Better Thermal Desalination – Understanding thin film boiling and how to improve itLecturer, Mr BD Bock
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundProviding clean drinking water through sea water desalination is becoming increasingly a reality for many countries and majorcities, with Cape Town possibly the most high profile recent example. With the threats of global warming disrupting traditionalwater supplies and mass urbanization leading to high concentrations of people in cities that often border the ocean, desalinationoffers often the only practical solution to this growing problem.
Multiple effect distillation (MED) systems are a common method of thermal desalination. They make use of heat (traditionallyfrom power stations or possibly in the future from solar sources) to evaporate the sea water, allowing the water vapour to becondensed and collected as drinking water.
The MED system consists of a number of falling film evaporators where the sea water is sprayed or fed onto the outside of tubesand evaporated by the hot liquid flowing inside the tubes.
At the Clean Energy Research Group (CERG) we are conducting experimental research to better understand and improve theboiling process found in these falling film evaporators.
In particular the boiling of the thin films of liquid seen in these evaporators has shown improved heat transfer compared totraditional pool boiling.
In particular the thin films are seen to foam significantly and this is theorized as a key reason for the improvement in heattransfer in the boiling of thin films of liquid.
Note: Thin film boiling (where a thin layer of liquid boils) is not to be confused with film boiling (when a thin layer of vapourforms between the liquid and the heated surface)
2. Problem statementThe influence of foaming on the heat transfer during the boiling of thin liquid films is not well understood.
3. Theoretical objectivesModel the expected boiling heat transfer achieved with the use of empirical models.
4. Experimental objectives• Upgrade the existing thin film boiling rig so that the level of liquid can be easily be seen to aid testing• Test the influence of changing the surface tension of the liquid (and thus the foaming ability) on the heat transfer during theboiling of thin liquid films.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsConduct a test with plain water to act as the validation case.Compare the theoretical model to the measured performance of the plain water as well as literature standards.
1. BackgroundProviding clean drinking water through sea water desalination is becoming increasingly a reality for many countries and majorcities, with Cape Town possibly the most high profile recent example. With the threats of global warming disrupting traditionalwater supplies and mass urbanization leading to high concentrations of people in cities that often border the ocean, desalinationoffers often the only practical solution to this growing problem.
Multiple effect distillation (MED) systems are a common method of thermal desalination. They make use of heat (traditionallyfrom power stations or possibly in the future from solar sources) to evaporate the sea water, allowing the water vapour to becondensed and collected as drinking water.
The MED system consists of a number of falling film evaporators where sea water is sprayed or fed onto the outside of tubesand evaporated by the hot liquid flowing inside the tubes.
At the Clean Energy Research Group (CERG) we are conducting experimental research to better understand and improve thedistribution of the falling liquid films on the outside of the tubes of the evaporator bank.
Continuing from previous student’s studies, a number of new distribution methods appear promising and are to be investigated.
2. Problem statementThe distribution of liquid films over tubes needs to be improved to ensure the effectiveness of MED desalination technology
3. Theoretical objectives• Model the pressure drops that each design will produce• Quantify the effectiveness of the liquid distributors
4. Experimental objectives• Upgrade the flow control to ensure easier testing of the distributors• Design and build a number of improved liquid distributors such aso Dimple plateo Foam boxo Tube Distributorso (Each student will test a number of distributors of a particular type)• Test the liquid distributors to determine their effectiveness
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare experimental pressure drops to theoretical results.
1. BackgroundThe Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) industry are developing next generation refrigeration equipment tomeet the challenges of global warming by moving to low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants and ever more efficientsystems.
Rising film evaporators are one of these promising technologies that can compete with the flooded evaporators that currentlydominate the refrigeration market. The low refrigerant charge associated with this technology shows great potential as it reducesthe hazards of operating with the latest refrigerants being developed, which are have very low GWP but are often flammableand/or poisonous.
Continuing on previous work within the departments, rising film boiling experiments will be conducted to characterize the heattransfer performance within enhanced tubes using water as a proxy test fluid at atmospheric pressure.
Note: Rising film boiling or thin film boiling (where a thin layer of liquid boils) are not to be confused with film boiling (when athin layer of vapour forms between the liquid and the heated surface)
2. Problem statementThe heat transfer performance of rising film boiling on the inner surface of enhanced vertical tubes is not well understood.
3. Theoretical objectivesUnderstand the physics and dynamics of heat transfer during the nucleate pool boiling process, the rising film boiling and thinfilm boiling process. Subsequently model the heat transfer process, primarily using empirical models.
4. Experimental objectives• Upgrade the existing rising film rig to ensure a continuous flow loop to ease the testing process• Test a plain tube and measure the heat transfer coefficient under rising film boiling as a validation and reference point• Source/Build and measure the heat transfer coefficients of a number of internally enhanced tubes and compare theirperformance to the other tubes tested
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsA plain tube must be tested to act as a verification and validation test case. The theoretical prediction will subsequently bevalidated against the experimental data of this validation case.
1. BackgroundThe Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) industry are developing next generation refrigeration equipment tomeet the challenges of global warming by moving to low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants and ever more efficientsystems.
Double falling film evaporators are a promising technology that can compete with the flooded evaporators that currentlydominate the refrigeration market. Compared to a flooded evaporator, where a tube bank is submerged in refrigerant with waterflowing through the tubes, a double falling film evaporator has thin falling films of refrigerant and water on either side of thetube.
These thin films offer improved heat transfer compared to their flooded counterparts, allowing reductions in chiller size andimproved efficiency.
Experiments using water as a proxy fluid to better understand the cooling of these liquid films are to be conducted
2. Problem statementThe heat transfer process during the cooling of thin falling films needs to be better understood.
3. Theoretical objectivesUnderstand the physics and dynamics of heat transfer during cooling of thin falling liquid films. Subsequently model the heattransfer process, primarily using empirical models.
4. Experimental objectives• Assemble the flow loop to cool the test section• Build a test section to measure the heat transfer when cooling thin falling films of water at atmospheric pressure inside avertical tube• Test the tube at a number of flow rates of water, from fully filled with water to a thin liquid layer of water
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe tube was first be tested full of flowing water and compare the results to existing empirical correlations for single phaseconvective heat transfer
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
DAQ, Thermocouples
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openSourceHardware – Development of low-cost turbine flow meterLecturer, Mr BD Bock
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe Open Source Hardware (OSH) movement is an exciting adaption of the open source software ideals and practices to thepractical requirements of hardware.
Organisations such as the Open Source Hardware Association (oshwa.org) and Open Science Hardware (openhardware.science)are examples of organisations promoting the ideals of creating designs and sharing them to solve common problems around theworld.
The Open Source Hardware project here at the University of Pretoria aims to achieve a similar aim, with a focus on localproblems.
Africa in particular needs access to low cost hardware for both improvement in living conditions and to allow researchers accessto equipment whose commercial equivalents are prohibitively expensive.
Previous research we have done has shown that the low cost turbine flow meters that are widely available are not suitable in anumber of conditions relevant to research in Africa. In particular they struggle with dirty sandy water and are only available incapacities up to 60 l/min.
Using the flow meter’s electronics while modifying its casing and design in order to accommodate higher flow rates and sandywater is a possible solution to this problem.
2. Problem statementLow cost turbine flow meters have limited capacity and get clogged when dealing with dirty water.
3. Theoretical objectivesEmpirically model the flowmeter to aid the design process and predict its performance.
4. Experimental objectivesDesign and build a prototype of the modified turbine flowmeter and test its performance across a range of flow conditions andsand concentrations.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the theoretical predictions against the measured experimental results.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Ultrasonic flowmeter, 3D printer
Page 10 of 112
openSourceHardware – Development of low-cost open source rotameterLecturer, Mr BD Bock
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe Open Source Hardware (OSH) movement is an exciting adaption of the open source software ideals and practices to thepractical requirements of hardware.
Organisations such as the Open Source Hardware Association (oshwa.org) and Open Science Hardware (openhardware.science)are examples of organisations promoting the ideals of creating designs and sharing them to solve common problems around theworld.
The Open Source Hardware project here at the University of Pretoria aims to achieve a similar aim, with a focus on localproblems.
Africa in particular needs access to low cost hardware for both improvement in living conditions and to allow researchers accessto equipment whose commercial equivalents are prohibitively expensive.
Previous research has shown us that the low cost turbine flow meters that are widely available are not suitable in a number ofconditions relevant to research in Africa. In particular they struggle with dirty sandy water and are only available in capacitiesup to 60 l/min.
An open source low cost 3D printable rotameter offers a possible solution to this problem.
2. Problem statementLow cost turbine flow meters have limited capacity and get clogged when dealing with dirty water.
3. Theoretical objectivesEmpirically model the flowmeter to aid the design process and predict its performance.
4. Experimental objectivesDesign and build a prototype of the flowmeter and test its performance across a range of flow conditions and sandconcentrations.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the theoretical predictions against the measured experimental results of the flowmeter's performance.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Ultrasonic flow meter, 3D printer
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Mr J Huyssen
Burner for Periodic Continuous CombustionLecturer, Mr J Huyssen
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundCombustion of fuel is either done in repeated cycles as in the reciprocating combustion engine or on a continuous basis in thecontinuous cycle as in the gas turbine. There are applications in which periodic continuous combustion is required to add energyto air to do expansion work.2. Problem statementDevelop a burner which on demand receives feed air from a high pressure reservoir while fuel is simultaneously injected andignited. This burner should be capable of operating under pressure within a combustion chamber.3. Theoretical objectivesUnderstand the principle of combustion to predict the addition of heat to the flow of air. Develop a theoretical model to predictthe feed rates of fuel and air to provide a desired mass flow delivery at a desired operational pressure.4. Experimental objectivesConstruct an experimental setup by which regulated feed air from a high pressure reservoir and fuel can be delivered, ignitedand burned in a burner. Monitor pressures, temperatures and flow rates of the cycle.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the measured parameters with those of the theoretical predictions.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
J Huyssen
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Burner, temperature and pressure transducers, flow meters, high pressure cylinders, pressure regulators, fuel pump, fuel injector,igniter, valves and fittings.
Page 12 of 112
Development of a Wing Sweep ServoLecturer, Mr J Huyssen
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundThis project relates to the research on the gull-wing configuration. Efficient control of this configuration requires a variablewing sweep system. This requires an actuation servo for in flight changes on a radio controlled prototype.2. Problem statementThe servos form part of the wing structure and will always carry a load during flight. This load should not require a holdingtorque from the servos which should only require electric power during sweep angle control. A fast control response is requiredand some mechanical overload protection must be provided.3. Theoretical objectivesPredict the control loads and control work required to operate a variable wing sweep system.4. Experimental objectivesDevelop and build a linear servo by which the servo can be experimentally evaluated and the performance parameters can bemeasured.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the predicted parameters with those experimentally measured.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
J Huyssen
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Linear servo, a force measurement rig, power meter, load cells, data acquisition system, signal generator, standard model servos.
Page 13 of 112
Wing Twist Evaluation on the Gull-Wing LayoutLecturer, Mr J Huyssen
Max students, 6
Project Description
1. BackgroundThis project relates to the research on the gull-wing configuration. The challenge of efficient control of this configuration lies inthe wing tip and the wing twist distribution. In this project a full flying controllable wing tip shall be tried for its controleffectiveness and its structural feasibility.2. Problem statementDevelop a solid model and a physical model of the wing to show how it would distort with wing tip rotation. Develop a windtunnel model by which the wing twist can be adjusted and observe the trim angle on a pitch axis in the wind tunnel.3. Theoretical objectivesPredict the lift distributions and the trim conditions of the wing at different twist angles by means of a panel method.4. Experimental objectivesBuild a wind tunnel model of half a wing on which the twisting can be adjusted. Find the trim condition for different twistangles.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the observed and the predicted trim angles for different twist angles. Modify if necessary the boundary conditions toobtain a better match between the prediction and the measurements.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
J Huyssen
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Wind tunnel model, wind tunnel, pitch axis mount
Page 14 of 112
Flight Testing of the Gull Wing ConfigurationLecturer, Mr J Huyssen
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundFor the research of the gull wing configurations, free-flight models can be used to gain insight from flight tests. Comparisonflights can be made with the conventional configuration if the scale and the launch conditions are kept the same. These modelsare also to be used for demonstrations.2. Problem statementDevelop a method of construction of small free-flight glider models of the gull wing configuration as well as a comparativemodel of the standard configuration. These must be robust and adjustable, easy to produce, adjust and to repair. Develop also alauncher for accurately repeatable launches.3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a theoretical model by which the launch conditions required for steady flight can be predicted.4. Experimental objectivesBuild a pair of models and a means of repeatable launching by which comparative flights can be made and recorded withdifferent adjustments of the wing. Find wing parameters by which steady flight can be achieved.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsDemonstrate that the expected launch conditions are in fact experimentally achieved.
