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Final Year Project (FYP) Mechanical Engineering Programme, Semester 1 (2015-2016)

Final Year Project (FYP) proposals offered

No. Name Number of proposals

offered 1. Prof. Dr. Masjuki Hj Hassan 3 2. Prof. Madya Dr. Yau Yat Huang On leave 3. Dr. Thomas Arthur Ward 6 4. Dr. Md. Kazi Salim Newaz 3 5. Dr. Md. Abul Kalam 3 6. Dr. Rahizar Ramli - 7. Dr. Chong Wen Tong - 8. Dr. Mohd Faizul Mohd Sabri Sabbatical leave 9. Dr. Poo Balan Ganesan 5 10. Dr. Irfan Anjum Magami 5 11. Dr. Mahendra Varman 2 12. Dr. Dr. Chew Bee Teng 1 13. Dr. Ahmad Badaruddin 5 14. Dr. Ahmad Saifizul Abdullah Sabbatical leave 15. Dr. Sabariah Julaihi 2 16. Dr. Khoo Shin Yee 4 17. Dr. Nik Nazri Nik Ghazali - 18. Mr. Poh Sin Chew - 19. Dr. Mohd Zamri Zainon Sabbatical leave 20. Dr. Alex Ong Zhi Chao 5 21. Dr. Ong Hwai Chyuan 3 22. Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli 5

Total 51

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List of Final Year Project (FYP) proposals Mechanical Engineering Programme, Semester 1 (2015-2016)

1. Prof. Dr. Masjuki Hj Hassan

Project number : MHH01/2015 Supervisor : Prof Masjuki Hj Hassan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Oxidative degradation of vegetable oil and its influence on tribological behavior New: Oxidative degradation of vegetable oil and synthetic ester and their influence on tribological behavior

Synopsis: Thermal-oxidation stability is one of the most important parameters responsile for extending the maximum service life of lubricating oil. Oxidation of vegetable oils not only influences the overall performance, the life expactancy, and the operating cost of the lubricant, but also is prone to influence the lubrication paramters and wear of various equipment. The objective of this research to investigate the oxidative degradation of vegetable oil by using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The tribolgical properties will be investigated using four-ball tester and the influence of oxidation products on tribological performance will be discussed

Project number : MHH02/2015 Supervisor : Prof Masjuki Hj Hassan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Oxidative degradation of syntethic ester and its influence on tribological behavior

Synopsis: Thermal-oxidation stability is one of the most important parameters responsile for extending the maximum service life of lubricating oil. Oxidation of vegetable oils not only influences the overall performance, the life expactancy, and the operating cost of the lubricant, but also is prone to influence the lubrication paramters and wear of various equipment. The objective of this research to investigate the oxidative degradation of synthethic oil by using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The tribolgical properties will be investigated using four-ball tester and the influence of oxidation products on tribological performance will be discussed

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Project number : MHH03/2015 Supervisor : Prof. Masjuki Hj Hassan Research area : Mechanical engineering (Tribology) Title : The feasibility study of CaCO3 derived from cockleshell as nanoparticle in chemically modified lubricant

Synopsis: Recently, nanomaterials have received great attention in various research areas because of their special physical and chemical properties, especially in automotive fields. Many related automotive studies have looked into ways of improving engine performance and efficiency. This prompts the future development of energy-efficient vehicles (EEV), by searching for low friction and anti-wear technologies and improved emissions and engine performance. In this investigation, a pin-on-plate apparatus will be used to study the effect of CaCO3 on the tribological performance of bio-based lubricants. In the experiments, pin cast iron will be slide against steel plat of different percentage of CaCO3 in the presence of biobased lubricant

2. Prof. Madya Dr. Yau Yat Huang

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3. Dr. Thomas Arthur Ward (6)

