Potential Higher Degree by Research Projects 2013 2014 · Potential Higher Degree by Research Projects 2013 ... High Temperature Encapsulated PCM Thermal Storage ... voltage and …

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Potential Higher Degree by Research Projects

2013 – 2014

Division of

Information Technology,

Engineering and the Environment

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Index

Page

Barbara Hardy Institute……………………………………………………..… 3

Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR)… 9

Mawson Institute………………………………………………………………. 13

School of Engineering…………….…….…………………………….……….. 28

School of Information Technology and Mathematical Sciences……….… 81

School of Natural and Built Environments………………….……………….. 88

How to Apply………………………………………………………………….. 99

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Barbara Hardy Institute

Complex human and technological issues, integrated and practical environmentally

sustainable solutions, sustainable development in the natural and built environments

Institute Manager, Leanne Haller: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

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High Temperature Encapsulated PCM Thermal Storage System for Solar Thermal Power Plants

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Frank Bruno

Area: Mechanical Engineering, Sustainable Energy

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Thermal storage systems using phase change materials (PCMs) are capable of significantly enhancing the thermal storage capacity and dispatch ability of high temperature solar thermal generation systems. While there has been considerable research on PCMs for low temperature applications, very little research has been conducted for the application to concentrating solar thermal power plants. The research proposed here aims to investigate an encapsulated PCM thermal storage system for solar thermal power plants. This will involve the development of a computer model that predicts the heat transfer process in the PCM contained in an encapsulation. This model will be used to optimise the shape and construction material of the encapsulation. A further computer model will be developed to determine the heat flow within a thermal storage system comprising of many PCM encapsulations. The research includes experimental work to validate the models. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013).

Thermal Storage for Thermal Comfort in Energy Efficient Buildings



Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The project will investigate various thermal storage technologies for maintaining thermal comfort in energy efficient buildings. The research will first involve monitoring a number of conventional heating and cooling systems installed in energy efficient homes to establish some baseline data on energy consumption and patterns of energy use. Then various types of thermal storage systems, both sensible and latent heat types will be investigated through computer modelling to predict their thermal performance. Related references: Wasim Y. Saman, Towards zero energy homes down under, Renewable Energy, Volume 49, January 2013, Pages 211-215.

Development of High Temperature Phase Change Storage Systems and a Test Facility

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Wasim Saman, Frank Bruno, Farid Christo, Ming Liu

Area: Renewable energy, solar thermal, energy storage

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: This project involves the establishment of a world-class high temperature thermal storage test facility to test prototype high temperature storage systems. The project also involves designing, constructing and testing two thermal storage systems that incorporate new phase change materials and heat transfer techniques with the aim of reducing the cost of high temperature, high density storage systems.

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New Methods for Measuring the Thermophysical Properties of High Temperature PCMs



Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Phase change materials (PCMs) have enormous potential as a low cost thermal storage media. Whilst there has been an extensive effort in to characterisation of thermal energy storage material properties, a number of materials have yet to be characterised. Calculated values rather than experimentally verified values for thermophysical properties are often found in the literature. This is not only a problem because incorrect values make it difficult to perform an accurate cost analysis, but also because the materials used on an industrial scale could be of lower purity and hence the values of the thermophysical properties will be further reduced. The discrepancy between calculated and measured values of latent heat is particularly large for mixtures and eutectics that do not exhibit ideal-mixing behaviour. Characterisation of thermal properties such as heat capacity, latent heat, melting point, and subcooling for PCMs is generally carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). This research proposes to develop new methods for characterising the thermal properties of PCMs. The student will acquire an extensive knowledge in the heat transfer area. Experiments will be carried out to validate the new methods. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013).

High Temperature Thermal Storage System for Solar Thermal Power Plants



Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Advanced storage systems using phase change materials (PCMs) are capable of significantly enhancing the thermal storage capacity and dispatch ability of high temperature solar thermal generation systems. While there has been considerable research on PCMs for low temperature applications, very little research has been conducted for CSP applications. The research proposed here aims to build on current UniSA research to develop a practical low cost PCM thermal storage system. This will involve modifying existing computer models of PCM thermal storage systems and then using them to carry out extensive computer simulations. The project will investigate various PCMs, construction materials, reliability and cost for all the storage system types. The most promising storage system type will be selected for prototype construction and this will be tested in a high temperature test facility. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013).

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An Integrated Thermal System for the Provision of Hot Water, Space Heating and Cooling

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Wasim Saman


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The energy demand for air conditioning of both commercial and residential buildings has been escalating throughout the last decades. In Australia, space heating and cooling represents about 40% and domestic water heating about 30% of the energy demand of residential buildings. Solar water heating is a well-established technology. In Australia more market penetration of this technology is expected due to improved public environmental awareness and governmental financial inducements. Solar space heating systems, on the other hand, have not gained market acceptance due mainly to high initial cost. In addition, only a small amount of total annual heat collected by the system is eventually utilised due to the short heating season in most Australian population concentrations. Due to the absence of more viable systems in the market, consumers resort to reverse cycle air conditioning systems which provide both cooling and heating. With low initial costs, these systems are dominating the air conditioning markets, particularly in new housing. This, however, has resulted in dramatic increases in energy use and summer peak power demand with associated electricity generation and distribution requirements. Thermally driven cooling systems utilising solar energy is a promising option. Seasonal match between solar radiation availability and the building cooling load supports this argument. Solar liquid desiccant air conditioning which provides both cooling and dehumidification has been found to be technically viable. Numerical studies on the existing solar hot water systems revealed that despite the all year round demand for hot water, the oversizing of solar hot water system seems inevitable due to the need to adequately cover the winter peak hot water demand. This research will investigate the integration of the provision of heating, hot water, cooling and dehumidification for residential buildings. The purpose of the research will be to assess the technical viability of this integrated system through computer modelling and simulation combined with experimental validation.

Citizen Science - Connecting People with Nature

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Chris Daniels

Area: Citizen Science, Urban Ecology

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: This project applies citizen methodology using traditional (Radio, newspapers, science outlets) and social (Facebook, web and You Tube) media to investigate the relationships between individuals and common animals. The data are collected through an electronic survey instrument, and include both qualitative and quantitative information. Once analysed the information is returned to the community through books and reports. In this way the citizen science loop is completed and the project can evaluate the success of participant involvement in data collection in the education and attitudinal change of the broader community.

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Determining Describing and Measuring Ecological Literacy in the Wider Community

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Chris Daniels

Area: Ecological literacy, Communities

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: We routinely understand and measure literacy and numeracy in the community. However, to date we have not understood the role of ecological literacy in enabling a community to respond to environmental challenges. This lack of understanding stems in large part from a lack of debate about what ecological literacy actually is and how we should measure it. In this project we are exploring and defining the concept of ecological literacy and then developing an assessment tool, which can be appropriately benchmarked, to assess the level of community literacy. In this context, “community” will be defined as specific organisations and group with environmental management responsibilities or with leadership expectations in this field.

Low Carbon Living CRC - Integrated Building Systems

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Wasim Saman

Area: engineering and materials science, Low Carbon Buildings, constructions

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: This program has a focus on engineering and materials science solutions for the construction of new low-carbon buildings. Key targets include building integrated solar and energy efficient products, low embedded carbon construction materials and practices, and the development of best practice building design and rating tools.

Towards Electricity Without Fossil Fuels: Finding the Best Mix of Renewables, Demand Management and Storage

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof John Boland, Prof Phil Weinstein, Dr Peter Pudney, Dr Sofia Orre-Gordon

Area:, Renewable energy, energy supply, energy demand, energy storage

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Australia's use of fossil fuels is unsustainable. Thirty six percent of our fossil fuel consumption is used to generate electricity, and our demand in this matter is increasing. We need to design and transition to a future where electricity is generated primarily from renewable energy sources. This Barbara Hardy Icon Project's research will develop the knowledge and tools required to design and optimise a system composed of a mix of generation technologies, including solar thermal, solar photovoltaic and wind. Variability of renewable energy sources will be overcome using a combination of reserve capacity, spatially diverse generator locations, energy storage and management of demand to match supply. This project will progress the issue of a sustainable energy supply into the future, both in a technological sense and also from the social perspective, to provide Australians with affordable, reliable, clean electricity in a context of environmental sustainability.

http://www.unisa.edu.au/barbarahardy/projects/default.asp#Icon_Projects

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Design of Hybrid Power Systems for Isolated Communities

Name of Supervisor/s: Mohammed H. Haque

Area: Renewable Energy Systems

Suitable as Masters and PhD.

Abstract: Even in 21st century, more than 25% of world population do not have access to grid electricity. One of the main reasons for that is they live in remote areas where extension of grid is not cost effective. However, various renewable energy sources such as, solar, wind, low-head hydro, biomass, etc. are usually available in remote areas. Recent developments in renewable energy technologies and energy storage open the door to supply power to remote communities.

The objective of this research is to design a small scale power system or a micro-grid to electrify isolated communities in remote areas. The system should exploit locally available renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, mini-hydro, biomass, biogas, etc. to generate electricity. The system may also consist of a backup diesel generator and/or energy storage for continuity of supply and improve reliability. The performance of the system in terms of voltage and frequency regulations as well as power quality and reliability will also be evaluated. Related references:

• L.A.S. Ribeiro, et. al. , “Isolated micro-grids with renewable hybrid generation: The case of Lencois island”, IEEE Trans. on Sustainable energy, Vol. 2(1), pp. 1-11, 2011.

• IEEE Special Task Force --- “A review of hybrid renewable/alternative energy systems for electric power generation: configurations, control, and applications, IEEE Trans. on Sustainable Energy, Vol. 2(4), pp. 392-403, 2011.

• S.M. Shaahid and I. El-Amin, “Techno-economic evaluation of off-grid hybrid photovoltaic-diesel-battery power systems for rural electrification in Saudi Arabia – A way forward for sustainable development”, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol. 13, pp. 625-633, 2009.

• M.H. Haque, “Characteristics of a stand-alone induction generator in small hydro-electric plants”, Proc. of AUPEC, 2008.

• S. Rehman, et. al. “Feasibility study of hybrid retrofits to an isolated off-grid diesel power plant”, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol. 11, pp. 635-653, 2007.

• T. Senjyu, et. al., “A hybrid power system using alternative energy facilities in isolated island”, IEEE Trans. on Energy Conversion, Vol. 20(2), pp. 406-414, 2005.

Mechanical Weed Seed Termination at Harvest Project

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof John Fielke, Dr Chris Saunders

Area: Mechanical Engineering, Agriculture

Suitable as PhD.

Abstract: The aim of the project is to develop and improve mechanical systems that devitalise weed and volunteer crop seeds at harvest as part of an integrated weed management strategy for long term control of weeds and herbicide resistance. This mechanical control of weed and crop seed germinability at harvest will reduce cropping system reliance on herbicide usage and lessen the extent of herbicide resistance as well as pest and disease carry-over risks via green bridge.

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Centre for Environmental Risk

Assessment and Remediation

(CERAR)

Human and ecological risk assessment and remediation of contaminated environments

Research Education Portfolio Leader: Prof Megh Mallavarapu:

[email protected]

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Megharaj.Mallavarapu


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Bioaccessibility implications associated with human health exposure to lead via the inhalation exposure pathway

Name of Supervisor/s: A/Prof Albert Juhasz

Area: Chemistry, soil science

Suitable as PhD.

Abstract: Lead (Pb) dust arising from mining/smelting activities is a major health concern. When assessing exposure to Pb-dust, a major uncertainty is quantifying Pb that is absorbed into systemic circulation. Following inhalation, dissolution of Pb in lung fluid may result in Pb absorption into the blood however quantification is lacking. As Pb minerals are poorly soluble at neutral pH, Pb absorption maybe overestimated using conservative assumptions. As even small adjustments in bioavailability can impact risk calculations and remediation goals, there is a pressing need to address our limited understanding of bioavailability to underpin advances in hunam health risk assessment for the inhalation exposure pathway. The aim of this research project is to utilise chemical techniques to assess Pb dissolution in lung fluid in order to quantify exposure for the inhalation pathway. Related references: Brook, R. D. (2008). Cardiovascular effects of air pollution. Clin. Sci. 115: 175-187. Gray, J. E., Plumlee, G. S., Morman, S. A., Higueras, P. L., Crock, J. G., Lowers, H. A., Witten, M. L. (2010). In vitro studies evaluating leaching of mercury from mine waste calcine using simulated human body fluids. Environ. Sci. Technol. 44: 4782-4788. Kerin, E. J, Lin, H. K. (2010). Fugitive Dust and Human Exposure to Heavy Metals Around the Red Dog Mine. Rev. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 206: 49-63. Lanphear, B. P., Hornung, R., Khoury, J., Yolton, K., Baghurst, P., Bellinger, D. C., Canfield, R. L., Dietrich, K. N., Bornschein, R. L., Greene, T., Rothenberg, S. J., Needleman, H. L., Schnaas, L., Wasserman, G., Graziano, J., Roberts, R. (2005). Low level environmental lead exposure and children’s intellectual function: an international pooled analysis. Environ. Health Perspect. 113: 894-899. Zota, A. R., Willis, R, Jim, R. et al. (2009). Impact of Mine Waste on Airborne Respirable Particulates in Northeastern Oklahoma, United States. J. Air. Waste Manag. Assoc. 59: 1347-1357.

http://apps.webofknowledge.com/full_record.do?product=UA&search_mode=GeneralSearch&qid=4&SID=U2i36N84IO1Kpce5CFm&page=1&doc=1

http://apps.webofknowledge.com/full_record.do?product=UA&search_mode=GeneralSearch&qid=4&SID=U2i36N84IO1Kpce5CFm&page=1&doc=1

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Evaluation of in vitro gastrointestinal extraction methods for predicting organic contaminant bioavailability for human health risk assessment


Area: Chemistry, soil science

Suitable as PhD.

