FYP Jan AY1415 Available List 20150123

NUS Mechanical Engineering

Available List of Final Year Projects - January AY2014/15Updated 23 Jan 2015

SN

Project

Code Project Title Project Supervisor

Co-Supervisor (indicate

dept or company if not

from ME) Project Description

Which specialisation

is this project

suitable for ? (Please

seek approval from

respective

specialisation

coordinator) -1st


is this project


seek approval from

respective

specialisation

coordinator) - 2nd


is this project


seek approval from

respective

specialisation

coordinator) - 3rd


is this project


seek approval from

respective

specialisation

coordinator) - 4th

Is this an industrial

collaborative project

? (State company

and provide letter

from company)

Please state

student's name if

this is a continuation

of an industrial

attachment project.

(A letter from IA

company is

required)

Please state

student's name if

this is a continuation

of my UROP/RBVIP

project.

Please state

student's name if

this is a student-

proposed project.

(Student must obtain

prior approval from

FYP Coordinator.)

Indicate which

category best

describes your

proposed project ?

Please specify the

minimum

requirement or

knowledge needed

to embark on this

project.

1 AM01 Sound level meter on mobile devices A/Prof Lim Kian Meng NA In this project, the student will develop a mobile application to implement a sound level meter on mobile devices,

such as smartphones and tablets. The student should have an interest in acoustics and sound measurements.

Knowledge and skills in Android programming are also required.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Software

Development

Programming;

Acoustics.

2 AM04 Numerical calculation of acoustic radiation force A/Prof Lim Kian Meng NA The acoustic radiation force is a second-order effect acting on an object that is immerse in a sound field. This force

can be used to manipulate micro-particles in microfluidic channels. In this project, the student will use a numerical

software to calculate the acoustic radiation force. The student should have keen interests acoustics and numerical

simulation.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Computing and

Analysis

Acoustics; Numerical

simulation.

4 AM33 Design of large amplitude two-dimensional MEMS

resonators

A/Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Two-dimensional microelectromechancial systems (MEMS) resonators that can vibrate and scan along two

orthogonal directions are useful for many practical applications. Such resonators can be found in MEMS gyroscopes,

miniature optical scanners, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) systems. This project focuses on the design of such

MEMS resonators with large vibration amplitudes. A good design should support two vibration modes each is

designated to scan a predetermined direction at the required frequency. All other structural vibration modes should

be located outside the operation frequency band. In this project, structural modal analysis using Finite Element

Method (FEM) is expected. The student will be trained to use FEM software such as Abaqus, if he/she is not familiar

with the method.


Analysis;#Feasibility/C

ase Studies

NA

5 AM34 Design of miniature tunable lenses for video

endoscopes

A/Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Endoscopes have become an increasingly important aid in the fields of engineering and medicine. They help doctors

to inspect duct-shaped hollows and/or cavities inside the human body while avoiding invasive and traumatizing

surgical procedures. In recent years, a great number of innovative imaging techniques have been combined with

endoscopes demonstrating powerful capabilities. However, most of the current endoscopes still use non-tunable

lenses at their distal ends thus with no autofocus and zooming capabilities, which demonstrates distinct drawbacks.

This project thus explores the feasibility of using MEMS tunable microlenses, more specifically MEMS Alvarez lenses

that consists of paired optical elements having complementary cubic surface profiles and can substantially vary its

optical power through very small lateral displacements, in a video endoscope to achieve the desirable autofocus and

zooming functionalities.


Analysis;#Design;#Fe

asibility/Case Studies

NA

6 AM35 Flexure stage driven by piezo actuators A/Prof. Zhou Guangya NA A flexure stage generates motions through flexural deformation. Such a stage has outstanding advantages including

good positioning accuracy and repeatability and is widely used in many high-precision micro and nano positioning

systems. A piezo actuator converts energy from electric domain to mechanical domain through the well-known

piezoelectric effect. Usually, the output displacement of a piezo actuator is limited to only a few tens of microns. This

project investigates designs of flexure stages driven by piezo actuators. To overcome the short stroke limitation of

the driving piezo actuators, compliant displacement amplification mechanisms connecting the actuator and the stage

are expected. The student is expected to conduct the structural design and perform finite element (FE) simulations to

determine the performance of the stage design.




NA

7 AM36 Design of a grating-based hyperspectral imaging

system

A/Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Hyperspectral imaging system records a vast portion of the electromagnetic spectrum at each pixel within their field

of view. It is well-known that any given material should have unique spectral signatures in certain wavelength bands.

As a result, hyperspectral imagers are not only able to acquire images of an object but also enable identification of

the materials that make up the object. Therefore, they are widely used, especially with platforms including unmanned

aerial vehicles (UAVs), in many applications for example target identification and tracking, border patrol, surveillance

and reconnaissance. This project will focus on modelling and simulation of a diffraction grating based hyperspectral

imaging system using commercially-available ray-tracing software ZemaxTM. Its optical performance including

resolution, spatial, and spectral distortions will be investigated.




NA

8 AM37 Ultra-sensitive displacement sensing with

nanophotonics

A/Prof. Zhou Guangya NA Displacement sensing is a very important topic in metrology area. Its applications can be found in

microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based accelerometers, atomic force microscopes (AFMs), micro-

cantilever-based biochemical sensors, and many others. This project focuses on an ultrasensitive displacement

sensing mechanism using movable nanophotonic waveguides. It is based on the fact that the direct coupling of light

from one waveguide to another in an end-to-end configuration is very sensitive to the alignment accuracy between

them. If there exists a small misalignment between two waveguides, large coupling losses can be induced, resulting

in an attenuated transmission that can be sensed by a photodetector. In this project, the student will investigate the

sensitivity and dynamic-range of such displacement sensors based on silicon nano-wire waveguides and study the

effects of various end-to-end waveguides coupling configurations.




NA

9 AM39 High-speed scanning MEMS mirrors with distributed

suspensions

A/Prof. Chau Fook Siong NA High-speed scanning MEMS mirrors are useful for a wide range of applications, for example laser printers, laser

projection displays, and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems. However, one of the major problems for this

type of scanners is that at high speed operation the MEMS mirror plates may lose their rigidity and deform

dynamically during scanning due to the excessive out-of-plane acceleration/deceleration forces, thus introducing

dynamic aberrations in the optical scanning systems. This project thus investigates a possible solution to reduce the

deformation using distributed spring suspension designs. Finite element (FE) simulations are expected. The student

will be trained to use FEM software such as Abaqus, if he/she is not familiar with the method.




NA

10 AM42 Design of an experimental test rig for non-contact

surface roughness measurement

A/Prof Tay CJ NA In the measurement of surface roughness of a test sample using a laser, in addition to the deployment of a laser,

various other optical components are required. To ensure accurate measurements are carried out, the optical

components are often mounted on rigid supports with good vibration isolation. However, during measurement the

optical arrangement is often varied depending on the experimental requirements and specifications. Currently such

variations are carried out manually and as a result measurement errors would be introduced.

In this project, an experimental test rig will be designed to conduct such a measurement. It is envisage that the

design will be able to accommodate the various optical components and their subsequent movements. The design

should include a guide rail system on which the optical components can be shifted in a particular direction with a

prescribed distance and at relative ease. The design should also incorporate a system where by the optical

components can be easily aligned after a change of experimental configuration. The project will also involve

fabrication and commission of the prototype and subsequent measurement of test samples.

None None None None NA NA NA NA NA NA

11 AM43 3D Freeform Optics Measurement Using a High

Precision Stylus Profilometry

Project Description:

Dr. Wang Shihua (NMC) A/Prof Tay CJ High-precision optical systems have been widely employed in space, science and engineering applications. Daily

consumer products such as digital cameras, multi-media projectors and vehicles car dashboard displays also employ

such systems. This project will focus on the development of a contact stylus method for the measurement of freeform

optical surfaces. The freeform surface topography obtained will be compared with that of design specifications. The

resulting deviations from the design values will provide a quantitative feedback for the evaluation of the quality of the

fabricated freeform optics.

