DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND MECHATRONIC ENGINEERING · DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND MECHATRONIC...

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND MECHATRONIC

ENGINEERING

Stellenbosch University

PhD & MEng TOPICS 2018

(August 2017)

PhD (Engineering)

MEng Research (Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering)

MEng Structured

(Mechanical Engineering)

Table of Contents

Design & Mechatronics Division

Prof AH Basson & Mr K Kruger Dr C Coetzee Prof PR Fourie Mrs LC Ginsberg Prof N Mahomed Mr J Muiyser Dr JH Müller Prof K Schreve Dr WJ Smit Dr D van den Heever Mr J van der Merwe Mechanics Division

Dr A Bekker Dr TH Becker Dr DC Blaine Prof AA Groenwold Prof G Venter Dr MP Venter Thermo Fluids Division

Mr RW Haines Prof TM Harms Dr JE Hoffmann Dr MTF Owen Dr SJ van der Spuy Prof TW von Backström Renewable Energy Prof AA Groenwold Prof TM Harms Prof TW von Backström

Design & Mechatronics

Division

Dosent / Lecturer: Prof AH Basson Mr K Kruger

Email: [email protected] ; [email protected]

Tel: +27 21 808 4250/4258

Office: M514/M509

Fakulteit / Faculty: Engineering

Departement / Department: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering

Afdeling / Division: Design & Mechatronics / Mechanics / Thermo fluids / Renewable Energy

Navorsingsveld / Research field: Manufacturing Automation for Cyber-Physical Production Systems and Industry 4.0

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Industry 4.0, or the fourth industrial revolution, is the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. It includes cyber-physical production systems (CPPS), the Internet of things and cloud computing. Our research focusses on three levels of CPPS: (1) In the "Smart Connection Level", issues such as tether-free communication and sensor networks are considered. (2) The "Data-to-Information Conversion Level" considers issues such as smart analytics for component machine health and degradation and performance prediction. (3) The "Cyber Level" considers issues such as the twin model (or digital twin) for components and machines, machine time-variation identification and memory and data clustering for data mining. We are also considering the role of humans, both as workers and supervisors, within modern manufacturing environments. We are interested in the adaptation of control architectures and the use of eye-tracking technology to facilitate the integration of humans in manufacturing systems.

Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng (Structured)

MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. Technologies for implementing a "digital twin" in a CPPS. This includes modelling techniques for the physical system's behaviour in the digital world, methods and formats for information exchange between the digital and physical systems, as well as between the digital twin and the cyber-space. Current projects are in collaboration with a South African company that produces automation equipment for the automotive industry in various parts of the world.

X X 1xMEng or 1xPhD

2. The development of Erlang-based control implementations to facilitate CPPS. Erlang is a functional programming language that offers advantages in modularity, concurrency and fault tolerance – all of which are important in various levels of CPPS.

X

3. The integration of eye-tracking technology in manufacturing environments. In manual or semi-automated manufacturing systems, eye-tracking can potentially be used for quality assurance, process and workspace optimization and safety monitoring.

X

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Although preference is given to Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering graduates, students from other engineering backgrounds will also be considered.

mailto:[email protected]


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof Corné Coetzee

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +27 21 808 4239

Office: M505




Navorsingsveld / Research field: The modelling of bulk materials handling in the mining and agricultural sectors. The improvement of fruit packaging in terms of cooling and structural strength. Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The Discrete Element Method (DEM) is a numerical method used to model granular materials and industrial processes. Mining applications include the calibration of material properties as well as the modelling of typical mining processes such as the flow of ore on conveyor belts, transfer chutes and hoppers. The aim of such a study would be to optimise the process in terms of mass flow rates while limiting wear and spillage. Agricultural applications include the modelling of post-harvest fruit handling to predict damage and bruising and soil-tool interaction with the aim of improving the implements. Packaging (plastic bags, carton boxes, etc.) is used to protect fruit during handling and transportation. However, the fruit need to be kept cooled while mechanical damage should be minimised. Boxes that are structurally strong will prevent any mechanical damage such as bruising but might prevent proper cooling of the fruit. On the other hand, a box which will allow the fruit to cool properly might not be able to prevent mechanical damage. The optimum design should be found. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng

(Structured) MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. The modelling of a conveyor transfer chute using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). This will include experimental work using our unique large scale conveyor test facility, the calibration of material properties, and DEM modelling. The aim would be to determine how accurately DEM can predict the material behaviour in terms of flow rates, flow paths, build-up and blockage and loading onto the receiving conveyor belt. The research should also include the use of cohesive materials such as wet ore. Appropriate experiments should be developed to characterise these materials and this should be implemented in the DEM software.

x x Possibility of funding for:

1 x PhD

3 x MEng

2. The modelling of fruit packaging using the Finite Element Method (FEM). The properties of paperboard used to manufacture boxes should be measured and used in a FEM model to predict the structural strength of the box under different loading and environmental conditions such as changes in temperature, humidity and creep loading. This will include experimental laboratory and field work as well as FEM modelling.

x Possibility of funding for:

1 x MEng

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Finite Element Method where applicable.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof PR Fourie


Tel: +27 21 808 4249

Office: M614




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Biomedical Engineering

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Biomedical Engineering includes the challenge created by the diversity and complexity of living systems that require creative, knowledgeable and imaginative people working in teams of physicians, scientists, engineers and even business folk to monitor, restore or support and enhance normal body function. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Clinical Data Mining. X YES

2. Clinical Data Mining. X YES

3. Sensoring (EEG, heartrate, SaO2, Temp). X YES

4. Oxygenation Membrane. X YES

5. Non-invasive contractility monitoring of the heart. X NO

6. Urine analyses using nanotechnology. X YES

7. Cilia Dysfunction. X YES

8. Trans cranial stimulation: Electrical. X YES

9. Trans cranial stimulation: Magnetic. X YES

10. Trans cranial stimulation: Sound X YES

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements:


Dosent / Lecturer: Mrs Liora Ginsberg


Tel: +27 21 808 4084

Office: M623




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Biomedical engineering - Microcirculation flow pattern in the lymph

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The lymphatic system is an important biological system, with main functions of immunity and transportation of excess fluid from amongst the capillaries in the loose connective tissue into the vascular system. Much research has been conducted on the flow patterns of the circulatory system, into which the lymphatic system flows, however little has been attempted on the lymphatic system.

Parametric studies and numerical modelling of the micro-circulation of specific regions of the lymphatic system need to be conducted. The project takes place in the context on on-going final year projects and a PhD study. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. CFD studies of detail micro-circulation in a lymphatic segment / duct

X 1 student

2. Studies in micro flow of the lymphatic network system X 1 student

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: CFD


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof N Mahomed


Tel: +27 21 808 2524

Office: M607




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Solidification of Metal Alloys

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Modelling, simulation and experimental verification of processes related to the casting of alloys, which include mass and heat transfer during solidification, solute diffusion and microsegregation, macrosegregation and heat treatment. Special related topics on directional solidification for single crystal castings, thermal barrier coatings, and macrosegregation on large castungs. The work relies on general finite element analysis code and specialised code for casting process simulation and solute diffusion.

Facilities include (a) industrial software systems: Magmacast for simulation of metal casting processes and DICTRA Thermacalc for modelling microscale solute diffusion; (b) microstructure assessment equipment, including in-situ solidification microscopy; (c) metal casting facilities at cooperation partners locally and overseas. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Modelling of Multi-Component Diffusion and Phase Transformation during Solidification Heat Treatment of Casting Steel This project will specifically address the formation of phases during solidification of a selected (low carbon) steel grade used in high performance castings. The project will attempt to control heat transfer rates (especially during solution heat treatment) to produce a desired microstructure. It will also investigate relevant standards (for heat treatment protocols) and develop a comparative assessment. The project involves theoretical development of heat transfer and phase evolution models, use of commercial simulation software, and experimental heat treatment investigations.

X 1 X NRF Bursary of R40K for 2018 and 2019 – only for South African students. Student will need to obtain additional funding independently.