Internet of Things (IoT) in Mechanical Engineering: Open Projects on Sensing ->Analysing -> Actions
Lecturer, Prof N WilkeMax students, 50
Project Description
1. Background Industrial revolutions are often broken down into the following four phases i) Mechanisation through steam power ii) Assembly line mass production iii) Automation iv) Cyber Physical Systems (Industry 4.0) Industry 4.0 originally proposed by the German government to promote the computerisation of physical systems, which has evolved into a number of specific areas such as Internet of Things (IoT). IoT is currently responsible for massive global trends of having physical systems sense, analyse and interact with their environments, to enable Cyber Physical Systems that contribute towards a value chain for a client or company. It is currently estimated that by 2020 there will be 20 Billion IoT Devices up and running. IoT is paving the way for new businesses and StartUps driving a new global economy and the ever import role that engineers play in securing and creating economies. In Mechanical Engineering applications include: i) finding out where water or gas leaks in a pipe networks ii) sensible predictions of when your car will break or when it needs to go in for an unscheduled service iii) identifying when an elderly person has fallen inside their house iv) Setting up a sensor network to identify illegal activity such as shooting of endangered animals v) using drones or remote control vehicles for inspection of physical assets (a drone will be provided for one student in addition to the R500 budget) vi) metal detection or fire extinguishing robots 2. Problem statement This research project is an open project that invites, you the student, to propose a focus area of interest that must be related to Mechanical Engineering. For this research project you will identify a need that can be addressed using a Cyber Physical System, to design a system that senses from its environment, analyses the sensed data to affect some action using only a R500 budget. Research questions can focus/investigate strategies to analyse the data, prioritising the sensed data and quality of the sensed data. A specific project will be provided should you fail to come up with a suitable project. 3. Required Background This research project requires a strong mathematical and Python programming background and a curiosity for how things work. The budget being R500, this project will force you to make the best use of your resources and to think critically. At the end of the project you will be able reflect back and appreciate the amount of learning and quality of results that a R500 budget can achieve. This is in stark contrast to conventional European and American solutions that may require x100 or x1000 the budget to achieve the same learning, this is an essential skill and realisation as an engineering within an African context. 4. Learning and Skill Development In this research project you will need to learn how to connect sensors to your computer using Arduino or use a Raspberry Pi as a stand-alone computing platform to collect and sense data from the environment to that can then be analysed using open source tools such as TensorFlow to develop statistical models that can infer an action or decision. A relevant and modern engineering skill set will be developed during this research project. 5. Theoretical objectives Quantify to what extent the Cyber Physical System can address the required need using idealised data, or investigating the
Page 16 of 112
efficacy of various machine learning and deep learning strategies. 6. Experimental objectives The experimental objectives are two-fold: i) Cyber Physical System sensing from the physical world ii) Construct an experimental data set that can be used for validation purposes of your Cyber Physical System 7. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results Systematic and scientific assessment of the Cyber Physical System using your validation set constructed under Experimentalobjectives and to infer recommendations.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Arduino, Raspberry Pi, 3D Printing
Page 17 of 112
Prof NJ Theron
Calculation of dynamic stressLecturer, Prof NJ Theron
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundUnder static loading conditions it is relatively simple to calculate stress in simple structures like trusses, beams, plates,cylinders, spheres, etc., provided that the applied loading and the support of the structure itself (the boundary conditions) are allrelatively simple. In many cases stresscalculation can be performed by hand (with the use of a calculator). If everything is kept at the same level of simplicity exceptthat the loading is changed to a time varying load with a significant dynamic content close to or above the first natural vibrationfrequency, the calculation of stress is raised to a significantly higher level of complexity. The finite element method in generalhas a strong capability of successfully calculating stresses in dynamically loaded structures.
2. Problem statementThe purpose of this project is to investigate the use of alternative semi-analytical methods and to compare the results with thosecoming from finite element analysis as well as experimental measurement.
The study should not necessarily be limited to beams, but for beam-like structures two modal-based semi-analytical methodshave been widely used in the aerostructures field: the force integration method and the mode displacement method. A pertinentquestion that should be studied is to what extent experimentally measured mode shapes can be used it these two methods.
3. Theoretical objectivesTo implement a semi-analytical method of dynamic stress calculation and to correlate results with those coming form finiteelement analysis.
4. Experimental objectivesTo record stress measurements on the chosen structure for the chosen dynamic load conditions and, depending on how theproject develop, to measure sufficient natural vibration mode shapes to investigate their application in semi-analytical methods.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThis is an intrinsic part of this project.
Gain scheduling for active control of non-linear systemsLecturer, Prof NJ Theron
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundClassical control theory is applicable to linear systems only. One way that is used to deal with non-linear systems is to uselinearization, which leads to dynamic equations, transfer functions and designs valid only in a very small range around thelinearization reference state. This approach can however be extended by having the capability to adjust the design gainsaccording to where the system operates in the non-linear domain; so-called gain scheduling. Gain scheduling is especiallypractical when the controller is implemented on a computer.
2. Problem statementThe purpose of this project is to investigate the gain scheduling technique with a compactRIO measurement and controlcomputer. The student should devise and build a non-linear dynamic system. He/she should then also design a digital controllerto control the non-linear system using the gain scheduling technique.
3. Theoretical objectivesDesigning a physical system with non-linear dynamic properties suitable for the study of the gain scheduling technique and acontrol system using this technique.
4. Experimental objectivesShowing proper and acceptable control of the non-linear system developed.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThis is intrinsic to having proper and acceptable control of the physical system.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
CompactRIO with C-series modules, mechanical transducers
Page 19 of 112
Study in dynamic structural response of a contact problem (non-linear)Lecturer, Prof NJ Theron
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundIn recent final year projects various students obtained very good correlation between experimentalmeasurements and analytical prediction of base excitation structural dynamic problems. On the way of getting there, however,they experienced experimental problems with systems showing behaviour that may be ascribed to non-linear contact. This callsfor further investigation.
2. Problem statementThis project will investigate this issue at depth and must end up with good correlation betweennumerical (FEM) modelling and experimental measurement of response cause by both force and base excitation.
3. Theoretical objectivesTo search the literature for analytical methods of addressing these problems and to create appropriate finite element models thatrender good prediction of the non-linear structural dynamics.
4. Experimental objectivesThe measurement of the dynamic response due to force and base excitation in a way appropriate for non-linear systems.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimentally measured response data needs to be correlated with the FEM predicted response.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Large shaker, structural dynamics measurement equipment
Page 20 of 112
Nonlinear vibrations: a study in internal resonance in sprung pendulums, boats andbeams
Lecturer, Prof NJ TheronMax students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundInternal resonance, which is not predicted by linear vibration theory, occurs in certain structures with multiple vibration modes,where the natural frequency locations happens to be expressible in certain specific integer based relationships. The aim of thisstudy is to investigate some of these phenomena analytically, numerically and experimentally.
2. Problem statementThe student should design and build at least one internal resonance demonstrator. The design process requires an analytical andnumerical (with the FEM and/or ADAMS) study of the chosen system, to ensure the success of the demonstrator.
3. Theoretical objectivesTo study a part of the current non-linear vibration theory and to model the dynamics analytically and numerically.
4. Experimental objectivesTo build and test an internal resonance demonstrator.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsTo correlate measurements of the dynamics of the demonstrator with those predicted by the theory and the numerical analysis.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Vibration measurement equipment; compactRIO control and measurement computer
Page 21 of 112
Active structural control: creating a pole placement demonstrator (non-modalapproach)
Lecturer, Prof NJ TheronMax students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundIn recent years a number of final year research projects managed to illustrate the pole placement control technique changing thepole pair associated with the lowest natural vibration frequency of a cantilevered beam inside a control loop to differentpre-determined locations. All these projects had to employ observers to estimate the states not measured. In all but one case theobserver and feedback gains were implemented as digital compensators on a National Instruments CompactRIO controlcomputer. All the successful previous attempts at pole placement were based on the use of a modal superposition method tomodel the beam structural dynamics. This approach does have limitations and it was not yet possible to illustrate control of boththe 1st and the 2nd natural vibration modes. An alternative approach to the modal superposition method needs to be developed.One possibility is to use a finite element model with sub-structuring to reduce the number of degrees of freedom. This wasstudied in 2019 by two students, but they ran into controllability issues with their FEM based models.
2. Problem statementDevelop a pole placement demonstrator in which the complex conjugate pole pair associated with at least the lowest naturalvibration frequency of a cantilevered beam is changed, by modelling the beam with the finite element method.
3. Theoretical objectivesDevelopment of a viable state space model of the structural dynamics.
4. Experimental objectivesImplementing a state space compensator on a computer coupled to the structure and illustrating that the natural vibrationproperties of the structure can be changed in a well predicted manner, using pole placement techniques.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThis is intrinsic in the project.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Mechanical transducers, compactRIO and C-series modules
Page 22 of 112
Dr L Smith
Emergency parachute recovery system for the AREND UAVLecturer, Dr L Smith
Max students, 1
Project Description
Team AREND will design a technological solution to aid Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers in the protection of black andwhite rhinos from poaching. The solution shall constitute, but not be limited to, an unmanned aircraft (18kg, 4.2m wingspan,cruise speed 20m/s, stall speed 15m/s) capable of conducting remote surveillance of large park areas such as KNP. The UAVshall be operable from a central base within KNP, have extended flight endurance (~120 min), and be able to detect/distinguishhumans and animals with onboard sensors.
The landing of a UAV presents the most challenging phase of flight. The success and the cost of UAV operations dependlargely on the success of the landings. UAVs are still lost at unacceptable high percentage due to landing incidents. For thesereasons the design of the landing systems is receiving the highest priority in the design and development of the Arend airframe.In addition an emergency landing system needs to be developed for cases where normal landing is not possible or whencommunication with the UAV is lost.
An emergency parachute recovery system (EPRS) has been built and tested on small scale. Static tests have been completed onan AREND UAV level in 2017. Evaluate the mathematical and physical models for the EPRS. Develop a dynamic test platformfor pre-flight tests. Integrate the system into the AREND UAV (The device must be light weight and able to integrate with theexisting structure of the AREND UAV). Demonstrate the free flight use of the EPRS and determine structural integrity of thesystem after an emergency event.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
3000
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 23 of 112
Development of a test model for preliminary flight tests on subsystems for theAREND UAV
Lecturer, Dr L SmithMax students, 1
Project Description
Team AREND will design a technological solution to aid Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers in the protection of black andwhite rhinos from poaching. The solution shall constitute, but not be limited to, an unmanned aircraft (18kg, 4.2m wingspan,cruise speed 20m/s, stall speed 15m/s) capable of conducting remote surveillance of large park areas such as KNP. The UAVshall be operable from a central base within KNP, have extended flight endurance (~120 min), and be able to detect/distinguishhumans and animals with onboard sensors.
The AREND UAV consists of multiple subsystems which require integration and testing on the AREND UAV before flighttests. Some of these integration tests pose the possibility to lose the AREND UAV prototype and so to remove this potential losswe need to develop a smaller or similar sized system which could act as a test dummy for landing, launch and parachuterecovery testing.Complete the design for either the landing or launching dummy tests, build the system and complete these initial tests. Integratelessons learnt into the main AREND UAV system.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
2500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 24 of 112
Detailed wing design for the improved AREND airframeLecturer, Dr L Smith
Max students, 6
Project Description
Team AREND will design a technological solution to aid Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers in the protection of black andwhite rhinos from poaching. The solution shall constitute, but not be limited to, an unmanned aircraft (18kg, 4.2m wingspan,cruise speed 20m/s, stall speed 15m/s) capable of conducting remote surveillance of large park areas such as KNP. The UAVshall be operable from a central base within KNP, have extended flight endurance (~120 min), and be able to detect/distinguishhumans and animals with onboard sensors.
The original prototype has a conventional configuration with the empennage including two tailbooms and an inverted V-tail. Inorder to test alternative aircraft configurations, the UAV structural design follows a unique internal structure which allows foreasy redesign of the whole configuration. One such proposed configurational redesign includes the use of a non-ellipticalloading wing and no empennage. This design has been completed using XFLR5 and has been tested using CFD which showssome promise.
The wing experiences some yaw instability and has not been designed to include control surfaces. It also has a very low stallangle. There are multiple ways to address these problems, including winglet design, changing the airfoil of the wing etc. Themain part of this project would be to design for modular interface with the current AREND UAV, a CFD analysis will be usedto test results and the final parts integrated and tested in the wind tunnel or free flight.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 25 of 112
Redesign of the AREND fuselage body for improved lifting capabilitiesLecturer, Dr L Smith
Max students, 5
Project Description
Team AREND will design a technological solution to aid Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers in the protection of black andwhite rhinos from poaching. The solution shall constitute, but not be limited to, an unmanned aircraft (18kg, 4.2m wingspan,cruise speed 20m/s, stall speed 15m/s) capable of conducting remote surveillance of large park areas such as KNP. The UAVshall be operable from a central base within KNP, have extended flight endurance (~120 min), and be able to detect/distinguishhumans and animals with onboard sensors.
The original prototype has a conventional configuration with the empennage including two tailbooms and an inverted V-tail. Inorder to test alternative aircraft configurations, the UAV structural design follows a unique internal structure which allows foreasy redesign of the whole configuration. One such proposed configurational redesign includes the use of a non-ellipticalloading wing and no empennage. This design has been completed using XFLR5 and has been tested using CFD which showssome promise.
The wing experiences some early inboard separation and this leads to a very low stall angle. One way to address this is toredesign the fuselage body to produce a portion of the lift. However the volume requirements and interface to the internalstructure must be respected. The main part of this project would be to design for modular interface with the current ARENDUAV, a CFD analysis will be used to test results and the final parts integrated and tested in the wind tunnel.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 26 of 112
Fuel cells as a hybrid solution for the AREND UAVLecturer, Dr L Smith
Max students, 2
Project Description
Team AREND will design a technological solution to aid Kruger National Park (KNP) rangers in the protection of black andwhite rhinos from poaching. The solution shall constitute, but not be limited to, an unmanned aircraft (18kg, 4.2m wingspan,cruise speed 20m/s, stall speed 15m/s) capable of conducting remote surveillance of large park areas such as KNP. The UAVshall be operable from a central base within KNP, have extended flight endurance (~120 min), and be able to detect/distinguishhumans and animals with on-board sensors.
AREND is currently powered by LiPo batteries and can only achieve a maximum flight time of 70min.This projects investigates alternative concepts to power the UAV, the main focus on hydrogen fuel cell technology as analternative energy source for portable power, with focus on the energy density of fuel cells compared to LiPo batteries.
Develop a concept for the fuel stack according to ARENDs power requirements. Then conduct an experimental to test themembrane electrode assembly to verify the theoretical analysis. Consider the implementation of the hybrid concept developedfor the AREND and start the integration phase.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 27 of 112
Bio-inspired, aerodynamic load investigation on wings with novel heating of the topsurface
Lecturer, Dr L SmithMax students, 5
Project Description
If we are to understand the wind flow phenomena that most negatively influence successful take-off from Grey-headed Ridge(GHR), a thorough understanding of the aerodynamic limitations of Grey-headed albatrosses (Thalassarche chrysostoma) isrequired. The flight of albatrosses have fascinated scientists for decades, but very little detailed aerodynamic analyses have beenconducted.
It is suggested that, birds like the albatross utilize the temperature effects resulting from their wings’ colour to increase theirflight efficiency. In this project, the effects that differences in surface temperatures of birds’ black/white wings are investigated.his method of utilizing thermal effects can be considered as a new applicable way to increase the flight efficiency in fixed-wingunmanned aerial vehicles.