Project number : TAW01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Regenerative braking system for prototype vehicles Synopsis: Two prototype vehicles will be built to compete in the Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2016, which is an energy efficiency competition. One way to make better use of energy is to implement a regenerative braking system. In this project, the student designs and tests a regenerative braking system on one of the vehicles. Additionally the brake systems must be designed to pass the SEMA technical inspection (e.g. ramp testing). [Note: Although this project may involve both vehicles, the student will be assigned to one of the teams for the competition.] Project number : TAW02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Ultra-efficient transmission system for prototype vehicles Synopsis: This project involves design and testing of a gearing system that allows the driver to coast the vehicle for periods of time (with minimal losses) in order to improve the vehicle fuel efficiency. In this project, the student designs and tests a coasting system on one of the vehicles in order to obtain the best efficiency. Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting a reports to compete for the SEM Technical Innovation off-track award for one of the vehicles. [Note: Although this project involves both vehicles, the student will be assigned to one of the teams for the competition and submit their off-track award through that team.] Project number : TAW03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Driving-aid systems for ultra-efficient prototype vehicles Synopsis: This project involves improving the drivers ability to operate the vehicles at their peak efficiency and also to meet the requirements of the competition (e.g. safety, ventilation, escape, run times, etc.). Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting a reports to compete for the SEM Safety off-track award for one of the vehicles. [Note: Although this project involves both vehicles, the student will be assigned to one of the teams for the competition and submit their off-track award through that team.] Project number : TAW04/2015

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Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Efficiency improvements for a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle Synopsis: This project involves analyzing and designing technical improvements that minimize ethanol fuel usage to a prototype fuel cell vehicle. This primarily involves the engine system, but other sources of secondary losses (e.g. weight minimization, wheel alignment, drag minimization, etc.) can be considered. Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting a reports to compete for the SEM Vehicle Design off-track award for the fuel cell vehicle. [Note: This project requires being on the fuel cell prototype vehicle team.] Project number : TAW05/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Efficiency improvements to an ethanol-fueled vehicle Synopsis: This project involves analyzing and designing technical improvements that minimize ethanol fuel usage to a prototype fuel cell vehicle. This primarily involves the engine system, but other sources of secondary losses (e.g. weight minimization, wheel alignment, drag minimization, etc.) can be considered. Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting a reports to compete for the SEM Vehicle Design off-track award for the ethanol vehicle. [Note: This project requires being on the ethanol-fueled ICE prototype vehicle team.] Project number : TAW06/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Thomas A. Ward Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Road testing and analysis of prototype vehicle systems Synopsis: This project involves designing driving tests, collecting data, and tracking modifications (done by themselves or other team members) to characterize the vehicles fuel efficiency and performance improvements as the vehicle is tested and prepared for the competition. This project is different than the other projects, in that it takes a system-level perspective of the entire vehicle rather than just one component. Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting all the reports necessary to compete for the Additionally the student will be in charge of submitting a reports to compete for the SEM Communications off-track award for one of the vehicles. [Note: Although this project involves both vehicles, the student will be assigned to one of the teams for the competition and submit their off-track award through that team.]

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4. Dr. Md. Kazi Salim Newaz (3)

Project number: KAZI01/2015 Supervisor Dr. Kazi Md. Salim Newaz Work area : Mechanical Engineering Title Heat Transfer to nanofluids in separation flow: Heat Transfer to nanofluids in separation flow: Flow separation enhances heat transfer at the separation zone. The enhanced heat transfer phenomena can be utilized to cool equipment at the desired level. Normally conventional fluids have less thermal conductivity than classified nanofluids. So to enhance heat exchanging fluid performance nanofluid could be used to enhance heat transfer further and help to cool the equipment. Present experimental and model will pave the way for efficient cooling of equipment. Project number: KAZI02/2015 Supervisor Dr. Kazi Md. Salim Newaz Work area : Mechanical Engineering Title Heat transfer to fibre Suspensions Wood pulp fibers are raw materials for the pulp and paper mill. The paper quality and formation are dependent on fibre type and processing. To improve paper quality fibre characterization is needed. Present research involves with characterization by correlating heat transfer and friction loss. Project number : Kazi-3/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Kazi Md. Salim Newaz Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Heat Exchanger Fouling Mitigation Synopsis: Double pipe heat exchanger will be exposed to aqueous super saturated solutions of mineral salts. Deposition rate on surfaces will be examined. Later environmental benign additives will be used to retard deposition rate on the heat exchanger surfaces. Thus present study will explore environmental friendy means of fouling mitigation of heat exchangers.