Abstract: As a result of anthropogenic activities, organic pollutants are released into the environment. Exposure to environmental contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants (PAHs, PCBs, organochlorine pesticides) may cause serious impacts on human health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic properties of a number of these industrial by-products resulting from exposure via ingestion, inhalation or dermal absorption pathways. Due to the potential adverse health effects associated with exposure to organic environmental contaminants, there is great concern regarding the presence of these compounds in the environment. Evaluating exposure to organic contaminants for human health risk assessment is based on establishing the link between contaminant source and the receptor via various exposure pathways (e.g. ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption). For environmental contaminants, regulatory guidelines for acceptable concentrations in soil are based on exposure scenarios for the most susceptible subgroup of the population, young children. The ingestion pathway is particularly relevant to young children due to the prevalence of hand-to-mouth contact and the propensity for incidental ingestion of contaminated soil and dust. An assumption when developing guideline values for soil-borne contaminants is that 100% of the contaminant is bioavailable which presumes that all of the contaminant has been solubilised in the gastrointestinal tract and absorption into systemic circulation has occurred. Regulatory and scientific communities agree that this ‘default’ bioavailability factor is overly conservative, however, guidance on developing appropriate chemical-specific bioavailability factors is lacking. Due to bioavailability implications, the magnitude of the risk posed by soil-borne contaminants is unclear which may impact on human health risk assessment for a given site. As a result, contaminant bioavailability has the potential to impact significantly on risk calculations and the selection of potential remediation technologies, clean up time frames and operational costs. Validated tools and methods for establishing contaminant bioavailability will reduce the uncertainty associated with risk calculations and implementing effective remediation strategies. The aim of this project is to evaluate in vitro gastrointestinal extraction methods for predicting organic contaminant bioavailability in order to better quantify contaminant exposure for human health risk assessment. Related references: Cave, M. R., Wragg, J., Harrison, I., Vane, C. H., Van de Wiele, T., de Groeve, E., Nathanail, C. P., Ashmore, M., Thomas, R., Robinson, J., Daly, P. (2010). Comparison of batch mode and dynamic physiologically based bioaccessibility tests for PAHs in soil samples. Environmental Science and Technology 44: 2654-2660. Dean, J.R., Ma, R. (2007). Approaches to assess the oral bioaccessibility of persistent organic pollutants: A critical review. Chemosphere 68: 1399-1407. Reeves, W.R., McDonald, T.J., Bordelon, N.R., George, S.E., Donnelly, K.C. (2001). Impacts of ageing on in vivo and in vitro measurements of soil bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon bioavailability. Environmental Science and Technology 35: 1637-1643. Rostami, I., Juhasz, A.L. (2011). Assessment of persistent organic pollutant (POP) bioavailability and bioaccessibility for human health exposure assessment: A critical review. Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology 41: 623-656. Ruby, M.V. (2004). Bioavailability of soil-borne chemicals: Abiotic assessment tools. Human and Ecological Risk Assessment 10: 647-656.

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Assessment of biological and chemical treatment technologies for the remediation of persistent organic pollutants in contaminated soils


Area: Environmental Microbiology, Chemistry, Soil Science

Suitable PhD.

Abstract: Over the past 150 years, urban development and industrial activities have generated large quantities of hazardous wastes containing persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that have resulted in environmental contamination issues. POPs are chemical substances that persist in the environment, bioaccumulate through the food chain and pose a risk of causing adverse effects to human health and the environment. POPs have been linked to adverse health effects including cancer, damage to the nervous system, reproductive disorders and disruption of the immune system. Concern regarding the presence of POPs in the environment lead to the adoption of an international treaty in 2001 (the Stockholm Convention on POPs) aimed at restricting and ultimately eliminating the release of POPs to the environment. Remediation of contaminated land has become an increasing priority due to the potential risk to human health from exposure to these contaminants. While a variety of treatment strategies (e.g. bioremediation, chemical oxidation, thermal destruction etc.) have been development for the remediation of POP-contaminated soil in order to minimize human and ecological impacts, their effectiveness may vary depending on physical, chemical, biological and economic factors. The aim of this research project is to assess biological, chemical and combined biological-chemical treatment technologies in order to develop effective POP remediation strategies that are both economical and sustainable. Related references: Juhasz, A.L., Naidu, R. (2000). Bioremediation of High Molecular Weight Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: A Review of the Microbial Degradation of Benzo[a]pyrene. International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation 45: 57-88. Juhasz, A.L., Smith, E., Smith, J., Naidu, R. (2003). Development of a two-phase cosolvent washing-fungal biosorption process for the remediation of DDT-contaminated soil. Water, Air and Soil Pollution 146: 111-126. Juhasz, A.L., Waller, N., Lease, C., Bentham, R., Stewart, R. (2005). Pilot Scale Bioremediation of Creosote-Contaminated Soil – Efficacy of Enhanced Natural Attenuation and Bioaugmentation Strategies. Bioremediation Journal 9: 139-154. Martins R.C., Rossi A.F., Quinta-Ferreira R.M. (2010). Fenton's oxidation process for phenolic wastewater remediation and biodegradability enhancement. Journal of Hazardous Materials 180: 716-721. Sutton, N.B., Grotenhuis J.T.C., Langenhoff A.A.M. (2011). Efforts to improve coupled in situ chemical oxidation with bioremediation: a review of optimization strategies. Journal of Soil Science and Sediments 11: 129-140.

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Mawson Institute

‘Next generation’ manufacturing, developing innovative technology platforms, high tech

manufacturing, innovation cycle from conception to creation, meeting the research and

development needs of advanced manufacturers.

Research Education Portfolio Leader: Dr Jason Whittle: [email protected]

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Megharaj.Mallavarapu


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Kinetics of plasma copolymerisation

Name of Supervisor/s: Rd. Jason Whittle, Dr Andrew Michelmore

Suitable as PhD and Masters

Abstract: In the field of polymer science, the range of applications for copolymers dwarfs that of homopolymers. However, in plasma polymerisation, the use of copolymer systems is uncommon, and not well understood. Only a very limited number of systems have been used for producing plasma copolymers, and there is no theoretical framework to support monomer selection, or to guide material properties. This project will explore the effect of monomer chemistry and structure on the chemical and physical properties of the deposited film. The student will learn plasma deposition techniques for producing nanoscale polymer films, and surface analytical techniques (x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry) to characterise these polymers The project will also involve the use of novel plasma diagnostics to explore the gas-phase and surface interactions which dominate film formation in order to understand how the monomer structure influences the deposition mechanism.

High-throughput screening of stem cell-surface interactions

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof. Nicolas Voelcker


Abstract: Control of stem cell-material surface interactions is of interest to a number of biomedical and biotechnological applications. In particular, phenotype control of specific types of stem cells through defined surface chemistry and topography is of increasing research and commercial interest. Already, appropriate bulk materials in combination with chemical surface modifications and micro-patterning methods have been used with great success to control the biological response to biomaterials. However, very little is known about how the interactions between stem cells and material surfaces influence stem cell attachment, propagation, gene expression patterns and the cell status. Technology allowing the screening of material surface – stem cell interactions using appropriate high-throughput assays would be of great interest. We have a large research program aimed at developing platform technologies to screen stem cell interactions with biomaterials and focus on the development of cell microarrays and surface bound gradients. The student would contribute to the research effort by preparing microarrays or gradient surfaces and evaluating the cell response.

Role of buffer salts and surface chemistry in GAG binding

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Jason Whittle, Dr. David Robinson


Abstract: Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are linear sulfated sugars that form part of the extracellular matrix. The most well-known GAG is heparin, which is routinely used as an anticoagulant, but there a number of other important molecules, which play a key role in regulating tissue structure and healing processes. This project will aim to understand how these molecules adsorb to artificial surfaces and retain the ability to bind other molecules such as chemokines and growth factors. The project will involve the fabrication and characterisation of plasma polymer surfaces containing charged functional groups, and explore how the density of these surface charges together with the solution concentration of buffer salts changes the adsorption process.

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Conducting and semi-conducting plasma polymers

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Jason Whittle


Abstract: There are many potential applications for polymer films with controlled conductivity – from microfluidic devices through to photo-active materials used in polymer solar cells. While there are plenty of methods which can be used to achieve this, one of the big challenges in this area is to provide methods that can be carried out on an industrial scale. Plasma polymerisation is an established technique for producing thin polymer films, and has been used widely in biomaterials and composites. There are substantial benefits to using plasma polymerisation as a deposition method – it does not rely on substrate preparation, it uses chemicals in very small quantities (and without the use of solvents) and it can be used to treat complex objects. The aim of this project is to use plasma-based methods to produce conducting polymeric films onto insulating substrates from monomers such as aniline, dioxythiophene and pyrrole. The project will explore the plasma-phase chemistry and plasma characteristics during deposition and link these to the resulting film properties (chemical composition and conductivity). The student will learn to carry out plasma polymerisation and develop new polymerisation protocols and to make conductivity measurements on the resulting films. They will also learn analytical techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS).

Low-binding surfaces from plasma

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Jason Whittle, Dr David Steele


Abstract: Many biological applications rely on having surfaces which are non-binding to proteins or cells. One method of making these surfaces is by plasma polymerisation, which is capable of producing ultra-thin polymeric films on a wide range of substrate materials. Plasma polymers are not polymers in the conventional sense, because they do not contain a common repeat unit. However, by careful control of the plasma properties during deposition, a range of different chemical structures can be produced. The presence of linear ethylene oxide chains on the surface is thought to be responsible for the non-binding nature of these films. This project will focus on producing ultra-low protein binding surfaces from a number of different organic precursors and exploring the plasma environment which leads to the retention of non-fouling capability in the deposited film. The student will learn to carry out enzyme immunoassays to measure adsorbed protein levels on films and analytical techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). They will also become proficient in plasma polymerisation and carry out physical and chemical analysis of the plasma using state-of-the-art diagnostics equipment (Langmuir probe, flux probe and plasma mass spectrometer) in order to explore the link between the plasma properties and the non-binding properties of the deposited films.

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Nanoparticle genotoxicity screening models using lab-on-a-chip technology



Abstract: The use of nanomaterials, and in particular nanoparticles, is predicated on the substantial benefits of nanotechnology. Nanoparticles have significant and growing economic and scientific impacts and have applications in many areas ranging from electronics to environmental remediation to medical healthcare and diagnostics. Nanoparticles are also at the forefront of medical research, owing to the enhanced optical, chemical, and physical properties exhibited at the nanoscale. At the same time, industrial production for non-medical applications including catalysts, sensors, coatings and cosmetics is increasing at a staggering rate. However, there is mounting concern over the safety of nanoparticles in the context of occupational, consumer and environmental exposures. A comprehensive understanding of the health effects of nanoparticles in common use is currently lacking but urgently needed. The proposed study aims to screen for cancer hazard, by investigating the genotoxicity of Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) priority-listed nanoparticle formulations with the use of high-throughput lab-on-a-chip technology. This involves a lymphocyte-sorting microarray platform. The key hypothesis is that cytotoxicity and genetic damage caused by nanoparticles occurs in specific subsets of lymphocytes and is not uniformly distributed across all subsets. Determining the exact location and extent of genetic damage will provide new insight into the mechanisms of nanotoxicity and elucidate the cellular responses, indicating potential long-term effects caused by exposure. Cells are then incubated on the microarrays yielding in situ cell sorting into subsets allowing subset-specific analysis of genetic damage.

Improving gene transfer into embryonic stem cells



Abstract: We have recently developed a multilayer biochip, which can be biased to retain or release genetic information in the form of plasmids. This platform technology allows for high efficiency reverse transfection of a range of standard mammalian cell lines. We are now applying this technology to embryonic stem cells, which are notoriously difficult to transfect. The aim of this project is to establish protocols for the reverse transfection of embryonic stem cells using our biochip format. An emerging challenge in Biotechnology is to rapidly uncover the function of genes and to identify gene products with desired properties. An urgent need exists in particular in stem cell technologies to establish methodologies that allow efficient gene transfer into embryonic stem cell lines, since current methods clearly lack efficiency or are associated with high cell mortality. We address this need by bringing to bear on this problem a reverse transfection platform recently developed by our group: First, DNA is transferred to a solid surface using a robotic spotter for formation of a DNA microarray. Second, cells are then seeded and attach to the surface to form a lawn of cells on top of the DNA microarray. Third, DNA is released from the surface and only taken up by cells that attach to regions where DNA is present. Fourth, transfected cells express the genetic information represented by the uptaken DNA.