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Undergraduate courses in Solid Mechanics (Strengths of Materials), Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer and Finite Element Analysis. Interest in Materials Science / Metallurgy.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr J Muiyser


Tel: +27 21 808 4077

Office: M512




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Fan noise and vibration

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Large axial flow fans are used in air-cooled condensers (ACCs) to condense process steam. These fans are subjected to a variety of unique operating conditions that cause vibration and elevated noise levels. Excessive vibration may lead to premature component failure while noise levels are increasingly regulated. Mechanisms to improve ACC fan performance and reduce fan vibration include wind screens and extended walkways. However, the effects of these are rarely simulated before installation in order to optimise their configuration. Additionally, the sound quality of these fans and other industrial fans are rarely investigated. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Simulation of ACC fan vibration under distorted inlet air flow conditions

x x

2. Investigation of ACC fan noise x x

3. Axial flow fan psychoacoustics x x



Dosent / Lecturer: Dr JH Müller


Tel: +27 21 808 4074

Office: M618





Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: I have spent some time on the application of computational methods in analyses on biomechanics. The majority of my efforts have been on the knee joint, but I do dabble in cardiovascular biomechanics as well. Since computational models require experimental data for validation, my students and I have also tried our hand at benchtop, cadaver and human testing. If you are interested in one of the topics below, or have a related topic in mind, please swing by for a chat. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Derivation of knee laxity profiles from the open knee dataset (http://wiki.simtk.org/openknee).

X Negotiable

2. Derivation of cartilage and meniscus viscoelastic effects from the open knee dataset (http://wiki.simtk.org/openknee).

X Negotiable

3. Comparison of intact and replaced knee biomechanics (http://digitalcommons.du.edu/natural_knee_data/; https://simtk.org/projects/kneeloads; https://orthoload.com/database/)

X X Negotiable

4. Experimental measurement of ligament laxity and stress/strain profiles.

X Negotiable

5. Experimental measurement of heart valve stress/strain response.

X Negotiable

6. Development of a numerical pipeline for prediction of heart valve performance.

X Negotiable

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: FEA/CFD/Dynamics


http://wiki.simtk.org/openknee

http://wiki.simtk.org/openknee

http://digitalcommons.du.edu/natural_knee_data/

https://simtk.org/projects/kneeloads

https://orthoload.com/database/

Dosent / Lecturer: Prof K Schreve


Tel: +27 21 808 4091

Office: M520




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Robot Navigation & Micrometrology

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Motion analysis of athletes with stationary cameras such as the Vicon system does not allow tracking athletes in outdoor environments. Understanding the complex motions involved in disciplines such as mountain biking requires new technologies. With Dr’s Smit and Müller, we propose to develop a mobile system, relying on UAV borne camera tracking a mountain biker on an actual track. This part of the project is about accurately locating the UAV (or robot) so that certain markers on the biker can be tracked at high precision. This project is in conjunction with Dr’s Smit and Müller who are respectively looking at the UAV control and body model aspects. All over the world, scaling down mechanical devices opening up new technological frontiers. Insect sized drones can explore inside collapsed buildings after an earthquake, arrays of miniature sensors make our cars safer and micro-instruments allow surgeons to perform delicate operations with minimal impact to patients. In general, high precision manufacturing gives us more efficient, more environmentally friendly higher performance products. Manufacturing products of this type on a mass scale requires a whole new regime of measurement, called micro-metrology. It is pushing the envelope to more precise measurements over a longer range than is currently possible, all in three dimensions. Our research tries to find out how such machines must be design, by designing and building our own prototype. Machine design, thermal analysis, structure dynamics, vibration isolation and environmental control are all issues being investigated. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. High precision dimensional metrology X X Apply through NMISA

2. Constraining the SLAM feature tracking algorithm with the body model

X X Applied for NRF funding

3. Quantifying the impact of the sensor capabilities on the UAV localisation


4. Finding an optimal sensor array to achieve the required marker localisation accuracy


Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: None


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr Willie Smit


Tel: +27 21 808 4046

Office: M608B




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles, control systems

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: We believe drones will be used more commonly in the workplace and at home. We therefore research various topics related to drones, such as: obstacle detection and avoidance; path planning; modern control; state estimation and so on. At the moment, we apply our research to concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. We are looking at ways in which drones can help with the construction and maintenance of CSP plants. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Develop a robust obstacle detection system for drones