None None None None NA NA NA NA NA The student choosing

this project is required

to have a CAP of 4

and above and

interest on

experimental work.

12 AM51 Mechanical design for automatic multi-axis optical

alignment system

Li Hao A/Prof Zhou Guangya For precision optical system such as lasers, high resolution optical microscope and optical tomography system,

precisely optics alignment is very common and critical. Traditionally, it is manually done by expert or specialist

regularly to maintain the system performance. The process is not only expensive but also time consumable, which is

greatly reduce the practical commercial value for these systems. This project is to develop a multi-axis automatic

optical alignment module for a super-resolution optical imaging system. It is implemented by using user-friendly

hardware programming language labview and high-precision motorized stage.

Automotive

Engineering

None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory

Investigation;#Product

Development

GPA>3.8 is preferred.

13 AM53 Capacitance sensor sensing for piezoelectric

positioning at nanometer scale

Assoc Prof. Chau Fook Siong Mr Ng Boon Ping Nanometric measurement demands high precision positioning systems. Currently, only stages with position feedback

system can achieve high precision positioning at the nanoscale. One of the most accurate sensors for nano-metric

measurement is the capacitance sensors. The objective of this project is to build a capacitive sensing unit to

measure displacement of a stage. The student will have the chance to use state- of-the-art nanotechnology

instruments during this attachment period. The project will also train the student to take up PhD study.

None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory Investigation

14 AM54 Fiber probe for nanoscale measurement Assoc Prof. Chau Fook Siong Mr Ng Boon Ping We can see objects because light travels from the objects into our eyes. However, light from nano-szie objects are

hidden from our eyes because they do not travel in space. In this project, we will reveal these hidden light by probing

the object using a tapered optical fiber. The scope of the work includes the chance to use of state-of-the-arts

technologies for the fabrication of nano-probe, and the characterization of the fabricated probe. This project is part of

the SIMTech-Capasso Joint Lab. The project will also train the student to take up PhD study.

None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Laboratory Investigation

Page 1 of 7



15 AM55 A gate frame design for a high precision microscope Dr Ong Eng Teo Mr Ng Boon Ping Thermal vibration is a very important consideration in high precision instrumentation. In this project, the student will

use his knowledge in thermal conductivity and vibration analysis to design a gate for a scanning stage for the

microscope. After the design, the student will have a chance to implement his design into a prototype. The vibration

of the prototype is then tested with vibration sensor. The performance is benchmarked by measuring the long term

drift over a range of 2 hours. GPA > 3.8 is required.

None None None None SIM Tech NA Computing and

Analysis

NA

17 AM58 Laser scanning microscope image processing and

graphic user interface design

Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya Mr Li Hao This project is to develop a database frame and graphic user interface for a laser scanning microscope. The

development will be on top of a principle prototype of laser scanning microscope image processing software.

Automotive

Engineering

None None None SIM Tech NA Design;#Product

Development


18 AM59 Focusing Tuneable Endoscope Micro-probe Assoc Prof. Zhou Guangya Mr Li Hao This project is to design a mechanical tuning structure for an endoscope micro-scanner, which is developed already

for biological application. The mechanical structure is used to electronically control the focal depth of the endoscope,

protect the micro-scanner core and maintain the optic alignment.

None None None None SIM Tech NA Design;#Product

Development


19 AM57 Analysis of dynamics of Dual-drive H-Gantry stage

using Lagrangian mechanics

Dr Ong Eng Teo Mr CHEN Silu The air-bearing dual-drive H-Gantry with a bridge linking by flexure joints gives high precision for synchronous

motion. However, for fine rotation of the Horizontal bar, asynchronous motions of two axes are required. In this case,

the settling and precision is greatly affected by the extra disturbance from the flexure joints, inducing low resonant

modes. In this FYP, the student will be first guided to analyse the position dependent dynamics of H-Gantry using

Lagrangian mechanics. Later, a frequency response test based on accelerometer, vibrometer or position encoder will

be used to characterize the resonant modes by frequency response test. The emphasis of this project is to combine

model-based and data-based analysis of motion systems for the beyond rigid body control. Come and joint our

exciting research team to hear and see the melody and colourful vibrations on the flexure joints!

Automotive

Engineering

None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixtures of

experiment/software/o

r design

20 BN08 MANTIS-INSPIRED SURGICAL TOOL FOR

MINIMALLY INVASIVE ROBOTIC SURGERY

Assts Prof Yeow Chen Hua NA The praying mantis is known for its grasping raptorial forelegs that are capable of a wide range of movement and

precise manipulation within a narrow workspace. In this project, we seek to adapt the manipulative capability of the

mantis in the design of a bio-inspired robotic surgical tool for minimally invasive surgery. The student will study the

foreleg kinematics of the mantis and gain insights towards developing a prototype that can be controlled to target,

grip and cut delicate tissues within a constrained workspace during surgery.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Design NA

21 BN09 Computational fluid modelling of effect of fluid induced

shear stress on the liver specific functions

Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NA Culturing hepatocytes at high seeding densities on a layer of collagen has been shown to elevate metabolic functions

such as albumin production in vitro as compared to a culture with a lower seeding density. In addition, the close

packing of the cells under a high seeding density condition maintained a

cuboidal morphology and good cell to cell contact, similar to that of cells found in vivo. In order to achieve the above

conditions for the cell culture, a bioreactor was designed to support a perfusion for high density hepatocyte culture.

Experimental results have so far been very encouraging showing high liver-specific functions with high cell viability.

The current study will incorporate computational fluid dynamic modelling to investigate the impact of fluid induced

shear stress on the liver specific functions such as albumin and urea production


analysis

NA

22 BN10 Computational study of blood flow characteristics in

the left ventricle: a patient-specific study

Assts Prof Leo Hwa Liang NGUYEN Vinh Tan, IHPC

ASTAR

Cardiac or heart failure is a significant problem that affects millions of people worldwide and can be broadly

understood as a condition where the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Left ventricle

(LV) diastolic dysfunction, which commonly occurs in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and/or the elderly,

carries a substantial risk for the subsequent development of heart failure. This project aims to establish a

computational platform for the study of ventricular flow patterns in patients afflicted with diastolic heart failure which

lends the possibility of developing novel diagnostic

and treatment solutions for them. Student will work with scientists from external research agency and interact with

clinicians from hospital.


analysis

NA

23 BN15 Modeling soft continuum robots for Minimally Invasive

Surgery

Dr. REN Hongliang/

Department of Biomedical

Engineering

LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,

Otolaryngology

Minimally invasive or non-invasive surgical procedures are emerging as main paradigm shifts from conventional

open surgeries. The working arms of current commercial surgical robots are mostly based on straight rigid-links

which make maneuverability in tight small cavity challenging. We aim to develop new soft continuum robotic

intervention system for undertaking delicate manipulations and one of the key problems is to model the system

dynamics in terms of curvilinear targeting and non-planar manipulation. The students can also test out their models

on the developed in-house robots. This study involves continuum mechanics, modeling, and algorithm development.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of

experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

24 BN16 Disposable and printable surgical robot Dr. REN Hongliang


Engineering

NA Clinical studies indicate that the safe and delicate manipulations during minimally invasive surgery require innovative

robot design, robotic control to avoid critical regions, particularly for personal or patient-specific surgeries. Towards a

disposable and printable robot assisted surgery, the objective of this

project is to further improve the current novel robot with more functional items including robot structure, sensors,

therapy delivery probe, and control. A couple of prototypes are already available and the students can either improve

or design new robot. This project involves device development and close interaction with multiple-disciplinary

researchers including the surgeons from university hospital.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