A standard airfoil selection and wing planform design will be conducted. Then the model will be tested in the wind tunnel andinvestigated using CFD to quantify the suggested benefits of a change in colour of the wing. The flight efficiency will becompared to the same wing without such thermal effects.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 28 of 112
Prof M Sharifpur
Designing, building and simulation of ventilation system for nanofluid laboratoryLecturer, Prof M Sharifpur
Max students, 1
Project Description
The nanofluid laboratory needs some equipment which must be design and built. One of them is the particle filtration system.One of the problems for measuring the nanoparticles weight in different experimental works is the fraction of the nanoparticleswhich dispersed in the environment. In this project, a filtration system for the nanofluid safe room will be designed, simulatedand tested. The size of solid nanoparticles can be between 1nm and 100nm. The student must start with searching about thedifferent kind of filtrations which can be proper for nanoparticles filtration and then he/she must build it for Nanofluid saferoom. A CFD simulation needs to be done to find out if it works well.For more information on Nanofluids and nanoparticles, please take a look at my researchgate account at:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohsen_Sharifpur
You should read the study guide of the course carefully and your final report should include the following:
1. Cover page2. Abstract3. Introduction4. Literature review5. Theoretical investigation6. Concept generation and selection7. Design and build the experimental set-up8. Model development, analysis and calculations9. Safety issues10. Test, benchmark and comparison with data in the literature11. Discussions12. Conclusion
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 29 of 112
Experimental investigation into effective thermal conductivity of nanofluidsLecturer, Prof M Sharifpur
Max students, 1
Project Description
Nanofluids are the suspension of nanoparticles (1nm to 100nm) in a conventional heat transfer fluids (called base fluid). Theyhave received a lot of attention by researchers around the world in last two decade while they can improve thermal conductivityand consequently, the heat transfer in specific conditions. Fluids such as water, oils and ethylene glycol are extensively used asheat transfer working fluids in various heat-exchange processes. The thermal conductivity of the heat transfer fluids is one of themost important properties for convective heat transfer improvement. This enhancement in heat transfer extremely depends onthe effective thermal conductivity of a nanofluid. In this project in order to investigate the effective thermal conductivity of ananofluid, an experimental set-up will be designed and built. The student will start the investigation for pure water and if theset-up works well, will continue with Nanofluid. A comparison will be made with available models and data for the effectivethermal conductivity of nanofluids. For this project the student must increase his/her knowledge in heat transfer. This projecthas the capability to publish a paper in an international conference if the student offers a proper work.You should have a strong background of heat transfer and mathematics.For more information on Nanofluids, please take a look at my researchgate account at:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohsen_Sharifpur
You should read the study guide of the course carefully and your final report should include the following:
1. Cover page2. Abstract3. Introduction4. Literature review5. Theoretical investigation6. Concept generation and selection7. Design and build the experimental set-up8. Model development, analysis and calculations9. Safety issues10. Test, benchmark and comparison with data in the literature11. Discussions12. Conclusion
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 30 of 112
Numerical simulation and experimental investigation into Constant heat flux walls(heat exchangers)
Lecturer, Prof M SharifpurMax students, 1
Project Description
There are two common assumptions for a surface in the thermal systems which they are constant temperature surface andconstant heat flux surface. In this project, how to design and build a constant heat flux surface, will be investigated. A constantheat flux wall (heat exchanger) is a surface which can produce a constant heat flux for research and experimental purpose. Themost important point in this project is to design a thermal system to produce steady constant heat flux through the surface of thewall. The student should simulate the system (heat exchanger) and compare the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) resultswith the experimental work data. You should have a strong background in heat transfer and the increase your knowledge towork with ANSYS-FLUENT or STAR CMM+ software.You should read the study guide of the course carefully and your final report should include the following:
1. Cover page2. Abstract3. Introduction4. Literature review5. Theoretical investigation6. Concept generation and selection7. Design and build the experimental set-up8. Model development, analysis and calculations9. Safety issues10. Test, benchmark and comparison with data in the literature11. Discussions12. Conclusion
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 31 of 112
Designing, and building an automatic solar gate for pet/animal house for rural areaLecturer, Prof M Sharifpur
Max students, 2
Project Description
In the rural area, there are some wild animals which come at night to take domestic animals in the farms. Therefore, the farmershave to open and close the gate of their domestic animals every day. In this project, an automatic solar gate will be designedwhich will be closed automatically by sunset and will be opened after sunrise. The detail information about the project will beoffered by the study leader. If the student provides a good final product, extra funds will be allocated to support the wholeproject. The project will be divided into two different cases; first for a place without electricity (by using chargeable 12-voltbattery), and the second for a place with 220-240 volt electricity. The study leader will inform which student work on whichcase.
You should read the study guide of the course carefully and your final report should include the following:
1. Cover page2. Abstract3. Introduction4. Literature review5. Theoretical investigation6. Concept generation and selection7. Design and build the experimental set-up8. Model development, analysis and calculations9. Safety issues10. Test and improvements11. Discussions12. Conclusions against experimental results
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
maybe attended
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 32 of 112
Overflow Project - To Be AnnouncedLecturer, Prof M Sharifpur
Max students, 13
Project Description
Lecturer reserves the right to allocate students to a project that is or is not yet defined.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 33 of 112
Dr MA Mehrabi
Design and manufacture of inserted and reversible fluidic connectors forlab-on-a-chip devices
Lecturer, Dr MA MehrabiMax students, 10
Project Description
1. BackgroundBesides a high-quality sealing, an equally important factor for a functional lab-on-a-chip device is a reliable fluidic interfacebetween the chip and the peripherals (e.g. external pumps, valves, tubings, etc). These fluidic interfaces are commonly called‘‘fluidic interconnect’’, ‘‘world-to-chip’’ or ‘‘macro-to-micro’’ interfaces and we here use these terms interchangeably.Although the importance of fluidic interconnects is sometimes neglected in the microfluidics community, they are typically theleast reliable components of a lab-on-a-chip device and often limit the overall performance of these devices. The back-endprocesses required for integrating fluidic connections significantly contribute to the cost of the device.
2. Problem statementThere are a few standards for fluidic interfacing, such as Luer Lock and Luer Cone, but these are suitable for a small number ofapplications and not readily compatible with most of the fabrication techniques. A universally-accepted fluidic connection doesnot exist, but the community working on microfluidics has developed a wide variety of techniques specific to the targetapplication.Ideally, a fluidic interconnect should (1) have minimal dead volume, (2) avoid cross-contamination of samples, (3) be easy toplug, (4) be removable and reusable, (5) be reliable at high pressures, (6) be small enough to allow high-density connections, (7)be made using simple and low-cost techniques, (8) be chemically inert, and (9) be compatible with commercial tubings andfittings. There are various world-to-chip interfaces having some of these features and they can be categorized based on theplugging orientation, the material of the microfluidic device, pressure capability, and maximum number of connections that canbe achieved simultaneously. Reversible insertion, reversible and permanent fluidic connections are three different categories ofinterconnects that are important in any microfluidic design. In this project, our focus will be on inserted, adhesive-free andreversible fluidic connectors.
3. Theoretical objectivesBased on the new inspiration of seeing a lab-on-a-chip device in microfluidics as an electronic device and try to designeverything as an electronic component, it is necessary to look for microfluidic connections that are mimicking conventionalelectronic connectors. The connections that are mimicking conventional electronic connectors are user-friendly and affordableconnections. Adding zero leakage and easy fabrication process to them will make them the best options for any microfluidicconnections. One of the most straightforward fluidic interfacing techniques is based on the insertion of tubing to a receivingopening that is defined on the cover layer or on the substrate of a microfluidic device. Early examples of such microfluidicinterconnect were compatible with chips based on glass and silicon. Fluidic connections for insertion are typically pluggedmanually to the ports, the locations of which vary from design to design.
4. Experimental objectivesStudents will manufacture their designed connectors for a lab-on-a-chip device.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsManufactured microfluidic connectors will be examined to make sure that they are leakage free and their pressure performancewill be compared with other connectors that have been introduced in the literature.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
Page 34 of 112
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 35 of 112
Design and manufacture of contact-based and reversible interconnects forlab-on-a-chip devices
Lecturer, Dr MA MehrabiMax students, 10
Project Description
1. BackgroundBesides a high-quality sealing, an equally important factor for a functional lab-on-a-chip device is a reliable fluidic interfacebetween the chip and the peripherals (e.g. external pumps, valves, tubings, etc). These fluidic interfaces are commonly called‘‘fluidic interconnect’’, ‘‘world-to-chip’’ or ‘‘macro-to-micro’’ interfaces and we here use these terms interchangeably.Although the importance of fluidic interconnects is sometimes neglected in the microfluidics community, they are typically theleast reliable components of a lab-on-a-chip device and often limit the overall performance of these devices. The back-endprocesses required for integrating fluidic connections significantly contribute to the cost of the device.
2. Problem statementThere are a few standards for fluidic interfacing, such as Luer Lock and Luer Cone, but these are suitable for a small number ofapplications and not readily compatible with most of the fabrication techniques. A universally-accepted fluidic connection doesnot exist, but the community working on microfluidics has developed a wide variety of techniques specific to the targetapplication.Ideally, a fluidic interconnect should (1) have minimal dead volume, (2) avoid cross-contamination of samples, (3) be easy toplug, (4) be removable and reusable, (5) be reliable at high pressures, (6) be small enough to allow high-density connections, (7)be made using simple and low-cost techniques, (8) be chemically inert, and (9) be compatible with commercial tubings andfittings. There are various world-to-chip interfaces having some of these features and they can be categorized based on theplugging orientation, the material of the microfluidic device, pressure capability, and maximum number of connections that canbe achieved simultaneously. Reversible insertion, reversible and permanent fluidic connections are three different categories ofinterconnects that are important in any microfluidic design. In this project, our focus will be on contact-based and reversibleinterconnects fluidic connectors.3. Theoretical objectivesInsertion-based reversible interconnects allow for easy and fast interfacing to lab-on-a-chip devices because they do not requirecustom-designed fixtures or frames for applying a significant compression force to ensure leak-free connections. However, theseconnections are typically not reliable at high pressures and not compatible with simultaneous plugging of high-densityconnections. Instead, contact-based connections have been developed, particularly to be used in automated tools with highdensity I/O ports. This type of world-to-chip interfaces comprises a soft intermediate element, such as an O-ring, a PDMS(Polydimethylsiloxane) gasket, or a silicone tubing, and a fixing mechanism to compress the tubings against a flat area of themicrofluidic chip.
4. Experimental objectivesStudents will manufacture their designed connectors for a lab-on-a-chip device.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsManufactured microfluidic connectors will be examined to make sure that they are leakage free and their pressure performancewill be compared with other connectors that have been introduced in the literature.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Page 36 of 112
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 37 of 112
Prof JP Meyer
Transitional heat transfer occurring of air in the human lungs, blood flow througharteries and for
Lecturer, Prof JP MeyerMax students, 3
Project Description
Obstructions in a circular type of conduit such as an insert, change of diameter, divergence, or change in flow direction in tubeshave a significant effect on the heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics (laminar, transitional or turbulent flow). Examples ofobstructions that are commonly found in practice include: the human lungs though which air flows through the windpipe totrachea that branches into air passages with smaller and smaller diameters. Also blood that travels through the arteries whichbranch into smaller and smaller vessels. Other examples are aircraft gas turbines, microprocessors, condensers and evaporatorsin the power generating industry and in the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry, cavity receivers in concentrated solarpower plants, etc. A contributing complication in the human body, power generating industry and air-conditioning andrefrigeration industries is that our body temperatures should stay constant which also applies that the heating/cooling occurswith a constant wall temperature. The purpose of this study is to conduct heat transfer and fluid flow measurements in at aconstant wall temperature. The emphasis of the project is to design, build and commission such an experimental set-up canaccurately maintain a constant wall temperature. The results should be compared to a prediction model.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 38 of 112
Heating wire coil diameter effects in renewable energy heat exchangersLecturer, Prof JP Meyer
Max students, 3
Project Description
South Africa aims to generate 42% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030, therefore the Department ofEnergy prioritised renewable energy technologies such as concentrated solar plants (CSP). The overall efficiency of the CSPplant is determined by the solar receiver tubes, which are used to generate heat. To optimise the design of the solar receivertubes, experiments need to be conducted using a horizontal tube that is heated at a constant heat flux. The constant heat flux(which mimics the heat of the sun) can be applied by tightly coiling heating wire around the test section. Although the diametersand lengths of solar receiver tubes, lab-scale experiments are conducted using significantly smaller tube diameters and lengths.From recent studies in the Clean Energy Research Group it seemed as if the heat transfer coefficients are affected in mini-tubes.Although mini-tubes are commonly used in experimental investigations, no information is available on the effect of the heatingwire coil diameter on the temperature measurements. The purpose if this study is therefore to conduct heat transfer experimentsin smooth horizontal test sections with different tube diameters, in order to quantify the effect of the heating wire coil diameteron the heat transfer coefficients.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 39 of 112
Mr RF Meeser
Investigate the feasibility of using a vehicle aircon to cool down the intake air forshort bursts
Lecturer, Mr RF MeeserMax students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundVehicle air conditioners have the ability to cool materials down to temperatures well below atmospheric temperature.2. Problem statementColder intake air to the vehicle IC engine will result in increased power output as more air can be taken in per cycle for theengine due to the higher density, which allows more fuel to be burnt. The aim of this project is to investigate whether a vehicleair conditioning system can be used to temporarily cool down an intake air charge to increase the vehicle power output for ashort burst.3. Theoretical objectivesThe proposed system needs to be modeled and simulations performed to obtain the sizing and capacity of such a system.4. Experimental objectivesThe designed system needs to be manufactured and tested on an appropriate test setup to verify whether the theoreticallydetermined system would be capable of performing this task.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsAfter testing the results need to be compared to the theoretically determined system and appropriate conclusions andrecommendations need to be made.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 40 of 112
Varying spring stiffness using pneumatic suspension springsLecturer, Mr RF Meeser
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundSemi-active suspensions have advantages above normal suspensions in that parameters may be optimized for each application.2. Problem statementThe goal of this project is to research the feasibility of using opposing pneumatic springs to achieve an effective variablestiffness suspension.3. Theoretical objectivesModelling of a pneumatic spring system and generating a layout that can achieve variable effective stiffness using opposingpneumatic springs4. Experimental objectivesBuild a simple test setup that can be used to validate the theoretical predictions.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare theoretical model to experimental results
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 41 of 112
Investigating the influence in torque transfer by varying the profile of a clutchLecturer, Mr RF Meeser
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundClutches in automotive transmissions are being placed in more and more extreme environments where weight reduction andincreased power needs the clutches to perform better and better.2. Problem statementClutches work with friction between surfaces, so in order to increase power transfer capacity the designer can either increase thenormal force, or increase the area of the clutch. This research project looks at changing the profile of the clutch from a normalflat profile to a zig-zag profile to increase the effective area of power transfer and by using a wedging action also increase thenormal force on the clutch.3. Theoretical objectivesAn in detail study will need to be done to determine the role-players in ordinary clutches after which the new clutch profile willneed to be investigated theoretically.4. Experimental objectivesA test setup will need to be built on which the new clutch profile can be evaluated experimentally and compared to thetheoretical predictions.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
1. BackgroundRifles have the drawback of having recoil. Some large caliber rifles have substantial recoil making them difficult to operate bysomeone who is not physically strong enough to handle it.2. Problem statementThe goal of this project is to design, build and test a damping device that can reduce the recoil force that the operatorexperiences.3. Theoretical objectivesA theoretical model of the damper needs to be conceived and analysed theoretically to size all the aspects of the design.4. Experimental objectivesAn appropriate test setup needs to be built and tested to allow verification of the recoil dampening device5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe theoretical and experimental results need to be compared and sensible conclusions and recommendations are to be made.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 43 of 112
Hybrid system energy flow modelling and optimizationLecturer, Mr RF Meeser
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundIn today’s modern climate it is of utmost importance to improve the efficiency of vehicles so that less resources are consumedduring operation. One way in which modern vehicles are optimised is to make use of hybrid systems which are capable ofstoring energy in times of excess to be used in times of shortage, or to facilitate use of energy converters in their higherefficiency ranges.2. Problem statementBuilding a mathematical model that can optimize the charging strategy of a hybrid vehicle based on real time mass estimates,even accounting for fuel and payload mass that changes during the operation cycle3. Theoretical objectivesAn analytical model of the hybrid system needs to be built that takes all the variables into account and is able to continuouslystate the optimal operation point for the vehicle.4. Experimental objectivesAn appropriate test setup needs to be conceived/built that is able to experimentally verify the theoretical model’s operation inreal time.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsOnce the test setup is working, the theoretically derived results may be compared to the experimental and sensible conclusionsand recommendations can be made.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 44 of 112
Design,build,test and characterize a lightweight two-plane electromagnetic actuatorLecturer, Mr RF Meeser
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundReducing unwanted small movements/vibrations by operators of some devices such as binoculars, cameras and even firearmscan greatly increase the usability of these devices. Human induced vibrations by attempting to hold a device steady are verysmall and almost unnoticeable to the naked eye, but once the effect of this vibration is extrapolated to a greater distance themovements can have an almost detrimental effect on the functionality of the device.2. Problem statementFor this project the student is to design, build, test and characterise a small two axis actuator that can be used to increase thestability of these handheld devices.3. Theoretical objectivesThe theoretical aspect of the project will entail determining the frequency range and magnitude of the forces required toeffectively stabilise a handheld for the average operator. An appropriately designed stabiliser is then to be designed that is ableto counter the vibrations.4. Experimental objectivesFor the experimental setup it is required to build the designed stabiliser, test it using an appropriately conceived test setup andcharacterize the actuator to facilitate ude of this device in real applications.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe results from the test setup are then to be compared to the theoretical predictions and the necessary conclusions are to bemade
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
1. BackgroundVehicle payload contributes greatly to the total energy required to move the vehicle over its terrain. If the payload of a hybridvehicle can be determined accurately it will facilitate the efficient optimisation of the energy usage for the vehicle.