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Development of localised drug delivery vehicles for brain tumours



Abstract: Glioblastomas are the most prevalent forms of primary brain tumours in humans and are often described by aggressive growth and very poor prognosis. Apart from tumour resection, current therapies including radio-, chemo- and immunotherapies only produce moderate increases in average survival rates. In fact, for the most common form of glioblastoma (glioblastoma multiforme), the average life expectancy is less than a year despite aggressive therapeutic interventions. The development of more successful therapies for this incurable malignancy is hindered by the high motility of glioblastoma cells, their resistance to both radio- and chemotherapy and by apoptosis inhibition leading to failure of conventional therapy. This project investigates biodegradable porous materials as vehicles for localized delivery of therapeutic oligonucleotide strands to human glioblastoma cells in culture and to glioblastoma grafts in mice. We are using nanostructured porous silicon, which can be loaded with large amounts of therapeutic oligonucleotides. Release of the drugs from the porous silicon by diffusion and degradation of the porous matrix occurs over extended periods of time (up to several weeks). Release kinetics can be easily tuned by changing porosity and surface chemistry of the porous silicon. Porous silicon films will be produced by electrochemical etching of monocrystalline silicon wafers. The freshly etched films will be oxidised and functionalised with amino silanes to produce a positive surface charge. The loading and release of chemotherapy drugs will be studied using optical spectroscopies. Material topography will be characterized by electron and atomic force microscopy. Glioblastoma cells will be cultured on porous silicon films loaded with and toxicity will be evaluated using cell-based assays and fluorescence microscopy.

Delivery of stem cells to enhance wound healing

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Louise Smith, Dr. David Steele

Area: Biomaterials


Abstract: Chronic, non-healing wounds are an ever increasing burden on our population and especially our healthcare systems. Stem cells have been shown to accelerate re-epithelialisation and also have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Thus they are an exciting potential therapy for the healing of chronic wounds. A suite of surfaces with defined surface chemistry will be prepared using plasma polymerisation. The adhesion, cell morphology, proliferation and differentiation of stem cells on these surfaces will be assessed. The ability of these surfaces to then deliver the stem cells to a tissue engineered cutaneous wound bed model will also be assessed along with the ability of these delivered cells to aid the healing of wounds.

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Developing new dressings for burn wounds

Name of Supervisor/s: Professor Allison Cowin, Dr Jason Whittle

Area: Regenerative Medicine


Abstract: Burns are one of the most common injuries in young children. They can cause lifelong scarring and frequently contract as the child gets older, requiring extensive surgical intervention to prevent deformity and loss of movement. In this PhD/Masters project we will aim to develop new dressings for burn injuries that actively stimulate wound healing, improve angiogenesis and reduce scarring. To do this new burn wound dressings will be developed that deliver novel biological agents directly to the wound and actively promote healing and reduce scarring and contracture post burn injury. Plasma polymerisation surface immobilisation technology (PP) will be used to attach biological agents to the surfaces of wound dressings. PP has specific advantages that it provides conformal, ultra-thin coatings that can be deposited with specific chemistries onto planar and complex 3-D objects. Passive adsorption, without chemical cross-linking onto plasma coated dressings, will be compared with covalent immobilisation where aldehyde plasma polymer chemistry is used to provide chemical ‘anchor’ points to non-reversibly tether the agent to the dressing. Optimum conditions for binding the biological agent onto the surface whilst retaining functionality will be determined and tested using standard in vitro wound assays for cellular proliferation, migration and adhesion. Prototype dressings will then be assessed using in vivo mouse models. The result of the unique application of surface chemistry for the delivery of biological agents to a wound will lead to new second generation dressings which will not only act as a covering but also actively promote wound healing and reduce scarring and contracture post burn injury. Related references: Whittle, J. D., Bullett N A, Short R D, Douglas C W , Hollander A P, Davies J. Adsorption of Vitronectin, Collagen and Immunoglobulin-G to Plasma Polymer Surfaces by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). J Mater Chem., 12, 2726-2732 (2002,)

Development of nanophotonic biosensors



Abstract: The goal of this interdisciplinary research program is to develop novel photonic biosensors based on porous silicon microcavities, rugate filters and Bragg reflectors. Porous silicon is a nanostructured material with a high surface area and suitable optical properties. These sensors will be applied to the detection of disease markers such as cancer markers, biomarkers in chronic wounds and cardiac biomarkers. The broad goal is to contribute to the development of fast and sensitive diagnostic devices that can be used at the point of care. The research team involves chemists, materials scientists, physicists and medical doctors.

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Development of analytical methodologies for monitoring engineered nanoparticles in the environment.

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Gary Owens

Area: Analytical Chemistry/Environmental Science/Materials Science


Abstract: Anthropogenic contamination of land and water is a worldwide problem. Recently nanomaterials have been proposed as a new low-cost alternative to traditional remediation technologies. However, there are several concerns associated with the fate and toxicity of engineered nanoparticles when released into the environment and the potential effects of nanoparticles on contaminant mobility (1). However, environmental nanotechnology is currently hindered by a lack of analytical techniques capable of studying trace levels of nanoparticles in complex matrices. This project will address this knowledge gap by developing novel analytical methodologies, using a combination of ICP-MS and isotope labelling/doping techniques to investigate the mobility, toxicity and environmental fate of emerging engineered nanomaterials.

Related references: S.K. Brar, M. Verma, R.D. Tyagi and R.Y. Surampalli (2010) Engineered nanoparticles in wastewater and wastewater sludge - Evidence and impacts, Waste Management, 30, 504-520. A.D. Dybowska, M-N. Croteau, S.K. Misra, D. Berhanu, S.N. Luoma, P. Cristian, P. O’Brien and E. Valsami-Jones (2011) Synthesis of isotopically modified ZnO nanoparticles and their potential as nanotoxicity tracers, Environmental Pollution, 159(1), 266-273. Jing Fang, Xiao-quan Shan, Bei Wen, Jin-ming Lin, Gary Owens and Shuai-ren Zhou (2011) Transport of copper as affected by titania nanoparticles in soil columns, Environmental Pollution, 159(5), 1248-1256.

Agricultural applications of engineered nanomaterials: Interactions with food crops.

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Gary Owens, Dr Euan Smith

Area: Environmental Science/Materials Science

Suitable as PhD and Masters.

Abstract: While engineered nanomaterials have found widespread applications in the medical, environmental and manufacturing sectors, applications in the agriculture sector for plant protection and production are limited, but this seems likely in the future as nanomaterials become commercially available in larger quantities. While some studies have suggested that nanomaterials have potential for improving seed germination and growth, plant protection, pathogen detection, and pesticide/herbicide residue detection (2), other studies showed significant phytoxicity due to nanomaterial exposure (3). The increasing uncontrolled environmental release of engineered nanomaterials has also become a concern because of their potential toxicity to human and aquatic life. Thus the potential for nanomaterials to enter the food chain is a major concern because the risks associated with exposure to environmental nanomaterials is not well understood and the nature of uptake, bioaccumulation and biotransformation of a nanomaterials by food crops is not known. In this project the uptake, biotransformation and biomagnification of commercially available nanomaterials to food crops will be determined together with their beneficial or detrimental effects on crop production. Related references:

1. Lav R. Khot, Sindhuja Sankaran, Joe Mari Maja, Reza Ehsani, Edmund W. Schuster (2012) Applications of nanomaterials in agricultural production and crop protection: A review, Crop Protection, 35, 64-70.

2. Cyren M. Rico, Sanghamitra Majumdar, Maria Duarte-Gardea, Jose R. Peralta-Videa and Jorge L. Gardea-Torresdey (2011) Interaction of Nanoparticles with Edible Plants and Their Possible Implications in the Food Chain, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 59, 3485–3498.

3. D. Lin and B. Xing (2007) Phytotoxicity of nanoparticles: inhibition of seed germination and root growth. Environ. Pollut, 150, 243-250.

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Switchable biomaterial surfaces

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Jason Whittle, Dr. David Steele


Abstract: There are many areas in surface science where it is desirable to have surfaces that respond to external stimuli. This project will develop surfaces for cell culture, which will ‘release’ cells in response to an external stimulus such as heat, light or electric field, eliminating the need to use mechanical scraping, or enzymatic digestion to recover cell populations in the lab. The student will develop advanced surface modification techniques for producing nano-scale responsive and switchable polymer films. The student will have access to high resolution surface analysis equipment, and will learn cell culture techniques in cGMP-grade facilities.

Modified clays for adsorbing organic contaminants




Abstract: Extensive research has previously been conducted, by numerous researchers worldwide, to develop effective and inexpensive adsorbent materials for the remediation of environmental organic contaminants. While bentonite has been commonly used for binding heavy metal contaminates relative little work has examined the binding properties of bentonites and other clays for organic compounds. This project will examine the binding properties and potential for bentonite type clays to be used either as a remediation agent for the removal or organic contaminates from waste streams or as a slow release delivery system for organic compounds of interest in the cosmetics and health industry. In the cosmetics industry clays are more commonly used in facials or added to body powders and soaps were they are primarily added for the ability to add creaminess if the clay is soft and fine or pigment if the clay is coloured. It should be possible to enhance the utility of clays for cosmetic amendments if it can be shown to bind, or modified to bind, organic compounds of cosmetic interest such as Vitamin A. The practical applications for clay technologies could include either 1) waste water treatment for the clean-up of waste stream or 2) incorporation into cosmetic products to deliver organic nutrients in a dermal application. Related references: Liang-guo Yan, Xiao-quan Shan, Bei Wen and Gary Owens (2008) Adsorption of cadmium onto Al13-pillared acid-activated montmorillonite, Journal of Hazardous Materials, 156(1-3), 499-508. I. Lo, R. Mak and S. Lee (1997) Modified Clays for Waste Containment and Pollutant Attenuation, J. Environ. Eng., 123(1), 25–32. Richard C. Zielke and Thomas J. Pinnavaia, (1988) Modified clays for the adsorption of environmental contaminats: Binding of chlorophenols to pillared, delminated, and hydroy-intercalated smectites., Clays and Clay Minerals, 36 (5), 403-408.

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Development of nanocomposites for environmental remediation of contaminants.

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Gary Owens, Dr. Jun Ma



Abstract: While clays have often been proposed as materials for contaminant adsorption from aqueous solutions the formed clay suspensions often have poor flow properties. This project will fabricate, via in situ polymerization of monomers between clay layers, and investigate novel clay/polymer nanocomposites, combining the high adsorption capability of clays with the superior flow properties of polymers. Fundamental scientific outcomes will deliver significant new information on how synthetic route influences composite properties and suitability for wastewater treatment. The major outcome will be new super-adsorbent materials suitable for the removal of heavy metal(loid)s from wastewater.

Related references: Jun Ma, J. Xu, J.H. Ren, Z.Z. Yu and Y.W. Mai (2003) A new approach to polymer/montmorillonite nanocomposites’, Polymer, 44(16), 4619–4624. U. Ulusoy and S. Şimşek (2005) Lead removal by polyacrylamide-bentonite and zeolite composites: Effect of phytic acid immobilization, Journal of Hazardous Materials, B127, 163-171. I. Zaman, T.T. Phan, H.C. Kuan, Q.S. Meng, L. Luong and Jun Ma (2011) Epoxy/graphene platelets nanocomposites with two levels of interface strength, Polymer, 52, 1603–1611.

Are biodegradable plastic bags an environmental risk?


Area: Environmental Science/ Materials Science


Abstract: Biodegradable plastic bags are becoming increasingly attractive in Australia because of an associated “green” image. However, residual metals present in many biodegradable plastic bags may potentially pose a long-term threat to the environment. This projects aims to provide baseline information on the type and potential for environmental harm from existing biodegradable plastic bags used in Australia and will assess the toxicological effect on the environment associated with the adoption of biodegradable plastics shopping bags when disposed to landfill or following composting.

Related references: EN 13432 (2000) Requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation - Test scheme and evaluation criteria for the final acceptance of packaging; English version of DIN EN 13432 (FOREIGN STANDARD). Gary Owens, Megharaj Mallavarapu and Ravendra Naidu (2006) Metal levels for inclusion in the Australian standard for compostability/biodegradability, University of South Australia, Final Project Report for the Department of Environment and Heritage, June 2006. Gál J., Hursthouse A., Tatner P., Stewart F. and Welton R. (2008) Cobalt and secondary poisoning in the terrestrial food chain: Data review and research gaps to support risk assessment. Environ. Int., 34(6), 821-838.

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Soil polymer sponges for enhanced water retention


Area: Environmental Science/ Materials Science


Abstract: Australia is one of the driest countries in the world with only limited annual rainfall. This precious resource could be more effective utilized if a method could be found to retain water in the root zone of plants for longer periods. Hydrophilic polymers (hydrogels) are a class of organic compounds that have enhanced water retention properties. In this project a range of hydrogels will be combined with sandy soils from arid regions of Southern Australia and the effect on water retention, fertilizer retention and metal leachability examined. The incorporation of polymer materials into the soil matrix may also increase the structural stability of fragile soils and reduce soil erosion. Related references: J. Akhter, K. Mahmood, K.A. Malik, A. Mardan, M. Ahmad, M.M. Iqbal (2004) Effects of hydrogel amendment on water storage of sandy loam and loam soils and seedling growth of barley, wheat and chickpea, Plant Soil Environ, 50 (10): 463–469. L. Rossatoa, J. MacFarlane, M. Whittaker, A. Pudmenzky, D. Doley, S. Schmidt, M.J. Monteiro (2011) Metal-binding particles alleviate lead and zinc toxicity during seed germination of metallophyte grass Astrebla lappacea, Journal of Hazardous Materials, 190, 772–779. Elizabeth Ramírez, S. Guillermina Burillo, C. Barrera-Díaz, Gabriela Roa, Bryan Bilyeu (2011) Use of pH-sensitive polymer hydrogels in lead removal from aqueous solution, Journal of Hazardous Materials, 192, 432– 439.

What lies beneath? Distribution and bioaccessibility of heavy metals in household

carpet dust.


