming.
331 MN52 Bare hand interaction tool with natural gestures for
assembly tasks
MN Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that combines real-world environment with computer-generated contents (e.g.
graphics). Immersed in such an environment, the user is left with few mechanisms for interacting with both the real
objects and virtual augmentations. A method to solve this problem is the use of bare-hand technology to communicate
directly with the environment so that a user can interact with both real and virtual objects in an intuitive way. Multiple
natural hand gestures will be recognized by the system. The proposed interaction system can be used in the areas of
AR assembly/ disassembly, design, etc
Analysis;#Software
Development;#Design
NA
332 MN53 Product Disassembly Sequence Generation from
Remanufacturing perspective
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong In ideal situations, disassembly sequence can be considered to be the reverse of assembly. However, in
remanufacturing, only the remanufacturable cores need to be retrieved for further refurbishment and processing. Parts
or subassemblies that are not remanufacturable can be dismantled as a whole or can be subjected to destructive
disassembly if required. Thus, a core can have more than one feasible disassembly routes. The objective of this project
is to determine a methodology to generate all the feasible disassembly routes to reach a core of a product from the
remanufacturing perspective.
Automotive
Engineering
None None None NA NA NA NA Software
#Feasibility/Case
Studies
NA
333 MN54 Range of Motion exercise based on Augmented Reality MN Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee The purpose of this project is to create a data glove for stroke patients who need rehabilitation on the right hand and to
design an AR-based range of motion exercise using this data glove. The objective of the AR-based exercise is to help
stroke patients to enhance the range of motion of upper-extremity joints, i.e., shoulder and elbow. Flex sensors,
accelerometers and pressure sensors will be embedded in the glove to measure physiological data. The student needs
to design a data glove with above sensors and make a rehabilitation game with ARToolkitPlus on Microsoft Visual
Studio
334 MN55 Registration of workpieces for machining with a hybrid
robot
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong A hybrid serial-parallel robot has been developed. Before machining with the hybrid robot, it is necessary to register
workpieces to identify their relative poses with respect to the robot. The registration is usually done by fixing the
workpieces in a specific position, but this method may fail to register a workpiece with complicated shape. In this case,
a point-cloud registration is an efficient alternative option. This project aims to improve the existing registration method
to make it more robust and accurate.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
335 MN56 Process planning in Remanufacturing MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Remanufacturing is the process of restoring a used product back to like-new quality, through industrialised
manufacturing operations such as welding, milling, nitriding etc., most frequently in a job shop setting. However, the
condition of used products is stochastic. As such, the planning of which processes to use, and in which order, has to
accommodate the variation in conditions. The objective of the project is to establish a methodology in the generation,
evaluation and selection of viable process sequences for remanufacturing. A case study will be involved.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Software
#Feasibility/Case
Studies
Knowledge in
manufacturing,
Product Design and
C++ is advisable.
336 MN57 Mobile Augmented Reality-Enabled Library Guidance MN Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee Augmented Reality is a technology that superimposes the virtual objects onto physical scenes. Smartphone provides a
convenient platform for AR technology to be deployed in large area. In this project, the student is expected to design
and develop a mobile AR system which can enhance the user experience in the University Libraries. The system should
be able to provide navigation information for the user based on some pre-defined visual landmarks in the environment
as well as augment virtual information about a selected book by recognizing and tracking the book cover.
knowledge is
advisable.
337 MN58 Robotic Programming for Welding Path Planning and
Optimization
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong This project studies robot programming of an ANN IRB 140 robot for welding operations. It involves (1)Exact geometry
data from CAD models; (2)Mathematical modelling for welding path of complex joints; (3)Robotic programming with
RobotStudio and RAPID for ABB robot IRB140; (4)Intelligent algorithm for welding path optimization; (5)Experiment and
demonstration for robotic welding.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
None None None NA NA NA NA Software Development NA
338 MN59 Multiple Life-Cycle Energy Assessment of Cast-Iron,
Aluminium and CGI Engine Blocks
MN Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Remanufacturing, as an emerging industry with great potential, presents an excellent alternative to prolong the useful
service life, while saving the environment. However, the use of lighter duty materials tends to weaken the automotive
parts and thus reduce the chances of successful remanufacturing. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate and
compare the impact of different material selection for engine blocks, through a Multiple Life-Cycle Energy Assessment.
Sensitivity analysis will be conducted to better understand the trade-off of material selection as well as the impact from
the influenced variables, such as successful remanufacturing rate, fuel efficiency, etc.
Automotive
Engineering
None None None A*star and SIMTech NA NA NA Design;#Product
Development
NA
339 MN60 AR in monitoring/improving maintenance quality MN Assoc Prof. S.K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee AR has been investigated to carry out maintenance guidance. AR can be further developed to monitor and improve
maintenance quality. An evaluation system, consisting of multi-sensors displaying various parameters and their
corresponding weight, can be manually determined on site for different maintenance tasks and the integrated results
can reveal the maintenance quality and the corresponding corrections. Moreover, instructions from the office personnel
can be superimposed onto the views of the technicians to provide necessary corrections if required.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
Programming
knowledge is
advisable.
340 MN61 A study on the effect of material properties on the
critical edge radius.
MN Prof M. Rahman Assoc Prof A Senthil Kumar An attempt will be made in this study to investigate the effect of material properties on the critical edge radius to
generate best surface finish.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
341 MN62 A study on the effect of electrode configuration for high
speed and high accuracy deep holes drilling using
simultaneous micro-EDM and micro-ECM
MN Prof M. Rahman Prof Wong Y S In simultaneous micro-EDM and micro-ECM (SEDCM), dielectric medium and electrode configuration are expected to
play important roles among the main factors affecting the dimensional accuracy, the surface finish and machining
speed. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of these parameters on the machining performance.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
342 MN63 Fabrication of deep holes using simultaneous micro-
EDM and micro-ECM (SEDCM)
MN Prof M. Rahman Prof Wong Y S Simultaneous micro-EDM and micro-ECM (SEDCM) is a promising method to fabricate features with good dimensional
accuracy and surface finish. This study will attempt to identify the suitable machining conditions for producing high
aspect ratio holes.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
343 MN64 Ultra-precision machining of micro features using drum
lathe.