2. Problem statementA method needs to be investigated to measure total vehicle payload in real time. This includes the weight of the cargo as well asoperators, fuel mass etc.
3. Theoretical objectivesConceive a method of determining the vehicle’s real time payload and theoretically model this system’s behaviour taking all thevariables into account. Depending on the method proposed; different strategies can be implemented to increase the reliability ofthe measurement.
4. Experimental objectivesAn appropriate test setup is to be conceived and built that will be able to test the applicability of the real time mass estimationstrategy.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsOnce the test setup is working, the theoretically derived results may be compared to the experimental and sensible conclusionsand recommendations can be made.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 46 of 112
Dr G Mahmood
Screw cooling in an annular channel.Lecturer, Dr G Mahmood
Max students, 6
Project Description
Special surface roughness and structures i.e., rib, waves, protrusions, and fins are common on the internal surface of tubes toenhance heat transfer at the wall. However, such structures are complex, and difficult and expensive to employ or manufactureas well as increase mass and pumping power of fluid significantly through the tubes. Screw or helical flow in cylindricalchannels has long been under investigations to increase the local convective heat transfer on the channel wall. The simple heattransfer enhancement technique with screw flow has become attractive as it does not require any surface modifications, surfaceroughness, and fins. In the present proposed project the screw flow will be employed in an annular channel. The objectives areto investigate: (i) the local heat transfer on both walls of the annular space and (ii) the pressure drop annular channel. Annularchannels are commonly employed in heat exchangers and heating/cooling channels of components. The flow along a curvessurface undergoes the radial pressure difference and centrifugal force due to the streamline curvature. The imbalance betweenthe two forces causes local instability in flows near the curved surface and results in vortex structures named as Taylor-Gortlervortex and Dean vortex. These vortex structures promote local flow mixing, disturbances in the boundary layer, and heattransfer on the wall.This project requirements: design and fabrication of an annular channel with inlets and outlets that generate helical or screwflow along the channel walls. The walls of the annulus are to be instrumented with pressure taps, heating elements, andthermocouples for the measurements of pressure distributions and heat transfer along the walls. The measurements must takeplace in the UP Wind Tunnel lab.Special instructions: The student undertaking the project must have background in fluid mechanics and heat transfer. Some CFD(computational fluid dynamics) simulations using the commercial CFD softwares (ANSYS-Fluent, StarCCM+) available at theUP computer lab are desirable based on permitted time. CFD trainings are usually offered during the March/April period ofevery year.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 47 of 112
Heat transfer to flow in a two-dimensional heated nozzle.Lecturer, Dr G Mahmood
Max students, 6
Project Description
Heated nozzle is one of the primary components in applications like injection molding, spray coating, gluing and welding, grainand processed food drying, three-dimensional lithography printing, bubble-jet printing on paper etc. The nozzle heats the fluidflow by the convection heat transfer through its wall surface. The fluid flow rate in the nozzle in these applications ranges fromvery low (laminar) to very high (turbulent) in the incompressible flow regime. The quality and proper functioning toward theintended objectives of the heated nozzle units depend on the inner wall shape and geometry of nozzle. In the present proposedproject a two-dimensional nozzle will be investigated to heat the air flowing through (incompressible flow). The objectives areto investigate: (i) the local heat transfer on nozzle curved walls, and (ii) pressure distributions along the nozzle. Accelerationsand local vortex structures on the curved wall contribute to the high heat transfer on the walls.This project requirements: design and fabrication of the 2-D nozzle and test stand. At the least, three designs of the nozzle wallcurvature for a given area ratio of inlet to outlet are to be fabricated and tested. The nozzles are to be instrumented with thepressure taps, heating elements, and thermocouples for pressure drop and heat transfer measurements on the nozzle wall. Themeasurements must take place in the UP Wind Tunnel lab.Special instructions: The student undertaking the project must have background in fluid mechanics and heat transfer. Some CFD(computational fluid dynamics) simulations using the commercial CFD softwares (ANSYS-Fluent, StarCCM+) available at theUP computer lab are desirable based on permitted time. CFD trainings are usually offered during the March/April period ofevery year. The student must design and test three nozzle geometries at the minimum.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 48 of 112
Performance of a low pressure centrifugal pump impeller employing airfoil-shapeblades.
Lecturer, Dr G MahmoodMax students, 6
Project Description
Low cost and low pressure centrifugal pump impellers employ backward-curved thin blades of constant thickness. However, thehigh turbulence and secondary flows in the flow passages between the blades cause the hydraulic performance of the pump tosuffer. In the present proposed project a backward-curved impeller employing the airfoil-shape blade will be designed and testedfor the performance of a centrifugal pump. The design of an open-type impeller of a low-pressure centrifugal pump from themarket is to be selected. The blades of the existing impeller are then to be modified/replaced by the new design. The objectivesare to investigate: (i) the hydraulic performances of the new impeller, and (ii) compare the performances between the newimpeller and original impeller.This project requirements: design and fabrication of the backward-curved impeller with the airfoil-shape blade. At the least, twoimpeller designs are to be fabricated and tested. The CNC machine in the UP heavy machinery lab can be used for thefabrication. The impellers are to be tested in the pump experimental facility (used in MTV420 module) in the UP Wind Tunnellab.Special instructions: The student undertaking the project must have background in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. SomeCFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations using the commercial CFD softwares (ANSYS-Fluent, StarCCM+) availableat the UP computer lab are desirable based on permitted time. CFD trainings are usually offered during the March/April periodof every year. The student must design and test two new impellers at the minimum to compare with the original impeller.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 49 of 112
Prof S Kok
Dynamic characterization of rubber used in vibrating screen mountsLecturer, Prof S Kok
Max students, 9
Project Description
1. BackgroundRubber mounts are widely used for supporting dynamic equipment such as vibratory screens. To determine the dynamic forceson the screen foundations, accurate dynamic models of these mounts are required that can be used together with multi-bodydynamic models of the screens. While various models like these (e.g. the Mooney-Rivlin and Ogden models) exist and arewidely used in finite element modelling, the parameters of these models must however generally be based on experimental data.
2. Problem statementPlan and conduct an experiment that compresses a rubber sample (of the same material used in the vibrating screen mounts) at arange of frequencies typically encountered in a vibrating screen application. The amplitude of compression should ideally alsobe adjustable. Also measure the displacement (probably using digital images) and forces that this rubber sample experiencesduring this experiment. Next, select and calibrate an appropriate material model that can predict the measured response of therubber sample. Specifically focus on viscoelastic material models if the frequency dependency is substantial, or on nonlinearelastic models if the nonlinearity dominates with little rate dependency.
3. Theoretical objectivesIdentify appropriate materials models for rubber and implement in a finite element code. Use experimental results of forces anddisplacements (based on digital images) to find the optimal material parameters.
4. Experimental objectivesConduct tests to capture the dynamic responses of the rubber material over an appropriate frequency range, and find methods touse these results to determine the material parameters.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidate and update the numerical model against experimental results.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 50 of 112
Finite element modelling of external fixation deviceLecturer, Prof S Kok
Max students, 9
Project Description
1. BackgroundIn extreme cases of tibial fractures, an external mechanical device is used to stabilise the fracture. These devices typicallyconsist of metal rings surrounding the lower leg, one above the fracture line and another below the fracture line. This device isthen fixed to the upper and lower parts of the fractured tibia (via wire and pins inserted through the calf muscle and into thetibia), and the rings are also fixed externally to one another. These devices are required to have high stiffness, to prevent thefractured surfaces from displacing too much when loads are applied.
2. Problem statementVarious configurations for external tibia fixation exist. Currently there are no clear guidelines that can be used to differentiatebetween competing designs. Therefore there is a need to quantify the performance of external tibia fixation devices. In addition,there is a need to predict the performance of a proposed external fixation device, rather than to test expensive prototypes.Finally, as the tibia fracture starts to heal, the stiffness of the fractured bone increases. There is a need quantify this stiffnessincrease non-invasively.
3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop various finite element models of the external fixation device. Attempt to build simple models that can be tuned toexhibit the correct stiffness of the stabilised fracture (axial stiffness, torsional stiffness, bending stiffness). Use this tuned finiteelement model to propose a non-invasive procedure that can be used to infer the stiffness of the healing fracture.
4. Experimental objectivesMeasure the stiffness (axial, torsion and bending) of the external fixation device. Add materials of various stiffnesses into thefracture interface and repeat the measurements. Specifically, various external loads will be applied and the resulting fracturedisplacements will be measured. This load-displacement data will be adequate to describe the effective macroscopic stiffness ofthe device.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsTune the finite element model in order to match the experimentally measured data.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Commercial external fixation device will be made available
Page 51 of 112
Dr CJ Kat
Biomechanical comparison of half-pin and double ring configurations of an externalfixator
Lecturer, Dr CJ KatMax students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundExternal fixators have evolved in the last 100 years form crude devices to highly complex devices used for stabilisation offractures in bone. The biomechanical stability of these constructs is achieved with the combination of rings, pins and wires.Stiffness of ring fixator constructs can be increased by increasing wire or pin diameter, increasing the distance between wiresand pins and decreasing the distance between the bone and rings. Stiffness of a construct is also altered with differentconfigurations of pins and wires. The configuration of the external fixator is determined by the clinical scenario and factors suchas soft tissue coverage, fracture proximity to a joint, and underlying neurovascular structures should be considered.
2. Problem statementDifferent configurations result in different stability of the fracture. Determine the configuration of the half-pin that provides thesame stability as a double ring configuration.
3. Theoretical objectivesDerive a mathematical model that can be used to determine the optimal configuration of the half-pin construct.
4. Experimental objectivesA half-pin configuration must be tested to obtain the stability of the fracture under load in order to compare to the double ringconstruct measured in a previous study, as well as to provide data to validate the model created by the student.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe model created by the student must be validated against experimental data obtained from testing the physical construct.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 52 of 112
Condition monitoring of bone fracture using indirect measurements on the externalfixator
Lecturer, Dr CJ KatMax students, 2
Project Description
1. BackgroundExternal fixators have evolved in the last 100 years form crude devices to highly complex devices used for stabilisation offractures in bone. Bone fracture healing is dependent on various factors and can range from a couple of weeks to severalmonths. Information about the condition of the fracture can provide valuable information to the doctor to access the progress ofthe healing process. Currently this information is based on scans and x-rays from which the doctor has to determine thecondition of the fracture.
2. Problem statementCondition monitoring of the bone fracture is to be done using indirect measurements on the external fixator.
3. Theoretical objectivesDerive a simple model that can be used to identify the best measurement on the external fixator that can provide sufficientinformation on the fracture.
4. Experimental objectivesConduct experimental tests to prove feasibility of concept of condition monitoring of the fracture using the proposed indirectmeasurements on the external fixator. Data should also be collected during the experimental testing that can be used to validatethe derived model.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe model created by the student must be validated against experimental data obtained from testing the physical construct.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 53 of 112
Comparison of fracture measurement techniquesLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. BackgroundExternal fixators have evolved in the last 100 years form crude devices to highly complex devices used for stabilisation offractures in bone. The biomechanical stability of these constructs is achieved with the combination of rings, pins and wires. Theconfiguration of the external fixator is determined by the clinical scenario and factors such as soft tissue coverage, fractureproximity to a joint, and underlying neurovascular structures should be considered. Comparing the biomechanical stability ofthe different constructs and their configurations generally considers the stiffness of the construct and/or the strain over thefracture.
2. Problem statementDifferent methods exist for measuring the biomechanical stability of an external fixator. Define a technique that can be usedduring dynamic loading.