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5. Dr. Md. Abul Kalam (3)

Project number: MAK01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Work area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Energy balance of an internal combustion engine operated on biofuel. Synopsis: The student will run the engine using biofuel (biodiesel/bioethanol fuels) and calculate all the thermal energies obtained from different sources like thermal power, cooling heat lost, exhaust heat lost etc. The student needs to operate the engine either single cylinder or multicylinder whichever available in the heat engine laboratory during the thesis period.

Project number: MAK02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Work area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Study on friction power characteristics of a multi cylinder engine using a motoring engine test bed. Synopsis: The student will run a multi cylinder engine (non-combustion mode) using an AC motor. The AC motor will rotate the engine at any desired speed. The overall friction power will be calculated from AC motors electrical energy consumption. This results can be compared with the actual frictional power when the engine will be operating on using biofuel. From this experiment, the engine frictional power will be analyzed and discussed.

Project number: MAK03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Work area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Study on heating value and particulate matter (PM) of biodiesel blended fuels. Synopsis: The student will measure heating value and particulate matter for different biodiesel fuel samples. The analysis could be done on the effect of heating value on particulate matter (PM) size characteristics. The PM can be collected from bomb calorimeter and also from engine exhaust for comparison purposes. The student may have to use scanning electron microscope (SEM) for accurate discrepancy of PM from different samples.

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6. Dr. Rahizar Ramli

7. Dr. Chong Wen Tong

8. Dr. Mohd Faizul Mohd Sabri

9. Dr. Poo Balan Ganesan (5)

Project number : PBG01/2015 Supervisor : Poo Balan Ganesan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Effect of column height on rising a bubble: Application of VOF method. Synopsis: Hydrodynamics study of a single bubble rising through a stagnent liquid in a bubble column using the volume of fluid (VOF) model with continuum sufrace (CSF) model approach on ansys-fluent. The governing equations , surface tension force and gravitional force have been solved by pressure implicit splitting operator (PISO) algorithm. The gas-liquid interface motion has been solved using piecewise linear interface calculation(PLIC) model. The aims of this study to investigate the effect of column height on rising a bubble and the shape of bubble by numerically to optimize the time with better physical understanding of two phase flow likes single bubble rising behavior. Project number : PBG02/2015 Supervisor : Poo Balan Ganesan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design and development of thermal energy storage device using

phase change materials Synopsis: A phase change material (PCM) melts and solidifies at a certain temperature and is capable of storing and releasing large amount of latent heat because of its high heat of fusion. Low thermal conductivity of PCMs limits them to be used extensively but dispersion of solid metal nano particles in the base fluid overcome this issue and increase the conductivity upto a large extent. The aim of present study is to investigate the effect of thermal property of nanofluid on the solodification and melting rate.

Project number : PBG03/2015 Supervisor : Poo Balan Ganesan Research area : Mechanical Engineering

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Title : Effect of constriction angle on busrt frequency in hydrophobic centrifugal microfluidics

Synopsis: Today, centrifugal microfluidic platforms are extensively used as fast and portable tools in many biomedical and clinical procedures such as diseas detection and blooad analysis. The most significant part of a centrifugal microfluidic system is the capillary valve. When a hydrophobic capillary meets a sudden constriction in its geometry, capillary pressure stops the fluid advancement in the capillary. The maximum rotational speed required for overcoming that pressure barrier is referred as the burst frequency. Constriction angle has a significant effect on the burst frequency of a hydrophobic vapillary valve. The present study aims to investigate the effect of constriction angle on the burst frequency in centrifugal microfluidic platorms by using a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method.

Project number : PBG04/2015 Supervisor : Poo Balan Ganesan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Computational study of the distribution of blood flow in microvascular network Synopsis: The distribution of red blood cells at a vessel branching of diverging and converging is a key issue in the circulation. It is known that the red blood cell distribution into the daughter vessels at bifurcation is non-uniform and the distribution is hugely dependent on the flow-rate ratio of the daughter vessel to parent vessel. The purpose of this project to study the distribution of red blood cells in vascular branches using computational modeling.

Project number : PBG05/2015 Supervisor : Poo Balan Ganesan Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Computational study of nanofluid forced convection in a slanted channel Synopsis: Nanofluid consists of suspension of nanoparticles in a base fluid. Nanofluid used as heat transfer fluid for cooling and heating purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristic in a slanted channel/tube using a computational fluid dynamics software (CFD).