MN Prof M. Rahman Assoc Prof A Senthil Kumar An attempt will be made in this study to develop an ultra-precision micro features by diamond turning using a drum
lathe.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
344 MN65 Simulation of EDM Machining Condition by Matlab or
other software
MN Prof M. Rahman Andrew Yeo (Makino Milling
Machine Co.)
An attempt will be made in this study
1. To understand how WEDM machining condition list is being constructed.
2. To use Matlab or other software to simulate EDM machining condition.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
345 MN66 Investigation of the effect of different dielectric fluids &
electrode used in WEDM for Steel
MN Prof M. Rahman NA An attempt will be made in this study to Understand the types of dielectric fluids & electrode used in WEDM process for
Dimensional Accuracy
Surface Finish
Machining Speed
Pitch Accuracy
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
346 MN67 Product Optimization in Additive Manufacturing MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng NA With the advent of additive manufacturing (AM), many constraints posed by traditional manufacturing processes are no
longer valid. Product designers have much more freedom in the design of shape and geometric of products. The design
freedom of the AM process meant that a significant proportion of weight could be saved in the part, while also reducing
maximum stress and maintaining stiffness. This poses new challenges and opportunities for product design using
additive manufacturing process. In this project, student will work on product analysis through topology optimization
towards weight reduction and improved performance of critical components in machines or products. Computer
simulation will be conducted for such topology optimization based on the constraints of additive manufacturing.
None Automotive
Engineering
None None NA NA NA NA Computing and
analysis
NA
347 MN68 Design methodology for product specifications from
customer needs
MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng NA To remain competitive in the globalized world, it is necessary to create products that are innovative, attractive, and cost
effective in addition to functional performance. One of the challenges is to design the product that satisfies major
customer needs. In product design, customer needs are required to convert to product specification before conceptual
design. In this project, the student will be required to develop the relationship between customer needs and product
specifications through a mapping model. The customer needs could be captured and modeled through user experience
of products. A case study will be used to demonstrate the developed model.
analysis; #Design
NA
348 MN69 Decision Support for Product Recovery in Sustainable
Manufacturing
MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng Dr Song Bin (SIMTech) Due to growing concern for the environment, manufacturers have begun to embrace sustainable manufacturing
strategies to managing the entire lifecycle of a product. In addition to reducing the environmental burden, sustainable
manufacturing reduces current costs through material and energy savings. The project aims to develop the decision
making approach for product recovery options, including reuse, remanufacture, and recycle as part of this sustainable
manufacturing framework. There are multiple factors affect the product recovery options, such as product lifespan,
product usage pattern, and usage environment. In this project, the student will develop a method to link the complicated
relationship between these factors and product recovery options. The outcome of this project will provide valuable
information in the decision making process for used product recovery in sustainable manufacturing.
analysis; # Feasibility /
case studies
NA
Page 21 of 25
349 MN70 Design of Nozzle Head with temperature Control in
Additive Manufacturing
MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng NA Additive manufacturing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape layer by layer from
a 3D digital model. Nozzle head is one of the most critical components for an additive manufacturing machine as it
affects the quality and production of the printed objects. On another aspect, temperature control of nozzle head is also
important as polymer materials react differently with different temperature. This project aims at designing a nozzle head
with temperature control for FDM type of additive manufacturing machine. The student will design and fabricate a
nozzle head with temperature control that could suit different wax or polymer materials.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design; #Field testing
and instrumentation; #
Feasibility / case
studies
NA
350 MN71 Study of Energy Management for Electric Vehicles with
Ultra-capacitors
MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng Prof Wong Yoke San Electric vehicles are gaining popular in many developed countries due to its environmental friendliness. Most of the
electric vehicles today are battery-based. However, battery has high energy density, but has low power density. On the
other hand, ultra-capacitor has the opposite characteristic with high power density and low energy density. From
energy management perspective, battery and ultra-capacitor are complement with each other for electric vehicles. This
project aims to design a hybrid electric vehicle energy system with various configurations of battery and ultra-capacitor.
The student will study the configurations and work on vehicle performance in terms of efficient energy management.
Energy and
Sustainability
None None None NA NA NA NA Feasibility / case
studies;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
351 MN72 Design of FDM Machine with New Nozzle Head MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng NA Additive manufacturing is the next step in manufacturing technology with the potential to revolutionize the industry as it
currently stands. There are many types of additive manufacturing machines with strength and weakness. Although FDM
is considered as simple and direct additive manufacturing process, it provides the flexibility with many options for the
nozzle head design and material usage. In this project, student will design such FDM machine with the focus on the
nozzle head and material use. The student will start with the study of various nozzle head designs and different
materials for additive manufacturing. A new nozzle head will be designed and fabricated with the FDM machine for
selected materials
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design; # Feasibility /
case studies
NA
352 MN73 Welding automation for high strength steel of off-shore
structure
MN Assoc Prof Lu Wen Feng NA Welding of high strength steel structure, such as rack-to-rack welding in offshore jack up rig is manual intensive and
time consuming. Welding automation is the solution to improve the productivity with decreasing skill workers in welding
of these structures. This project aims at developing such a welding automation system for high strength steel structure
of off-shore structure. The student will first study welding physics, especially the interaction between the welding torch
and welding workpiece. Based on the study, suitable welding parameters can be identified for the automation of single
pass welding as well as multiple pass welding. The student will help to design welding automation system with feedback
control for automated welding process.