25 BN18 Computational motion planning for intracorporeal

snake robot in minimally invasive surgery

Dr. REN Hongliang/


Engineering

LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,

Otolaryngology

Flexible snake robot, with multi degree of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and

operations. Conventional rigid articulated robot system has the limits in confined and complicated area. In this study,

we will address the one of the key challenges for snake robotic intervention system -

motion planning for deformable continuum robot in confined deformable environments. This will involve computer

based surgical simulation and motion planning.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

26 BN19 Active vision for Computer-Integrated Surgical

systems

Dr. REN Hongliang/


Engineering

LIM Chwee Ming/NUH,

Otolaryngology

Visual servoing is an emerging approach to guide surgical robots automatically using visual information. Image

processing, computer vision and control theory are combined in order to control the motion of an active vision system

depending on the visual information. We will investigate methods of image based visual servoing and position based

visual servoing for surgical robots in in-vivo environments. The student can work on the preliminary hardware setup

and focus on system integration and visual servoing algorithms.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

27 BN27 Design and process development of hip/knee implant

with advanced 3D printing technology

Dr Chong Yok Rue, Desmond

(BME)

Dr Saeed Maleksaeed

(SIMTech / A*STAR)

Total Joint Replacement (TJR) is a surgical treatment for severe arthritis of the human joint. After joint replacement,

the mechanical loading conditions of the bones are altered due to the implantation of the prosthesis and results in a

phenomenon known as “stress-shielding" which could lead to implant loosening and eventual failure. The project will

involve the development of 3D printing biomaterials of titanium for joint implants where its mechanical properties are

to be matched with the bone to minimize the effect of stress-shielding. Computer simulation (FEA) and experimental

techniques will be used to design and test the new prosthesis implants. This project is in collaboration with Singapore

Institute of Manufacturing Technology, A*STAR.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

SIMTech requirement

on student’s CAP: 4.0

and above

30 CT06 Hybrid Method in Vehicle Routing Problem Dr. Zhang, Nengsheng Assts. Prof Velusamy

Subramaniam

The Vehicle Routing Problem(VRP) is a combination of the Bin Packing Problem(BPP) and Travelling Salesman

Problem(TSP). This project is an attempt to improve the optimality of the solutions of single objective variation of

VRP given by metaheuristics methods through an integration with well-known exact and heuristics algorithms whilst

reducing the possible increase in computation time. The final deliverables include an analysis of algorithms;

advantages, disadvantages, suitability of algorithms for different variations of VRP, etc.. An implementation of an

algorithm in MATLAB or C# is an added bonus.

None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Computing and

Analysis

NA

31 CT08 Development of an artificial heart using soft active

materials

Assts. Prof ZHU Jian Yap Choon Hwai (Dept of

Biomedical Engineering)

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Singapore, and accounts for 31.9% of all deaths in 2010. The

artificial heart is typically used to bridge the time to heart transplantation, or to permanently replace the heart in case

heart transplantation is impossible. Classic artificial hearts (say, the AbioCor) are mainly based on hard actuators,

say, electric motors. In this project, the student will develop an artificial heart (a soft pump), using dielectric

elastomers, which are similar to natural muscles in the aspects of large deformation and high energy density. When

a membrane of a dielectric elastomer is subject to a voltage through its thickness, the membrane will decrease in

thickness and expand in area. In this manner, this material can convert electric energy directly into mechanical

energy. Subject to an AC voltage, this soft pump will vibrate and then achieve the flow of liquid.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory

Investigation;#Design;

#Hybrid i.e. mixture of

experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

na

32 CT14 Automated layout planning of robot workcell A/Prof Peter Chen NA An appropriate shop floor layout for a robotic workcell will enhance productivity and efficiency of a manufacturing

operation. For a particular task at hand, there are often many factors (e.g., reachability, collision, and cycle time, etc.)

to consider during the planning and optimization stages of the robotic workcell. The objective of this project is to

investigate the automation and optimization of the layout-planning process of robotic workcells.


Analysis

NA

33 CT15 Motion planning for mobile manipulators A/Prof Peter Chen NA A mobile manipulation system refers to a robotic system that has one or more manipulators mounted on a mobile

base. Such a system is able to significantly extend the workspace of the individual manipulators by leveraging on the

maneuverability of the mobile base. The placement of the mobile base is crucial to the operation of the mobile

manipulation system. The objective of this project is to investigate the optimal placement of the mobile base when

the mobile manipulation system is performing polishing or welding tasks.


Analysis

NA

34 CT18 Comparison and compensation of work piece CAD

model for industrial robotic task execution

A/Prof Peter Chen NA It is a common issue in computer-integrated manufacturing that the scanned 3D model of a work piece differs from

its originally designed 3D model. This issue often leads to errors in processing the work piece by a robot. This model

error can be determined using existing model difference identification (MDI) algorithms. An error compensation

control algorithm is then designed to compensate for this model error. The objective of this project is to apply MDI

techniques and to design an error-compensation control that enables a robot to adaptively execute a task involving

the processing of the work piece.


Analysis

NA

Page 2 of 7



35 CT19 Computer animation of cells and ECM deformation A/Prof Peter Chen NA Cells migrate to perform numerous biological functions such as wound healing. Studies have shown that cells

remodel and deform the extracellular matrix (ECM). Microfluidic devices are experimental platforms which mimic the

actual interactions in our bodies. We acquire time-lapse images of cell and ECM interactions from these

experiments with a confocal microscope.

This project aims to apply and develop techniques to automatically visualize cell migration and ECM deformation

from experimental data. Visualization software can be written in MATLAB and interfaced with IMARIS

(http://www.bitplane.com/). This project is in collaboration with the BioSyM IRG under SMART.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

36 CT20 Manipulation of a magnetic micro-bead A/Prof Peter Chen NA The ability to manipulate beads individually and (effectively) simultaneously will enable more sophisticated

manipulation of cells, molecules, and other micro-structures. Such manipulation requires fine control of a custom-

designed magnetic needle. The objective of this project is to evaluate, by computer simulation, the performance of a

controller for manipulating the displacement of a single magnetic bead in a viscous fluid using a magnetic needle.

The controller will adjust the current flowing through the magnetic needle based on the position of the bead

measured by a computer vision system.


Analysis

NA

37 CT23 Development of a database for CAD model

management

A/Prof Peter Chen NA In manufacturing processes, 3D scanning is an important step to obtain the CAD model of a work piece. The

scanned work-piece model then undergoes shape-based retrieval to find the nominal/original model of the work

piece from an existing CAD database. The objective of this project is to design and implement a database using SQL

for managing CAD models generated from CAD/CAM software (such as SolidWorks) and from scanned data of

actual parts. The tasks include the design and implementation of a GUI and an interfacing between the database and

an end-user application program.


Analysis

NA

38 CT24 Work piece registration and shape-based retrieval of

CAD models

A/Prof Peter Chen NA In manufacturing processes, 3D scanning is an important step to obtain the CAD model of a work piece. The

scanned work-piece model then undergoes shape-based retrieval to find the nominal/original model of the work

piece from an existing CAD database. The objective of this project is to develop, test, and evaluate algorithms for

processing 3D scanning data and determining shape correspondence (similarity assessment) for shape-based

retrieval of CAD model.


Analysis

NA

39 CT25 Virtual Camera Calibration for Single-lens Stereo

Vision System with Distortion

A/Prof Lim Kah Bin NA Biprism-based single-lens stereovision system has the ability to capture stereo image pair by positioning a biprism in

front of the camera. The virtual cameras generated by this biprism play an essential role in this system, and the

calibration for the virtual cameras is the fundamental and significant procedure of the single-lens stereovision.

Comparing with the conventional two-camera stereovision system, our system involves a tough issue of atypical

image distortion induced by the biprism, especially when using big-angle biprism, which would lead to a poor

calibration results if applying the existing calibration methods. Our project will guide the student to understand the

atypical distortion caused by the biprism. Experiments will be taken to analysis and seek the specific distortion model

for the system. At last, the student will be able to apply these knowledge to calibrate the virtual cameras in our

system.