3. Theoretical objectivesUsing the selected measuring methods create the theoretical models and/or equations that allows the calculations of the relevantfracture stability metrics.
4. Experimental objectivesExperimentally compare the measurement techniques using a benchmark test setup of a fracture. Also show that the techniquecan be used under dynamic loading.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsShow by using experimentally obtained data that the theoretical models and/or equations allow for accurate measurement of thefracture stability, specifically under dynamic loading.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 54 of 112
Biomechanical comparison of Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion cagesLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. BackgroundSpinal conditions may require orthopedic intervention. In some cases the intervertebral body may need to be replaced with amechanical substitute. This substitute need to interface effectively with the bone of the adjacent vertebra to ensure optimalosseointegration. A key factor in this is the stiffness of the intervertebral body substitute.
2. Problem statementCompare the stiffness of different Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion cages.
3. Theoretical objectivesCreate a model of the Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion cages to predict the stiffness of the cage.
4. Experimental objectivesExperimentally determined the stiffness of the Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion cages. Also obtain the required data forvalidation of the model created.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe model created by the student must be validated against experimental data obtained from experimental testing.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 55 of 112
Lumbar spine model for vehicle ride studiesLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundVehicle ride is one of the important aspects when considering vehicle dynamics. The human is subjected to whole bodyvibrations in the vehicle with the main source of vibration being road irregularities. The human perceives the vibrations andrelates this to ride comfort. In addition to ride comfort it is also important to consider health aspect of whole body vibration.Health effects of whole body vibration have been reported to be linked with lower back pain. Mathematical lumbar spinalmodels have been developed to investigate the intervertebral disc pressures in whole body vibration applications.This project requires a dedicated student that is up for a challenging and interesting project. The student should preferably havean interest in biomechanics and vehicle dynamics as the student will have to read up on these fields. This project will require theuse of CAE tools, such as a Multi-body dynamics software package (i.e. ADAMS/View), to perform the modelling. The studentwill therefore be required to familiarise him/herself with the required tools. The project will also require the student to designand manufacture a cost-effective physical lumbar spine model.
2. Problem statementDevelop a physical lumbar spine model that can be used to investigate spinal loads in whole body vibration applications. Theapplication of interest is vehicles.
3. Theoretical objectivesCreate a mathematical model of the lumbar spinal model and use this model to predict the loads on the lumbar spine duringrelevant vehicle driving conditions.
4. Experimental objectivesManufacture the designed lumbar spine model. Test the lumbar spine model and generate the experimental data needed tovalidate the model created during the theoretical objectives.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidate the model of the lumbar spine created during the theoretical work using the experimental data measured.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 56 of 112
Measurement of vibrations to infant in car seatLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundEven though infants are frequent vehicle travellers, little is known about the effect of vibrations on their comfort and health.Some studies have characterised the vibrational response of infant car seats, while others have focussed on the physiologicalresponses of infants secured in infant car seats under varying operating conditions. The relationship between in-vehiclemulti-axis vibration input to a new-born infant seated in an infant car seat, and the response of the infant is not known. Inunderstanding this relationship it is necessary to fully understand the multi-axis vibration input to the infant.
2. Problem statementMeasure the multi-axis vibration to which the infant is subjected to in a car seat.
3. Theoretical objectivesModel the interaction between the infant and car seat. The model should be able to capture the transmissibility of the vibrationsfrom the base of the car seat to the infant.
4. Experimental objectivesInvestigate available cost-effective accelerometers (5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidation of the model has to be performed by comparing the experimental measurements to the predictions of the model. Thevalidation process must make use of relevant validation metrics.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 57 of 112
Ride comfort evaluation and optimisation of a bicycleLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. BackgroundCycling is a popular recreational past time for many. The terrain that many of these mountain bikers take on is in many casesextremely rough. Mountain bikes (MTB) have evolved from no suspension, to compliant front forks to the currentfull-suspension mountain bikes in order to improve handling as well as ride comfort of the rider. The ride of a bicycle is notonly important in mountain biking but also for bike commuters using non-suspended bikes.This project requires a dedicated student that is up for a challenging and interesting project. The student should preferably havean interest in human factors in vehicle dynamics as the student will have to read up on ride comfort standards. This project willrequire the use of CAE tools, such as a Multi-body dynamics software package (i.e. ADAMS/View), to perform the modelling.The student will therefore be required to familiarise him/herself with the required tools.
2. Problem statementRide of a bicycle is important from both a health and perception perspective. The optimal settings for a suspended andnon-suspended bicycle is critical in obtaining the best ride.
3. Theoretical objectivesModel the bicycle (suspended or non-suspended) using a multi-dynamics software package such as ADAMS in order to performa sensitivity analysis and optimize the ride of the bicycle.
4. Experimental objectivesObtain the required parameters needed to model the bicycle as well as the experimental measurements to validate the model.The ride of the bicycle has to be evaluated to determine whether it is optimal.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidation of the model has to be performed by comparing the experimental measurements to the predictions of the model. Thevalidation process must make use of relevant validation metrics.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 58 of 112
Sensitivity analysis of ride comfort evaluationsLecturer, Dr CJ Kat
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe ride of a vehicle (bicycle, motorcycle, car, etc.) is of critical importance and these days consumers expect exceptional levelsof ride comfort from their vehicle. Vehicle manufacturers evaluate the ride comfort of the vehicle using applicable standards toensure that it meets consumer expectations. It is therefore critical that the ride comfort evaluations are performed with a robustand reliable procedure.This project requires a dedicated student that is up for a challenging and interesting project. The student should preferably havean interest in human factors in vehicle dynamics as the student will have to read up on ride comfort standards. This project willrequire the use of CAE tools, such as a Multi-body dynamics software package (i.e. ADAMS/View), to perform the modelling.The student will therefore be required to familiarise him/herself with the required tools.
2. Problem statementDetermine the sensitivity of ride comfort evaluations to important and relevant parameters (such as speed).
3. Theoretical objectivesUsing a mathematical model perform a sensitivity analysis to indicate the level of sensitivity to the various parameters.
4. Experimental objectivesPerform an experimental sensitivity analysis of the important parameters identified from the theoretical objective.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidation of the model has to be performed by comparing the experimental measurements to the predictions of the model. Thevalidation process must make use of relevant validation metrics.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 59 of 112
Upper limb prosthesis for optimal vibration isolation for an above the elbow amputeemountain bike r
Lecturer, Dr CJ KatMax students, 2
Project Description
1. BackgroundCycling is a popular recreational past time for many. Amongst these avid cyclists, one finds upper and lower limb amputees.Besides adding control, an upper limb prosthesis should also provide a level of vibration isolation. The isolation should besimilar to that provided by a normal elbow and muscle control.
2. Problem statementDetermine the design and characteristics of an upper limb prosthesis for optimal vibration isolation.
3. Theoretical objectivesCreate a mathematical model of the system to investigate and determine the design and characteristics of the upper limbprosthesis.
4. Experimental objectivesObtain the vibration input at the handle bars that can be used as input to the model, Also obtain acceleration measurements atthe upper arm position.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidate the theoretical model using the upper arm acceleration measurements obtained during testing.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 60 of 112
Dr H Inglis
Development of finite element models and experiments to illustrate principles inStructural Mechanic
Lecturer, Dr H InglisMax students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundThere are a number of complex concepts in MSY310 (Structural Mechanics) that would be easier for students to understandwith 3D visualisation in a FEM framework, and with experiments. Some examples are: shear center, shear flow throughthin-walled sections, buckling of columns, spring instability, lateral buckling of beams.
2. Problem statementDevelop finite element models for a number of these concepts, and use these models to create visualisation for students in themodule (videos or tutorials). Validate the finite element models with experimental measurements. The experiments should besuitable for student pracs in the future.
3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop finite element models for a number of these concepts, and use these models to create visualisation for students in themodule (videos or tutorials).
4. Experimental objectivesDesign experiments to validate the finite element models for the chosen concepts. The experiments should be suitable forstudent pracs in the future. Depending on the concept, it may be meaningful to have a realistic test (using lab testing equipment)as well as a "toy" test, which students can play with in tutorials.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare results of experimental and theoretical investigations.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 61 of 112
Characterisation of stiffness and strength of a porthole I-beamLecturer, Dr H Inglis
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundLarge structural I-beams frequently have cutouts in the web of the beam, for weight and cost reduction, and to deliver servicessuch as ducting or wiring.
2. Problem statementCommercial suppliers of porthole I-beams make claims about the effect of the cutouts on the stiffness, overall deflection andstrength of the beams.• Experimentally investigate the effect of different sizes, shapes and locations of cutouts on the beam characteristics.• Validate a finite element model of the beam against your experimental results.• Use FEM to assess the reliability of the published values for beam stiffness.
3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a finite element model of a porthole I-beam, and investigate the effect of different sizes, shapes and locations of cutoutson the beam deflections and stresses. Use your model to characterize the overall stiffness of a porthole I-beam, and compare thisto published values for net stiffness in catalogues.
4. Experimental objectivesExperimentally investigate the effect of different sizes, shapes and locations of cutouts on the beam characteristics.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsValidate the finite element model of the beam against experimental results.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 62 of 112
Using photoelasticity for full-field stress visualization and investigation of stressconcentrations
Lecturer, Dr H InglisMax students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundPhotoelasticity is a method to measure stress fields in a body under stress, based on the change in the optical properties(refractive index) of the material. It can be used to investigate the severity of stress concentrations, to see residual stresses, andto observe dynamic stress fields. The fringes observed are proportional to the difference between the principal stresses.
In order for undergraduate students to have a better understanding of stress concentrations, we want to have a flexible setup forphotoelastic stress analysis.
2. Problem statementDesign a photoelastic test setup, including a polariscope and samples, for use by undergraduate students in MSY310. It isexpected that the design will go through a number of iterations, from a first simple DIY setup, to a more robust setup, which canbe used on a tabletop, under an overhead projector, or in the labs. You will need to calibrate the setup in order to measure stressvalues, and to refine the preparation of specimens for stress concentration visualisations.
Use the setup to investigate the stress concenctration due to different geometric features.
3. Theoretical objectivesInvestigate the effect of stress concentrations through finite element modeling, developing a stress concentration curve (such asthose you have used in Shigley).
4. Experimental objectivesDesign a photoelastic test setup, including a polariscope and samples. Calibrate the stresses measured. Use the setup toinvestigate stress concentrations due to different geometric features.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the finite element predictions for stress concentrations with published data. Validate the finite element fringes againstobserved photoelastic fringes.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 63 of 112
Modeling softening plasticity in particulate composites using CalculixLecturer, Dr H Inglis
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundParticulate composites are used in many applications, from reinforced polymers, to car tyres, to solid rocket propellant.Modeling these materials requires• nonlinear material modeling for polymer• modeling of a representative volume element (RVE) with periodic boundary conditionswhich take the finite element analysis beyond a simple linear elastic model, and test the capabilities of the matrix. In previousyears, students have developed models for the periodic boundary conditions with hardening plasticity, but not yet for softeningplasticity.
2. Problem statementUsing Calculix open source Finite Element software, develop a model of a particulate composite incorporating softeningplasticity in a periodic RVE. Use this model to investigate the sensitivity of the macroscopic response to varying parameters inthe model, and in particular to the size of the particles. Compare your results with experimental observations from polymer claycomposites.
3. Theoretical objectivesModel the particulate composite numerically, incorporating softening plasticity in a periodic RVE. Investigate the sensitivity ofthe macroscopic response to varying parameters in the model.
PLEASE NOTE: You must have very strong programming skills to work on this topic.