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10. Dr. Irfan Anjum Magami (5)

Project number : IA01/2016 Supervisor : Dr. IRFAN ANJUM Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design of safe helmet Summary: It is seen that during accidents of two wheeler with heavy duty vehicle, the two wheeler riders head may get trapped in the tires of heavy duty vehicles posing an extremely dangerous situation. This project focusses on the design of helmet that can improve the safety of two wheeler rider particularly during accident with light/heavy duty vehicles.

Project number : IA02/2016 Supervisor : Dr. IRFAN ANJUM Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design of smart parking system

Summary: This project focusses on the design of a system where the communication takes place between the system and the driver to identify the parking places as well as the obstruction during traffic jams for better judgment of vehicle maneuvering

Project number : IA03/2016 Supervisor : Dr. IRFAN ANJUM Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design of efficient shoes

Summary: We know that the human body needs energy for walking purpose which gets dissipated during the walk. This project aims to design a shoe that can assist while walking on the road by absorbing the potential energy of human body.

Project number : IA04/2016 Supervisor : Dr. IRFAN ANJUM Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design of efficient communication system to avoid queing problem at medical centres.

Summary: It is seen that the people requiring medical attention needs to wait at hospital for very time before being called to meet the doctor. This project aims to design an

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efficient communication system between patient and the clinic which can give timely information to avoid long waiting periods.

Project number : IA05/2016 Supervisor : Dr. IRFAN ANJUM Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design communication system to avoid traffic problem

Summary: It is seen that people get stuck in traffic due to unknowing of traffic condition at any particular route. This project aims to design an efficient communication system that can give real time update about traffic condition on a given route and communicate with drivers when requested.

11.Dr. Mahendra Varman (2)

Project number : MV01/2015 Supervisor : Mahendra Varman Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Wear behaviour of diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating in additive containing lubricants Synopsis: Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings offer excellent mechanical and tribological properties. They provide ultra-low friction and superior wear resistance. In recent years, the research of DLC coating focuses on the application of these coating in mechanical components which work under boundary lubricated conditions. Since conventional lubricants and lubricant additives were formulated for metal surfaces, the effects of these lubricants on DLC contact and interaction between lubricant additives and DLC surfaces are still unclear and need to be investigated. Project number : MV02/2015 Supervisor : Mahendra Varman Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Investigation of Engine Emission with Clean Diesel and Biofuel

Blend Synopsis: Biofuel as an alternative fuel prepared from vegetable oils or animal fats has attracted more and more attention because of its renewable and environmental-friendly nature. However, biofuel undergoes oxidation and degrade more quickly than mineral diesel. Furthermore, several studies report NOx emissions increases for biofuel compared with conventional diesel fuel. Therefore, this study intends to investigate engine emission when operated with biofuel blended with clean diesel.

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12.Dr. Dr. Chew Bee Teng (1)

Project number : CBT01/2015 Supervisor : Chew Bee Teng Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Study of the air quality inside a car. Synopsis: The lethal consequences of CO in engine exhaust are tragically illustrated by the hundreds of persons who die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a running vehicle inside a closed garage. Others die or become ill in homes with attached garages, while stranded in their car, or while driving or riding in a vehicle with a defective exhaust system. The present study aims to investigate the possibility of improving the air quality inside a car while driving or while the car is stopped with the air-conditioning and the engines are operating.

13.Dr. Ahmad Badaruddin (5)

Project number : ABB01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ahmad Badarudin Mohamad Badry Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Aerodynamic Analysis of a Thin Flapping Wing using CFD Synopsis: This study looks at the effect of flapping frequency on the lift, drag and pitching moment of the 3D wing, using CFD. To verify CFD results, flow velocity profile downstream of the wing will be measured. Project number : ABB02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ahmad Badarudin Mohamad Badry Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Investigating the Performance and Characteristics of a Wood Gas Generator Synopsis: The combustion of wood produces combustible gases which can be used as an alternative to carbon fuel for vehicles. This study will make extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to improve the performance of wood gasifiers. At least one component of the generator will be fabricated and tested. Data collected will be used to verify CFD results. Project number : ABB03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ahmad Badarudin Mohamad Badry Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Investigating the Performance and Characteristics of a Domestic Freeze Dryer/Lyophiliser. Synopsis: A freeze dryer can be used to dehydrate and freeze temperature sensitive products such as food, under vacuum, for the purpose of preservation. A freeze dryer