Investigation;#Comput

ing and Analysis

Mathematics and

Programming

40 CT26 Distortion Analysis of the Biprism in Single-lens Stereo

Vision System

A/Prof Lim Kah Bin NA By employing a biprism in front of a camera, our stereo vision system could capture two images from two different

viewpoints at the same time. This carries some important benefits like low cost, simple setup, compactness and few

system parameters. However, the problems also rise up by using the biprism. One of them is the particular image

distortion caused by the biprism, which will impact the image quality. This distortion problem will be tough since the

final distorted image couples distortion affects both from biprism and lens, and they appears to be in different forms.

Our project will guide the student to understand the concept of image distortion. Several experiments will be taken to

analysis the distortion performance of the biprisms with different geometric parameters, which aims to isolating the

biprism distortion from the lens distortion.



ing and Analysis

Mathematics and

Computing

41 CT27 Parameter Analysis of Single-lens Bi-prism based

Stereovision System

A/Prof Lim Kah Bin NA The ability of 3D vision system in recovering 3-D structure of an object expands its usage into many important fields

such as medical devices, military and entertainment (3D movies). Unlike the conventional stereovision system which

employs two cameras, we introduced a new approach which uses a single camera together with a bi-prism to

generate a pair of images of the same scene. This technique is to generate two virtual cameras to achieve the

stereovision effect and is equivalent to the conventional two camera system. Parameter analysis is an important

aspect in order to understand the system better. We have achieved some headway in establishing the theoretical

foundation in this area. This project will lead student to parameterize the baseline of the system.



ing and Analysis

Mathematics and

Programming

42 CT28 Understanding the Geometry of the Prism of Single-

lens stereovision system

A/Prof Lim Kah Bin NA 3D vision or stereovision refers to the ability of perceiving the 3-dimensional structure of an object from 2 or more

images. It has been widely used in many areas such as medical fields, industry and navigation system. The

conventional approach of stereovision system requires 2 or more cameras to capture images of the same scene

simultaneously. Our research group has developed several approaches to solve this problem. This project aims to

examine the effect of the geometry of the bi-prism on field of view and accuracy of the system; the student may

modify or develop hardware and software in this project. This project will guide student in understanding the basic

concept and explore the field of view of the system.



ing and Analysis

Mathematics and

Programming

43 CT34 Integrated portable digital video nasendoscope -

Inpodivina

Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong David Lau (Gleneagles

Hospital)

Videoendoscopes have been used extensively for ear, nose and throat (ENT) examination. However, the current

systems are bulky and difficult to transport, for example, from the clinic to the patient ward. Small scale ergonomic

portable device with good quality optics at low cost and replaceable components are desired to benefit patients,

particularly in the developing world. Instead of conventional monitor and embedded vision processing unit, tablet

computer can be used as detachable display unit. The student will continue this project from an existing prototype

and research.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Product Development NA

44 CT35 Shared-control robotic system for surgical needle

insertion

Assts Prof Chui Chee Kong NA Percutaneous surgical procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation of liver tumours, are increasingly popular due to

benefits gained from reduced invasiveness. The effectiveness of the treatment is highly reliant on the accuracy of the

percutaneous insertion, and lack of precision could lead to unintended damage of the neighbouring organs. Robot

manipulators have been used to assist the surgeon in executing needle insertion. The student will continue this

project from an existing master and slave prototype robotic system.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Product Development NA

45 CT45 Design of High Performance Rotary Damper for a

Force Control Actuator

A/Prof Chew Chee Meng NA In this project, the aim is to design an effective rotary damper that can be used in our series damper actuator (SDA)

to achieve torque control. The damper has to have smooth torque versus angular velocity function. Physical

experiment will then be carried out to obtain the actual dynamics of the damper. A well designed damper will enable

SDA to have good force control performance. Such force control actuator is key technology for social robots which

are required to interact with human

None None None None NA NA NA NA Design;#Product

Development

NA

46 CT47 Formation Control using Mobile Robots Assts Prof V Subramaniam NA In the previous FYP, the student had designed and built several mobile robots. This year, the student is expected to

refine the design further and implement formation control with these robots.


Analysis;#Software

Development;#Design

;#Field Testing and

Instrumentation

NA

47 CT49 Development of a presence and location detection

system for multiple object detection.

A/Prof Hong Geok Soon NA An increasingly common requirement of computer systems is to extract information regarding the people present in

an environment. As the sensor network and ubiquitous computing communities increasingly focus on creating

environments that are seamlessly aware of and responsive to the humans that inhabit them, the need to sense

people will become ever more pressing. Human-sensing encompasses issues from the lowest level instantaneous

sensing challenges all the way to large-scale data mining. For example, we might ask of our sensors: Is there a

person in this room? How many people are in this room? What is each person doing? What does each person need?

Can we predict what they are going to do next? This project focuses on the extraction of five commonly needed

spatio-temporal properties: namely presence, count, location, track and identity. This project requires students with

sound knowledge background in computing and computer programming.



ing and Analysis

NA

48 CT51 Development of a DAQ system for On-line Monitoring

of Drilling processes.

A/Prof Hong Geok Soon NA High-aspect-ratio drilling involves machining of holes with much longer depth with respect to the hole’s diameter.

Such process encounters challenging problems such as deviation of the axis of the hole, high vibration with tool

wear, monitoring of drill cutting tool wear, etc. To address such problem, usually multiple sensors will be mounted on

the system to measure signals like, vibration, dynamic forces, acoustic emission, etc. These signal are processed to

extract key performance indicators for monitoring and diagnostic purposes. This project involves in the development

of the data acquisition and monitoring platform. This includes data logging, data storage and retrieval, HMI for on-

line data monitoring and playback, various mathematical transformations etc. This project requires students with

sound knowledge background in computer programming in C++.



ing and Analysis

NA

49 CT52 Rotary electric actuators for a 3-DOF translational

parallel mechanism

Professorial Fellow Poo Aun

Neow

NA This project is on the development of a rotary electric-motor-driven mechanism to drive which can be used to drive

one axis of a small mechanism. The student is expected to put together the position feedback control system, to

perform an analysis of the dynamic model, in the form of a block diagram and transfer functions, and to perform

experimental investigations to determine dynamic performance.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Design; # Product

development

NA

50 CT53 Development of a 3-DOF linearly-driven translational

parallel mechanism


Neow

NA This project is on the development of a small 3-degrees-of-freedom translational parallel mechanism with linearly-

driven actuator points. The mechanism is required to provide translational motions in the X-, Y- and Z-axes when its

three actuators moves linearly.


development

The student should

have working

knowledge on the use

of Solidworks.

Page 3 of 7



51 CT56 Linear actuators for a 3-DOF translational parallel

mechanism


Neow

NA This project is on the development of a linear actuator to drive which can control the position of an actuation point

through a small distance. The actuator will be driven by an electric servo-motor with a ballscrew-nut arrangement to

convert the rotary motion to linear motion.


development

The student is

expected to design,

construct and test the

system for its dynamic

response.

52 CT59 Development of a facial recognition software system A/Prof Ong Chong Jin NA This is a continuation project and involving the development of a classification system that identifies a person from

among many images. One important aspect of the project is to identify important features of a face and the

development of a software system using these features and machine learning algorithms for classification purposes.


analysis; #Software

development; #

Design

Students are expected

to have good

programming skills for

this project.

53 CT61 Real-time computer-controlled multi-axis position

feedback system.


Neow

NA In this project, the student will set up a Linus-based PC with a real-time operating system to implement multi-axis

digital position feedback control systems.