This project is part of the collaboration between Keppel Corp and NUS. The student will work in team environment to
achieve such welding automation for the oil and gas industry.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Design; # Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
353 MN74 Improvement on a developed 3D Food Printer for
Customized Food Making
MN Sun Jie (IDMI, CUTE) Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh 3D printing caters to highly specific needs, where the objects that need to be made are unique individually. This is
especially useful for prototyping, replacing of special parts and precision engineering. This form of technology has
brought about a lot of advantages for the innovation and research and development industries. Upon acknowledging the
advantages of 3D printing, the idea of 3D Food Printer was inspired, giving rise to the birth of 3D food printing
technology.
This project aims to improve the existing food printer tooling design on material feeding and dispensing method to
shorten the fabrication time. Interests on design, food science and instrumentation are preferred but not must.
None None None None CUTE, IDMI NA NA NA Laboratory
Investigation; # Design
NA
354 MN75 Design and development of a powder metallurgy
technology for EEG electrode
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA Bio-potential measurements, such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrocardiography (ECG), electromyography
(EMG) and electrooculography (EOG), are often used during health screening and clinical diagnosis. These
measurements acquire and record bio-electrical signals by placing electrodes on the skin or scalp. Among various types
of electrodes, silver/ silver chloride (Ag / AgCl) electrodes have been identified to produce good quality and fidelity
signals. This project aims to design and develop a powder metallurgy technology for fabrication of Ag / AgCl electrode
of bio-potential measurement. The student will design the process, prototype the tool and fabricate samples for
conducting parametric study of factors influencing the performance of electrodes for successful real-life application. The
student will be working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.
#Product Development
Design
355 MN76 Design and Development of a headband for dry sensor
scalp EEG
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA Dry electroencephalography (EEG) sensors are gaining grounds for research and clinical applications by overcoming
the limitations of conventional conductive gel/paste electrodes. As the use of dry EEG sensors has by pass the need of
conductive medium for interfacing, the mounting of dry sensors on scalp becomes a challenge. This project aims to
design and develop a headband for dry EEG sensors, which holds dry EEG sensors for full contact on the scalp,
accommodating differences between human head shapes. The student will be working together with a PhD scholar in
the Neuroengineering Lab.
Design
356 MN77 Design and development of a porous material for ionic
conduction
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA Bio-potential measurements, such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrocardiography (ECG), electromyography
(EMG) and electrooculography (EOG), are often used during health screening and clinical diagnosis. These
measurements acquire and record bio-electrical signals by placing electrodes on the skin or scalp. As the skin or scalp
has dead skin layer at the surface, which is non-conductive therefore impedes the signal acquisition at the electrode-skin
interface. Ionic conduction at electrode-skin interface provides the best solution to the problem. This project aims to
design and develop a porous material that provides the largest effect of possible capillary action to an electrolyte such
that the electrolyte stays in the material for a prolong period for stable ionic conduction. The student will be working
together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.
Design
357 MN78 Bleeding less and painless micro holing on scalp and
skull
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA For neuromodulation, such as the deep brain stimulation for Parkinsons disease treatment, needle electrodes are to be
inserted into the brain. In the current clinical practice, in order to insert the electrode into the brain, a portion of the scalp
and skull have to be opened with dedicate surgical procedure. This project aims to design and develop a procedure for
the electrode insertion without the surgical procedure for scalp/skull opening, and is bleeding less and painless. The
student will be working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.
Design
358 MN79 Design and development of a rat stereotaxic instrument
for EM sensing
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA In developing an EM wave approach to brain activity imaging, the resonant frequency of a brain functional site has to be
measured, for which a test has to be carrieed out on rat and a special designed stereotaxic is needed. This project aims
to design and develop a rat stereotaxic instrument that holds two electrodes for neural stimualtion and sensing as well
as holds a fixture to keep the rat head stable wihtout interfaring with the EM wave measurement. The student will be
working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.
Design
359 MN80 Design and developement of a computer neumarical
controlled locating and display system for neural
insertion
MN Prof Li Xiaoping NA For neuromodulation, such as the deep brain stimulation for Parkinsons disease treatment, needle electrodes are to be
inserted into the brain. This project aims to design and develop a computer neumarical controlled locating and display
system for the needle electrode insertion, based on an assurance that the needle electrode is never bent. Part of the
CNC machine tool technology will be implemented. The student will be working together with a PhD scholar in the
Neuroengineering Lab.
Design
360 MN81 Design and Analysis of Rear Automotive Suspensions MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Design independent and solid axle rear suspension for automotive applications with CAD software and evaluate there
camber and toe angle response to up/down movement of the wheel.
Automotive
Engineering
duct Development
1. ME 4265
background will be
helpful 2. CAD
expertise is essential
361 MN82 Develop methodology to determine suspension
component loads for various suspensions
MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Loads developed at the tire/road contact patch due to vehicle motion are transferred to the chassis through suspension
components. Develop the methodology and the corresponding excel spreadsheet or MATLAB code to determine the
loads.
Automotive
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development;#Design
1. ME 4265
background will be
helpful 2. MATLAB or
EXCEL expertise 3.
Expertise in free body
diagrams
362 MN83 Fracture Strength of Aircraft Panels MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Investigate the effect of aircraft panel stiffeners (frames, stringers, crack stoppers) on its fracture strength. Aeronautical
Engineering
Analysis;#Design
1. Background in
aircraft structures 2.
Background in finite
element analysis 3.