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will be designed and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations will be used to improve the performance and efficiency of a freeze dryer. At least one component of the generator will be fabricated and tested. Data collected will be used to verify CFD results. Project number : ABB04/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ahmad Badarudin Mohamad Badry Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design, Build and Test a Landsailer Synopsis: CAD, CFD and FEA are the tools that can be utilised to design an efficient landsailer. Fabrication will be carried out in-house. Collected data from the vehicle will be used to verify computation results. Project number : ABB05/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ahmad Badarudin Mohamad Badry Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Design of a Transmission System for a Two Stroke Petrol Engine Driving a Propeller A microlight is to be driven by a propeller, powered by a twostroke petrol engine. A transmission system is required so that the propeller rotate at its optimum speed, which, in general, is different from the rotation speed of the engine. The focus of this study is to design a transmission system to transmit power from the engine to the propeller. Off-the-shelf transmission system will be looked at and analysis will be performed to determine its suitability for this application.

4. Dr. Ahmad Saifizul Abdullah

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15. Dr. Sabariah Julaihi

Project number : SJ01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Sabariah Julaihi Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Modelling of wind turbine system for fixed-speed and variable-slip

types.

Synopsis: The modelling of these two types of wind turbine will be carried out in Solidwork/Simulink MATLAB software. The objective is to optimize the parameters that will affect the power output. The power output of a wind turbine is dependent on the efficiency of the blades, gear assembly, alternator/dynamo, as well as wind speed and wind consistency. The power output of taller wind turbines is greater due to the fact that wind speeds are greater at higher altitudes. The power output of wind turbines can be increased by turning the head in such a way that the blades face the wind, this can be done with a wind direction sensor combined with a motorized head moving mechanism (or yaw). Some of the factors affecting wind turbine performance include blade weight, strength, and shape. Blade strength is indirectly important to wind turbine performance because the blades are not able to safely and reliably meet their performance requirements unless they are strong enough. The student should consider all the parameters to obtain the maximum optimization for the power output.

Project number : SJ02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Sabariah Julaihi Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Modelling of wind turbine system for Doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) and Full-converter wind turbines types.

Synopsis: The modelling of these two types of wind turbine will be carried out in Solidwork/Simulink MATLAB software. The objective is to optimize the parameters that will affect the power output. The power output of a wind turbine is dependent on the efficiency of the blades, gear assembly, alternator/dynamo, as well as wind speed and wind consistency. The power output of taller wind turbines is greater due to the fact that wind speeds are greater at higher altitudes. The power output of wind turbines can be increased by turning the head in such a way that the blades face the wind, this can be done with a wind direction sensor combined with a motorized head moving mechanism (or yaw). Some of the factors affecting wind turbine performance include blade weight, strength, and shape. Blade strength is indirectly important to wind turbine performance because the blades are not able to safely and reliably meet their performance requirements unless they are strong enough. The student should consider all the parameters to obtain the maximum optimization for the power output.

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16. Dr. Khoo Shin Yee (4)

Project number : KSY01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Khoo Shin Yee Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Revolution in Modal Parameter Estimation: PolyMAX Synopsis: Modal analysis is the process of determining the dynamic properties or modal parameters of a structure for all modes in the frequency of interest. The modal parameters are modal frequency, modal damping and mode shape. These parameters can be estimated from measured Frequency Response Function (FRF) by using conventional curve fitting technique such as Polynomial method. Extraction of modal parameters has some limitations especially for noise-contaminated and highly damped systems. In this project, the student should develop and utilise an advanced curve fitting method (i.e. PolyMAX method) to enhance the modal parameter estimation result on an automobile test rig. Theoretically, PolyMAX method is better than conventional curve fitting method: selecting modal parameters are intuitive, clear and reliable even in the presence of high amounts of data noise and high damping. This project provides an experience of working on emerging curve fitting technique in structural dynamics and vibration field. Project number : KSY02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Khoo Shin Yee Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Development of Wind Energy Harvester by Using Piezoelectric