Investigation;

#Computing and

analysis; # Software

development

NA

54 CT62 Design of a Robotic Face to emulate human

expressions

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr Tiffany Dai (I2R) Human-robot interaction is an important capability with very impactful applications in the future. The capability for a

“robot” to express human emotions is important in human-robot interaction. A robot has been designed and realized

for human-robot interaction, specifically with a child. This project aims at improving the design of the robotic head

that incorporates actuators and appropriate control algorithms to allow the robot to express different emotions. The

robotic face has eyes that blink and move, and mouth that opens and closes according to emotions. Other actuators

to achieve additional facial expressions would be explored.

None None None None Institute for Infocomm

Research

NA NA NA Software

Development;#Design

basic programming,

solid works

55 CT63 Motion planning for intracorporeal snake robot in

minimally invasive surgery

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr Ren Hongliang (Dept of

Biomedical Engineering)

Flexible snake robot, with multiple degree-of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and


we will address the one of the key challenges for snake-like flexible robotic intervention system - motion planning for

deformable continuum robot in confined deformable and intracorporeal environments. The planning can be either

fully automatic or semi-automatic and is critical for clinical outputs. This will involve computer based surgical

simulation, motion planning, algorithm development, validation using existing flexible robots in phantom or clinical

experiments. Depending on the research progress, the participants may work with surgeons from NUH if feasible.


Analysis;#Software

Development

programming

56 CT64 Autonomous navigation for intracorporeal flexible robot

based on multi-sensor fusion in minimally invasive

surgery

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr Autonomous navigation for

intracorporeal flexible robot

based on multi-sensor

fusion in minimally invasive

surgery

Flexible snake robot, with multiple degree-of freedom, can work inside human body and carry out diagnostics and


we will address the one of the key challenges for snake-like flexible robotic intervention system - intervention

navigation for deformable continuum robot in confined deformable and intracorporeal environments. The navigation

module will be built on the information fusion of multiple sensor data including visual feedback, range sensor data,

among others. The navigation module can be either unsupervised or supervised and is critical for clinical outputs.

This will involve sensor integration, signal processing and estimation, algorithm development, validation using

existing flexible robots in phantom or clinical experiments. Depending on the research progress, the participants may

work with surgeons from NUH if feasible.

None None None None NA NA NA NA Design programming

57 CT65 Development of sense making algorithms to extract

insights on Singapore's light intensity – with Koh Niak

Wu

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr Koh Niak Wu (Cosmiqo) Objective: To carry out spatial-temporal analytics based on street lamp intensities through a web frontend

Description: Cosmiqo has built and designed RESTful apis and we are moving towards the sharing of our datasets in

the open community. Before we launch the system publicly, we are interested in developing a web frontend that

leverages on our datasets to extract insights on the current brightness levels of Singapore. This project will deal

strongly with developing algorithms for sense-making and visualisations thereafter to present the findings thus far.

None None None None Cosmiqo NA NA NA Software

Development

programming in

python

58 CT67 Vision based Object Detection, Identification, and

Tracking using GPU for an autonomous car

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr James Fu (SMART) This final year project (FYP) is part of a bigger project supported by the SMART FM IRG (Singapore MIT Alliance for

Research and Technology Future Mobility Interdisciplinary Research Group on Future Urban Mobility) that aims to

achieve a personal transport vehicle that is autonomously navigating in the NUS campus, to provide mobility on

demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation for 1-2

passengers. An autonomous car with sensors is available as the experimental testbed. This FYP project aims at

studying, improving, developing and applying computer vision based algorithms for object detection and

identification. The application is for autonomous driving, where the objects to be detected are those typically found

along the round (cars, pedestrians, lampposts, etc). The identified objects will be very useful for the localization and

navigation of the autonomous vehicle

None None None None SMART NA NA NA Software

Development;#Field

Testing and

Instrumentation

programming

59 CT68 Vision Based Road Detection for an Autonomous Car A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr James Fu (SMART) This final year project (FYP) is part of a bigger project supported by the SMART FM IRG (Singapore MIT Alliance for



demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation . An

autonomous car with sensors is available as the experimental testbed. This FYP aims at using a vision system with

1 or more cameras to detect and locate road segments. The road segments are mainly the traversable areas by a

vehicle in an urban environment.


Development;#Field

Testing and

Instrumentation

programming

60 CT70 Vision based odometry for localization of an

autonomous vehicle

A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr James Fu (SMART) This final year project (FYP) is part of a bigger project supported by the SMART FM IRG (Singapore MIT Alliance for



demand. It aims to supplement the internal bus shuttle system and provides a door-to-door transportation. This FYP

aims at using a vision system to detect traffic light signals at intersections. An autonomous car with sensors is

available as the experimental testbed.


Development;#Field

Testing and

Instrumentation

programming

61 CT71 Electricity Monitoring System for Home Use A/Prof Marcelo H Ang Jr NA This project involves the design and development of an intelligent monitoring system for electricity consumption. The

device attaches to the conventional electricity metering system. It allows authorized access to electricity usage data

via a standard web browser. Such system is very useful for consumers to encourage them in their energy

conservation efforts. It will also improve the efficiency of the current billing system for electric utility bills.

None None None None NA NA Software

Development;#Field

Testing and

Instrumentation

programming

64 EBTS14 Microfluidic solar indoor lighting Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of microfluidic solar indoor lighting devices Energy and

Sustainability

None None None NA NA NA NA Design Microfluidic sunlight

manipulation

65 EBTS15 Droplet-based optofluidic devices Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of microfluidic devices for droplet combinations Energy and

Sustainability

None None None NA NA NA NA Design Understanding of

microfluidic

phenomena

66 EBTS16 Portable multiple energy harvesting Assts Prof Park Sung-Yong NA Design of lightweight and multiple energy harvesting devices Energy and

Sustainability

None None None NA NA NA NA Design Waste energy

harvesting

67 EBTS38 Design of the condenser of a vapour compression

cooling system

A/Prof Ho J C NA The objective of this project is to study and develop the equations to generalize the performance of the condenser of

vapour compression cooling system. The simulation study is to be conducted using MATLAB.

This is a continuation of a completed final year project in which the basic equations have been developed and the

design carried out. The student is expected to improve upon the design study and to develop a generalized design.

Energy and

Sustainability

None None None NA NA NA NA Computing and

Analysis

NA

68 FM17 The effect of concentration on segregation Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Numerical investigation of the influence of relative concentration on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of

experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

basic programming

69 FM18 The effect of size on segregation Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Numerical investigation of the influence of size ratio on segregation of a mixture. None None None None NA NA NA NA Hybrid i.e. mixture of

experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

basic programming

70 FM21 Visualising viscous flows - turbulent boundary layer Assist. Prof Danielle Tan NA Development of a computer program to aid in visualising characteristics of a turbulent boundary layer. None None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory

Investigation

basic programming

and good

understanding of

viscous flows

Page 4 of 7



72 FM25 Assessment of Taylor bubble dynamics using LBM

and Navier-Stokes Solvers

Assts. Prof Rajeev Kumar

Jaiman

NA A gas bubble moving through liquids in a round tube can exhibit various behaviours of both theoretical and practical

interest. The motion of the deformable bubble relative to the tube wall can either be driven by buoyancy force, as in

a vertical tube in an earthbound environment, or be pushed by a liquid flow due to an externally applied pressure

gradient, or both. When the buoyancy force is time-independent, the consequent bubble motion is expected to be

steady. Accuracy of phase-field LBM and the Navier-Stokes solutions will be systemically assessed with the aid of

experimental data.