X

2. Develop an onboard sun or star sensor to estimate the orientation of a drone

X

3. Improve the state estimation of drones X X

4. Develop a visual odometry system for drones X X

5. Develop a drone system to characterise the optical quality of a heliostat

X

6. Measure the optical quality of heliostats in the Helio100 field

X

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Good programming skills.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr Dawie van den Heever


Tel: +27 21 808 4856

Office: M615




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Biomedical Engineering / Neuroscience

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Unlocking the mysteries of the brain is the next frontier in scientific discovery. The brain is the most complex organ in the human body (arguably in the whole universe) and is responsible for our every thought, action, memory, feeling and subjective experience. Better insights into how this all manifests is necessary for a large number of varied reasons. Neuroscientific discoveries have the potential to pioneer novel ways to treat brain diseases, improve quality of life and even revolutionize current computing technologies. Our understanding of the brain is still riddled with puzzles that cannot be considered in isolation, and therefore our focus is to link the biology of the brain to its applied philosophy. At this intersection between philosophy and science lies the questions we aim to address: Do we possess free will? How does one justify subjective experience? What is consciousness? Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Machine Learning techniques to find markers for spontaneous voluntary movements: An argument against free will.

X 0

2. Investigating the Bereitschaftspotential (Readiness potential) and its role in Free Will

X 0

3. Solving the timing issue in the Libet studies – When does the conscious intent to move arise?

X 0

4. The neural correlates of attention X 0

5. Classifying EEG representations for distinct mental concepts: The ultimate question of qualia, is my experience of red the same as your experience of red?

X 0

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Enthusiasm and a passion for everything and anything about the brain. Curiosity.


Dosent / Lecturer: Mr J van der Merwe


Tel: +27 21 808 4038

Office: M613





Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Biomedical engineering with specific application to orthopaedic surgery, navigation, planning, and implant design. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Control and modelling of an Oxford Knee Rig x NA



Mechanics Division

Dosent / Lecturer: Dr Annie Bekker


Tel: +27 21 808 3914

Office: M617




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Dynamic responses of ice-going ships

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field:

The SA Agulhas II is a polar supply and research vessel, which undertakes annual scientific and supply voyages to Antarctica and the South Sea Islands. She is scientifically instrumented for full-scale engineering measurements of the vessel’s operational parameters, ice loads, shaft-line strain and vibration. As such this vessel is an academic asset with the potential to contribute operational full-scale data on the open water and ice-going performance of a modern ship. Such data is valuable in that it could serve to validate and

improve the state-of-the-art engineering techniques in naval architecture which rely heavily on scale model testing. At present the focus is to reduce the risk of ice-navigation through multi-sensor decision aiding systems. As such, the integral study of operational conditions, dynamic vessel response and potential failure modes are of interest. Work on this project is highly international and comprises collaborations and possible exchanges with Finnish and Portuguese research partners. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics:

MEng (Structured)

MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. Full-scale and model scale analysis of ship slamming. X X Pending funding application

2. Multi-variate statistical analysis – can sea-ice conditions be predicted from ship-board vibration?

X Pending funding application

3. Structural dynamics of model-scale ships X Pending funding application

4. A multi-sensor decision aiding system for safe ship navigation in ice.

X Pending funding application

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Students participating in this project must be self-driven, willing to spend time at sea and eager to break new ground in engineering science.


Dosent / Lecturer: (Title, Initials & Surname) Dr Annie Bekker


Tel: +27 21 808 3914

Office: M617




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Human response to vibration

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld / General description of research field: The ability of the brain to process sound is a cornerstone of human communication requiring that all aspects of the auditory system work in concert. It is proposed to answer how engineering characteristics of sound influence neurological brain responses and how this correlates to subjective sound perception. It is hypothesized that such understanding will allow for purpose-designed acoustic stimuli that result in consciously induced emotional and neurological human responses. Sound evoked neurological responses can be used for therapeutic purposes, crowd control and to influence consumer impressions of engineering products toward outcomes that offer social, economic, medical and commercial benefits. To date integrated expertise in sound quality and evoked neurological response has not been exploited although the respective fields have reached advanced stages of development.

Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

The correlation between psychoacoustic metrics, neurological response and subjective perception of sound.

X None

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Students with an interest in medical science, patient therapy and / or music and a strong inclination to innovate would be well-suited to investigate this topic.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr TH Becker


Tel: +27 21 808 4045

Office: M608A




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Materials Engineering

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The Materials Engineering group focuses on investigating the material behaviour to understand material properties and degradation mechanisms. Our focus:

• Develop numerical-experimental techniques to obtain material properties. • Linking manufacturing processes to material performance. • Develop material models for predictive capabilities. • Material characterisation and analysis.

www.sun.ac.za/mateng


MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. The rising demand for electrical energy in South Africa has forced suppliers to vastly exceed the designed lifetime of existing power plants. Exceeding this design lifetime can have detrimental effects on the plant’s reliability. Plant reliability is critically dependent on the integrity of a broad range of materials that make up the structures, machines and systems within the plant. It is necessary to accurately characterise the material condition with regards to the damage level, as well as to understand the damage mechanisms and subsequently to predict the damage that occurs during exposure to operating conditions, and the loss in design properties.

x x

2. One of the concerns when utilising 3D printing technologies are their achievable mechanical properties. To date, various studies have investigated the material performance of 3D printed metals, however, what makes investigations intricate is that the material performance depends on numerous factors. The technological requirements within the context of achievable material performance are often application specific.

x x 1x MEng*

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Matlab, finite element method, laboratory work at UCT, NMMU and/or aboard.

* Pending renewal of funding cycle for 2018.


http://www.sun.ac.za/mateng

Dosent / Lecturer: Prof Deborah Blaine


Tel: +27 21 808 3606

Office: M521




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Mechanical behaviour of materials, powder metallurgy, sintering

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: My research projects typically investigate the link between processing, properties and microstructures. I focus specifically on powder metallurgy and sintering, but also explore other manufacturing processes if the opportunity arises through funded projects. The research spans experimental work that uses presses, furnaces, various microscopes, mechanical testing and sometime computed tomography. There is also scope for finite element modelling and constitutive modelling of mechanical behaviour through co-supervised projects. I collaborate with various national and international universities and research institutions on projects. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Hybrid machining-powder metallurgy processing of titanium alloys

x x 1 x MEng (additional DST Ti-CoC bursaries available)

2. Ultra-strong materials: MAX phases, nano materials, gel-casting of titanium alloys

x x in collaboration with WITS CoE in Strong Materials (PhD and MEng, competitive bursaries)



Dosent / Lecturer: Prof Albert Groenwold


Tel: +27 21 808 4028

Office: M605




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Optimization Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: We are interested in the development and application of algorithms for very large scale (VLS) optimal design. Typically, hundreds of thousands design variables and constraints will be present. In addition, we are interested in particle swarm optimization (PSOA) algorithms, and Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Areas of interest are structural optimization, and aspects of renewable or sustainable energy. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics:

MEng (Structured)

MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. VLS optimization: various topics x x Unknown

2. PSO and GAs: various topics x x Unknown

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Knowledge of some computing language, and a sound mathematical background.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof Gerhard Venter


Tel: +27 21 808 4560

Office: M526




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Computational Mechanics, Numerical Design Optimization

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: I work in the general area of computational mechanics and my work typically involves finite element analysis (linear and non-linear) and numerical design optimization and related technologies (e.g. design of experiments, meta-modelling and high performance computing). Most of my projects would require students to do some programming, typically in Python. My projects are wide ranging and typically driven by industry needs and funding. As such the available projects and funding are constantly in flux and difficult to specify at this point in time. Recent projects include analysis and optimization of a radio telescope structure, analysis of structural components in the rail industry, estimation of temperature ranges in large mining truck tires, design of high pressure water supply lines and heat exchanger header boxes for industrial heat exchangers, optimization of truck frames, and inflatable structures and soft robotics. Most recently, a number of projects have also concentrated on material characterization of non-linear 2D orthotropic materials as is typically used in inflatable structures. If you are interested in any of these type of projects, please feel free to contact me directly to hear what is currently available, what projects may become available in the near future and the status of available funding. Projects and funding may be at either the MEng (Research) or PhD level. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Refer to ‘general description’ X X