Background in
ABAQUS
363 MN84 Design and Analysis of Automobile Underbody
Structure
MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Design all the body panels for underbody assembly with CAD and test the load carrying capacity of the assembly Automotive
Engineering
duct Development
1. ME 4265
background will be
helpful 2. CAD/FEA
expertise is essential
364 MN85 Numerical modeling of Automobile Frontal Crash MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Develop MATLAB/SIMULINK model to simulate frontal crash Automotive
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
1. ME 4265/4264
background will be
helpful 2. SIMULINK
background is helpful
365 MN86 Numerical modeling of Automobile Side Crash MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Develop MATLAB/SIMULINK model to simulate side crash Automotive
Engineering
Analysis;#Software
Development
1. ME 4265/4264
background will be
helpful 2. SIMULINK
background is helpful
366 MN87 Finite Element Modeling of automobile roof crush
phenomenon
MN Assoc Prof Shirish Patil NA Simulate roof crush phenomenon for automobile roof structure using non-linear finite element analysis Automotive
Engineering
Analysis;#Design
1. ME 4265
background will be
helpful 2. FEA
bacground with
ABAQUS or ANSYS is
helpful
Page 22 of 25
367 MS02 CARBON NANOTUBE ELASTOMERS MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Nanostructured materials gained great importance in the past decade on account of their wide range of potential
applications in many areas. A large interest is devoted to carbon nanotubes that exhibit exceptional electrical and
mechanical properties and can therefore be used for the development of a new generation of composite materials.
Nevertheless, poor dispersion and poor interfacial bonding limit the full utilization of carbon nanotubes for reinforcing
polymeric media. In this project, recent advances on carbon nanotubes and their composites will be presented through
project results. The intrinsic potential of carbon nanotubes as reinforcing filler in elastomeric materials will be
demonstrated.
Investigation
N.A.
368 MS03 SUPER HEAT INSULATION OF POLYMER
AEROGELS
MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA The project applies a cross-linking approach, where linear polyamides are reacted with a bridging compound to form a
three-dimensional covalent polymer. The new aerogels are up to 500 times stronger than their silica counterparts. A
thick piece actually can support the weight of a car. And they can be produced in a thin form, a film so flexible that a
wide variety of commercial and industrial uses are possible. A new class of the polymer aerogel discovered can enable
engineering applications such as super-insulated clothing, unique filters, refrigerators with thinner walls, and super-
insulation for buildings.
Investigation
N.A.
369 MS04 SUPERCAPACITOR DEVELOPMENT MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh Lu Li With the coming depletion of the traditional fossil energy, it is necessary to develop new generation of energy sources
like solar, windy and tidal energy. However, the power output of these energy storage generations vary with time which
results in a limited industrial applications. Supercapacitor is one of the energy storage devices which possess a high
specific power density and are believed to level the power generated efficiently. By utilizing carbon coated Nickel
Hydroxide composite, the electrochemical properties and supercapacitance can be enhanced significantly. If you are
interested in the development of the next generation supercapacitors, this project is for you
N.A.
370 MS05 THERMAL PREDICTION OF CARBON NANOTUBE
FIBERS
MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Carbon nanotubes spun to form long yarnlike fibers could outperform even the strongest bullet-proof materials on the
market but turning nanotubes into such materials has proved to be a challenge.. The fibers show great promise for
ultrastrong, resilient materials, with possible applications from body armor to oil drilling. The better-performing carbon-
nanotube fibers broke at around six gigapascals, beating the strengths that manufacturers report for materials used in
bullet-proof vests, such as Kevlar. These nanotube fibers matched the highest reported strengths for a couple of the
strongest commercially available fibers, Zylon and Dyneema, also used in bullet-proof vests. However, there are a few
experimental studies on thermal conductivities of the carbon nanotube fibers. So this project will investigate the
morphology effects of the carbon nanotube fibers using the Monte Carlos simulation method.
ng and
Analysis;#Software
Development
N.A.
371 MS06 Microstructuring of Poly(caprolactone) Films for Tissue
Engineering Applications
MS Assts. Prof Thian Eng San NA Cells in our body tissues have unique organisation and in most cases, are aligned and tend to play a crucial role in
physiological function of tendon, nerves, cardiac muscles, and vascular vessels. This project aims to fabricate and
characterise poly(caprolactone) films with bioinspired microstructures, to mimic the aligned tissue architecture. Using
our proprietary technique, films will have orientated ridges/grooves on the surfaces, and perforative pores across the
bulk.
Investigation
NA
372 MS07 Hybrid Hydroxyapatite/Poly(caprolactone) Films for
Enhanced Bone Regeneration
MS Assts. Prof Thian Eng San NA Regeneration of large bone defects remains a challenging issue for tissue engineering. Bone comprises of nanoscale
hydroxyapatite (HA) embedded in highly orientated collagen filaments. In this project, we aim to develop and
characterise bioinspired poly(caprolactone) films for bone regeneration, with composition and architecture similar to that
of the native bone. The films will be incorporated with HA to enhance osteogenesis and at the same time, to achieve
orientated ridges/grooves on the films for cell alignment.
Investigation
NA
373 MS08 Fabrication of Biopolymer-Based Composite Blends MS Assts. Prof Thian Eng San NA Wide use of non-biodegradable synthetic polymers has led to environmental issues. Blending of synthetic with fully
natural and biodegradable polymers is a practical way of fabricating functional materials with useful properties. In this
project, the student will have the opportunity to fabricate and characterise biopolymer-based composites.
Investigation
NA
374 MS09 Hydrophobic Study of Biopolymer-Based Composite
Films
MS Assts. Prof Thian Eng San NA Fully biodegradable biopolymeric renewable resources have the potential to be useful materials in the area of food
technology. In such applications, water resistance is an important factor. To enhance the water barrier properties of the
films, hydrophobic compounds could be incorporated. In this project, the student will have the opportunity to fabricate
biopolymer-based composite films and investigate the hydrophobic behaviour of the films.