Aeronautical

Engineering

Offshore Oil & Gas

Technology

None None NA NA NA NA Computing and

Analysis;#Software

Development

NA

74 FM29 Numerical investigation of Taylor vortices over a riblet

mounted surface

Assts. Prof R.K. Jaiman Prof. TT Lim In near-wall regions, vortices aligned with flow are shown to impose additional turbulent drag. Recent research on

the drag reduction has demonstrated that surfaces with directional grooves (i.e., riblets) exhibit lower viscous drag

compared to a smooth wall. In literature, the mechanism of riblets is attributed to control of near-wall streamwise

vortices. However, there is an alternative finding showing that the behaviour of these vortices is not as important as

perceived earlier. This project aims to investigate surface geometrical effects on the vortex dynamics through a

numerical study of Taylor-Couette flow containing sustainable vortices arising from flow instability. Simulations will

focus on the flow physics when several surface geometries are introduced for varying vortex arrangements on riblet.

Aeronautical

Engineering


Analysis;#Software

Development

NA

75 FM34 Numerical simulation of incompressible viscous flows

around moving objects

Professor Shu Chang NA Currently, numerical simulation of flows around moving objects in a complex domain is one of the most challenging

problems in the computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In this project, the student will use our newly-developed

boundary condition-enforced immersed boundary method (IBM) to simulate incompressible viscous flows around

moving bodies. It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and numerical

computation to do this project.

Aeronautical

Engineering


Analysis

NA

76 FM36 Numerical Simulation of Natural Convection by

Immersed Boundary Method

Professor Shu Chang NA Natural convective heat transfer from a body to a finite space enclosing it has a lot of industrial applications, which

include nuclear reactor design, cooling of electric equipment, aircraft cabin insulation and thermal storage systems.

In this work, the student will simulate the natural convection in a confined region by using our newly-developed

immersed boundary method (IBM). It is advised that the student has some basic knowledge in fluid mechanics and

numerical computation to do this project.

Aeronautical

Engineering


Analysis

NA

79 FM74 Numerical prediction of antidote response for

organophosphate poisoning

Assts Prof Teo Chiang Juay Dr. Seng Kok Yong

(DMERI, DSO National Lab)

To overcome the threat of organophosphate nerve agents, medical countermeasures are being developed.

Computer models are useful for predicting the internal exposure of nerve agent exposure and antidote therapy. The

objective of this project is to develop a computer model to predict treatment effects in nerve agent challenge, with an

emphasis on characterising and propagating parametric uncertainty to output variability using the Monte Carlo

approach. Due to the nature of this project, the student should be a Singaporean.


analysis

NA

80 FM77 Numerical Simulation of Natural Convective Flow in a

Reservoir or Lake

A/Prof Low Hong Tong NA The natural convection, by solar heating and cooling, of pollutant and oxygen in a lake or reservoir determines its

water quality. Numerical simulations will be made using a commercial software to simulate the natural convective

flow and mass transfer.


Analysis

N.A.

82 MN05 Experimental sudy on cell-dependent scaffold

fabricated using an E-jet bio-fabrication system

Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh NA A novel 3D Bioprinter platform is used to design and fabricate specific scaffolds with the consideration of exchange

of nutrients and waste metabolites, in addition to cell spatial control. To achieve this aim, the cell-dependent scaffold

should consider


Investigation

interest on biomedical

and/or materials

preferred not must

83 MN08 Design and fabrication of biomedical scaffolds via E-

jetting process

Prof Jerry Y.H. Fuh NA In recent decades, the electrohydrodynamic technology, such as electrospinning and electrospraying, based on

principle of the dynamics of electrically charged fluids, have attracted a lot of interests and rapidly developed. In this

project, you will work on a precision XYZR Table from AeroTech to fabricate biomedical scaffolds by using a novel

technology named E-jetting to create bio-mimic scaffolds for tissue repair, which is based on the anatomy of native

tissue and exiting scaffold design in lab.


Investigation;#Feasibil

ity/Case Studies

materials or bio

engineering preferred

not must

84 MN20 Interactive Demo-ware for Free-form Surface

Modelling Methods

A/Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In geometric modelling, several parametric modelling methods are available for representing free-form surfaces,

each having its characteristics. For the students who study this subject, it is much desirable to have an interactive

graphical aid that helps visualise these methods with a user-friendly interface. In this project, an interactive demo

software is to be developed to demonstrate the characteristics of various surface models, and composite surface

construction methods.


Analysis;#Software

Development

NA

85 MN23 Interactive Demo-ware for Space Curve Modelling

Methods

A/Prof Zhang Yunfeng NA In geometric modelling, several parametric modelling methods are available for representing space curves, each

having its characteristics. For the students who study this subject, it is much desirable to have an interactive

graphical aid that helps visualise these methods with a user-friendly interface. In this project, an interactive demo

software is to be developed to demonstrate the characteristics of various curve models, and composite curve

construction methods.


Development

NA

86 MN38 Geometrical Modelling of Ribcage from Clinically-

Routine X-Ray Images

A/Prof Francis Tay Eng Hock NA The human ribcage has been widely geometrically modelled using 3 dimensional CT scans so far. The geometrical

model helps clinicians to better diagnose and measure ribcage deformities. In addition, in surgical correction

modelling, the model provides surg


Analysis

NA

87 MN45 Dynamic Simulation of Virtual Serial Robot in

Augmented Reality

A/Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee The goal of this project is to develop software for visualizing the trajectory of a virtual 6-DOF serial robot in

augmented reality given a path that the robot is supposed to take. The simulation must take into account the

dynamics of the robot. The purpose of this is to be able to identify deviations easily from the path and adjust the

dynamic parameters so as to minimize the deviations before programming a real robot.


Development

This project will

require C++

programming.

88 MN46 FEA of 2D truss structure in mobile AR environment A/Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee The student is expected to build an AR application on mobile device which enables finite element analysis of 2D truss

structure. This application can be used for education purpose. The user can define a truss structure simply by

drawing nodes and beams on a paper, then the structure information will be captured by a camera and displayed on

the screen, automatically. Once the user draws a new point/segment on the paper, the screen will generate a new

node/beam as well.


Development

Programming

knowledge is

advisable.

89 MN48 Robot Path Planning from CAD Models in Augmented

Reality

A/Prof S. K. Ong Prof Andrew Y. C. Nee Industrial robots are used for tasks like welding and painting which require careful and precise path planning. Path

planning in augmented reality can speed up and enhance the process through intuitive user interfaces that are

registered to the user’s physical space. The goal of this project is to develop an augmented reality interface that

makes use of CAD models of workpieces and other objects in the robot’s workspace as guides for defining paths.

One example is to be able to define points on the edge of a pipe end as points on a path


Development

NA

90 MN50 Visualization of FEA results in markerless augmented

reality

Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee A/Prof. S.K. Ong Marker-based tracking has been commonly employed in AR applications for the ease of implementation. However, it

is inconvenient to apply fiducial markers in some situations, especially in an outdoor environment. Markerless

methods are preferred, which rely on tracking natural features such as geometrical primitives, object contours and

regions of interest. The project is aimed to integrate a FEA system with PTAM platform, which is a markerless

tracking system for AR. The student is expected to achieve the integration, and developed a few cases with this

integrated system.


Development

Programming

knowledge is

advisable.

91 MN51 Robotic Welding Simulation in The Robot Operating

System (ROS)

Prof. Andrew Y.C. Nee A/Prof. S.K. Ong Robotic welding usually requires computer-based simulation using virtual robot prior to transferring the welding paths

into actual robot motions. The Robot Operating System (ROS) presents a flexible framework for robot software

development. The objective of this project is to develop a virtual environment for robotic welding simulation. By

defining the welding paths on the virtual workpiece, the virtual robot should be able to simulate the robot motions by

following the paths accurately and smoothly. Furthermore, a graphical-user interface will be necessary such that the

welding parameters can be tuned and reflected during simulation


Development

This project requires

C++ programming.

92 MN62 A study on the effect of electrode configuration for high

speed and high accuracy deep holes drilling using

simultaneous micro-EDM and micro-ECM

Prof M. Rahman Prof Wong Y S In simultaneous micro-EDM and micro-ECM (SEDCM), dielectric medium and electrode configuration are expected

to play important roles among the main factors affecting the dimensional accuracy, the surface finish and machining

speed. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of these parameters on the machining performance.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

93 MN65 Simulation of EDM Machining Condition by Matlab or

other software

Prof M. Rahman Andrew Yeo (Makino Milling

Machine Co.)