Material

Synopsis: With the limited supply of fossil fuels as it is non-renewable energy and the impact of the consumption of fossil fuels to the environment, sustainable energy system is highly demanded for a greener future. Wind energy is one of the common renewable energy and it is commonly harvested through wind turbine. There are several shortcomings using traditional wind turbine for wind energy harvesting purpose: noise pollution, large space occupation, disruptive to birds, etc. This project offers an alternative solution with a turbine-free wind energy harvester: Piezo-Wind Harvester. In fact piezoelectric material is able to convert energy from mechanical to electrical and vice versa. Theoretically, vibration/ mechanical motion of piezoelectric material induced by wind can be converted to electrical form. Hence it can be stored for other usages such as to power LED and other electrical devices. In this project, the student should design and fabricate the prototype of Piezo-Wind Harvestor by using low cost piezoelectric material and optimise the harvested energy via experimental technique.

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Project number : KSY03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Khoo Shin Yee Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Accuracy Enhancement of 3D Structural Translation and Tilt

Measurement Using MEMs Based 3-Axis Accelerometer via Sensor Fusion and Kalman Filtering

Synopsis: Advancement of MEMs Technology has enabled us to get very small and low cost accelerometer Ics which is based on capacitive principle. Besides, it measures both dynamic acceleration resulting from motion or shock and static acceleration, such as gravity, that allows the device to be used as tilt sensor. In this project, the student needs to emphasis on the development of the MEMs based accelerometer to measure both translational accelerations and its tilt/rotational angles in 3 axis (i.e. labelled as x, y & z in Cartesian domain) for structural health monitoring purpose. By interfacing the hardware to the signal processing / virtual instrument software (i.e. Matlab, LabVIEW , DASYLab, etc), the student shall be able to monitor and animate the vibration/motion of the test rig through the developed software. However, the accuracy of the translational and tilt measurement are affected by the drift problem of accelerometer. In this research, student should be able to improve the accuracy by using sensor fusion (i.e. integrate accelerometer with other sensors such as gyrocope and compass) and Kalman filtering approaches. This project provides an experience of working on emerging technologies and design software.

Project number : KSY04/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Khoo Shin Yee Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Identification of Dynamic Elastic Properties of Timber Structure by

Using Vibration Technique Synopsis: Identification of material properties is one of the key issues in composite and non-homogeneous materials research. This information is the most important database for an accurate Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) simulations as well as for damage accessment purpose. Conventional testing approach tends to be time-consuming, expensive and destructive. Furthermore it is not practical especially for non-homogeneous specimen (i.e. non-homogeneity and anisotropic features of timber structure). In this study, student is required to identify the dynamic elasic properties, namely dynamic Youngs modulus, shear modulus and Poissons ratio via experimental and finite element testings. Theoretically, natural frequencies and mode shape obtained from vibration techniques such as impulse excitation technique and modal analysis can be used for the material properties identification purpose. The accuracy of the developed material properties identification method will be verified with the result of destructive test.

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17. Dr. Nik Nazri Nik Ghazali

18. Mr. Poh Sin Chew

19. Dr. Mohd Zamri Zainon

20.Dr. Alex Ong Zhi Chao (5)

Project number : OZC01/2015 Supervisor : Ong Zhi Chao Research area : Vibration Title : Enhancement of Impact-Synchronous Modal Analysis (ISMA)

technique with the design and development of an Automated Impact Device (AID)

Synopsis: With the implementation of ISMA, modal analysis can be performed during operation on both rotor dynamic system and structural dynamic system where else the conventional analysis method requires the machines to be totally shut down. This study focuses on design and development of a portable and automated impact device which is synchronized and controlled by virtual instrument, DASYLab application programme in the effort to eliminate non-synchronous components with minimal possible impacts applied by feeding the phase angle information of responses from the cyclic load back to the device. The device will then be tested on laboratory rigs to verify the effectiveness and practicality of ISMA in order to replace the manually operated impact hammer. Project number : OZC02/2015 Supervisor : Ong Zhi Chao Research area : Vibration Title : Identification of material properties of orthotropic composite plate

using hybrid non-destructive evaluation approach Synopsis: Identification of material properties is one of the key issues in composite materials research. The mechanical properties of composite materials depend on diverse factors such as configuration of the laminates, constituent materials used and production method adopted.Conventional testing approach tends to be time-consuming, expensive and destructive. This research focuses on a rapid, inexpensive, hybrid and non-destructive evaluation approach which utilises experimental modal analysis and numerical methods in determining the material properties of an orthotropic composite plate.