4. Experimental objectivesManufacture polymer-clay nanocomposites with clay inclusions, and conduct tests to determine the mechanical properties of thenanocomposite, as well as observing the failure behaviour.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare results of experimental and theoretical investigations.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 64 of 112
Prof PS Heyns
Page 65 of 112
Prof PS Els
Baja suspension systemLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. Background: TuksBaja has been competing both locally and internationally for 23 years. The team continuously strives tobuild a better, faster, safer and more comfortable car. The car is fitted with a hydropneumatic suspension system on which bothspring and damper characteristics can be easily altered by changing gas volumes or adjusting damper valves. Please note thatthis project does NOT require you to be a member of the TuksBaja team and that a Baja vehicle will be reserved for ResearchProject students so that the normal Baja schedule will not interfere with your research.2. Problem statement: Although the suspension system is adjustable, the team does not know the relationships between springcharacteristics and the gas/oil volume or damping characteristics and the valve flow setting. The objective of the researchproject is to model and test both spring and damper characteristics of the suspension system.3. Theoretical objectives: Analyse the effect of oil and gas volumes on the spring characteristics, as well the flow control valvesetting on the damper characteristic.4. Experimental objectives: Measure spring and damper characteristics for different oil and gas volumes as well as differentvalve settings.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare simulation results to experimental results. Updatethe model to better represent experimental results if required. Use the model to develop easy-to-use suspension tuningguidelines for the team.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 66 of 112
Baja brakesLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. Background: TuksBaja has been competing both locally and internationally for 23 years. The team continuously strives tobuild a better, faster, safer and more comfortable car. The TUKSBaja team always have challenges to get the rear brakes to lockup on hard terrain as required by the competition rules. Please note that this project does NOT require you to be a member of theTuksBaja team and that a Baja vehicle will be reserved for Research Project students so that the normal Baja schedule will notinterfere with your research.2. Problem statement: Analyse the brake system with the intent to improve the system.3. Theoretical objectives: Model the brake system from the brake pedal up to the brake force that can be applied between thetyres and the road. Determine the critical factors that influence braking performance significantly and suggest improvements.4. Experimental objectives: Test the current brake system to validate the theoretical results.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare measured braking performance with theoreticalpredictions. Update the model to better represent experimental results if required. Use the model to find the optimal brakeparameters for the vehicle.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 67 of 112
Baja suspension performanceLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. Background: TuksBaja has been competing both locally and internationally for 23 years. The team continuously strives tobuild a better, faster, safer and more comfortable car. The car is fitted with a hydropneumatic suspension system on which bothspring and damper characteristics can be easily altered by changing gas volumes or adjusting damper valves. Please note thatthis project does NOT require you to be a member of the TuksBaja team and that a Baja vehicle will be reserved for ResearchProject students so that the normal Baja schedule will not interfere with your research.2. Problem statement: Although the Baja suspension system is adjustable, the team does not know which settings will providethe best handling, comfort and obstacle crossing capability during the competition. The objective of the research project is torecommend optimal spring and damper settings for best suspension performance.3. Theoretical objectives: Analyse the effect of spring and damper characteristics on the suspension performance of the vehicleusing a dynamics model.4. Experimental objectives: Measure suspension performance of the vehicle for various spring and damper settings.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare simulation results to experimental results. Updatethe model to better represent experimental results if required. Use the model to find the optimal settings for the vehicle.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 68 of 112
Baja Adams modelLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. Background: TuksBaja has been competing both locally and internationally for 23 years. The team continuously strives tobuild a better, faster, safer and more comfortable car. In an effort to streamline the development process, the team needs todevelop a multi-body dynamics model of the vehicle that can be used for suspension, steering and brake development. Pleasenote that this project does NOT require you to be a member of the TuksBaja team and that a Baja vehicle will be reserved forResearch Project students so that the normal Baja schedule will not interfere with your research.2. Problem statement: The objective of the research project is to develop and validate a multi-body dynamics model of a Bajavehicle.3. Theoretical objectives: Develop a multi-body dynamics model of a Baja vehicle that includes suspension, steering system andtyres.4. Experimental objectives: Test the vehicle by driving over obstacles of known shape as well as predefined handlingmanoeuvres. Measure relevant parameters that can be used to validate the model.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare measured and simulated results and determine thevalidity of the model.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 69 of 112
Baja CVT tuningLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. Background: TuksBaja has been competing both locally and internationally for 23 years. The team continuously strives tobuild a better, faster, safer and more comfortable car. The drivetrain of the car relies on a continuously variable transmission(CVT) to match engine speed to vehicle speed. The CVT uses a mechanical control system based on flyweights, springs andcams. Please note that this project does NOT require you to be a member of the TuksBaja team and that a Baja vehicle will bereserved for Research Project students so that the normal Baja schedule will not interfere with your research.2. Problem statement: The objective of the research project is to develop and validate a model of the CVT used on the Bajavehicle.3. Theoretical objectives: Develop a model (empirical or physics-based) of a CVT that include the effects of springcharacteristics, flyweights, cams etc.4. Experimental objectives: Test the CVT with different combinations of spring characteristics, flyweights, cams etc. Measurerelevant parameters that can be used to validate the model.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare measured and simulated results and determine thevalidity of the model. Find the optimum combination of parameters for best drivetrain performance.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 70 of 112
Baja tyre testing and modellingLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. Background: The Baja team developed a full vehicle ADAMS model in 2019. The team requires a good tire model so thatthey can incorporate it into their ADAMS model. The challenge is to find the characteristics of the tire on different surfaces andmanoeuvres in order to develop an accurate tyre model that can be incorporated into ADAMS. This will assist the team to getimproved results on their ADAMS simulations and thus the characteristics of the car.2. Problem statement: Develop a validated tyre model for the Baja that can be incorporated into the existing ADAMS model.3. Theoretical objectives: Parameterize a tyre model using experimental results.4. Experimental objectives: Determine physical tyre properties suitable for parameterizing the tyre model.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results. Compare modelling results to experimental results anddetermine the accuracy of the model.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 71 of 112
Baja all-wheel driveLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. Background: The 2020 Baja SAE rules states that all Baja vehicles must be permanent all wheel drive or selective 4 wheeldrive by the 2021 season. Currently all of the TuksBaja vehicles are only rear wheel drive.2. Problem statement: All-wheel drive is a completely new concept in the Baja SAE series. The optimal drivetrain architectureneeds to be determined using first order analysis and simulation.3. Theoretical objectives: Model the full drive train taking efficiency, mass and the effects on vehicle performance, ride andhandling into account. Determine the most effective drivetrain architecture for the specific requirements.4. Experimental objectives: Experimentally determine parameters of critical components required for successful modelling ofthe drivetrain e.g. efficiency and mass properties.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Compare test and modelling results for critical components.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 72 of 112
Baja structural analysisLecturer, Prof PS Els
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. Background: The Baja vehicle is expected to overcome harsh conditions, such as jumps and rock pits, in the American andSouth African competitions. This puts high strains on the suspension, steering system, frame and drive train, often leading topremature failure.2. Problem Statement: Critical load paths through components, such as welded gussets and suspension components, should bedetermined and analysed. This will enable the Baja team to use optimum configurations to avoid future structural failure on theBaja car. The optimisation of front and rear suspension components, as well as areas of common structure failure points, shouldbe considered.3. Theoretical objectives: Strength and FEA analysis of gusset plates, suspension components and mounting points should beperformed. This may include detailed FE modelling and fatigue analysis of areas of interest. Results will be used to optimisegeometries of investigated members as well as propose placement locations of supporting brackets.4. Experimental objectives: Determining stresses and strains on members of interest using strain gauges, load cells and firstprinciples (stress-strain relationships).5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results: Comparing experiments to model results. Use results toimprove detailed design.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 73 of 112
Prof J Dirker
Sensible thermal energy batteryLecturer, Prof J Dirker
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. Background
The development of cheap and reliable energy storage solutions are vital to the drive towards a carbon neutral future. Thermalenergy storage is significantly cheaper than electric energy storage. For systems that already rely on thermal processes (processindustry, power production etc..), the default choice should thus be thermal energy storage. Sensible energy storage in solids areone of the cheapest options, but are prone to non-constant energy changing and discharging rates and do not offer as high anenergy densities as for instance latent energy storage, however, due to its reliable operation, it is often selected. Energydischarging and charging rates of thermal energy batteries using solids are not constant (in the time domain) because thetemperature gradient which drives heat transfer is not constant. To design thermal batteries, the transient state internalconduction problem in solids are to be correctly modelled and understood.
2. Problem statement
The use of a solid state thermal battery which can be discharged in phases using parallel flow systems to enforce amore-constant energy charging and discharging rate is not yet investigated.
3. Theoretical objectives
Understand the thermal behaviour of a transient conduction charging and discharging process in terms of the solid materialproperties, solid material geometric parameters, and the fluid that is used to transport the energy to or from the solid thermalenergy store. Model the charging and discharging stages and characterise the trends in terms of the geometric parameters andthe thermal properties. Propose an operating sequence where more than one thermal battery cell can be operated out of phase(time domain) from each other such that the net effect is a uniform constant energy charging or discharging rate. On the massflow rate of the heat transfer fluid can be changed, not the thermal state of the incoming fluid.
4. Experimental objectives
Design and construct an experimental test section which will consist of more than one thermal energy battery cell. Be able tocontrol the charge and discharge rate of each thermal battery by altering the fluid flow rates for each battery. The overall energycharging and discharging rates must be monitored and an attempt is to be made to maintain these rates at predefined values foras long as possible.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Compare experimental and theoretical results with each other and comment on whether CFD analyses could be suitable tocapture the charging and discharging processes. After adjusting the CFD model, extend the CFD analysis to be able tocharacterise the effect of the geometric parameter with the intention of optimisation (i.e. perform several more analyses fordifferent values of the geometric parameter).
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
Page 74 of 112
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Thermocouples, power supply, pump, flow meter, data-loggers, existing lab space
Page 75 of 112
Natural renewable cooling using phase change materialLecturer, Prof J Dirker
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. Background
Significant amounts of thermal energy are absorbed or released when a substance undergoes phase change. This latent effect canbe used in a wide range of application including passive cooling systems that store the “coolness” of the atmosphere bysolidification during night (charging phase) and releases the “coolness” by melting during the day (discharging phase) whencooling is needed. A promising lay-out is horizontal tubes suspended close to the ceiling of a room. As hot air rises, it melts thephase change material, which in turn results in the cooling of the air. The cooled air naturally drops back down to the room andsupply cooling to the occupants.
2. Problem statement
It is unknown what impact geometry and thermal parameters have on discharging (cooling) rates. Characterise a simplephase-change latent storage geometry (such as a bank of cylinders) for different geometric and thermal parameters.
3. Theoretical objectives
Understand the enthalpy method for predicting the phase-change process. Implement this method in a CFD program (such asAnsys Fluent) for one predefined geometric lay-out with the effect of gravity and by making the fluid density temperaturedependent. Perform a set of discharging (melting) transient state analyses for different geometrical parameters (diameters, pitchspacing, in-room heat flux etc).
4. Experimental objectives
Design and construct a scaled set-up representing a room to match the predefined geometric lay-out selected. At least threegeometric cases must be tested per student and compared to a reference case where no phase change material is present.Construct, calibrate and install suitable thermal probes. Track the internal temperature response inside the phase change materialduring discharging to track the phase change process. If possible, make video recordings of melting progression.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Compare experimental and theoretical results with each other and comment on whether CFD analyses are suitable. Describeobservable experimental trends.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Thermocouples, power supply, data-loggers, existing lab space
Page 76 of 112
Latent energy thermal storage in plate structuresLecturer, Prof J Dirker
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. Background
Solar renewable energy plays an important role in the development of energy systems that are more environmentally friendly.Several solar energy systems exist including concentrated solar energy systems which aims to reduce the carbon footprint ofpower production, however, it is vital to store thermal energy to enable power production during periods where solar resourcesare intermittent or absent (at night). Latent thermal energy storage offers high energy densities at relatively constant energydischarge temperatures. However, due to several thermo-physical challenges relating to phase change materials (PCMs), carefuland innovative design is needed to sustain energy charging and discharging rates. A thermal battery using layered PCMs inplates appears to be a promising solution for both air and water heat transfer fluid applications.
2. Problem statement
The technical performance of a plate type heat exchanger which contains flat plate-like phase change material encapsulationsare unknown in terms of the energy charging (melting of the PCM) and energy discharging (solidifying of the PCM).
3. Theoretical objectives
Understand the thermal charging and discharge process of a phase change material. Implement the enthalpy method, energyequation and Navier-Stokes equations in a numerical CFD simulation model to predict the temperature response of a plate-typeheat exchanger containing phase change material and either a water or air stream for both steady state and transient statescenarios. Parameterise the model in terms of the plate heat exchanger dimensions (plate thickness, pitch and length), the fluidflow rate and the inlet fluid temperature.
4. Experimental objectives
Design and construct sections to experimentally investigate the temperature response of a plate-like heat exchanger whichcontains layers of PCM material. Inlet and outlet fluid temperatures as well as strategic phase change temperatures are to bemonitored for steady state and transient state scenarios with different mass flow rates. Parameters that are to be changed (andwhich will be investigated by different students) include the geometric parameters and the inlet fluid temperature.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Compare experimental and theoretical results with each other and comment on whether CFD analyses could be suitable tocapture the impact of each geometric parameter. After adjusting the CFD model, extend the CFD analysis to be able tocharacterise the effect of the geometric parameter (i.e. perform several more analyses for different values of the geometricparameter).
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental RequirementsPage 77 of 112
Thermocouples, power supply, pump, flow meter, data-loggers, existing lab space
Page 78 of 112
Direct steam generation from solar energyLecturer, Prof J Dirker
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. Background
Many industries require steam in several thermal processes. The steam can be produced via flow boiling by making use ofseveral energy sources such as the burning of fuel (gas, coal etc), electric heating if a suitable electric energy supply is available,or via renewable energy such as concentrated solar power (CSP). The use of solar renewable energy can assist in reducing theburden on the power utility companies and reduce the impact on the environment. The use of Fresnel type or parabolic troughtype solar concentrators are suitable to direct reflected light onto a collector tube in which water flows. The flow boiling processinside this tube is influenced by transient solar irradiance and flow instabilities and could impact on the heat transfer efficacy,pressure drop and end use performance.
2. Problem statement
Flow boiling under non-uniform heat flux applications such as found in parabolic trough and Fresnel collectors are not yetinvestigated significantly and the impact that the non-uniform incident radiation heat transfer has on the internal flow boilingprocess is not yet fully understood.
3. Theoretical objectives
Use a suitable ray-tracing technique to determine the heat flux distribution on the outside of a collector tube which receivesreflected solar radiation from a parabolic through. For a particular reflector type consider different parameters such as the tubediameter, heat flux intensity, defocusing of the solar reflector and times of the day. Construct a first order thermodynamic modelof the collector tube to help predict the steady state operating point of the collector tube.
4. Experimental objectives
Two students will be responsible to do lab tests under controlled conditions and two students will conduct onsite test with anactual parabolic trough. 1) In the lab: design and construct a horizontal test section with which the outer heat flux distributioncan be dynamically modified such that flow boiling on the inside of the tube can be maintained. Perform experiments atdifferent tube geometries, heat flux distributions and different water flow rates and determine the heat transfer coefficient 2)On-site tests: Improve an existing parabolic trough reflector system by rebuilding / adjusting the parabolic shape to ensurefocussed solar reflection onto a horizontal collector tube. Improve the existing sun-tracking system. Perform a number of test ondifferent days with different reflector conditions and characterise the collector behaviour. For both lab tests and on-site testsuitable temperature probes are to be designed installed to monitor the wall temperature and fluid temperature in the collectortubes.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Compare experimentally and theoretically obtained trends with each other. Comment on observable trends and the possibleexistence of an optimised operating state.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
Page 79 of 112
500
Experimental Requirements
Thermocouples, power supply, pump, flow meter, data-loggers, existing lab space and one set-up on the roof of Engineering 2(as in previous years)
Page 80 of 112
Turbulation heat transfer enhancement in water systemsLecturer, Prof J Dirker
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. Background
Improved thermal systems required innovative enhance heat transfer mechanism to reduce entropy generation. Several enhancedheat transfer systems exist, which increases local heat transfer coefficients. One such method makes use of tabulators that areclose to a heat transfer wall, but not in direct contact with it. The tabulators disturb the thermal boundary layer and enhancedconvective heat transfer on the wall due to eddy formation.
2. Problem statement
The local heat transfer coefficients on a heated wall with water as the fluid (having a relatively high Prandtl number) are to bedetermined experimentally and numerically for different water flow rates and turbulator geometric parameters (such ascross-sectional shape, size, pitch and distance from the heated wall).
3. Theoretical objectives
Set up a numerical model which could be used to predict the wall heat transfer and temperature distribution on the heated wallwith a uniform heat flux imposed on it. The flow is to be perpendicular to the in-fluid tabulators. Local heat transfer coefficientsare to be determined for different flow rate and geometrical parameters of the turbulators.
4. Experimental objectives
Use an existing experimental test section which employs among others, crystal thermography (a paint layer that will changecolour in terms of temperature) to measure the local base wall temperatures of a ribbed wall. Modifications are to be made basedon recommendation from a preceding study. The test section is to be transparent to allow for visual recording of the colourresponse of the paint using a digital camera. Based on the imposed heat flux and the energy balance principle, determine thelocal heat transfer coefficients for different flow rates and turbulator dimensional parameters. (Each student is to investigate adifferent geometrical parameter).