Area: Environmental Science


Abstract: Household carpets can act as both a source and sink for household dust and any dust associated environmental contaminants. Dust enters residential homes either externally, typically as airborne dust or via tracking of particulate matter on shoes, or internally from dust generating activities carried out within the house. Dust can be a significant route of respiratory exposure to adults as well as via the gastrointestinal route to young infants who are often in close proximity to floor surfaces and exhibit hand-to-mouth behaviour. Since fine particular matter often sticks to children’s hands, hand-to-mouth behaviour is a significant route for childhood ingestion of heavy metals. Thus accurate measurement of metal concentrations in household dust is important as lead (Pb) and other industrial metals represent a potential health hazard to children and their development.

Related references: Cotters-Howell J. and Thornton I. (1991) Sources and pathways of environmental lead to children in a Derbyshire mining village. Environ. Geochem. Health. 13 (2), 127-135. Adgate J.L., Weisel C., Rhoads G. G. and Lioy P. J. (1995) Lead in house dust: relationships between exposure metrics and sampling techniques. Environ. Res. 70, 134-147. Gary Owens, Graham Blows, Bernie Zarcinas and Michael J. McLaughlin (2002) Development of In Situ Remediation Regimes to Reduce Exposure of Lead to Children in Households at Port Pirie, CSIRO Land & Water. Consultancy report for the South Australian Department of Human Services.

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Arsenic contamination of rice - Bangladesh




Abstract: Groundwater in Bangladesh used for agriculture is typically polluted with Arsenic from natural mineral sources. There is some concern that when polluted water is used for the production of rice, the staple food in Bangladesh, that this may lead to detrimental human health. However, while some rice from Bangladesh is high in As other rice is not. It might be possible that only certain varieties of rice accumulate As. In this project several rice varieties from As contaminated regions in Bangladesh will be examined to assess if a species dependant As accumulation is likely or are farming practices the more likely cause for the variable As concentrations reported for rice?

Related references: Nasreen Islam Khan, David Bruce, Ravi Naidu and Gary Owens, (2009) Implementation of Food Frequency Questionnaire for the Assessment of Total Dietary Arsenic Intake in Bangladesh: Part-B – Preliminary Findings, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 31 (Suppl. 1), 221-238 Nasreen Islam Khan, Gary Owens, David Bruce and Ravi Naidu (2009) Human Arsenic Exposure and Risk Assessment at the Landscape Level: A Review, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 31 (Suppl. 1), 143-166. Nasreen Islam Khan, Gary Owens, David Bruce and Ravi Naidu (2009) An Effective Dietary Survey Framework for the Assessment of Total Dietary Arsenic Intake in Bangladesh: Part-A – FFQ Design, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 31 (Suppl. 1), 207-220.

Ecotoxicity of long-term contaminated soils using multispecies soil systems.




Abstract: Traditionally assessment of ecological risk uses a battery of independent biological assays conducted sequentially. However an alternative to this process is to use a Multispecies Soil System (MS-3) to conduct toxicity testing on contaminated soils simultaneously. The MS-3 system consists of soil columns coupled with a leachate collection system. Test species (including plants and terrestrial invertebrates) are added to the column and their toxic responses measured. Toxicity endpoints can include seedling emergence, root elongation, plant biomass and earthworm mortality. Leachates can also be collected and toxicity assessed via exposure to aquatic organisms such as Daphnia or alga. This project will use a multispecies soil system to evaluate the ecotoxicity of a number of long-term contaminated soils from Australia and overseas. The study will combine plant growth with soil solution extraction and worm assay to characterize the ecological risk posed by the long-term contaminated soils. Plants and worms will be grown simultaneously in contaminated soils and on harvest plants assessed for bioaccumulation of heavy metals and toxicity symptoms. Sequential and in vitro extraction techniques will be used to correlate any observed toxicity with solid phase speciation or bioavailability of the contaminant. Related references: OECD, (1984). Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals No. 207. Earthworm Acute Toxicity Tests. B.R. Niederlehner, K.W. Pontasch, J.R. Pratt and J. Cairns Jr. (1990). Field evaluation of predictions of environmental effects from a multispecies. microcosm toxicity test. Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 19(1), 62-71. Marıá Dolores Ferna´ ndez, Ekain Cagigal, Marıá Milagrosa Vega, Arantzazu Urzelai, Mar Babıń, Javier Pro and Jose´ Vicente Tarazona (2005) Ecological risk assessment of contaminated soils through direct toxicity assessment Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 62, 174–184.

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Phytoremediation of metal contaminated sites using Australian native vegetation




Abstract: Phytoremediation encompasses a range of different techniques, including, phytoextraction, phytostabilization and rhizoremediation, all of which utilize vegetation to achieve in situ remediation of contaminated land. Phytoremediation technology is based on the capacity of the plants to remove, immobilise or render harmless metal contaminants in soil. Phytoremediation techniques are attractive because they are publicly perceived as being a "green and clean" technology when compared to the perceived "dirty and industrial" remediation technologies such as soil washing and excavation and is one of the few remediation technologies that aesthetically improve the landscape during remediation. Their main disadvantage is that although relatively inexpensive they do not offer a quick fix solution to contaminant problems as remediation below a specified level may require several years of repeated cropping to obtain clean up goals. At present commercial viability of phytoextraction technologies are limited by the ability of the plants to hyperaccumulate metal(loids) to harvestable portions. The majority of hyperaccumulator species identified to date are also specific to Europe or the USA and there is no known species of Australian native vegetation known to hyperaccumulate metal(loids). In particular the harsh Australian climate typically requires plants that are hardy, salt resistant and utilize limited irrigation. Identification of indigenous hyperaccumulators will also circumvent the problems associated with importing and widely cropping an introduced species for use in Australia and will therefore speed the path to adoption. The aims of this project are therefore to 1) identify and assess native (indigenous) plant species growing in contaminated areas for their potential to hyperaccumulate metal(loid)s, and 2) critically evaluate these species for their potential application as part of a commercial phytoremediation technology. Related references: E. Zabłudowska, J. Kowalska, Ł. Jedynak, S. Wojas, A. Skłodowska and D.M. Antosiewicz (2009) Search for a plant for phytoremediation – What can we learn from field and hydroponic studies? Chemosphere, 77(3), 301-307. M.N.V. Prasad, Helena Freitas, Stefan Fraenzle, Simone Wuenschmann and Bernd Markert (2010) Knowledge explosion in phytotechnologies for environmental solutions, Environmental Pollution, 158, 18–23. Nicoletta Rascio and Flavia Navari-Izzo (2011) Heavy metal hyperaccumulating plants: How and why do they do it? And what makes them so interesting? Plant Science 180, 169–181.

Delivery of flexible graded plasma coatings

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Sue Low, Dr. David Steele


Abstract: Surface engineering is critical to further the development of technologically advanced coatings. All too frequently the integrity of coated materials is compromised by interfacial failure. The development of graded plasma polymer coatings will maintain the mechanical and physical properties of the underlying substrate whilst minimising the distinct coating-substrate interface. The minimisation of this interface is critical for the plasma polymer integrity and subsequent flexibility. These graded plasma polymer coatings can be tailored to provide the substrate with superior properties such as improving biocompatibility, preventing or promoting protein adsorption and generating hydrophilic or hydrophobic surfaces. These enhanced substrates are particularly desirable in medical implants, where specific surface characteristics are required for the implant’s compatibility. This project will advance the broader surface engineering community’s knowledge.

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Chelate Assisted Phytoremedaition




Abstract: Chelates are metal binding compounds suspected of having the ability to increase metal uptake by plants. This ability may prove useful in the process called phytoremediation, where plants are used to remove metal pollutants from contaminated soils. The amount of enhanced metal uptake varies with both plant type and the type of chelate applied. NTA and EDTA are two chelates suspected of significantly enhancing metal uptake. However, while both of these compounds are stable for extended periods in the laboratory there lifetime under environmental conditions is not known with any certainty. This knowledge is vital for determining the application rates for chelates necessary to maintain high phytoremediation efficiencies. This project will determine the lifetimes of chelates in polluted metal soils and the speciation of the chelates and their metal complexes will simultaneously be determined using LC-MS. Related references: I. Alkorta, J. Herna´ ndez-Allica, J.M. Becerril, I. Amezaga, I. Albizu, M. Onaindia and C. Garbisu (2004) Chelate-enhanced phytoremediation of soils polluted with heavy metals, Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology, 3, 55-70. E. Lesage, E. Meers, P. Vervaeke, S. Lamsal, M. Hopgood, F. M. G. Tack and M. G. Verloo (2005) Enhanced phtoextraction: II Effect of EDTA and citric acid on heavy metal uptake by helianthus annuus from a calcareous soil, International Journal of Phytoremediation, 7, 143–152. M.N.V. Prasad, Helena Freitas, Stefan Fraenzle, Simone Wuenschmann and Bernd Markert (2010) Knowledge explosion in phytotechnologies for environmental solutions, Environmental Pollution, 158, 18–23.

Arsenic contamination of soil - Bangladesh




Abstract: Worldwide typical background levels of As in soils range from 5-10 mg kg-1 with an average concentration of 7.4 mg kg-1 for American soils. The natural background concentration of As, where there are no anthropogenic sources, is typically < 10 mg kg-1. Continued irrigation of crops with As contaminated water may increase soil As concentrations if the As added was retained by the soil layer. The clay content of the soil would influence As sorption characteristics and bioavailability with mobility of As being enhanced under anoxic conditions. The consequences of elevated As soil levels may ultimately result in lower crop yields and increased As uptake by crops. These effects would have a direct impact on the standard of living for the Bangladeshi farmer by negatively impacting on crop quality and lowering household income. In this project the distribution and severity of As in agricultural soils from Bangladesh will be determined and the relationship between As bioavailability and common soil parameters quantified. Related references: Nasreen Islam Khan, Gary Owens, David Bruce and Ravi Naidu (2009) Human Arsenic Exposure and Risk Assessment at the Landscape Level: A Review, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 31 (Suppl. 1), 143-166. Stanislav Rapant and Katarına Krcmova (2007) Health risk assessment maps for arsenic groundwater content: application of national geochemical databases, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 29, 131-141. A.P. Reis, A.J. Sousa, E. Ferreira Da Silva and E. Cardoso Fonseca (2005) Application of geostatistical methods to arsenic data from soil samples of the Cova dos Mouros mine (Vila Verde-Portugal, Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 27, 259–270.

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Distribution and speciation of metals in medicinal plants from South East Asia


Area: Analytical Chemistry/Environmental Science


Abstract: In many countries worldwide, traditional medicine using locally grown plants continues to be a common practice. However, there is concern that this practice can potentially lead to detrimental health effects related to heavy metal toxicity when medicinal plants are consumed which accumulate high levels of heavy metals. The aim of this project is to determine the magnitude and severity of heavy metal contamination in medicinal plants and to understand the soil-to-plant transfer patterns of these heavy metals for a number of common medicinal plants. This study could be applied to Medicinal plants from India or traditional Chinese medicines, or indeed any cultural background that has a tradition of medicinal plant use. Related references: Preeti Tripathi, Sanjay Dwivedi, Aradhana Mishra, Amit Kumar, Richa Dave, Sudhakar Srivastava, Mridul Kumar Shukla, Pankaj Kumar Srivastava, Debasis Chakrabarty, Prabodh Kumar Trivedi, Rudra Deo Tripathi (2012) Arsenic accumulation in native plants of West Bengal, India: prospects for phytoremediation but concerns with the use of medicinal plants, Environ Monit Assess, 184, 2617–2631. P. Dzomba, T. Chayamiti and E. Togarepi (2012) Heavy Metal Content of Selected Raw Medicinal Plant Materials: Implication for Patient Health, Bulletin of Environment, Pharmacology and Life Sciences, 1(10), 28-33. Mohammad Rahimi, Reza Farhadi and Mojib Salehi balashahri (2012) Effects of heavy metals on the medicinal plant, International Journal of Agronomy and Plant Production, 3(4), 154-158.

Heavy metal mobilisation on small-arms firing ranges


Area: Environmental Science (Remediation)

Suitable as Masters

Abstract: Small-arms firing ranges exist on a number of military bases throughout Australia where a stop butt, typically constructed from a mixture of sand and straw, is used to trap spent ammunition following firing. Eventually, the stop butt becomes overloaded with metallic projectiles and is dismantled and the large metallic fragments sieved from the straw/sand mixture as they pose a risk of ricochet. The larger metallic fractions are sent for metal recycling while the finer sand particulates are used to reconstitute the stop butt. However, current practice ignores the potentially more mobile and toxic finer fractions of Pb bearing sands that may be present at these sites within the finer sand fractions. Additionally, when such sites become decommissioned there is a need to have remedial options available that can return the site free of risk for alternate uses. A variety of management strategies are available for remediation Pb contamination on small-arms firing ranges including 1) Soil Washing - Particle Separation 2) Soil Stabilization and 3) Soil Washing - Chemical Extraction. This project will evaluate all three remedial options. Related references: Maria Chrysochoou, Dimitris Dermatas and Dennis G. Grubb (2007) Phosphate application to firing range soils for Pb immobilization: The unclear role of phosphate, Journal of Hazardous Materials,144, 1–14. Jaana Sorvari, Riina Antikainen and Outi Pyy (2006) Environmental contamination at Finnish shooting ranges—the scope of the problem and management options, Science of the Total Environment, 366, 21–31. Brett H. Robinson, Simone Bischofberger, Andreas Stoll, Dirk Schroer, Gerhard Furrer, Ste´phanie Roulier, Anna Gruenwald, Werner Attinger and Rainer Schulin (2008) Plant uptake of trace elements on a Swiss military shooting range: Uptake pathways and land management implications, Environmental Pollution, 153(3), 668-76.