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Project number : OZC03/2015 Supervisor : Ong Zhi Chao Research area : Vibration Title : Design and development of semi-active vibration control system

for exhaust air energy recovery wind turbine generator Synopsis: The increasing demand of wind energy technology has made it necessary to develop new techniques to improve the efficiency of this system. There are number of areas to deal for the next generation wind turbine technology. Large amount of vibration involved in the system reduces the efficiency of this system alarmingly. So it has become important to implement mechanical techniques to reduce vibration to increase the efficiency of the wind turbine system. This study deals with design, simulation, experimental measurement and validation of semi-active vibration controller for wind turbine system. Project number : OZC04/2015 Supervisor : Ong Zhi Chao Research area : Vibration Title : Design and development of vibration energy harvester for wind

turbine generator Synopsis: A vibration energy harvesting technique is proposed to further improve the reliability of the wind turbine technology. This system is integrated with a energy harvester which can produce energy from the wind turbine system due to vibration. The harvested vibration energy could convert to useful electrical energy to power the vibration controller, batteries or electrical components. This study deals with design and modelling of vibration energy harvester in computational software and propose a new optimum design configuration of vibration energy harvester based on experimental vibration analysis and validation. Project number : OZC05/2015 Supervisor : Ong Zhi Chao Research area : Vibration Title : Design and development of HODS (Human Operating Deflection

Shape) System for quantitative assessment of body joints. Synopsis: In recent years, the study of human body dynamics and that of relative movement/displacement of different segments of human body relative to itself or a fixed reference point have been attracting a significant amount of attention. Currently body joint assessment is done in very subjective ways, and relies heavily on the surgeons experience. This study integrates a well-tested methodology used for assessing the dynamic incompatibility between in-service machinery, known as Operating Deflection Shape (ODS) analysis, in developing a portable, low cost and accurate real time human motion dynamic analysis system called human ODS which is capable of detecting, measuring and analysing both steady and unsteady motion of human joint before, during and after the operation, giving scientists human dynamics information needed to improve both the surgical designs and procedures in a more objective way.

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21.Dr. Ong Hwai Chyuan (3)

Project number : OHC01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ong Hwai Chyuan Research area : Mechanical Engineering (alternative energy) Title : Enhancement of Biofuel Production from Tropical Biodiversity Sources via Heterogeneous Reaction Synopsis: The problem of energy crisis coupled with environmental issues and escalating petroleum prices have led scientist to search for alternative energy sources. Biofuel is the most potential candidate to solve the oil shortage, global warming and environmental problems. Thus, the main objective of this research is to explore a non-edible oil based biofuel from tropical biodiversity and improve the properties of produced biofuel. The expected output of this research is high quality biofuel from tropical biodiversity.

Project number : OHC02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ong Hwai Chyuan Research area : Mechanical Engineering (energy efficiency) Title : Evaluation of energy efficiency and fuel economy standard in road transport sector Synopsis: In Malaysia, the transportation sector is the largest energy consumption sector (36%). Transport energy consumption is mostly driven by road transport from fossil fuel. Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) was implemented in US in order to reduce fuel consumption and emissions production in transportation sector. Currently, Malaysia does not have fuel economy standard in this sector. Thus, this study is to evaluate the potential energy, emissions and economic impact of implementing fuel economy standard for road transport in Malaysia.

Project number : OHC03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Ong Hwai Chyuan Research area : Mechanical Engineering (energy efficiency) Title : Evaluation of energy efficiency and fuel economy label in road transport sector Synopsis: In Malaysia, the transportation sector is the largest energy consumption sector (36%). Transport energy consumption is mostly driven by road transport from fossil fuel. Energy efficiency and fuel economy label for road transport have been implemented globally, in order to reduce fuel consumption and emissions production in this sector. Currently, Malaysia does not have fuel economy labels. This study is to evaluate the potential techno-economic analysis and emissions reduction when implementing fuel economy label for road transport in Malaysia.