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Most of my projects require the use of Finite Element analysis and requires some level of programming, typically in Python. An interest in Finite Element analysis, completion of the Finite Element Methods module (either at the undergraduate or postgraduate level) and willingness to program is thus required.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr MP Venter


Tel: +27 21 808 4477

Office: M528




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Soft Structures and Inflatables

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: By and large my research relates to the exploration of compliant (soft) materials subjected to predominantly tensile loading allowing for the design of highly robust, low weight structures capable of more organic, biomimetic movement. A key objective for this research is to embed behaviours into structures by capitalising on the large deformations possible through the use of compliant materials, such as silicon rubber. Some examples include soft robots and morph able aerofoils. In a practical sense we apply nonlinear structural simulation and extensive experimentation, with computational power to develop the design methods for a new class of structure that no longer relies on conventional mechanical articulation mechanisms such as hinges. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. The development of a coupled simulation of the SCALA antenna array, combining CFD, FEM and EM simulations. This project will fall under the SKA project and will be co-supervised from within the E&E Department

X TBD

2. Design and testing of an inflatable Tensairty bridge that makes use of modern technical textiles and shape memory alloys.

X TBD

3. Exploration of the design of foul sails for an America’s cup style boat using simulation and advanced technical textiles.

X TBD

4. Design and test an inflatable aerofoil. X X TBD

5. Explore the opportunities provided by flexible textile materials to morph and aerofoil shape during operation.

X TBD

6. Design a biomimetic soft robot capable of salamander like locomotion.

X TBD

7. Design and test a prototype soft robotic hand rehabilitation device.

X X TBD

8. Develop a generative process for the design of new soft robotic components with used defined articulation mechanisms.

X X TBD



Thermo Fluids Division

Dosent / Lecturer: Mr RW Haines


Tel: +27 21 808 4308

Office: M527




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Internal Combustion Engines and Fuels

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The department has an internal combustion engine laboratory which includes both petrol and diesel engine test stands for students to use for their respective research topics. The laboratory also includes a Co-operative Fuel Research engine which is used to measure the research and motor octane numbers of fuel blends for petrol engines. Research is done in the laboratory on the influence of blending components on octane numbers and engine performance. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. High Octane and Oxygenated Fuel Testing and Modelling

x 1 X MEng

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Prior knowledge on internal combustion engines and mechatronic systems will be beneficial.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof TM Harms


Tel: +27 21 8084376

Office: M519




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Concentrating Solar Power(CSP) research for the application in a solarized air (Brayton) and steam (Rankine) cycles Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) with cost effective large scale thermal energy storage is a technology with the ability to provide base-load power at low cost and is thus of particular relevance for a future national grid with a high renewable energy penetration. A fundamental part of an air cycle central receiver technology is a receiver capable of effectively transferring concentrated solar radiation onto a pressurized air stream. Such a technology has been developed at Stellenbosch University (SCRAP receiver) and further improvements are required. Parabolic troughs represent a highly bankable mature CSP technology at the threshold of fully unsubsidized economic competitiveness in the electrical power generation market.


MEng (Research)

PhD Funding:

1. CFD modelling of ambient air flow through a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver structure. Optional additional modelling of forced convection heat transfer.

X X (to be arranged)

2. CFD modelling of natural convection of a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver absorber tube in interaction with neighbouring absorbers.


3. CFD modelling and experimental validation of geometric solutions to enhance heat transfer through jet impingement cooling for a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver technology.


4. Survey and synthesis of known and to be developed techno-economic options to enhance the profitability of parabolic trough CSP plants.

X X

(to be arranged)

5. Survey and synthesis of known and to be developed solar thermal chemical storage options for CSP plants.


6. Investigation into the state of the art and development of options to overcome challenges pertaining to direct steam generation in parabolic trough CSP plants.