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Compare experimentally and theoretically obtained trends with each other. Comment on observable trends and the possibleexistence of an optimum turbulator parameter.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Thermocouples, power supply, pump, flow meter, data-loggers, digital camera (already purchased)existing lab space
Page 81 of 112
Mr ABC NewLecturer
Investigation of multiple reflections in a discontinuous waveguide.Lecturer, Mr ABC NewLecturer
Max students, 50
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe use of guided wave ultrasound (GWU) for Structural Health Monitoring is receiving significant attention. This is becauseGWU can reflect from different structural features and has demonstrated the ability to monitor large volumes of a structure froma single transducer location. However, the propagation of guided waves in discontinuous waveguides can become verycomplicated as these discontinuities could act as secondary wave sources, leading to multiple back and forth reflections. Todevelop reliable monitoring systems, it is required to successfully classify the reflections according to their sources.
2. Problem statementInvestigate the occurrence and significance of multiple reflections in a discontinuous waveguide of your choice, i.e plate, pipe…
3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a simple simulation model.
4. Experimental objectivesConduct lab experiments to measure the guided wave reflections. Demonstrate the effects of introducing discontinuities to thewaveguide. Classify reflections according to their sources and identify multiple reflections.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare simulation results to experimental results. Update the simulation model to better represent experimental results ifrequired.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 82 of 112
Ms B Huyssen
Visualise the Flow Field behind an AircraftLecturer, Ms B Huyssen
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe flow field behind an aircraft contains useful information about the flow interactions of its wings and body. Flow vectors canbe measured by means of a 5-hole probe. A wake scan of several Y-Z planes can be used to gather a large array of flow vectordata. This data must be made virtually visible together with the model as 3 D vectors and streamlines.2. Problem statementUsing an existing probe positioning facility, a means for probe calibration and probe adjustment, as well as procedures for datacapture and visualization, need to be developed.3. Theoretical objectivesPredict the flow fields behind a reference wing by some computational means for different wing angles.4. Experimental objectivesUse the Y-Z probe manipulator to acquire data from the 5-hole probe and apply your visualization technique to show the flowfields behind the reference wing.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the measured and predicted flow fields and evaluate your procedures.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Wind tunnel model, wind tunnel, probe manipulator, data acquisition equipment.
Page 83 of 112
Develop a Fuselage Flap for a Stable Lifting FuselageLecturer, Ms B Huyssen
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundAny aircraft requiring a fuselage for its payload should provide such a body shaped in favour of minimum drag and structuralweight. For the investigation of a new aircraft configuration, a fuselage is needed that is aerodynamically stable about the pitchaxis and which contributes to the generation of lift. This can be achieved by giving the fuselage a fuselage flap.2. Problem statementDevelop a fuselage of low fineness ratio with an adjustable trailing edge flap which would offer fuselage stability and lift.3. Theoretical objectivesDerive a fuselage shape of low drag for a given flow regime. Develop a theoretical numerical model of the proposed fuselage topredict its stability and lifting properties for various postures of the flap.4. Experimental objectivesBuild a model balance and a wind tunnel model of which the aft-body with its flap can be modified to do stability and liftinvestigations. Find the centre of pressure and the neutral point for various flap configurations.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the predicted positions of the centres of pressure with the experimental observations.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Adjustable fuselage model, a pitch mounting measuring rig for the wind tunnel, load cells, wind tunnel.
Page 84 of 112
Propeller Qualification of Thrust, Torque and PowerLecturer, Ms B Huyssen
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundFor propeller evaluation under dynamic thrust condition it is necessary to measure the thrust, torque and the power of a motor -propeller combination inside a wind tunnel.2. Problem statementFor good propeller matching for the required flight conditions and the power curves of a motor, a reliable propeller model isneeded, one which is validated against experimental measurements.3. Theoretical objectivesDerive a suitable theoretical propeller model from a selected propeller theory to make predictions of thrust, torque and power asa function of diameter, pitch distribution, air speed and rotational speed.4. Experimental objectivesBuild a test stand by which the above parameters can be measured in a wind tunnel at the CSIR.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the predicted parameters with those experimentally measured.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
J Monk
External Organisation
CSIR
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Test stand, torque measurement rig, power meter, load cells, data acquisition system, wind tunnel, standard model motors andpropellers.
Page 85 of 112
Servo Qualification of Torque and PowerLecturer, Ms B Huyssen
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundFor servo evaluation under dynamic load condition it is necessary to measure the torque and the power of a servo in operation.2. Problem statementFor good servo matching with aircraft control surfaces for any required flight condition, it is necessary to know the servoperformance parameters as well as the loads on control surfaces. Some control elements place a static load on the controllingservo for which the energy consumption needs to be know from experimental measurements.3. Theoretical objectivesDerive a suitable theoretical model for control surface loads and predict the servo requirements in terms of torque and energyconsumption.4. Experimental objectivesBuild a servo test module by which the servo performance parameters can be experimentally measured.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the predicted parameters with those experimentally measured.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
J Monk
External Organisation
CSIR
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Test module with torque measurement rig, power meter, load cells, data acquisition system, signal generator, standard modelservos.
Page 86 of 112
Wind Tunnel Testing of the Gull-Wing LayoutLecturer, Ms B Huyssen
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundThis project relates to the research of longitudinal stability of the gull wing aircraft configuration. The gull wing has a specialcombination of wing sweep and wing dihedral angles which can offer wing stability while good lift distributions cansimultaneously be obtained.2. Problem statementThe pitch curves of pitching moment vs angles of attack need to be experimentally established for various wing sweep angles.Develop a wind tunnel balance and a wing model on which the outer wing sweep angel can be adjusted and measure the pitchcurves over a range of sweep angles and angles of attack.3. Theoretical objectivesPredict the pitch curves by means of a panel method over a range of sweep angles.4. Experimental objectivesBuild an experimental setup and measure the pitch curves in the UP wind tunnel.5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsCompare the observed and the predicted curves and modify if necessary the boundary conditions of the theoretical model toimprove the correlation.
Category
Aeronautical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Wind tunnel model, wind tunnel, balance for measuring pitching moment.
Page 87 of 112
Dr H Hamersma
Terramechanics modelling and validationLecturer, Dr H Hamersma
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundTerramechanics is the study of the interaction of mechanical systems with soil. The Vehicle Dynamics Group wants to expandits expertise in terramechanics, specifically with regard to the interaction between a tyre and soil.
2. Problem statementA validated soil model is needed that can be used to accurately predict the behaviour of the soil when loaded. The exact problemstatement will be finalised after consultation with the candidate, but there are several areas to be investigated:• The use of a cone penetrometer to model the soil properties• The use of a bevameter to model the soil properties• The development of a tyre pressure-sinkage model
3. Theoretical objectivesThe theoretical objectives of this study will entail researching existing soil models and the selection of an applicable one or thedevelopment of a new model to be characterised with the identified experimental approach.
4. Experimental objectivesExperimental objectives include the parameterisation and validation of the theoretical model.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimental validation of the theoretical results is essential to the successful completion of this project.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 88 of 112
Rubber friction testingLecturer, Dr H Hamersma
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe Vehicle Dynamics Group (VDG) is interested in modelling the friction between rubber and different surfaces. This relatesto the VDG’s interest in modelling the tyre-road interface.
2. Problem statementThe need exists to theoretically model and experimentally investigate the friction mechanism between rubber (a tyre in thiscase) and several surfaces, ranging from (but not limited to) steel to concrete.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe theoretical objective of this project entails the fit or development of a theoretical model that accurately captures the frictionbehaviour between a rubber tyre and another surface of interest.
4. Experimental objectivesThe experimental objectives include the parameterisation and validation of the theoretical model.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimental validation of the theoretical results is essential to the successful completion of this project.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 89 of 112
Baja tyre test trailerLecturer, Dr H Hamersma
Max students, 5
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe Vehicle Dynamics Group has a tyre test trailer designed to parameterise and validate tyre models of the tyres used on theUniversity of Pretoria’s Baja vehicles. There are several research and development projects to be performed on the tyre testtrailer.
2. Problem statementThree categories can be defined within this project, with the exact problem statements of each to be refined in consultation withthe student. The categories are:• modelling of the tyre test trailer,• modelling the tyres used on the Baja vehicle and• improving the longitudinal tyre slip actuation and control during longitudinal tyre testing
3. Theoretical objectivesEach of the abovementioned categories will include a good dose of theoretical work, such as:• designing suitable experimental setups to determine mass and mass moments of inertia properties• tyre modelling• brake system modelling and control
4. Experimental objectivesThe experimental objectives include parameterisation and validation of the developed theoretical models.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimental validation of the theoretical results is essential to the successful completion of this project.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 90 of 112
Quarter car modelling and validationLecturer, Dr H Hamersma
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundThe VDG has a semi-complete quarter car test setup that can be used to investigate suspension kinematics, ride comfort andtunable dampers of the Tuks Baja race car.
2. Problem statementThe need exists to theoretically model and experimentally investigate the quarter car's response to a range of excitations. Thequarter car test setup will need to be assembled and can then be used to perform various investigations relating to:• Theoretical modelling and experimental validation of the quarter car rig• Investigating ride comfort using hydro-pneumatic Baja dampers• Investigating the effect of suspension kinematics
3. Theoretical objectivesTheoretical modelling of the chosen mechanical subsystem being investigated
4. Experimental objectivesExperimental validation of developed theoretical mdoel
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimental validation of the theoretical results is essential to the successful completion of this project.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 91 of 112
Dr W LeRoux
High-temperature solar receiver with thermal storageLecturer, Dr W LeRoux
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundA solar receiver captures heat from a solar-dish concentrator. The tubular solar cavity receiver heats air for the operation of amicro-turbine as used in a small-scale solar thermal Brayton cycle. The solar receiver operates at very high temperatures andloses heat mostly due to radiation heat loss.
2. Problem statementTo maintain a constant turbine inlet temperature a phase-change material can be incorporated into the solar receiver; however,the viability of this proposal has to been investigated. The solar receiver is mounted at the focus point of a small-scale solar dishwhich follows the sun during the day.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe heat transfer rate to and from the solar cavity receiver and its phase-change material at high temperature should bemodelled.
4. Experimental objectivesA tubular solar cavity receiver with incorporated phase-change material should be tested at high temperature to determine itsthermal storage capacity.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe theoretical and experimental results should be compared and discrepancies should be explained.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
A small solar tracking system and dish are available for the experiments.
Page 92 of 112
Solar thermal galvanisationLecturer, Dr W LeRoux
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundGalvanisation is the process of applying a zinc protective coating to steel or iron, to prevent corrosion. A common method ishot-dip galvanising, in which parts are submerged in a bath of molten zinc. Heat is required to melt the zinc and keep it at aspecific temperature.
2. Problem statementThe heat supply to the zinc bath is usually obtained from a furnace; however, it has been suggested that the heat can be providedfrom the concentrated power of the sun, using a solar dish concentrator. The viability of this proposal has to be investigated.
3. Theoretical objectivesModel the heat transfer to and from a solar galvanisation bath.
4. Experimental objectivesBuild and test a small galvanisation bath using the concentrated power of the sun.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe theoretical and experimental results should be compared and discrepancies should be explained.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
Mintek would be willing to share labs/facilities if needed. Mintek is also willing to host one of these students for vacation work(Dec 2019 to Jan 2020).
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
A small solar tracking system and dish are available for the experiments.
Page 93 of 112
Adjustable small-scale solar dish facetsLecturer, Dr W LeRoux
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundA solar dish can be used to concentrate the sun’s rays onto a focus point for heating purposes or to drive a heat engine. In orderto minimise radiation heat loss, a solar receiver should be small relative to the solar dish size. An accurate solar dish is thereforevery beneficial for solar thermal processes.
2. Problem statementThe trade-off with a solar dish is usually between cost and accuracy. Any slight dish manufacturing error will lead to an opticalerror. The solar receiver puts a constraint on the dish optical error allowed and at the same time it increases the costs involvedwith the manufacturing of the solar dish.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe amount of spillage (rays that missed a solar receiver aperture) as well as the optical error of a low-cost solar dish should bedetermined theoretically. This can typically be done by using ray tracing software such as SolTrace.
4. Experimental objectivesThe amount of spillage (rays that missed the solar receiver aperture) as well as the optical error of a low-cost solar dish shouldbe determined experimentally so that a more accurate solar dish with adjustability can be developed. Currently, a small-scalesolar tracking system with a multi-faceted vacuum-membrane dish is already available and can be used for initial testing;however, a few more prototypes will have to be built and tested.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsTheoretical and experimental results should be compared, typically in terms of the amount of energy captured by a solarreceiver, so that discrepancies can be explained.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
A small-scale solar tracking system with a multi-faceted vacuum-membrane dish is already available and can be used for initialtesting.
Page 94 of 112
High-temperature solar receiver testingLecturer, Dr W LeRoux
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. BackgroundA solar receiver captures heat from a solar concentrator. The tubular solar cavity receiver heats air for the operation of amicro-turbine as used in a small-scale solar thermal Brayton cycle. The solar receiver operates at very high temperatures andloses heat mostly due to radiation heat loss.
2. Problem statementA tubular solar cavity receiver should be tested at high temperature to determine its heat losses, especially due to radiation heatloss. The solar receiver is mounted at the focus point of a small-scale solar dish which follows the sun during the day. Thereceiver is thus mounted at different angles throughout the day. Depending on the wind direction and receiver angle, heat lossdue to convection can also be significant.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe heat loss from the solar cavity receiver at high temperature should be modelled.
4. Experimental objectivesConvection, conduction and radiation heat loss rates at high receiver temperatures should be measured.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe theoretical and experimental results should be compared and discrepancies should be explained.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
A small solar tracking system and dish are available for the experiments.
Page 95 of 112
Testing and development of a recuperator for a small-scale dish-mounted solarthermal Brayton cycle
Lecturer, Dr W LeRouxMax students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundTo increase the efficiency of a solar thermal Brayton cycle, a recuperator is used to pre-heat compressed air before it enters asolar receiver using hot turbine exhaust air. Different heat exchanger designs can be considered for the recuperator such asplate-type or tree-shaped heat exchanger designs.
2. Problem statementDifferent heat exchanger designs exist for the recuperator but an experimental setup is required to test these designs beforebeing implemented into a small-scale dish-mounted solar thermal Brayton cycle.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe chosen recuperator design should be modelled mathematically to anticipate its efficiency and outlet temperatures.