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Functionalizing photoactive nanoparticles with living polymers for advance applications

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Tony Aitchison, Dr Lucas Johnson, Dr Stephen Clarke


Abstract: Much attention has been given to living polymers due to their low polydispersity, re-initializing end group, and the many architectures they can form.1 When functionalizing photoactive nanoparticles with such polymers, a whole host of new materials are possible. This project aims to develop these materials and then explore their potential use in applications such as nanomedicine, energy, catalysis and many more.

Related references: Patten, T. E.; Matyjazewski, K. Advanced Materials 1998, 10, 901-915

Chemical extraction (soil washing) of as contaminated soils


Area: Environmental Science (Remediation)


Abstract: The occurrence of arsenic in the environment poses significant risk to both human and ecosystem health. While a number of remediation technologies have been developed for arsenic-contaminated soil (e.g. containment, solidification/stabilisation and separation/ concentration), these methods may not be applicable for Korean conditions and may not be economically viable in many situations. In addition the concept of bioavailability reduction in some countries such as Korea is not generally accepted and the emphasis is on removal of contaminant from a site. Soil washing of chemical extraction of a soil is one remediation alternative. Chemical extraction involves introduction of a leachant, typically a strong acid such as HCl, into a soil washing process to remove residual metal contaminates from the soil. A number of synthetic chelates such as EDTA have also been suggested as metal extractants. The problem with EDTA is that it is not degradable and toxic. For this reason lower molecular weight chelates are favoured as they degrade more quickly. In this project we will examine the potential for phosphate and/or citric acid to be used as leachants in the chemical extraction of As from a As contaminated soil. A small number of Korean soils are available for preliminary testing. Related references: Preeti Tripathi, Sanjay Dwivedi, Aradhana Mishra, Amit Kumar, Richa Dave, Sudhakar Srivastava, Mridul Kumar Shukla, Pankaj Kumar Srivastava, Debasis Chakrabarty, Prabodh Kumar Trivedi, Rudra Deo Tripathi (2012) Arsenic accumulation in native plants of West Bengal, India: prospects for phytoremediation but concerns with the use of medicinal plants, Environ Monit Assess, 184, 2617–2631. P. Dzomba, T. Chayamiti and E. Togarepi (2012) Heavy Metal Content of Selected Raw Medicinal Plant Materials: Implication for Patient Health, Bulletin of Environment, Pharmacology and Life Sciences, 1(10), 28-33. Mohammad Rahimi, Reza Farhadi and Mojib Salehi balashahri (2012) Effects of heavy metals on the medicinal plant, International Journal of Agronomy and Plant Production, 3(4), 154-158.

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School of Engineering

Mechanical engineering, robotics, mechatronics, agricultural engineering, sustainable

energy, ergonomics, nano-technology, advanced manufacturing technology, supply chain

management, and manufacturing management. Electrical and mechatronic engineering,

electronics and communications, physics, networking and communications, and optical and

electronic. Systems engineering, engineering management, socio-technical systems, and

complex systems

Research Education Portfolio Leaders:

Dr Sang-Heon Lee: [email protected]

and

A/Prof Neil Davidson: [email protected]

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Sang-Heon.Lee

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Sang-Heon.Lee


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Map Evaluation for Mobile Robots

Name of Supervisor/s: Professor Anthony Finn

Area: Robotics, Mechatronics, Computing

Suitable as PhD

All mobile robots need to generate maps of their environment to execute their mission goals.

For such algorithms to be of any practical use, however, they need not only deliver a map

but also a measure of reliability under various conditions. Most existing mapping research

focuses on solution development and the convergence and consistency of these solutions,

with limited effort applied to systematically characterising the reliability and accuracy of the

consolidated solutions derived from multiple robots under different conditions. It is

particularly important to identify conditions where the algorithms performance can be

optimised and conditions where they fail. There are two approaches to such performance

evaluation: analytical characterisation (which is often studied) and empirical performance

evaluation (which is not).

This research will focus on developing a framework and standards for automating the

quantitative measurement of the performance of robotic mapping systems against known

ground truth. It will include: sensitivity analyses, error propagation, failure mode

identification, and identification of degenerate conditions; determination of evaluation

procedures that need to be followed to deduce the performance of such systems; what

methodologies can reliably be used to qualitative analyse the specific errors to which the

observing systems may be prone; and which ‘similarity metrics’ can be used to measure the

quality of any spatial consistency between the observed and true maps (i.e. which give an

indication of the distortion of the map with respect to ground truth).

References :

A. Finn et al., Evaluating Autonomous Ground Robots, Journal of Field Robotics, Volume 29, Issue 5,

pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012

Finn & S. Scheding, Challenges for Autonomous & Unmanned Systems, Springer 2010 Scrapper et al, (Chapter 10), Quantitative Assessment of Robot Generated Maps, in Performance Evaluation of Intelligent Robotic Systems, (ed. R. Madhavan et al) Springer 2009 H. Durrant-Whyte & T. Bailey, Simultaneous Location & Mapping Tutorial (Part I & Part II), IEEE Robotics & Automation Magazine, June 2006 M. Csorba, “Simultaneous Localisation and Map Building,” Ph.D. Dissertation, Oxford, 1997 Jacoff, A., Messina, E., Evans, J., Performance Evaluation of Autonomous Mobile Robots, Industrial Robot: An International Journal, Volume 29, Number 3, 2002 O’Day, S. et al, Metrics for Intelligent Autonomy, Proc. Performance Metrics for Intelligent Systems (PerMIS), 2004 R.A. Finn, A. Jacoff, M. Del Rose, R. Kania, & J. Bornstein, “Evaluation of MAGIC 2010”, Journal of Field Robotics, July 2012

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Co-ordination of Multi-Robot Teams

Name of Supervisors: Professor Anthony Finn

Area: Robotics, Mechatronics, Systems

Suitable as PhD

A great deal of the early research in multi-robot coordination was based on the social

characteristics and behaviour-based paradigms of biological systems such as ants, bees

and birds. This early work demonstrated that the use of simple, local control rules allowed

robots to mimic the foraging, flocking, aggregation and trail-following characteristics of these

biological systems. The introduction of dynamics into the simulated ‘eco-systems’ allowed

the multi-agent teams to demonstrate emergent cooperation resulting from selfish interests.

This work was then extended to incorporate studies in robotic predator-prey systems,

although much of this work was carried out in simulation and much of it focused on the

development and evaluation of various pursuit policies. Adversarial engagement between

multiple agents, such as found in higher order biological systems, tends to have been

studied in domains such as robot soccer or from the perspective of expected capture times

and the sensing capabilities of the pursuers. Much of the early work also tended to focus on

using reactive or deliberative techniques, whereas more recent work has used benefits of

each, creating hierarchal systems that engage low-level reactive planners under higher-level

deliberative ones. These hybrid techniques are now able to provide dynamic planning

solutions for multi-robot cooperatives.

This research program will critically examine robotic strategy decisions that include: the

value of explicit and implicit control, whether the origin of the tasking should be distributed or

centralised, the impact of restricted communication, the complexity and power of

heterogeneity of agents versus the relative ease of homogeneity, and the nature of the

individual motivation (i.e. selfish or socialised). Free market economic theory, auction

strategies and biological inspiration will all be examined in this context.

References :


pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012 Kuc, T-Y, I-J Lee, S-M Baek, Perception, reasoning and learning of multiple agent systems for robot soccer, IEEE Conf on Systems, Man & Cybernetics, 1999 Kim, J. R. Vidal, H. Shim, O. Shakernia, & S. Sastry, A hierarchical approach to probabilistic pursuit-evasion games with unmanned ground and aerial vehicles, IEEE Transactions on Robotics & Automation, Vol. 18, No. 5, October, 2002 Gerkey, B. & M.J. Mataric, A Formal Framework for the Study of Task-Allocation in Multi-Robot Systems, Int. Journal Robotics Research, Vol. 14, 2003 Boff, K.R., L. Kaufman, J.P. Thomas, Handbook of perception and Human Performance, John Wiley & Sons, NY, 1988 Bourgault, F., Goktogan, A, Furukawa, T & H. Durrant-Whyte, Coordinated search of a lost target in a Bayesian world, J. Advanced Robotics, pp 187-195 (2004) Dias, M.B. & A. Stenz, A Free Market Architecture for distributed Control of a Multi-Robot System, 6th International Conference on Intelligent Autonomous Systems p115-122, Venice, Italy, July 2000 Vidal, R. et al, Probablistic Pursuit-Evasion Games: Theory, Implementation and Experimental Evaluation, IEEE Transactions, Vol. X, No. Y, 2002

~ 31 ~

Multi-Robot Mapping in an Adversarial Environment



Suitable as PhD

Creation of maps from multi-robot cooperatives – even 2D in static environments – are time

consuming and computationally intensive. Multi-robot teams involved in adversarial activity

usually assume accurate maps and worst-case motion for the adversary, which with noisy

observations and inaccurate maps usually leads to overly conservative policies for pursuing

the adversary. As a result, a number of researchers have combined the map-building and

pursuit-evasion policies into a single probabilistic framework, some with autonomous (UAV-

based) supervisory agent. A number of researchers have also considered active evasion

strategies based on partially observed Markov decision processes (POMDP’s) usually based

on vision-based sensors and executed in simulated environments. Others have used optic

flow to determine the number of moving evaders as well as their position and orientation. All

of these approaches, however, designate the roles of the agent prior to the commencement

of the games as either pursuer or evader; they do not provide the evader with the policy

option of countering their pursuers by becoming the hunter.

This research will examine this option, with another attraction being the system’s capacity to

execute a multi-agent task (such as search, surveillance and target tracking in an adversarial

environment) within a framework that provides the flexibility to use different solutions or role-

playing concepts: one based on the cooperative behaviour of the participants and another

based on non-cooperation.

References :


pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012 Kuc, T-Y, I-J Lee, S-M Baek, Perception, reasoning and learning of multiple agent systems for robot soccer, IEEE Conf on Systems, Man & Cybernetics, 1999 Kim, J. R. Vidal, H. Shim, O. Shakernia, & S. Sastry, A hierarchical approach to probabilistic pursuit-evasion games with unmanned ground and aerial vehicles, IEEE Transactions on Robotics & Automation, Vol. 18, No. 5, October, 2002 Gerkey, B. & M.J. Mataric, A Formal Framework for the Study of Task-Allocation in Multi-Robot Systems, Int. Journal Robotics Research, Vol. 14, 2003 Boff, K.R., L. Kaufman, J.P. Thomas, Handbook of perception and Human Performance, John Wiley & Sons, NY, 1988 Bourgault, F., Goktogan, A, Furukawa, T & H. Durrant-Whyte, Coordinated search of a lost target in a Bayesian world, J. Advanced Robotics, pp 187-195 (2004) Dias, M.B. & A. Stenz, A Free Market Architecture for distributed Control of a Multi-Robot System, 6th International Conference on Intelligent Autonomous Systems p115-122, Venice, Italy, July 2000 Vidal, R. et al, Probablistic Pursuit-Evasion Games: Theory, Implementation and Experimental Evaluation, IEEE Transactions, Vol. X, No. Y, 2002

~ 32 ~

Sensor Coordination for Multi-Robot Teams



Suitable as PhD

Many of the multi-agent coordination issues such as task allocation, path and trajectory

planning, formation optimisation and pursuit-evasion strategies are now becoming well

understood, even though demonstration of them using real robots in outdoor and

unstructured environments (i.e. as opposed to using simulation) are rare. More recent

research has focused on motion coordination within the context of behaviour coordination

such as target search and feature-tracking behaviours. As a result, research into path

planning and control, multi-robot task and resource allocation, behaviour coordination and

communications has become coupled. This is largely because the structure of the multi-

robot cooperative changes with time and the properties of the cooperative change with

structure. That is, the position of a robot within its team’s structure and relative to its goals

determines its projected sensing options, prospects for information gain, and capacity to

(say) accurately explore, map and locate key features in its environment; just as its inherent

capabilities, sensing options, scheduling of sensors, and so on impact the potential agent

trajectories, behaviours, feature tracking accuracy, communications strategies, etc.

This research will address these coupled tasks within a single framework, whereas

previously the problems of and approaches to communications and sensor scheduling,

feature tracking and trajectory control were largely de-coupled and addressed using

independent algorithms and strategies and then combined using some form of executive

controller or architecture. More recent work attempts to manipulate the sensing process in

order to maximise the information gain and feature location estimation, without using any a

priori information. When the sensors are passive, this introduces a number of aspects that

are not under sensor control (i.e. when precisely observations are made and what the

observations are of), both of which have an impact on the development of longer-term

scheduling strategies for the sensors and agent. This research will coordinate groups of

agents into teams, the members of which will take (or will be instructed to take) a decision to

commit to a particular task but who will receive common reward for task achievement as a

result of team decisions.