Investigation
NA
375 MS10 Fabrication of Chemically-Modified Apatite Scaffolds for
Bone Repair
MS Assts. Prof Thian Eng San NA Silver,silicon co-substituted hydroxyapatite (Ag,Si-HA) is a chemically-modified apatite, exhibiting antibacterial properties
and enhanced biological response for bone tissue repair. Freeze drying is a technique used to fabricate 3-dimensional
(3D) scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. As such, this project aims to fabricate and characterise Ag,Si-HA 3D
scaffolds using freeze drying technique.
Investigation
NA
376 MS11 Thermal Properties of Multiphase Composite System
Containing Carbon Nanotubes
MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Thermal properties of carbon nanotubes multiphase systems are prerequisite for their large scale applications such as
releasing heat from computer chips. While experiments have been carried out to investigate the thermal properties of
carbon nanotubes multiphase systems, few efforts are targeted to the quantitative understanding the thermal properties
of such systems. Moreover, previous studies have found that effective thermal conductivity of carbon nanotubes
multiphase systems is much lower than the value predicted by the law of mixture, which is proposed to be due to the
thermal boundary resistance at the interfaces of different phases. In order to quantitatively investigate the thermal
properties of carbon nanotubes multiphase systems, this project using the codes developed successfully in our lab is
proposed.
ng and
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
377 MS12 CLEANING OIL SPILLS BY USING PAPER WASTE MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Singapore is one of Asias main energy and petrochemical hubs and one of top oil trading and refining centers in the
world. As a result, the country is vulnerable for oil spills. A massive oil spill with more than 28,000 tons of crude oil
heavily contaminated Singapores sea environment in 1997. There have been several physical, chemical and biological
ways for oil spill cleaning. Among them, sorption is considered as the most effective and simple method. Polypropylene
(PP)-based absorbents are widely for oil absorption but they are non-biodegradable, possess low absorption capacities
and slow absorption rates. So a suitable replacement for PP-based absorbents where high oil absorption capacity, fast
oil absorption rate, biodegradability and environmental issues are of concern is desirable. This project will use the paper
waste to clean the oil spills.
ng and
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
378 MS13 Development of novel TE series Magnesium alloys MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA In this project, novel TE series Mg alloys with tin and rare earths as alloying elements will be synthesized using
disintegrated melt deposition technique. The developed alloys will be studied for their microstructural and mechanical
properties to assess the feasibility of the formulation and processing method.
None None None None NA NA NA NA Feasibility/Case
Studies
Me 2151 module
379 MS14 Development of new TW series Magnesium alloys MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA In this project, new TW series Mg alloys with tin and yttrium as alloying elements will be synthesized using disintegrated
melt deposition technique. The developed alloys will be studied for their microstructural and mechanical properties to
assess the feasibility of the formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
380 MS15 Development of new XW series Magnesium alloys MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA In this project, new XW series Mg alloys with calcium and yttrium as alloying elements will be synthesized using
disintegrated melt deposition technique. The developed alloys will be studied for their microstructural and mechanical
properties to assess the feasibility of the formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
381 MS16 Development of Mg composites containing amorphous
reinforcements
MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA This project involves the development of novel Mg-based metal matrix composites containing hard and strong
amorphous particles using blend-press-sinter technique followed by hot extrusion. The amorphous reinforcements
required for the study will be prepared using ball milling process and the sintering will be done using microwaves. The
microstructural and mechanical properties of the developed materials will be studied to assess the feasibility of the
formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
382 MS17 Synthesis and characterization of novel Magnesium
materials containing amorphous particles
MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA In this project, novel Mg-based metal matrix composites containing amorphous reinforcements will be synthesized using
blend-press-sinter technique followed by hot extrusion. The processing method will be powder based. Sintering will be
done using microwaves. Microstructural and mechanical properties characterization will be done to assess the
feasibility of the formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
383 MS18 Development of Al metal matrix composites reinforced
with amorphous reinforcements
MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA This project involves the development of novel aluminium metal matrix composites containing hard and strong
amorphous particles using blend-press-sinter technique followed by hot extrusion. The amorphous reinforcements
required for the study will be prepared using ball milling process and the sintering will be done using microwaves. The
microstructural and mechanical properties of the developed materials will be studied to assess the feasibility of the
formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
384 MS19 Development of high performance aluminum
composites using microwave sintering approach
MS Prof Gupta Manoj NA In this project, novel Al-based metal matrix composites containing amorphous reinforcements will be synthesized using
blend-press-sinter technique followed by hot extrusion. The processing method will be powder based. Sintering will be
done using microwaves. Microstructural and mechanical properties characterization will be done to assess the
feasibility of the formulation and processing method.
Studies
NA
385 MS20 PREDICTION OF THERMAL BOUNDARY
RESISTANCE OF GRAPHENE NANOCOMPOSITE
MS Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Owing to their prominent properties, graphenes are widely applied as nano-inclusions in nanocomposites and nanofluids
to enhance the electrical and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Due to the high specific surface area of
graphene sheets, thermal boundary resistance at graphene-matrix interface plays a significant role in heat transfer in the
nanocomposites containing graphenes and the effective thermal conductivity of graphene-based nanocomposites is
controlled by this resistance. This project will use the Monte Carlos computer program developed and avaialble in our
lab to study thermal conductivities and determine thermal boundary resistance of graphene sheets and composites.
ng and
Analysis;#Software
Development
N.A.
386 MS21 Search suitable materials for direct laser
sintering/melting
MS Prof Lu Li NA Laser sintering is a process where objects can be directly built through layer by layer deposition (sintering). This project
aims at search for suitable ceramic materials that are suitable laser sintering/melting. To fulfil this basic requirement low
melting temperature, low interfacial energy and low shrinkage are the key factors in the design and selection of the
materials.