An attempt will be made in this study

1. To understand how WEDM machining condition list is being constructed.

2. To use Matlab or other software to simulate EDM machining condition.


experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

94 MN69 Decision Support for Product Recovery in Sustainable

Manufacturing

A/Prof Lu Wen Feng Dr Song Bin (SIMTech) Due to growing concern for the environment, manufacturers have begun to embrace sustainable manufacturing

strategies to managing the entire lifecycle of a product. In addition to reducing the environmental burden, sustainable

manufacturing reduces current costs through material and energy savings. The project aims to develop the decision

making approach for product recovery options, including reuse, remanufacture, and recycle as part of this

sustainable manufacturing framework. There are multiple factors affect the product recovery options, such as

product lifespan, product usage pattern, and usage environment. In this project, the student will develop a method to

link the complicated relationship between these factors and product recovery options. The outcome of this project will

provide valuable information in the decision making process for used product recovery in sustainable manufacturing.


analysis; # Feasibility /

case studies

NA

95 MN75 Design and development of a powder metallurgy

technology for EEG electrode

Prof Li Xiaoping NA Bio-potential measurements, such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrocardiography (ECG), electromyography

(EMG) and electrooculography (EOG), are often used during health screening and clinical diagnosis. These

measurements acquire and record bio-electrical signals by placing electrodes on the skin or scalp. Among various

types of electrodes, silver/ silver chloride (Ag / AgCl) electrodes have been identified to produce good quality and

fidelity signals. This project aims to design and develop a powder metallurgy technology for fabrication of Ag / AgCl

electrode of bio-potential measurement. The student will design the process, prototype the tool and fabricate

samples for conducting parametric study of factors influencing the performance of electrodes for successful real-life

application. The student will be working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.



#Product

Development

Design

Page 5 of 7



96 MN76 Design and Development of a headband for dry sensor

scalp EEG

Prof Li Xiaoping NA Dry electroencephalography (EEG) sensors are gaining grounds for research and clinical applications by overcoming

the limitations of conventional conductive gel/paste electrodes. As the use of dry EEG sensors has by pass the need

of conductive medium for interfacing, the mounting of dry sensors on scalp becomes a challenge. This project aims

to design and develop a headband for dry EEG sensors, which holds dry EEG sensors for full contact on the scalp,

accommodating differences between human head shapes. The student will be working together with a PhD scholar

in the Neuroengineering Lab.



#Product

Development

Design

97 MN77 Design and development of a porous material for ionic

conduction

Prof Li Xiaoping NA Bio-potential measurements, such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrocardiography (ECG), electromyography

(EMG) and electrooculography (EOG), are often used during health screening and clinical diagnosis. These

measurements acquire and record bio-electrical signals by placing electrodes on the skin or scalp. As the skin or

scalp has dead skin layer at the surface, which is non-conductive therefore impedes the signal acquisition at the

electrode-skin interface. Ionic conduction at electrode-skin interface provides the best solution to the problem. This

project aims to design and develop a porous material that provides the largest effect of possible capillary action to an

electrolyte such that the electrolyte stays in the material for a prolong period for stable ionic conduction. The student

will be working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.



#Product

Development

Design

98 MN79 Design and development of a rat stereotaxic

instrument for EM sensing

Prof Li Xiaoping NA In developing an EM wave approach to brain activity imaging, the resonant frequency of a brain functional site has to

be measured, for which a test has to be carrieed out on rat and a special designed stereotaxic is needed. This project

aims to design and develop a rat stereotaxic instrument that holds two electrodes for neural stimualtion and sensing

as well as holds a fixture to keep the rat head stable wihtout interfaring with the EM wave measurement. The student

will be working together with a PhD scholar in the Neuroengineering Lab.



#Product

Development

Design

99 MN80 Design and developement of a computer neumarical

controlled locating and display system for neural

insertion

Prof Li Xiaoping NA For neuromodulation, such as the deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease treatment, needle electrodes are to

be inserted into the brain. This project aims to design and develop a computer neumarical controlled locating and

display system for the needle electrode insertion, based on an assurance that the needle electrode is never bent. Part

of the CNC machine tool technology will be implemented. The student will be working together with a PhD scholar in

the Neuroengineering Lab.



#Product

Development

Design

100 MN86 Numerical modeling of Automobile Side Crash A/Prof Shirish Patil NA Develop MATLAB/SIMULINK model to simulate side crash Automotive

Engineering


Analysis;#Software

Development

1. ME 4265/4264

background will be

helpful 2. SIMULINK

background is helpful

102 MN101 To Develop a Parametric Design Platform for patterns-

drafting in garment manufacturing.

Assoc Prof Lee Kim Seng Ms Wan Siew Ping In the garment industry, patterns-drafting is a skilful job but it is very much parametric in nature. In order to relief the

labour shortage issue and to capture knowledge of the expert into a useful platform, we attempt to apply the latest

CAD software for this purpose.

This project covers the design and development of a pattern drafting system through any 3D CAD together with

some level of knowledge capturing features.

None None None None SIM Tech NA Product Development NA

103 MS05 THERMAL PREDICTION OF CARBON NANOTUBE

FIBERS

Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Carbon nanotubes spun to form long yarnlike fibers could outperform even the strongest bullet-proof materials on the

market but turning nanotubes into such materials has proved to be a challenge.. The fibers show great promise for

ultrastrong, resilient materials, with possible applications from body armor to oil drilling. The better-performing

carbon-nanotube fibers broke at around six gigapascals, beating the strengths that manufacturers report for

materials used in bullet-proof vests, such as Kevlar. These nanotube fibers matched the highest reported strengths

for a couple of the strongest commercially available fibers, Zylon and Dyneema, also used in bullet-proof vests.

However, there are a few experimental studies on thermal conductivities of the carbon nanotube fibers. So this

project will investigate the morphology effects of the carbon nanotube fibers using the Monte Carlos simulation

method.



ing and

Analysis;#Software

Development

N.A.

104 MS11 Thermal Properties of Multiphase Composite System

Containing Carbon Nanotubes

Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Thermal properties of carbon nanotubes multiphase systems are prerequisite for their large scale applications such

as releasing heat from computer chips. While experiments have been carried out to investigate the thermal

properties of carbon nanotubes multiphase systems, few efforts are targeted to the quantitative understanding the

thermal properties of such systems. Moreover, previous studies have found that effective thermal conductivity of

carbon nanotubes multiphase systems is much lower than the value predicted by the law of mixture, which is

proposed to be due to the thermal boundary resistance at the interfaces of different phases. In order to quantitatively

investigate the thermal properties of carbon nanotubes multiphase systems, this project using the codes developed

successfully in our lab is proposed.



ing and

Analysis;#Software

Development

NA

105 MS20 PREDICTION OF THERMAL BOUNDARY

RESISTANCE OF GRAPHENE NANOCOMPOSITE

Assts. Prof Duong Hai Minh NA Owing to their prominent properties, graphenes are widely applied as nano-inclusions in nanocomposites and

nanofluids to enhance the electrical and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Due to the high specific surface

area of graphene sheets, thermal boundary resistance at graphene-matrix interface plays a significant role in heat

transfer in the nanocomposites containing graphenes and the effective thermal conductivity of graphene-based

nanocomposites is controlled by this resistance. This project will use the Monte Carlos computer program developed

and avaialble in our lab to study thermal conductivities and determine thermal boundary resistance of graphene

sheets and composites.



ing and

Analysis;#Software

Development

N.A.