References :


pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012 Kuc, T-Y, I-J Lee, S-M Baek, Perception, reasoning and learning of multiple agent systems for robot soccer, IEEE Conf on Systems, Man & Cybernetics, 1999 Kim, J. R. Vidal, H. Shim, O. Shakernia, & S. Sastry, A hierarchical approach to probabilistic pursuit-evasion games with unmanned ground and aerial vehicles, IEEE Transactions on Robotics & Automation, Vol. 18, No. 5, October, 2002 Gerkey, B. & M.J. Mataric, A Formal Framework for the Study of Task-Allocation in Multi-Robot Systems, Int. Journal Robotics Research, Vol. 14, 2003 Boff, K.R., L. Kaufman, J.P. Thomas, Handbook of perception and Human Performance, John Wiley & Sons, NY, 1988 Hespana, J., M. Prandini, and S. Sastry, Probabilistic Pursuit Evasion Games, Proc. 39th IEEE Conf on Decision & Control, pp2272-2277, (2001) Sujit, P.B. A. Sinha, D. Ghose, Team, Game and Negotiation based Intelligent Autonomous UAV Task Allocation for Wide Area Applications, Innovations in Intelligent Machines, Springer, 2009 Moreland, M., T. Hanselmann, W. Moran, P. Sarunic, Scheduling of Passive Sensors for target Tracking, DSTO Client Research Report, 2008

~ 33 ~

UAV-Based Atmospheric Tomography

Name of Supervisor/s:Professor Anthony Finn

Area: Signal processing, atmospheric physics

Suitable as PhD

Tomography allows a cross section of the internal structure of an object to be reconstructed based on the interactions between the body of the object and energy emitted by appropriately located radiating devices and sensors. Atmospheric tomography enables one to reconstruct the temperature and wind velocity profiles and to monitor their evolution in time and space. This project parasitically observes the acoustic signature of a small-to-medium sized unmanned aerial vehicle using ground sensors. Tomography is then used to reconstruct three dimensional temperature and wind velocity profiles of the atmosphere up to altitudes of about 1,000m. Combining the acoustic observations of the passage of the UAV with the tomographic inversion allows temporal and spatial studies of atmospheric phenomena in locations previously inaccessible through reasons of cost or safety. The work has profound implications for improving our knowledge of meteorology and meteorological phenomena, theories of atmospheric turbulence, and electro-magnetic and acoustic wave propagation through a turbulent atmosphere. The aim of the project is to critically examine the predicted and real-world performance of this novel technique for inexpensively characterising the near-surface air temperature profiles and wind fields of the atmosphere. The analysis will include assessments of the predicted and observed accuracy and resolution of temperature and wind velocity profiles and their relationship to the effects of dispersion and broadband wind noise, techniques for optimising the measurement of the emission spectra, flight path optimisation strategies for the UAV, and the comparative utility of particular tomographic inversion strategies. Comparison with conventional atmospheric observation techniques will also be made in terms of predicted and real-world performance, cost-capability comparisons, deployment options, technique scale-ability to large, mobile, and three dimensional observation grids, and the technique’s overall potential for utility within the meteorological community. Students can expect to work with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Boulder Colorado. Related references: V.E. Ostashev et al, Recent progress in acoustic tomography of the atmosphere, Proc. 14th International Symposium for the Advancement of Boundary Layer Remote Sensing, IOP Conference Series (Earth & Environmental Science) IOP Publishing, 2008 A. C. Kak &M. Slaney, Principles of Computerized Tomographic Imaging, Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics, 2001 V.E. Ostashev, A.G. Voronovich & D.K. Wilson, Acoustic tomography of the atmosphere, Proc. IEEE International Geoscience & Remote Sensing Symposium, 2000 W. Munk, P. Worcester, & C. Wunsch, Ocean acoustic tomography, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 9780521470957 1995 J.L. Spiesberger, Locating animals from their sound and tomography of the atmosphere, Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, Vol 106, pp 837-846, 1999 K. Arnold, et al, Acoustic tomography and conventional meteorological measurements, Meteorological and Atmospheric Physics, Vol. 85, pp 175-186, 2004 T. Wiens & P. Behrens, Turbulent flow sensing using acoustic tomography, Proceedings of Innovations in practical Noise Control 2009, Ottawa, Canada, August 2009 D.K. Wilson & D.W. Thomson, Acoustic tomography monitoring of the atmospheric surface layer, Journal Atmospheric & Oceanographic Techniques, 1994 B.G. Ferguson & K.W. Lo, Turbo-prop and rotary-wing aircraft flight parameter estimation using both narrow-band and broadband passive acoustic signal processing methods, J. Acoustic Society America, Vol. 108, No. 4, October 2000 A. Finn & S. Franklin, UAV-Based acoustic tomography, Proc. Australian Acoustical Society Conference, Brisbane, 2011

~ 34 ~

Sense & Avoid for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles


Area: Autonomous systems, robotics, mechatronics, signal processing

Suitable as PhD

This project will critically examine the effectiveness of techniques that allow unmanned aerial vehicles to detect, track, and avoid un-cooperative aircraft in their immediate vicinity. The goal is to detect the approaching aircraft early enough to avoid them and with a sufficiently low false alarm rate that the sensing aircraft trajectory need not be modified unnecessarily often. The approach being explored combines the use of small, lightweight, passive sensors embedded in the wings and fuselage of an unmanned aircraft with other sensors such as electro-optic and infrared cameras. It therefore has the capacity to operate in all weather conditions, during the day and at night, over a 360 degree field of view and draws little power. In order to carry out the analysis, a flight-capable signal processing test bed will need to be developed and an unmanned aircraft instrumented. The project will develop and examine a range of digital signal processing techniques and acoustic-mechanical noise-reduction strategies to maximise the detection range, tracking, and aircraft identification capabilities of the system. Use will be made of a combination of wind tunnel experiments and ground-based and aerial field trials to examine both extant and experimental wing set designs that incorporate variable placement of microphones. The research outcome will be a profound insight into the real-world performance envelope of a technology solution that would enable manned and unmanned aircraft to share airspace. The approach could also have application in general aviation as it could enhance pilot situational awareness by assisting them to contend with similar, uncooperative hazards. A secondary outcome will be the development of noise measurement and reduction practices for manned and unmanned aircraft, which has implications for the development of reduced noise aircraft, reduced drag designs, and improved power efficiencies generally. Related references: R.A. Finn & S. Franklin, Acoustic sense & Avoid for UAVs, Proc. ISSNIP 2011, Adelaide, November 2011 B.G. Ferguson & K.W. Lo, Turbo-prop and rotary-wing aircraft flight parameter estimation using both narrow-band and broadband passive acoustic signal processing methods, J. Acoustic Society America, Vol. 108, No. 4, October 2000 Geyer, C. S. Singh, L. Chamberlain, Avoiding Collisions between Aircraft, Technical Report, Carnegie Mellon University, CMU-RI-TR-08-03, January 2008 K.W. Lo & B.G. Ferguson, Tactical unmanned aerial vehicle localisation using ground-based acoustic sensors, Proceedings Intelligent Sensor, Sensor Networks & Information Processing Conference 2004, Melbourne, December 2004 S. Rydergard, Obstacle Detection in See-And-Avid Systems for UAVs, TRITA-NA-E04013, Master’s Thesis, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, 2004 H. Fujishima, R. Teo & A. Finn, Project Careful: Collision Avoidance for Multi-UAV Operations (Literature Survey) E. Tijs et al, Hear-and-Avoid for Micro UAVs, Proc. IMAV 2010, Germany, June 2010

~ 35 ~

Underwater Tomography using Robotic Vehicles


Area: Signal processing, atmospheric physics

Suitable as PhD

Tomography allows a cross section of the internal structure of an object to be reconstructed

based on the interactions between the body of the object and energy emitted by

appropriately located radiating devices and sensors. Underwater tomography uses a precise

measurement of the acoustic propagation delay to determine the sub-sea refractive index

profiles. This allows determination of properties such as ocean current and temperature

profiles and monitoring of their evolution in time and space. It affords several advantages

over conventional ocean measurements obtained by dropping observing systems over the

side of ships: it is possible to observe greater volumes of ocean in a reduced time.

The aim of this project is to critically examine the predicted and real-world performance of a

novel and cost-effective approach that exploits the use of robotic air and underwater

vehicles. The technique uses tomographic techniques to inexpensively characterise and

track the variations in refractive index profile to identify the presence of underwater

contaminants, such as oil. The research will include development of models, assessments of

the predicted and observed accuracy and resolution of the technique and their relationship to

the effects of factors such as dispersion, multi-path, wave-guiding, absorption, spreading,

surface scattering, etc., and determination of optimal and practically achievable paths for the

robotic vehicles.

Related references:

B.G. Ferguson & K.W. Lo, Turbo-prop and rotary-wing aircraft flight parameter estimation using both narrow-band and broadband passive acoustic signal processing methods, J. Acoustic Society America, Vol. 108, No. 4, October 2000 A. Finn & S. Franklin, UAV-Based acoustic tomography, Proc. Australian Acoustical Society Conference, Brisbane, 2011 W. Munk, P. Worcester and W. Wunsch, Ocean Acoustic Tomography. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0-521-47095-1, 1995 M. Jochum and R. Murtugudde, Ocean Acoustic Tomography: from a stormy start to an uncertain future, Springer, New York, 2006 S. Adams, Moving source/receiver underwater acoustic tomography, Proc. IEEE Oceans Conf., http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=1151672&tag=1, 1981 Y. A. Chepurin, Experiments on underwater acoustic tomography, Journal of Acoustical Physics, Volume 53, Issue 3, pp 393-416, , May 2007

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Standard_Book_Number

http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=1151672&tag=1

http://link.springer.com/journal/11441/53/3/page/1

~ 36 ~

Trusted Autonomy


Area: Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Statistics

Suitable as PhD

Autonomous and robotic systems are agents of physical action; comprising architectures

where decision-making elements are distributed across a number of programs and

processors. Their capabilities, applications and services typically derive from a wide range of

inputs, including humans, with many learning from their interactions with the environment.

They are complex devices with many functional components, each of which relies on the

integration of dozens of enabling technologies and scientific disciplines. Notwithstanding,

many of the component technologies are largely mature and most of the physical functions

have now been successfully automated and deployed in an array of scenarios. However,

significant innovation is still required to bring this vision to fruition if they are to operate

reliably and safely in dynamic environments shared by people, property, and other systems:

the technology needs to become more ‘intelligent’. This needs many of the higher order

functions to be more fully developed so that the systems become more agile, versatile,

persistent, reliable, and survivable so that they can be extended beyond the current state-of-

the-art, whereby users largely authorise or prescribe key moves.

This project will focus on understanding autonomous and robotic systems in terms of their

‘trust-ability’ (i.e. safety, availability, reliability, maintainability, and ‘understand-ability’ - the

latter being our capacity to understand the intent of a system). Together these attributes

drive the confidence and degree of automation we place in robots. The project will critically

examine the properties of robotic systems from the perspective of:

- Reducing reliance on test as the critical means of validation - Certification of unverifiable functionality through dynamic predictive bounding - Maintenance of safety-critical robustness through multi-sensor fusion and integration - Ensuring systems of systems interact in a trusted, formalised and certifiable fashion

References :

[1] Finn & S. Scheding, Challenges for Autonomous & Unmanned Systems, Springer 2010

[2] A. Finn et al., Evaluating Autonomous Ground Robots, Journal of Field Robotics, Volume 29, Issue 5,

pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012

[3] J. Hinchman, et al, Towards Safety Assurance of Trusted Autonomy in Air force Flight Critical

Systems, http://www.acsac.org/2012/workshops/law/AFRL.pdf [4] Basu, A., M. Bozga & J. Sifakis, Modeling Heterogeneous Real-time Components in BIP, Proceedings

of the Fourth IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering and Formal Methods (SEFM'06), 2006

[5] Parasuraman, R. & V. Riley, Humans & Automation: Use, Misuse, Disuse, Abuse¸ Journal of Human Factors, Vol. 39, No. 2, pp230-253, 1997

[6] Lindsey, A. & Pecheur, C. Simulation-Based Verification of Livingstone Applications, Proc Workshop on Model-Checking for Dependable Software-Intensive Systems, San Francisco, June, 2003

[7] Menzies, T. & C. Pecheur, Verification and Validation and Artificial Intelligence In: Advances in Computers, vol. 65, Elsevier, 2005

[8] Pecheur, C., R. Simmons & P Engrand, Formal Verification of Autonomy Models: From Livingstone to SMV, In: Agent Technology from a Formal Perspective - NASA Monographs in Systems & Software Eng., (Ed C. Rouff et al), Springer Verlag, 2006

[9] Pecheur, C., Verification of Intelligent Control Software, Proceedings ASTRA'06, Noordwijk, Netherlands, November, 2006

http://www.acsac.org/2012/workshops/law/AFRL.pdf

~ 37 ~

V&V for Autonomous Systems


Area: Engineering, Computing Science

Suitable as PhD

Most of the physical functions of autonomous and robotic systems have now been

successfully automated and deployed in an array of scenarios. Due to their complex

interactions, however, significant Systems Engineering is still required to bring the relevant

elements together such that the end result is a robust system that can operate autonomously

in a complex environment for an extended period. For autonomous systems to be extended

beyond the current state-of-the-art, we need to develop robust and verifiable integration

schemes.

This research program will develop models of robotic systems to examine and optimise the

future functionality of such systems; and then develop robust verification and validation

techniques to allow integration of functional components. This will ultimately permit rapid

prototyping, testing and evaluation. The autonomous system will modelled as its constituent

functions in order that each of these components is verifiable. Using a methodology that

models the heterogeneous mix of real time components of the system as the superposition

of three layers – a behavioural layer (specified as a set of transitions), interactions between

the behaviours, and priorities (used to choose between the possible interactions) – a

complex ‘system of autonomous systems’ will be built through the assembly of relevant

components. The components will then be integrated in a way that ensures their correct

interaction using principles that are consistent, complete and practical, and with mechanisms

that demonstrate the composition, integration and software coding of these principles have

integrity. This research will also provide a framework for the study of property-preserving

transformations or transformations between sub-classes of systems or principles, which in

turn allows such component interactions to be verified.