Investigation
NA
387 MS22 Study of conductivity and diffusivity of solid electrolyte
for Li rechargeable batteries
MS Prof Lu Li NA Electrolytes used in current Li-ion batteries are all in liquid form. Due to the nature of low flame point and reactive with
moisture, safety becomes a concern in its applications. Therefore replacement of the current liquid organic electrolytes
by inorganic electrolyte becomes necessary. This project studies electrochemical performance and conductivity of an
electrolyte with variation of composition through doping strategy. Student who works under this project needs to learn
the fundamentals of batteries, electrochemistry and electrochemical characterization.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
NA
388 MS23 Study of conductivity and diffusivity of solid electrolyte
for Na rechargeable batteries
MS Prof Lu Li NA Electrolytes used in Na-ion batteries are all in liquid form. Due to the nature of low flame point and reactive with
moisture, safety becomes a concern in its applications. Therefore replacement of the current liquid organic electrolytes
by inorganic electrolyte becomes necessary. This project studies electrochemical performance and conductivity of an
electrolyte with variation of composition through doping strategy. Student who works under this project needs to learn
the fundamentals of batteries, electrochemistry and electrochemical characterization.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
NA
389 MS24 Preparation of carbon-based supercapacitors MS Prof Lu Li NA Supercapacitor is another form of capacitor. Since it can store more charges than that of normal capacitor, it is named
as super capacitor. This project will study and fabricate carbon-based supercapacitors through synthesis of electrode
materials and design of symmetrical and asymmetrical system in order to enhance voltage range.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
NA
Page 23 of 25
390 MS25 Fabrication of lead-free piezoelectric ceramics MS Prof Lu Li NA Piezoelectric ceramics are widely used in sensors and actuators. Most of piezoelectric ceramics are made of lead-
based PZT due to its high energy conversion. Since lead is toxic, new lead-free materials should be developed. The
project involves synthesis lead-free inorganic materials, fabrication of pellets and electromechanical characterization.
None Automotive
Engineering
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation
NA
391 MS26 Computer design of polymers for organic solar cells MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Use atomistic simulations to study effects of polymer structural units on solar absorption properties and identify
structures allowing for optimal optical properties
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
ability to learn new
software and methods
392 MS27 Computer design of dye molecules for mesoscopic
solar cells
MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Solar cells with organic chromophores hold the promise of economic and sustainable energy conversion. You will use
atomistic simulations to study effects of various functional groups in organic dyes on solar absorption properties and
identify structures allowing for optimal optical properties
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
393 MS28 Modeling of amorphous materials for electrochemical
storage
MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Amorphous materials have recently attracted attention for use as electrodes in electrochemical batteries, and
simulations of their performance are needed. You will simulate an amorphous material and compute its interaction with
Li and Na.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
software and
simulation methods
394 MS29 Neural networks modelling of force fields MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Force fields are critical for molecular and quantum dynamics simulations of materials and reactions. You will use neural
networks to build highly accurate interatomic potentials of a reactive system.
Analysis
software and methods,
will use Matlab
395 MS30 Structure and crack healing behaviour of seashells MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA
This project is to study the structure and crack healing properties of seashells structures at nano- to micron scale.
Seashells are nature nanocomposites with hierarchical structures and outstanding mechanical performance. We will try
to understand the functionality of the individual microconstituents (mineral and biopolymers) in the seashells, in
particular, the processes and mechanisms of crack healing in the seashell structures. Scanning electron microscopy
(SEM), Microhardness tester and Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) techniques will be used in this project
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
396 MS31 Resistive Switching of the Transition Metal Oxide Films MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA This project is to use Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) based techniques to study the resistive switching and
polarization switching processes and mechanisms of transition metal oxide films produced by PLD and/or sputtering
technique or chemical method. SPM based technique can provide high spatial resolution on both the lateral and vertical
directions information on the switching processes and mechanisms. In addition, it has the ability to reveal local surface
information such as surface topography, electrical conduction (resistance), surface potential (space charge distribution),
polarization directions etc.
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
397 MS32 Analysis of nanoindentation experiments MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA Nanoindentation is a powerful technique developed in the last two decade to study the local mechanical properties of
materials at nano- to micro-scales. There are several analysis models to analysing the nanoindentation load-
displacement data. This project aims to comparing the existing analysis models and to provide a guideline for
nanoindentation experiments and analysis for different materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers and thin films.
(The students are required to know how to use the numerical software such as MATLAB or Origin Pro).
i.e. mixture of
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
398 MS33 Design a Stress Stage for Scanning Probe Microscopy
Measurements
MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is a powerful technique for nano- to micro-scale multi-functional characterization.
This technique is special suitable for characterizing the coupling between electric/chemical/mechanical properties. This
project aims to design and fabricate (at least a prototype) stress stage to be used in the constraint space and
requirement of SPM equipment. This stage can be used to apply stress to the specimens and at the same time can
perform SPM measurement.
NA
399 MS34 Analysis of Dynamic Atomic Force Microscopy
Experiments
MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA Dynamic Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has become one of the most important tools in nanotechnology with its
capabilities of measuring topography and physic-chemical-mechanical-electrical properties. This project aims to
understand the image mechanisms for Amplitude-modulation AFM as well as bi-modal AFM experiments. Through the
project, we aim to develop the understanding of the energy dissipation during the AFM measurement, and further to
understanding how to mapping the composition and properties through the AFM measurements.
ng and
Analysis;#Hybrid i.e.
and theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
400 MS35 Software development for MFP-3D Scanning Probe
Microscopy
MS Assoc Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA This project aims to develop certain low-level software packages which can perform certain scanning probe microscopy
works in which the high-level software do not have. Scanning Probe Microscopy is a powerful tool in the development
and characterization of advanced materials. At Materials Division, we have MFP-3D system from Asylum Research.
The student will work with the postgraduate students to develop some customized software packages to control the
system and perform analysis. The student needs to understand the operation of the commercial software such as
IgorPro or Matlab.
ng and
Analysis;#Software
Development
NA
401 MS36 Computational modeling of solid electrolytes for
electrochemical batteries
MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Electrolytes are a critical component of an electrochemical battery determining its longevity, safety, and charge rate.