7. Assess the availability and reliability of the crucial thermal energy storage (TES) system including related heat transfer fluid (HTF) of an operational SA CSP plant in comparison to world best practice to provide the optimal solution that balances capital and life cycle costs with plant availability, power production and hence revenue.

X (to be arranged)

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Some of the above topic entail acquiring and utilisation of advanced level CFD expertise.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr Jaap Hoffmann


Tel: +27 21 808 3554

Office: M619




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Thermal Engineering Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The SUNSPOT cycle is a combined Brayton and Rankine cycle with thermal storage. Air is the working fluid for the Brayton cycle. Due to the poor heat transfer characteristics of air, and the high energy flux at the receiver, receiver tubes are subject to high temperatures and thermal stresses. This research focus on enhancing heat transfer inside receiver tubes, thermal radiation in cavity receivers and novice configurations for receiver designs. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. On-sun testing of single spike of the spiked concept air preheater. Select/design test rig, instrumentation and testing (heat flux, temperatures, and thermal stress).

X R 60 000 for one year only

2. Experimental/numerical study of the effect of packing structure, particle shape and orientation on heat transfer and pressure drop in rock bed thermal energy storage.

X X

3. Numerical and/or experimental study of heat transfer enhancement on the inside of solar receiver tubes. Trade-off between heat transfer enhancement and additional pressure drop. Solar heat flux is constrained by maximum tube temperature.

X

4. Multi-objective optimization of central receiver molten salt solar power plant. Individually, levelled cost of electricity, solar to electrical efficiency and revenue, amongst others, lead to conflicting results.

X

5. Feasibility of once through cooling for a 50 MWe solar thermal power plant on/near the lower Orange River. Trade-off between improved thermal efficiency against condenser fouling (suggest remedial measures), water treatment and environmental constraints.

X

6. Extend thermal non-equilibrium model in commercial CFD code to include convection and thermal radiation in porous media, and validate model against experimental data (receiver and/or rock bed storage).

X X

7. Performance and cost prediction of SUNDISC cycle using an organic Rankine bottoming cycle.

X X

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Most topics demand a solid background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer. Sound CFD skills recommended for topics 2, 3 and 6. Reasonable programming skills (e.g. MatLab or C++) required for most topics.


Dosent / Lecturer: Dr M Owen


Tel: +27 21 808 4266

Office: M516




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Power plant cooling systems

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: In the steam power cycle used in many thermal power plants (Rankine cycle), the condenser or cooling system has a major impact on the cycle efficiency. By improving cooling system performance we can improve power plant efficiency which in turn means less fuel consumption (in the case of fossil fuel plants) and subsequently waste and / or greater profitability – all of which contributes to making energy production more sustainable. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. A numerical investigation of the effects of windscreens on fan performance in large air-cooled steam condensers.

X 1 x partial bursary for MEng

2. Analysis of cooling tower inlet flow and the effect of fill height in the inlet region.

X

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Students will need to make extensive use of CFD.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof SJ van der Spuy


Tel: +27 21 808 4127

Office: M523




Navorsingsveld / Research field: 1) Axial flow fans for cooling systems 2) Micro gas turbines for propulsion 3) Micro gas turbines for solar applications

Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: The use of direct dry-cooled condensers in power generation systems is a means of ensuring sustainable water usage. This makes it ideal for use in power plants (including solar power plants) which are located in regions with a limited availability of water resources. The efficient operation of the axial flow fans that form part of such an air-cooled system is essential for a well-performing cooling plant. This research focusses on the design, testing and analysis of axial flow fans for these systems. The use of micro gas turbines (MGTs) for the propulsion of aerial vehicles or solar thermal power applications hold specific advantages. Current investigations are looking at the development of a small diameter compressor and turbine stage that could typically be used in a 200 to 800 N thrust or 10 to 100 kW power generation MGT. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Design of an axial flow cooling fan with low noise characteristics.

X project funding available

2. The accurate assessment of axial flow fan performance for use in air-cooled condensers (fan/plenum interaction).

X X project funding available

3. Assessing the effect of fan tip clearance on fan performance

X X project funding available

4. The development of a test facility for a micro gas turbine compressor stage – incorporating new turbine design and heat source.