[1] References: [2] Basu, A., M. Bozga & J. Sifakis, Modeling Heterogeneous Real-time Components in BIP, Proceedings

of the Fourth IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering and Formal Methods (SEFM'06), 2006

[3] Parasuraman, R. & V. Riley, Humans & Automation: Use, Misuse, Disuse, Abuse¸ Journal of Human Factors, Vol. 39, No. 2, pp230-253, 1997

[4] Lindsey, A. & Pecheur, C. Simulation-Based Verification of Livingstone Applications, Proc Workshop on Model-Checking for Dependable Software-Intensive Systems, San Francisco, June, 2003

[5] Menzies, T. & C. Pecheur, Verification and Validation and Artificial Intelligence In: Advances in Computers, vol. 65, Elsevier, 2005

[6] Pecheur, C., R. Simmons & P Engrand, Formal Verification of Autonomy Models: From Livingstone to SMV, In: Agent Technology from a Formal Perspective - NASA Monographs in Systems & Software Eng., (Ed C. Rouff et al), Springer Verlag, 2006

[7] Pecheur, C., Verification of Intelligent Control Software, Proceedings ASTRA'06, Noordwijk, Netherlands, November, 2006

[8] Finn & S. Scheding, Challenges for Autonomous & Unmanned Systems, Springer 2010

~ 38 ~

Architectures for Ethical Robotics

Name of Supervisor/s: Professor Anthony Finn, Professor Ivan Shearer

Area: Computer Science, Law, or Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Autonomous and robotic systems are permitted to exercise their own decision-making in

regard to navigation. These technologies, however, allow the same systems to make the

final determination regarding what constitutes a target and whether or not to engage it –

potentially with lethal force – but without operator intervention. If permitted, this would mark a

sea-change in the role of technology in society as the human could be removed from the

ultimate decision-making loop. Such systems will inevitably need to work within existing legal

frameworks and we will need to understand the legal consequences of surrendering human

oversight of these weapons. We will also need to know when an autonomous system is good

enough to take on these discretionary roles, whether we need to apply higher standards than

those currently expected of humans, who would be responsible for any certification of such

systems, the means by which the vector of causality is established, what criteria we use to

assign responsibility (or degree of responsibility) for the failure of such systems and the

harm they cause in terms of the Laws of Armed Conflict, and how/whether existing domestic

and international legal frameworks can accommodate them.

Additionally, because we fall short of the sophisticated technology required to both positively

discriminate between objects of interest and reliably resolve the ethical deliberations

required by the LOAC, we will need to use a combination of systems engineering principles,

model-based engineering strategies and affective computing (i.e. the ability to model,

synthesise and measure emotions such as guilt, remorse, grief, etc.) to generate a practical

framework for providing advice to users of these systems on their ethical responsibilities.

This will require: transformation of the LOAC into computer-usable representations; real-time

reasoning capabilities and mechanisms for ensuring that autonomous responses are within

ethical boundaries defined by the LOAC; development of algorithms capable of superior

(positive) target discrimination; practical, constraint-based optimisation and planning

mechanisms for ethical agents; creation of learning and adaptation techniques that are

based on embedded ethical constraint sets and a robot’s underlying behavioural control

parameters; a means of making responsibility assignment clear and explicit for all parties;

the establishment of metrics, benchmarks and evaluation techniques that allow the

comparison of artificial moral agents to each other and to the performance of humans in

similar situations; the design of systems architectures and human machine interfaces that

incorporate ethical reasoning and behaviour as a core principle (as opposed to as an

afterthought); and real time situated ethical operator advisory systems embedded with users

to remind them of the consequences of their actions when appropriate.

References:

[1] Allen, C., W. Wallach & I. Smit, (2006) Why Machine Ethics, IEEE Journal of Intelligent Systems, pp 12-17, Vol 21, Issue 4, July/August 2006

[2] Anderson, M. et al, (2006) An Approach to Computer Ethics, IEEE Journal of Intelligent Systems, pp 56-63, July/August 2006

[3] Arkin, R (2009) Governing Lethal Behaviour in Autonomous Robots, Chapman Hall [4] Asaro, P., (2007) How Just Could a Robot War Be? Umeå University, Sweden, 2007 [5] Borenstein, J., The Ethics of Autonomous Military Robots, Studies in Ethics, Technology & Law, Vol.

2, Issue 1, Berkeley Electronic Press, 2008

[6] Wiegel, V., (2006) Building Blocks for Artificial Moral Agents, Proc. Tenth International Conference on Simulation and Synthesis of Living Systems, Bloomington, IN, 2006

~ 39 ~

Econometric Modelling for Robotics


Area: Engineering, Systems Engineering, Economics

Suitable as PhD

There are currently around 36,000 robot manufacturing companies world-wide and the

global personal robotic industry will likely grow to around US$50B per annum by 2025.

Matched against this is the almost 90% drop in the cost of an industrial robot over the last

ten years and an almost 51% increase in western labour costs. This is largely driven by two

global trends of significance: the world’s population profile is skewing towards the aged

(aging populations require more services with fewer people to provide them); and, while

capital costs are relatively even across the world Western economies are now in global

competition with less expensive, increasingly skilled work forces from other countries.

Intelligent automation has the potential to satisfy the rising demand for cost-effective, non-

labour-intensive technologies and business processes. However, the primary goal of

robotics is unlikely to be to build the most interesting, realistic human imitation possible.

Indeed, what we ultimately achieve is likely to be a combination of what is technologically

achievable and economically desirable. Consequently, corporations will design systems

tailored to the tasks currently undertaken by humans; where each design is assessed

against rubrics such as how it alters the cost-benefit equation relative to any alternatives, or

to what extent it permits new tasks to be accomplished. In fact, while the challenge in the

long term is primarily technological, the challenge in the short term is one of determining the

correct value propositions, developing efficient and effective systems engineering processes

to deliver robust design, manufacturing, and schedule predictions, determining how best to

integrate such solutions into current or adapted societal processes and organisational

constructs and (finally) addressing the know-how gap of transitioning the technology into

products.

The aim of this research program is to determine the value proposition of sophisticated

robotic systems within the context of their usage and organisational structures. The project

will examine – against a backdrop of concurrent technological maturation – the dramatic

consequences for wages, national security, and state economies if populations of machines

can be directly substituted for human labour. This is not a novel idea, although to date

machines have mostly complemented rather than replaced human labour. In fact, evidence

from the industrial revolution has shown that new technology has repeatedly raised rather

than lowered the demand for skilled labour; and if anything, recent decades of computer

innovation and cyber automation have intensified this trend, indicating that such projections

will continue.

References:

[1] Henderson, J. & J. Overholt, (2009) Robotics Strategy White Paper, Army Capabilities Integration Centre & Tank-Automotive Research & Development Engineering Centre,

[2] Rose, M.F., Technology Development for Army Unmanned Ground Vehicles, Committee on Army UGV Technology, Board on Army S&T, National Research Council, 2002

[3] Hanson, R., (2000) Economic Growth Given Machine Intelligence, J. Artificial Intelligence, [4] Kaas, S. (2010) Economic Implications of Software Minds, San Diego State University [5] Storrs-Hall, J., (2008) Engineering Utopia, Artificial General Intelligence, IOS Press (ed. P Wang)

[6] Hanson, R., (2008) Economics of the Singularity, IEEE Spectrum Magazine

~ 40 ~

Assorted Robotic Research Programs

Name of Supervisor/s: Professor Anthony Finn, Professor Javaan Chahl, Dr Russell

Brinkworth

Area: Engineering, Computer Science

Suitable as PhD

This topic represents several PhD opportunities

Autonomous systems, robotics, and multi-vehicle systems have a range of military,

industrial, medical, emergency response, professional social/home, agricultural, and

scientific applications. Consequently, developing the underlying computational mechanisms

that enable them to achieve their mission goals in unforeseen situations and circumstances

by adapting their actions based on observation of their environment, their properties and

their performance is vital to their persistent execution of these tasks. The outstanding

technical challenges include:

Real time 3-D perception, high reliability navigation in dynamic environments, robust

planning (and re-planning) including beyond the organic range of a platform’s sensors,

dextrous manipulation, intuitive human-machine interaction, efficient all-terrain mobility,

lightweight structures and materials, high power-to-weight ratio actuation, system &

processor architectures and software programming techniques capable of handling multiple

sensor and data streams simultaneously, intrinsically safe robotic behaviour, improved

energy storage and power delivery/generation, advanced design and manufacturing

processes that consider the full system life-cycle, advanced systems engineering tools that

permit automated verification, validation, test and evaluation techniques, global standards for

performance benchmarking, robust certification procedures, and modularity of hardware,

software and design tools specifically for the robotics market to allow inter-changeability

between components. The current shortfall in computer processing power, software

sophistication and stability, architectural design, energy storage and delivery, and a raft of

other enabling technologies also indicates why current systems exhibit such primitive levels

of intelligence.

PhDs in a number of these areas are offered. These include:

[1] Motion tracking and estimation has been added to a number of robotic mapping techniques, although this is largely focused on sensors that provide both range and bearing information. For example, Simultaneous Location and Mapping (SLAM) with Generic Objects (or SLAM with GO) [Zhen 2006] allows the addition of motion mode information (stationary, moving, move-stop-move, etc.) for the landmark, although this has to be learned from the observations. The technique is straightforward, but computationally intense and not yet real-time. In another approach, called SLAM with Detection and Tracking of Moving Objects (DATMO) [Chieh Chih 2007], each new moving object gets its own statistical estimator (typically a Kalman filter) and motion mode [Franklin 2009]. Vehicle state estimation then takes place separately and is used to update the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) used for SLAM. This runs faster than SLAM with GO and is more suited to real-time implementation. As the research stands, using the appropriate sensor modalities, as well as moving object detection and track initiation, the more advanced navigation techniques are able to determine when moving objects have coalesced, moved outside a sensor’s field of view, or been temporarily occluded by a stationary object. They are also robust to long sequences of data and can adapt to false measurements and their extension to multiple vehicles has also been achieved (e.g. [Trung Dung 2008]). However, as yet, the techniques have not been extended to bearings only sensor modalities; are subject failure as a result of false observations arising from platform motion; and often struggle to accurately classify slow-moving objects or those that are temporarily stationary. This research project will examine

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these matters. [2] Image-based navigation, and scene and structure estimation derived from it through the fusion of external sensor information (e.g. INS), is now solvable in real time [Peter 2007, Davison 2007]. However, environmental dynamics have a deleterious impact on these techniques. If the dynamic features are characterised correctly they can be used to aid the mapping and navigation process, and vice versa [Franklin & Finn 2010]. Moreover, the mapping/localisation and motion-tracking problems have currently only been solved separately and then integrated using range and bearing information. When range observations and a priori information about the non-stationary objects are not available, it is not possible to determine their trajectories uniquely unless two or more sensors are used. When such observations are made from multiple moving platforms that do not have other means of localisation, stationary environmental features must also be used. This research project will examine these matters. [3] At present, most maps are usually classified in terms of statistical estimates of features described by data clouds, geometric returns, RGB pixel intensities, or through the use of occupancy grid-maps that are regularly updated. A more condensed approach relies on classifiers that interpret multi-modal sensor data in terms of higher level descriptors such as ‘eucalypt tree’ or ‘bitumen road’. At present extracting such descriptors robustly and in outdoor environments is difficult and frequently dependent on aspect, background, lighting conditions, context, etc. Furthermore, the sheer number and diversity of potential objects – and hence the resultant searching of any hypothesis trees – means that a priori knowledge is usually required in order to classify any objects swiftly and correctly. Additionally, high resolution observations of the objects, preferably at long range (and hence large quantities of data), are also a pre-requisite for most techniques. This research project will examine techniques for matching and adapting semantic descriptions of a robot's surrounding environment in terms of ontologies that use feature based localisation (e.g. SLAM) from sensors. This will enable us to match observed environmental features to those expected based on a known geometry and associated semantic description. The aim is therefore to first identify where the known geometry is incorrect, and subsequently consider building semantic descriptions/ontologies of unknown objects; the semantic descriptions are then used as a basis for planning or plan repair to meet mission goals. [4] Currently, the error analyses associated with such feature-extraction techniques are also not well-understood. As a result, the efficient coding of these descriptor-based maps and their integration with navigation estimators are yet to be achieved. Such techniques have been researched, but do not yet run in real time. Furthermore, the techniques usually require spectral and geometric correspondences to be formed so the features can be ‘fingerprinted’. There is a difference, however, between the processing requirements of an algorithm that can (say) classify terrain that is sufficiently flat and devoid of obstacles for a UGV of specified mobility characteristics to traverse, versus one that can classify environmental features completely at the descriptor level. While the latter is possible on current PC-based architectures, there is a need to use 0.1-1.0TFlop processors if such operations are to be executed in real time [Gibbins 2009]. This research project will examine techniques for efficiently and accurately implementing feature- extraction navigation techniques. [5] As applications for autonomous systems increase in complexity and the robots are employed in everyday tasks their environments will be less well structured and populated with people and other mobile objects. In these circumstances 2-D representations such as street maps and floor plans will be inadequate in regard to capturing the necessary aspects of a robot’s world. It will therefore become important to acquire 3-D world models that contain not only the geometric layout of the environment but also the semantic information about objects and features relevant to the execution of a robot’s navigation or manipulation tasks. Current robots are good at understanding where things are but have little

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comprehension of what they are. In this regard, environmental and navigation references will need to include semantic knowledge of what items are within their maps and how these might be exploited relative to given tasks. This project will explore development of novel sensing, perception, mapping, localisation, object recognition, affordance recognition, and planning techniques. [6] The sensors most likely to deliver the combined degree of robustness, cost-effectiveness, and ready availability that will enable mapping and localisation in 3-D are EO and laser-based measurement systems. There appear to be two ‘camps’ as to which of the sensors will provide the desired combination of richness and robustness, although the fusion of the two techniques will likely lead to the cost of both technologies falling. Furthermore, laser-based modalities better address the challenges pertinent to outdoor environments navigation (e.g. changing lighting conditions, the occlusion and apparent merging of objects, navigation in crowded environments, etc.). However, such sensors are both costly and heavy, and therefore ill-suited to miniaturised aerial vehicles. The use of acoustics – in particular the narrowband tones generated by the blade rate of the propeller – would appear to provide opportunities for augmenting sensing modalities for such vehicles in conditions of poor lighting. This project will critically examine the performance envelope of such techniques. [7] Autonomous underwater vehicles engaged in joint mapping exercises need to share mapping and other mission information as they acoustically and optically survey the seabed, automatically detecting objects of interest. This project will therefore examine information exchange between collaborating autonomous underwater vehicles restricted by low bandwidth and intermittent acoustic communications. The methods will need to ensure that only timely information is exchanged and relayed appropriately, bearing in mind mission goals and the context of the data. This research project will examine these matters.