You will use atomistic simulations to study structures and ion conduction properties of promising solid electrolytes for
metal ion batteries.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
402 MS37 Computational modeling of materials for organic battery
electrodes
MS Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Organic electrodes have the potential to realize economic and sustainable electrochemical storage but still remain
understudied. You will compute Li and Na storage properties of promising organic materials using atomistic simulation
techniques.
Energy and
Sustainability
Analysis
403 MS38 Phenolic Glues for Improved Stability of Electrospun
Gelatin Nanofibres
MS Prof. Seeram Ramakrishna Dr. R. Lakshminarayanan
(Singapore Eye Research
Institute)
Poor mechanical stability and high water solubility limit the utility of gelatin as wound dressings. The major goal of this
project is to use bioinspired phenolic glues for improving the mechanical and biostability. The phenolic additives are
expected to fuse the nanofibres at the junction, thus improving the mechanical stability of the nanofibres mats. Using the
optimized electrospinning conditions, the goal is to investigate the effect of two phenolic additives on thermal and
mechanical stability of gelatin fibre mats. The student will be trained in various experimental techniques such as
electrospinning, electron microscopies, FTIR, Instron tensile tester and thermogravimetry.
Investigation
NA
404 MS39 Nanoecapsulation of Antimicrobials for Topical
Applications
Institute)
Bacterial and fungal infections are the leading cause of superficial skin and ocular infections in tropical countries. Topical
applications of drugs are limited poor tissue penetration and bioavailability, therefore, frequent applications is desired.
The major goal of this project is to generate polymeric nanoparticles encapsulated with synthetic antimicrobial peptides
and study their efficacy in an ex vivo model of skin infections. The student will be trained in various experimental
techniques such as microbiology, electrospraying, scanning & transmission electron microscopies, peptide chemistry,
FTIR and High Performance Liquid Chromatography techniques.
Investigation
NA
405 MS40 Polymeric Nanoparticles for the Controlled Release of
Antifungal Peptides
Institute)
Fungal keratitis, the infections of the cornea by fungal pathogens constitute the largest proportion of infectious keratitis
in Asia and South East Asia populations. Echinocandins are the most recent US FDA approved antifungal peptide for
systemic infections and its utility for topical applications is unknown. The major goal of this project is to generate
polymeric nanoparticles encapsulated with echinocandins and investigate the release kinetics and in vitro antifungal
efficacy. The student will be trained in various experimental techniques such as microbiology, electrospraying, scanning
& transmission electron microscopies, FTIR and High Performance Liquid Chromatography techniques.
Investigation
NA
406 MS41 Preparation of Non-leachable Wound Dressings by
Reactive Electrospinning
Institute)
Chronic wounds affect about 5.7 million and significant economic burden for the patients. The increasing numbers of
obesity and diabetic patients have further exacerbated the conditions. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and iodine based
dressings are used extensively for the management of infected wounds and burns. The major goal of this project is to
generate AgNPs and iodine during electrospinning by redox chemistry and investigate their effect on mechanical and
antimicrobial properties under dynamic conditions. The student will be trained in various experimental techniques such
as electrospinning, microbiology, electron microscopies, FTIR, Instron tensile tester and thermogravimetry.
Investigation
NA
407 MS42 Electrospun Carbon Nanofiber-reinforced cables MS Prof. Seeram Ramakrishna NA Cables with high mechanical property are favourable in the modern engineering. They need to be light and strong at the
same time. To develop high-performance cable, various techniques have been explored. Electrospinning technique is
among the most cost-effective methods. Carbon nanofibers produced by electrospinning can greatly improve the
mechanical property for conventional polymer fibers or steel fibers by five-fold with only 5% incorporation. Therefore,
the project is to study the optimization conditions of producing electrospun carbon nanofiber for mechanical
reinforcement. The student is expected to learn various experiments, such as electrospinning, electron microscopies,
FTIR, Instron tensile tester and thermogravimetry.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
408 MS43 Application of Blue Ocean Strategy to product design MS Assoc Prof Fellow Lai Man
On
NA Blue Ocean Strategy, a book written by W. Chan Kim and Rene Mauborgne of The Blue Ocean Strategy Institute at
INSEAD and first published in 2005, is about business strategy. The book illustrates what the authors believe is the best
organizational strategy to generate growth and profits. Blue Ocean Strategy suggests that an organization should create
new demand in an uncontested market space, or a "Blue Ocean", rather than compete head-to-head with other
suppliers in an existing industry. Although applied to business, the strategy may be applied to design of engineering
products. The aim of this project is to apply this strategy to the design of some products of the students choice.
Note: This is not a continuation of previous projects even though the project title remains unchanged.
Investigation
NA
409 MS44 Application of biomimicry to design of products MS Assoc Prof Fellow Lai Man
On
NA Design in nature has inspired many designers in the past. Currently more and more products have been designed with
inspiration from nature. This project looks into the possibility of applying biomimicry to the design of some useful
products. The project involves not only designing, but if possible, also building of prototype for testing.
Investigation
NA
Page 24 of 25
410 MS45 Innovating the engineering design process MS Assoc Prof Fellow Lai Man
On
NA The engineering design process as taught in ME2101 Fundamentals of Mechanical Design, in one form or another, has
been developed and taught to many engineering and product design students all over the world. Is the compliance of
this design process the best way to carry out a design in practice? Or is there a more innovative way to carry out a
design? This is the aim of this project where innovative recommendations are sought after.
Investigation
NA
411 MS46 Design of a water bicycle MS Assoc Prof Fellow Lai Man
On
NA Bicycling has always been a favourite sport for many people. For an island like Singapore, it may be an ideal place to
utilise the sea as an arena instead of land. The aim of this project is to explore the possibility of designing a bicycle
dedicated for use on/in water. For racing purposes, the water bicycle has to be designed for performance.