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22. Dr. Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli (5)

Project number : NZ01/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Tribological Behaviors of Graphene Oxide in Biobased Lubricant Synopsis: The effects of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) of Graphene Oxide (GO) as additives in biolubricant were determined. Polyalphaelefin (PAO) was blended with palm oil trimethylolpropane (TMP) ester and GNP was dispersed in the blended biolubricants at 0.01wt%, 0.05wt% and 0.1wt%. The physical properties (ie: viscosity, TAN, TBN, density, etc.) of the biolubricants are identified and the tribological behavior was studied by using fourball tribotester. The optimum amount of GNP added that are able to reduce as much as friction and wear were also determined.

Project number : NZ02/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Extreme Pressure Analysis of Graphene Oxide in Biobased Lubricant Synopsis: The effects of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) of Graphene Oxide (GO) as additives in biolubricant were determined. Polyalphaelefin (PAO) was blended with palm oil trimethylolpropane (TMP) ester and GNP was dispersed in the blended biolubricants at 0.01wt%, 0.05wt% and 0.1wt%. The physical properties (ie: viscosity, TAN, TBN, density, etc.) of the biolubricants are identified. Extreme pressure test are conducted using fourball tribotester where the load carrying capacity (Initial seizure load, weld load, etc.) of the lubricants will be determined. Project number : NZ03/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : TGA study of co-combustion of coal bio additive blend Synopsis: . The addition of different biomasses had been proven able to increase the volatile yield and increase the char production in some cases. This is very desirable in processes such as pyrolysis and gasification of coal. Beside that sintering and fouling can be reduce using additive (alkaline metal). The burning of biomass produces alkali chloride that is believe in reduction of SOx. Biomass also proven to reduce the NOx formation. We will conducted the TGA for coal bio additive blend. This will help us to understand the reactivity of the coal and see whether any synergetic reaction occurred or not. The calorific value also going to be investigate to see the effects on the heat content. For ash formation, The study will conducted using TGA. Project number : NZ04/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : Feasibility of Bioethanol and Biobutanol from agricultural waste in gasoline fuel

blend as transportation fuel on Spark Ignition Engine

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Synopsis: . The next promising and competitive biofuel is biobutanol which has superior properties to be used in SI engine without engine modification. However, the production of bioethanol and biobutanol from food feedstock i.e. corn and wheat has to compete with the food industries hence rising in demand and food prices. Thus, this research aims to study the feasibility of using bioethanol and biobutanol from agricultural waste in gasoline fuel blends on spark ignition engine performance and exhaust emissions. From this study, it will determine the fuel properties of bioethanol and biobutanol from agricultural waste as gasoline substitutes. Secondly, we will study the engine performance characteristics such as the torque, break power, brake specific fuel consumption (bsfc) and exhaust gas temperature. Thirdly, we will investigate the effect of the bioethanol and biobutanol addition in gasoline fuel blends on the exhaust emission characteristics of HC, CO, Nox and Co2

Project number : NZ05/2015 Supervisor : Dr. Nurin Wahidah Mohd Zulkifli Research area : Mechanical Engineering Title : TRIBOLOGICAL STUDIES ON EFFECT OF GRAPHENE CAPPING AS

LUBRICANT ADDITIVE Synopsis: . Friction in moving mechanical system spent a significant portion of energy in order to facilitate sliding motion. Consequently, it contributes to climate change as the fuel used to generate energy turns into CO2. Thus, lubricant is widely used as engine oil not only in engine vehicle, also in industrial equipment such as food-processing equipment to reduce friction and wear in engine moving parts. Normally lubricant contain of 90% base oil commonly from petroleum fraction called mineral oils and less than 10% additives. The usage of nanoparticle as additive in lubricant is due to its unique properties such as the effects of quantum-size, effect of small size and effects of surface. However, addition of nanoparticles into basefluid (lubricant) will affect the stability of nanofluid (lubricant containing additive). It is believed that by capping the nanoparticle (graphene) can achieve better stability of the fluid. Thus, this project will study the effect of capping on tribological properties and stability of lubricant added with nanoparticle.