X X limited funding available

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Thermofluids 344, Computational Fluid Dynamics.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof TW von Backström


Tel: +27 21 808 4267

Office: M525




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Rock bed thermal energy storage, Thermal air receivers, Turbomachinery Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Turbomachinery: Cooling fans, small gas turbines Renewable energy: Thermal energy storage in rock beds; Solar receivers Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Redesign and costing of full scale rock bed thermal energy system

X X NRF

2. Further development of SCRAP solar receiver X X NRF

3. Investigation of the feasibility of a deconstructed gas turbine to compress air for a solar air receiver

X X NRF



Renewable Energy

Dosent / Lecturer: Prof Albert Groenwold


Tel: +27 21 808 4028

Office: M605




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Optimization Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: We are interested in the development and application of algorithms for very large scale (VLS) optimal design. Typically, hundreds of thousands design variables and constraints will be present. In addition, we are interested in particle swarm optimization (PSOA) algorithms, and Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Areas of interest are structural optimization, and aspects of renewable or sustainable energy. Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics:

MEng (Structured)

MEng (Research)

PhD Funding

1. VLS optimization: various topics x x Unknown

2. PSO and GAs: various topics x x Unknown

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Knowledge of some computing language, and a sound mathematical background.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof TM Harms


Tel: +27 21 8084376

Office: M519



Afdeling / Division: Design & Mechatronics / Mechanics / Thermo fluids / Renewable Energy (energy and the environment)

Navorsingsveld / Research field: Concentrating Solar Power(CSP) research for the application in a solarized air (Brayton) and steam (Rankine) cycles Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) with cost effective large scale thermal energy storage is a technology with the ability to provide base-load power at low cost and is thus of particular relevance for a future national grid with a high renewable energy penetration. A fundamental part of an air cycle central receiver technology is a receiver capable of effectively transferring concentrated solar radiation onto a pressurized air stream. Such a technology has been developed at Stellenbosch University (SCRAP receiver) and further improvements are required. Parabolic troughs represent a highly bankable mature CSP technology at the threshold of fully unsubsidized economic competitiveness in the electrical power generation market.


MEng (Research)

PhD Funding:

1. CFD modelling of ambient air flow through a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver structure. Optional additional modelling of forced convection heat transfer.


2. CFD modelling of natural convection of a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver absorber tube in interaction with neighbouring absorbers.


3. CFD modelling and experimental validation of geometric solutions to enhance heat transfer through jet impingement cooling for a concentrating solar power (CSP) receiver technology.


4. Survey and synthesis of known and to be developed techno-economic options to enhance the profitability of parabolic trough CSP plants.

X X

(to be arranged)

5. Survey and synthesis of known and to be developed solar thermal chemical storage options for CSP plants.


6. Investigation into the state of the art and development of options to overcome challenges pertaining to direct steam generation in parabolic trough CSP plants.


7. Assess the availability and reliability of the crucial thermal energy storage (TES) system including related heat transfer fluid (HTF) of an operational SA CSP plant in comparison to world best practice to provide the optimal solution that balances capital and life cycle costs with plant availability, power production and hence revenue.

X (to be arranged)

Spesifieke voorvereistes / Specific requirements: Some of the above topic entail acquiring and utilisation of advanced level CFD expertise.


Dosent / Lecturer: Prof TW von Backström


Tel: +27 21 808 4267

Office: M525




Navorsingsveld / Research field: Rock bed thermal energy storage, Thermal air receivers, Turbomachinery Algemene beskrywing van navorsingsveld: General description of research field: Turbomachinery: Cooling fans, small gas turbines Renewable energy: Thermal energy storage in rock beds; Solar receivers Lys van onderwerpe/List of topics: MEng


PhD Funding

1. Redesign and costing of full scale rock bed thermal energy system

X X NRF

2. Further development of SCRAP solar receiver X X NRF

3. Investigation of the feasibility of a deconstructed gas turbine to compress air for a solar air receiver

X X NRF



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