106 MS26 Computer design of polymers for organic solar cells Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Use atomistic simulations to study effects of polymer structural units on solar absorption properties and identify

structures allowing for optimal optical properties

Energy and

Sustainability


Analysis

ability to learn new

software and methods

107 MS27 Computer design of dye molecules for mesoscopic

solar cells

Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Solar cells with organic chromophores hold the promise of economic and sustainable energy conversion. You will

use atomistic simulations to study effects of various functional groups in organic dyes on solar absorption properties

and identify structures allowing for optimal optical properties

Energy and

Sustainability


Analysis



108 MS28 Modeling of amorphous materials for electrochemical

storage

Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Amorphous materials have recently attracted attention for use as electrodes in electrochemical batteries, and

simulations of their performance are needed. You will simulate an amorphous material and compute its interaction

with Li and Na.

Energy and

Sustainability


Analysis


software and

simulation methods

109 MS29 Neural networks modelling of force fields Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Force fields are critical for molecular and quantum dynamics simulations of materials and reactions. You will use

neural networks to build highly accurate interatomic potentials of a reactive system.


Analysis


software and

methods, will use

Matlab

110 MS32 Analysis of nanoindentation experiments A/Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA Nanoindentation is a powerful technique developed in the last two decade to study the local mechanical properties of

materials at nano- to micro-scales. There are several analysis models to analysing the nanoindentation load-

displacement data. This project aims to comparing the existing analysis models and to provide a guideline for

nanoindentation experiments and analysis for different materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers and thin films.

(The students are required to know how to use the numerical software such as MATLAB or Origin Pro).


Investigation;#Hybrid

i.e. mixture of

experiment and

theoretical, or

experimental and

numerical/software

NA

111 MS33 Design a Stress Stage for Scanning Probe Microscopy

Measurements

A/Prof. Zeng Kaiyang NA Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is a powerful technique for nano- to micro-scale multi-functional characterization.

This technique is special suitable for characterizing the coupling between electric/chemical/mechanical properties.

This project aims to design and fabricate (at least a prototype) stress stage to be used in the constraint space and

requirement of SPM equipment. This stage can be used to apply stress to the specimens and at the same time can

perform SPM measurement.



#Product

Development

NA

112 MS37 Computational modeling of materials for organic

battery electrodes

Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Organic electrodes have the potential to realize economic and sustainable electrochemical storage but still remain

understudied. You will compute Li and Na storage properties of promising organic materials using atomistic

simulation techniques.

Energy and

Sustainability


Analysis



113 MS47 Modelling and simulation of a VCM actuator

mechanism for hard disk drives

A/Prof Fellow Lai Man On Dr He Zhimin (Data Storage

Institute)

In a hard disk drive, a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator is employed to carry and place magnetic recording elements

at specified locations of magnetic disks for data reading/writing. The access time to the disk location and positioning

accuracy of the recording elements are affected by the external disturbances and structural vibration and resonances

etc. The proposed project is to design and develop a novel actuator mechanism which generate a pure torque to the

VCM actuator with minimized disturbances, and therefore to improve the actuator performance. The student will be

involved in mechanical design, structural vibration modelling, and electromagnetic simulation for force and motor

efficiency analysis. The project will train the student in design, modeling and simulation of mechanical components

and mechatronic devices.

Note: As per Research Institute requirement, only students with second upper class honours and above will be

considered.


Investigation

NA

114 MS53 Electrospinning Synthesis of Carbon-Based Hybrid

Materials for Li–O2 Batteries

Prof Seeram Ramakrishna NA The low cost of electrospun carbon materials are promising alternatives to noble metals in Li-O2 battery. Combined

with other materials inclusing nitrides and oxides, the hybrid composites could improve the battery performance. In

this project, we will fabricate carbon-based hybrid composites by electrospinning combined with hydro/solvothermal.

The compositions of the composites can be controlled by adjusting the reaction conditions, including temperatures,

time, and reactant amounts. Furthermore, their catalytic properties will be primarily investigated in Li-O2 battery.

Energy and

Sustainability

None None None NA NA NA NA Laboratory

Investigation;

#Product

Development

NA

115 MS55 Computational study of interactions between cell-

penetrating peptide and lipid membrane

Assts Prof Sergei Manzhos NA Harnessing the ability of cell penetrating peptides (CPP) to transport matter through the cell membrane and inside a

cell would be of great help to bioengineering and nanomedicine. You will study, by using molecular dynamics,

conformations, inter-peptide interactions, and CPP-lipid membrane interactions of a selected CPP.


analysis

NA

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116 MS56 Development of Mg-Al-Rare earth Alloys and Nano-

composites

A/Prof Gupta Manoj Nguyen Quy Bau Mg-Al-Rare earth alloys and nano-composite will be developed through integration of aluminium, different amount of

rare-earth element and nano-alumina, using a special stirring casting technique (Disintegrated Melt Deposition

(DMD)) followed by hot extrusion. Microstructure, physical and mechanical properties will be then studied. The

developed materials are expected to be promising in many engineering applications including aerospace and high

performance automobiles.

Automotive

Engineering

None None None NA Laboratory

Investigation and

Feasibility/case

studies

NA

117 MS57 Development of New Mg-Ca-Ce alloys and their

nanocomposites

A/Prof Gupta Manoj In this project, new Mg alloys with calcium and cerium as alloying elements will be developed using disintegrated

melt deposition (DMD) method. The developed alloys will be studied for their microstructural and mechanical

properties. Based on property evaluation, one best alloy composition will be selected and reinforced with Y2O3

nanoparticles using DMD method to produce Mg-Ca-Ce alloy based nanocomposites.

None None None None Laboratory

Investigation and

Feasibility/case

studies

NA

119 MS59 Fabrication, characterization and release study of wolf

berry encapsulated electrosprayed nanoparticles & its

application in nerve tissue engineering

Prof. Seeram Ramakrishna Nanoparticle is a good drug carrier, which could be further applied in curing neurodegenerative disease by injection.

Electrospraying is a straightforward and cost-effective technique to produce nanoparticles. In this project, the

feasibility of encapsulating wolf berry extracts inside the nanoparticles using electrospraying technique will be

explored, and the morphology and drug release property will be characterized accordingly.

None None None None NA Design NA

120 MS60 General Synthesis of Multi-Shelled Hollow Spheres for

Energy Applications

Prof. Seeram Ramakrishna Complex hollow structures of transition metal oxides, especially mixed metal oxides, could be promising for different

applications such as lithium ion batteries. However, it remains a great challenge to fabricate well-defined hollow

structures with multiple shells for mixed transition metal oxides. In this project, we will develop a new

“penetration–solidification–annealing” strategy which can realize the synthesis of various mixed metal oxide multi-

shelled hollow structures. Furthermore, the complex hollow structures will be applied in batteries.

None None None None NA Laboratory

Investigation

NA

121 MS61 Electrospun carbide and nitrides electrocatalysts for

oxygen reduction reaction

Prof. Seeram Ramakrishna The development of non-noble metal catalysts is of great interest due to their significant potential application in both

fuel cell systems and metal–air batteries, particularly when considering long term commercial deployment. In

this regard, novel carbide and nitride non-noble metal catalysts supported on carbon, are synthesized a

electrospinning method followed by heat-treatment at elevated temperatures. Due to their unique compositions

and structures, the obtained carbides and nitrides catalyst will show high electroactivity for the ORR with a high

stability in alkaline media

None None None None NA Laboratory

Investigation

NA

122 MS62 Multi-directional leg pedalling drive system for kayaks A/Prof Fellow Lai Man On Mr GERCKE Siem Anton This is a leg pedalling system for kayaks that uses fins rather than a propeller to propel a kayak forward. There is a

fin propulsion system in the market (check out YouTube “Hobie Mirage Drive vs Paddle”) but this drive system only

goes forward. Our system is able to go any direction, even sideways with just a turn of a lever thereby dispensing the

need of a rudder.

None None None None SIM Tech NA NA NA Product Development NA

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Documents

FYP Jan AY1415 Available List 20150123