4. Experimental objectivesAn experimental setup of the recuperator should be built to determine its efficiency and its outlet temperatures.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe theoretical results should be compared with the experimental results for validation.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
An experimental setup of the recuperator should be built.
Page 96 of 112
Micro-turbine testing for a small-scale solar thermal Brayton cycleLecturer, Dr W LeRoux
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. BackgroundA micro-turbine can be driven from the heat of burning fuel or the heat from concentrated solar power. A number ofturbochargers from the motor industry are available to act as micro-turbines in a small-scale solar thermal Brayton cycle.
2. Problem statementTurbochargers have to be tested on a test-rig, using a gas burner, for performance experimentally before operation in a solarthermal Brayton cycle can take place.
3. Theoretical objectivesThe performance of a micro-turbine and the heat input from the fuel burner should be modelled mathematically.
4. Experimental objectivesA test-rig should be further developed and used for testing. A gas burner provides heat for the turbine to simulate the heat inputof a typical solar thermal Brayton cycle. To simulate the compressor, air should be pressurised before it is heated by the fuelburner. The turbine in the turbocharger drives a compressor which can be used to measure the power output of the turbine.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe experimental results of the gas burner and turbocharger performance should be compared with the anticipated results asobtained theoretically.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
A test-rig should be further developed and used for testing.
Page 97 of 112
Dr LJ duPlessis
What is UP’s precision mechanical manufacturing capability and how is it influencedby CAD/CAM?
Lecturer, Dr LJ duPlessisMax students, 50
Project Description
1. Background
The Department of Mechanical Aeronautical Engineering at UP has a well-equipped mechanical workshop and its precisionmanufacturing capability will be quantified with this study.The manner in which the quantification will be done is through the manufacturing of at least 10 samples of a simple oscillatingsteam engine, the raw material of which is available.The components of the 10 sample steam engines will be manufactured through different CAD/CAM options, inspected on 3Dmeasuring machines and assembled in different combinations.An experimental test (i.e. a simple “dyno”) needs to be developed with which the output of the steam engines can be compared.
2. Problem statement
What is UP’s precision mechanical manufacturing capability and how is it influenced by CAD/CAM?
3. Theoretical objectives
The theoretical objectives include but are not limited to the following:• Perform a theoretical investigating into the existing CAD/CAM interface in the UP mechanical workshop and compare this tothe abilities of FreeCAD• Develop a simplified tolerance analysis for the steam engine in an attempt to predict the correlation between tolerances andperformance
4. Experimental objectives
The experimental objectives include but are not limited to the following:• How accurate and repeatable can components be manufactured at UP? To answer this question, the different components ofthe steam engine will be inspected on state-of-the-art measuring equipment• A simplified dyno needs to be developed with which the different steam engines can be compared.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results
Not only must the theoretical predictions be validated against experimental results, it is critically important that there iscontinuity throughout the complete study. Starting with the literature review, the content presented in this first chapter must beconcise and the conclusions drawn from the literature review will lead and motivate the content of Chapter 2. This sequencecontinues throughout the complete reports until in the final chapter (Conclusions and Recommendations) the highlights of theoutcomes achieved are summarised and recommendations are made for future studies.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External OrganisationPage 98 of 112
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 99 of 112
Dr T Botha
Plant incubation chamberLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 1
Project Description
1. BackgroundMany people struggle to keep plants alive at all, let alone growing healthily. Ensuring that the correct environment and needsare provided to the plant on a regular basis can be burdensome for people with busy schedules or people who frequently travel.This project proposes to design and create a fully automated incubation system to house the growth of, and to control theenvironment of, any type of small plant or seed.2. Problem statementDevelop the required controllers in simulation and evaluate in experiments to control the lighting, water supply and temperatureto a specified requirement. Monitor and alert user on refills3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop theoretical models and controllers for the lighting, water and temperature4. Experimental objectivesBuild and evaluate controller experimentally and validate results with simulations
Requires embedded programming and electronics
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 100 of 112
DEM sensor systemLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundDEM (Discrete Element Modelling) simulations are used to model particles as large bulk elements and are used in soilmodelling as well as process modelling of bulk material handlers. DEM requires parameters of the model which are difficult toobtain directly and validating the models are extremely difficult to do objectively and relies mostly on correlating visualappearance of simulations and experimental work. Thus, a more objective measurement tool is required to validate the models2. Problem statementDevelop sensor systems which can be used to evaluate DEM models.3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a basic DEM simulation which can be used to evaluate the developed the developed simulations and develop theelectronics of a sensor which can be used to validate an aspect of the DEM simulation.4. Experimental objectivesManufacture the developed sensor preform and evaluate experimentally the effectiveness of the developed DEM sensors andcompare results with simulationsRequires embedded programming and electronics
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 101 of 112
Kinematic analysis of robot armLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 2
Project Description
1. BackgroundRobotic arms are used in many fields to perform functions such as pick and place, manufacturing, assembly and medicaloperations. An analysis of the kinematics of the robotic arm is required in order to control its behaviour such as control theposition of the end effector.2. Problem statementPerform a kinematic analysis of the robotic arm which can be used to control its motion.3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a simulation environment of the robotic arm using a suitable software and perform a kinematic analysis of the robotarm4. Experimental objectivesExperimentally evaluate developed system on small robotic arm and compare results with simulation
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 102 of 112
Lidar based vehicle detectionLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundDuring collision avoidance tests it is required to know whether an object such as a vehicle or pedestrian is in the path of thevehicle. Thus, a system is required which can determin realtive to the sensor where is a obejct located and how far is it from thesensor. It is reuired to ohieve this goal using a relatively inexpensive line scan LIDAR.2. Problem statementDevelopment, coding and testing of an algorithm which uses a line scan lidar to deremine where and how far an object is fromthe sensor.3. Theoretical objectivesA suitable simulation environment needs to be created which can be used to simulate the LIDAR measurements to build and testthe algorithm before deployment on the actual LIDAR sensor.4. Experimental objectives
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 103 of 112
Reinforcement learning based vehicle controllerLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 4
Project Description
1. BackgroundReinforcement learning is an artificial intelligence technique where deep neural networks are used to train a system to completea specific task. The benefits are that a system may be able to learn to perform a task very well without the designer needing todevelop a controller.2. Problem statementInvestigate the use of reinforcement learning to develop vehicle/robot based controllers.3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop a theoretical model of the problem and a suitable reinforcement learning architecture which can be used to develop acontroller.4. Experimental objectivesEvaluate developed controller on hardware and compare results with simulationsProject will require excellent programming skills.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 104 of 112
Development of Control Algorithm for either Autonomous Platform or Small robotLecturer, Dr T Botha
Max students, 3
Project Description
1. BackgroundThis is an open projects to develop controllers for robotic platforms and can include the development of autonomous steeringcontrollers for a small robotic platform used during the testing of vehicle safety systems or controllers for small robotic platformsuch as a traction controller.2. Problem statementDevelop electronics and control system for a small robot platform.3. Theoretical objectivesDevelop and test control systems in a suitable simulation environment before manufacturing and testing on actual actuators4. Experimental objectivesBuild and test electronics and control system of actuators and determine the degree of accuracy of the controllers
Category
Mechanical
Group
Vehicle Systems Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 105 of 112
Prof JFM Slabber
Thermal conductance between HTR materials submerged in a gaseous environmentLecturer, Prof JFM Slabber
Max students, 9
Project Description
1. BackgroundThermal design of a plant requires realistic boundary conditions2. Problem statementIn the design of the core of a reactor accurate temperature predictions are required. Since the design requires that a number ofmaterials have to interface the treatment of conductance at the interface plays a crucial role and needs to be researched fordifferent ceramic materials in different gaseous environments.3. Theoretical objectivesThe theory of heat transport across a "dimensionless" interface will be studied and explained4. Experimental objectivesAn existing experimental apparatus will be modified and used for testing and the results analysed5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsThe validation will only be qualitative since the theoretical analysis of the transport phenomena taking place between adjacentbut "unconnected" atoms is not possible at this level of research.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Clean Energy Research Group
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 106 of 112
Dr A Lexmond
Page 107 of 112
Mr I Sethsedi
Procedure for estimating plate geometric and elastic properties using machinelearning methods
Lecturer, Mr I SethsediMax students, 10
Project Description
1. BackgroundOver the past the past years, the use of aluminum alloy structures has considerably increased in various industries. StructuralHealth Monitoring (SHM) methods have been used for real-time engineering structures monitoring in order to estimate theirintegrity, to reduce maintenance costs and to increase residual structural lifetime. Material and geometric properties are implicitin the computation of SHM methods, therefore an inverse problem of accurately estimating these properties is essential. Theinverse problem of estimating properties in plates has been solved by iteratively by many researchers. These iterative methodsneed an underlying model of the structure to perform the inverse problem. In contrast to iterative methods, machine learningapproaches do not require any underlying model to perform the inverse problem of estimating geometric and elastic properties.They are capable of automatically learning property in the data and deriving an approximate model independently.
2. Problem statementThe goal of the study is to formulate a machine learning algorithm that computes the inverse problem of estimating geometricand elastic properties of plates. The procedure should accept modal responses of plates and output material properties that areaccurate within a reasonable margin of error.
3. Theoretical objectivesBuild a machine learning algorithm appropriate for estimating properties using a large data set of modal responses.
4. Experimental objectivesDesign an experimental setup to perform modal analysis. Results obtained from the modal analysis experiment will be then usedto validate the performance of the machine learning algorithm and estimate properties of experimental plates.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsPredict properties of both simulated and experimental test plates.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
Sasol lab: experimental modal analysis equipment
Page 108 of 112
Calibrate a sonar transducer in air and predict performance in water using machinelearning
Lecturer, Mr I SethsediMax students, 10
Project Description
1. BackgroundSonar transducer are used under water by naval and commercial shipping for activities such as ensuring the safe operations ofvessels. The current calibration process of these sonar transducers is performed in water. Calibration would be much faster andless expensive if conducted in air.
2. Problem statementThe goal of the study is to formulate a machine learning algorithm that uses data of transducers calibrated in air to predict theirperformance in water.
3. Theoretical objectivesGenerate simulated transducer calibration data for both air and water.
4. Experimental objectivesPerform transducer calibration experiments in water and air.
5. Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental resultsPredict the in-water performance of a transducer using experimental measurements captured in air.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
The electro-acoustic underwater test facility at the CSIR
Page 109 of 112
Dr S Schmidt
Investigation of methods to perform structural health monitoringLecturer, Dr S Schmidt
Max students, 9
Project Description
Background: Structural damage in critical assets such as wind turbines, aeroplanes and pipes can result in unexpected failureswhich could have severe financial implications and could result in the loss of human life. Hence, it is very important to be ableto detect damage (e.g. cracks) or things that could lead to damage (e.g. loose bolts), sufficiently early to ensure that theappropriate maintenance decisions can be made. Structural health monitoring typically combines data of the response of thestructure, finite element models and data-driven models (e.g. machine learning) to detect and to characterise the damage in thesystem.
Problem statement:- Implement and investigate vibration-based structural health monitoring techniques on a system/structure. The followingproblems/approaches can potentially be investigated:- Damage detection and characterisation by using a data-driven model (e.g. machine learning) for novelty detection and open setrecognition tasks.- Perform structural health monitoring under time-varying operating conditions (e.g. varying boundary conditions and loads).- Crack detection and identification by combining experimental data with a finite element model of the system.- Loose bolt detection
Theoretical objectives- Identification and selection of structural health monitoring methods to solve the problem at hand.- The performance of the selected structural health monitoring method(s) needs to be investigated on numerical data (e.g. FEM)which simulates the problem under consideration.
Experimental objectives.The selected structural health monitoring method(s) would need to be investigated on experimental data.
Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results:The performance of the structural health monitoring method on the numerical data and the experimental data needs to becompared.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 110 of 112
Improvement of a phenomenological bearing model for varying operating conditionsLecturer, Dr S Schmidt
Max students, 4
Project Description
Background:Bearing fault diagnosis often needs to be performed under time-varying operating conditions when rotating machines such aswind turbines are considered. The time-varying operating conditions impede the application of conventional conditionmonitoring methods and therefore new algorithms need to be developed. Phenomenological bearing models are very popular fortesting the performance of new condition monitoring algorithms. However, the influence of the speed and load on the differentcomponents of the model are not known.
Problem statement:Update the conventional phenomenological bearing models so that it can be used for generating data under different speed andload conditions.
Theoretical objectives:- Implementation of a phenomenological bearing model- Implementation and testing of methods to extract the bearing component from the signal (e.g. Wiener filter, kurtogram withbandpass filter)- Implementation and testing of methods to estimate the noise level in the signal (e.g. short-time Fourier transform-basedestimators)
Experimental objectives:- Perform tests under different load and speed conditions.- Implement the algorithms to estimate the bearing component and noise level in the signal.
Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results:- Use the experimental data to update the phenomenological model so that it is suited for generating realistic signals undervarying operating conditions
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
Page 111 of 112
Condition indicators for bearing fault diagnosis under varying operating conditionsLecturer, Dr S Schmidt
Max students, 5
Project Description
Background:Bearing fault diagnosis often needs to be performed under time-varying operating conditions when rotating machines such aswind turbines are considered. The varying operating conditions impede the application of conventional condition monitoringmethods and therefore new algorithms need to be developed. However, the robustness of condition indicators and features todifferent load and speed conditions are not known.
Problem statement:Investigate the suitability of different condition indicators, features, or signal analysis techniques for bearing fault detection inthe presence of different load and speed conditions. The following investigations can potentially be performed:- The performance of novelty detection methods using models trained on different features under varying operating conditions.- The performance of classifiers using different combinations of features under varying operating conditions.- Using condition indicators such as the RMS, Kurtosis with NAMVOC methods. Calibrate the NAMVOC methods.
Theoretical objectives:Compare the suitability of different condition indicators/features for fault detection under time-varying operating conditionswith a simplified phenomenological bearing model.
Experimental objectives:- Obtain experimental data from bearings in different conditions. This data will be acquired while the bearings are operatingunder different conditions.- Compare the suitability of different features for fault detection under varying operating conditions.
Validation of theoretical predictions against experimental results:Compare whether the features perform similarly on phenomenological bearing data and experimental data.
Category
Mechanical
Group
Center for Asset Integrity Management
External Supervisor
N/A
External Organisation
N/A
Total Funding (ZAR)
500
Experimental Requirements
List Any Specific Experimental Requirements e.g. specific lab equipment, services or space/location requirements