Investigation
NA
412 MS47 Modelling and simulation of a VCM actuator mechanism
for hard disk drives
MS Assoc Prof Fellow Lai Man
On
Dr He Zhimin (Data Storage
Institute)
In a hard disk drive, a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator is employed to carry and place magnetic recording elements at
specified locations of magnetic disks for data reading/writing. The access time to the disk location and positioning
accuracy of the recording elements are affected by the external disturbances and structural vibration and resonances
etc. The proposed project is to design and develop a novel actuator mechanism which generate a pure torque to the
VCM actuator with minimized disturbances, and therefore to improve the actuator performance. The student will be
involved in mechanical design, structural vibration modelling, and electromagnetic simulation for force and motor
efficiency analysis. The project will train the student in design, modeling and simulation of mechanical components and
mechatronic devices.
Note: As per Research Institute requirement, only students with second upper class honours and above will be
considered.
Investigation
NA
413 MS48 Erosion in subsea pipelines and equipment MS Assoc Prof Christina Lim NA A major factor limiting the useful lives of subsea pipelines and equipment is erosion caused entrained hard particles.
This project will study the erosion of steel through a series of experiments using an existing erosion test rig. The focus
will be on identifying the causes of erosion under varied flow conditions by close examination of the eroded surfaces
mainly through metallographic preparation and microstructural analysis. The ideal candidate for this project should be
methodical in carrying out laboratory experiments and be careful in specimen preparation and microscopic study.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Technology
Investigation
NA
414 MS49 Sand erosion in jet turbine engines MS Assoc Prof Christina Lim NA Aircrafts often operate in sandy environments, particularly during taking off and landing. Sand particles can become
entrained in the jet turbine engines of the aircrafts and cause severe erosion to the engine components. This project will
study the erosion of steel through a series of experiments using an existing erosion test rig. The focus will be on
identifying the causes of erosion under varied flow conditions by close examination of the eroded surfaces mainly
through metallographic preparation and microstructural analysis. The ideal candidate for this project should be
methodical in carrying out laboratory experiments and be careful in specimen preparation and microscopic study.
Aeronautical
Engineering
Investigation
NA
415 MS50 The tribology of metallic composites MS Assoc Prof Christina Lim NA Tribology (friction and wear) is a vital yet often overlooked aspect in design, resulting in power losses and reduced
component life. This project will explore the friction and wear characteristics of some metallic composites through a
series of experiments using an existing wear tester. The composites will be examined in terms of their mechanical
behaviour during testing, as well as their surface features after testing through extensive microscopic analysis. The ideal
candidate for this project should be methodical in carrying out laboratory experiments and be careful in specimen
preparation and microscopic study
Investigation
NA
416 MS51 Blended labs for engineering education MS Assoc Prof Christina Lim NA Despite the popularity of online learning, there is still a place for hands-on learning in engineering. This project will
develop a laboratory experiment to complement the teaching of a core module in materials science, with both online
and hand-on components. The scope of this project includes filming of new video footage (equipment supplied),
sourcing of existing online animation, creating assessment questions and rudimentary implementation of the online
component on IVLE or any suitable online platform. The ideal candidate for this project should have an interest in
education and creating multimedia content.
Investigation
NA
417 MS52 From science to engineering MS Assoc Prof Christina Lim NA The study of physics, chemistry and biology are familiar to any student or parent. While the physical sciences are the
foundations of engineering, the very concept of engineering remains difficult to articulate and the layman often has only
the haziest notion of engineering. This project will seek to present familiar theories in high-school physics and/or
chemistry in their mechanical engineering context; e.g. how the laws of circular motion relate to designing an F1 car for
successful cornering. The presentations will be made through posters, animations, videos, interactive exhibits or
demonstrations, similar to how science museums, e.g. the Singapore Science Centre, present such information to the
general public. The ideal candidate for this project should have an interest in engineering education.
experiment and
theoretical, or
experimental and
numerical/software
NA
418 MS53 Electrospinning Synthesis of Carbon-Based Hybrid
Materials for LiO2 Batteries
MS Prof Seeram Ramakrishna NA The low cost of electrospun carbon materials are promising alternatives to noble metals in Li-O2 battery. Combined with
other materials inclusing nitrides and oxides, the hybrid composites could improve the battery performance. In this
project, we will fabricate carbon-based hybrid composites by electrospinning combined with hydro/solvothermal. The
compositions of the composites can be controlled by adjusting the reaction conditions, including temperatures, time, and
reactant amounts. Furthermore, their catalytic properties will be primarily investigated in Li-O2 battery.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation; #Product
Development
NA
419 MS54 Electrospun Perovskites as High-Performance
Catalysts for LiO2 Batteries
MS Prof Seeram Ramakrishna NA Lithium-air batteries have captured worldwide attention due to their highest energy density. In this project, we will
fabricate 1D perovskite materials with controlled structures by adjusting the electrospinning parameters, including
setups, calcination temperature, and calcination atmosphere. Their intrinsic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and
oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity will be tested. And their applications as cathode catalysts in Li-O2 batteries will
be investigated. It is believed that the synergistic effect the high catalytic activity and the unique hollow channel structure
of the materials will lead to high performance in Li-O2 batteries and guide us to develop novel materials.
Energy and
Sustainability
Investigation; #Product
Development
NA
420 MS55 Computational study of interactions between cell-
penetrating peptide and lipid membrane
MS Assist. Prof Manzhos, Sergei NA Harnessing the ability of cell penetrating peptides (CPP) to transport matter through the cell membrane and inside a cell
would be of great help to bioengineering and nanomedicine. You will study, by using molecular dynamics,
conformations, inter-peptide interactions, and CPP-lipid membrane interactions of a selected CPP.
analysis
NA
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Available List of Final Year Projects - AY2014/15

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