Health & Usage Monitoring for Robotics

[8] Simple actions required of an autonomous vehicle, such as move or turn, will in general succeed at execution time. However, more complex actions may fail. Detection and diagnosis of these task failures based on the available sensor data and on state of robotic system is therefore important to enable persistent operation. This research project will therefore develop and critically examine failure detection and diagnosis techniques that exploit available information from the robots internal and environmental sensors in order to allow re-planning and further attempts at mission or task execution. [9] The detection of anomalous events requires an array of suitably placed and networked sensors, a strategy for acquiring and then processing the data, knowledge of the operating environment of the robot, and the potential impact of likely threats and stressors. Based on this schema any damage or event must then be characterised and prioritised in terms of the vehicle and/or its mission in order for a Health & Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) to autonomously determine the urgency with which a response needs to be mustered. In an ideal system, the HUMS will also use its array of sensors to deduce information relevant to events leading up to the anomaly to identify and possibly isolate its cause. Finally, the HUMS should formulate a response option in the form of a sequence of actions or recommendations to operators that are achievable within the window of opportunity pertinent to the seriousness of the anomaly. [10] Clearly it helps to anticipate the type of events or anomalies that a UVS might experience, and these may be broken into two broad categories: external (environmental) anomalies and internal (vehicle-based) anomalies. External anomalies are likely to be dependent on the environment and therefore the type of platform or mission. For example, mud and water may enter the mechanical systems of UGVs and UAVs may suffer from icing

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on their wings. On the other hand, internal anomalies are likely to be broadly similar across UVS from each of the environmental domains even though their nature, frequency and severity are likely to be vehicle-specific and/or dependent upon operating conditions (and hence indirectly lined to their environments). Examples of internal anomalies include the failure of functional components (sensors, navigation/control systems, communications, propulsion, energy storage, etc.) and the mechanical failure or degradation of materials, structures or interfaces. Clearly, in order to be of use a HUMS must measure a spectrum of mechanical, electrical, chemical and software-execution properties over a wide range of temporal and spatial scales and adaptive and reinforced learning techniques are particularly useful in determining the frequency and location of any sampling regimes. [11] Adaptive learning techniques are particularly useful for fault detection and diagnosis relative to unanticipated events. There are three primary categories of technique: model approximation, supervised learning and adaptation, and reinforced learning. The regression techniques typically employ the use of networks of radial basis or other functions to represent complex physical processes that are otherwise hard to model. These are then used to generate models for hypothesis testing within state estimators. Frequently, these techniques are supported by simulation data to provide an initial training set, whereupon they are then supported by data collected during field trials and operations.

References :

[1] A. Finn et al., Evaluating Autonomous Ground Robots, Journal of Field Robotics, Volume 29, Issue 5,

pp689-706, Sept/Oct 2012 [2] A. Finn & S. Scheding, Challenges for Autonomous & Unmanned Systems, Springer 2010 [3] H. Durrant-Whyte & T. Bailey, Simultaneous Location & Mapping Tutorial (Part I & Part II), IEEE

Robotics & Automation Magazine, June 2006 [4] Zhen, J. A. Balasuriya, & S. Challa, Recent Developments in Vision-based Target Tracking for

Autonomous Vehicle Navigation, Proc. IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Conference (ITSC), 17-20, Sept 2006

[5] Franklin, S., A. Finn, J. Pattison, L. Jain, Towards Scene Understanding Using a Cooperative of Mobile Robots, J. Intelligent Systems, IOS Press, Accepted, Vol. 20, (Issue TBD), 2009

[6] Chieh-Chih, W., et al., Simultaneous Localization, Mapping and Moving Object Tracking. Int. J. Rob. Res., 2007. 26(9): p. 889-916.

[7] Trung-Dung Vu, J. Burlet and O. Aycard, Grid-based Localization and Online Mapping with Moving Objects Detection and Tracking: New Results, Laboratoire d’Informatique de Grenoble, Proc. 2008 IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium (IVS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands, June 4-6, 2008

[8] Peter, G., E. Peter, and V. Markus, Simultaneous Motion and Structure Estimation by Fusion of Inertial and Vision Data, Int. J. Rob. Res., 26(6): p 591-605, 2007

[9] Davison, A.J., et al., MonoSLAM: Real-Time Single Camera SLAM. Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence, IEEE Transactions on, 29(6): p. 1052-1067, 2007 Robotic Systems Joint Project Office, July 2011, Unmanned Ground Systems Roadmap 2011 Singer, P.W. Wired for War: the Robotics Revolution of the Twenty First Century, Penguin Press (2009)

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BEE-Kind: An Holistic Development of Bee Monitoring Technologies, Field Validation, Modelling and Decision Tool Development to Support the Ailing Bee Industry

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Stephen Russell

Area: Biotechnology development and modelling


Abstract: Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) of beehives is a new syndrome that first arose in the United States a few years ago. In the US crops are grown in very large mono-cultures where the crops tend to bloom within a few days of each other. In order to pollinate these crops it is necessary to have a large number of bees available at the critical time. Farmers in the US have taken to trucking in beehives from elsewhere for their moment of need. However, foraging bees get lost the moment their hives are moved and they are never seen again. So new foragers are garnered from the ranks of the young females tending the brood, which stresses them and they tend to die sooner than otherwise. This adds to the numerous stressors that affect bee colonies, and together they result in CCD. We don’t know which particular set of stressors cause CCD, nor what to do about them to avoid CCD. Australia is somewhat protected from the worst effects of CCD, since two major pests of A. mellifera honey bees, Varroa mites and Tropilaelaps clareae, are missing. When these major stressors reach our shores they could potentially devastate our bee industry, as well as whole sections of our horticultural industries and native bush. So it is vital that we prepare for the day when they arrive. The aims of the project are to develop visual sensors for continuous monitoring of Apis mellifera forager traffic and forager mortality in bee hives that will lead to improved remote monitoring of general hive status and improved real-time detection of the impact of pests, diseases, pesticide exposure and other hive management problems. Field experiments will be conducted to monitor bee colony growth and activity in addition to environmental factors. At least two apiaries each with at least 10 healthy colonies will be continuously monitored with respect to temperature, weight and activity in addition to environmental variables (weather, forage, and agricultural activity), after controlling for factors such as pest and pathogen load and queen quality. These data will be analysed and correlated with hive growth as measured by direct hive observations and will be used to validate models of colony health and productivity. The models will be developed as part of the project based on analytic work from previous studies, and a dynamic population model developed previously at DASI using the STELLA modelling tool. A new model developed in this project will be a multi-agent model based on a modelling tool such as REPAST. The validated models will then be used to improve bee health forecasting, understand the dynamics underlying Colony Collapse Disorder, and to more precisely identify the effects of management practices, including feeding, pest and disease control on colony growth and productivity. Related references: Khoury, D, Myerscough1, M & Barron, A 2011, A Quantitative Model of Honey Bee Colony Population Dynamics, PLoS ONE 6(4): e18491. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0018491 Repast, http://repast.sourceforge.net/ Stella Dynamic Modeling, http://www.likbez.com/AV/jrs/pmf_stella.html VanEngelsdorp D, Evans JD, Saegerman C, Mullin C, Haubruge E, et al. 2009, Colony Collapse Disorder: A Descriptive Study. PLoS ONE 4. VanEngelsdorp D, Hayes Jr. J, Underwood RM, Pettis JS 2010, A survey of honey bee colony losses in the United States, fall 2008 to spring 2009. Journal of Apicultural Research 49: 7–14.

http://repast.sourceforge.net/

http://www.likbez.com/AV/jrs/pmf_stella.html

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Building Indigenous Community Resilience to Environmental Stressors


Area: Soft Systems Engineering, Multi-Agent modelling, and Game Theory


Abstract: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have suffered for many years from poorly managed and ineffective programs to improve their standards of living. So much so, that the relevant communities have become so disenchanted by government sponsored interventions that they voice a preference to be left alone. A recent report has shown that, ‘governments of all political persuasions failed to improve basic standards in Indigenous education, health and housing.’ One of the major problems with interventions until now has been the poor community involvement in the setting up of programs which are supposed to benefit the communities. This project will assess the resilience Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, assess the hazards and risks to the livelihoods of the communities, and develop consensual means for addressing the major risks. The program aims to empower the communities to take control of their resilience to natural disasters under increasing levels of climate change, and facilitate them to achieve higher standards of living. The framework model for investigation will be based on soft systems thinking of Checkland & Scholes (1990). Agent based models based on REPAST will be developed and used to predict the outcomes of various scenarios of possible futures, and interactive gaming models will be developed to understand community responses to different scenarios to validate the multi-agent models and to develop their own self-awareness of the issues and how to solve them. The outcomes of the project will be an assessment of the impact of climate change and other stressors on specific Australian indigenous communities; a determination of the implications for the future livelihoods of the communities; and a determination of the potential adaptation strategies that can be followed by the communities. The work will feed into the governmental decision making process for programs to assist similar communities throughout Australia. Related references: Barnett, J. 2001, “Adapting To Climate Change In Pacific Island Countries: The Problem Of Uncertainty,” World Development, 29(6): 977-993. Carney, D. (1998) Sustainable Rural Livelihoods. What contribution can we make? Papers presented at the Department for International Development’s Natural Resources Advisers’ Conference, DFID. July. Checkland, P & Scholes P 1990, Soft Systems Methodology in Action, John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, UK. Russell, S. 2007, A Systems Approach for Dealing with Natural Disasters in Pacific Island Nations, Systems Evaluation and Test and Evaluation Conference, Australia, 25-26 September 2007. Tickner, R 2009, Tackling Disadvantage and Building Community Resilience, <http://www.redcross.org.au/46F85B4BCDC44616B17B4E59F6C2D082.htm> United Nations 2005a, World Conference on Disaster Reduction. 18-22 January 2005, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan. Hyogo Declaration. Geneva : UNISDR. Viewed 19 April 2011 <

http://www.unisdr.org/wcdr/intergover/official-doc/L-docs/Hyogo-framework-for-action-english.pdf>.

http://www.redcross.org.au/46F85B4BCDC44616B17B4E59F6C2D082.htm

http://www.unisdr.org/wcdr/intergover/official-doc/L-docs/Hyogo-framework-for-action-english.pdf

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Building Pacific Island Community Resilience to Environmental Stressors


Area: Soft Systems Engineering, Multi-Agent modelling, and Game Theory


Abstract: Pacific Island nations are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters due to their close proximity to the land-ocean interface. The risks of disasters are likely to grow with global warming, while the abilities of communities to cope with disasters are diminishing due to factors such as their limited resources, small populations, and increasing dependence on global markets. Research on population vulnerabilities is heavily weighted on large populations with centralised administrations, which are quite different from the situations of countries in the Pacific. The challenge for Pacific Island countries is to empower the communities to take responsibility of their own resilience to climate hazards. Work in this area has typically focussed on large scale population statistics indicators, with just a few ad hoc small scale community based studies. This project will assess the resilience of communities in a range of Pacific Island countries in an attempt to tie together previous small scale community based studies into a larger framework that will provide a basis for future action to adapt to climate change throughout the Pacific. The framework model for investigation will be based on soft systems thinking of Checkland & Scholes (1990). Agent based models based on REPAST will be developed and used to predict the outcomes of various scenarios of possible futures, and interactive gaming models will be developed to understand community responses to different scenarios to validate the multi-agent models and to develop their own self-awareness of the issues and how to solve them. The outcomes of the project will be an assessment of the impact of climate change and other stressors on specific Pacific island communities; a determination of the implications for the future livelihoods of the communities; and a determination of the potential adaptation strategies that can be followed by the communities. The work will feed into the governmental decision making process for programs to assist similar communities throughout the Pacific. Related references: Barnett, J. 2001, “Adapting To Climate Change In Pacific Island Countries: The Problem Of Uncertainty,” World Development, 29(6): 977-993. Campbell J. 2006, “Traditional disaster reduction in Pacific Island communities” GNS Science Report 2006/38. Campbell, J 2010, "An overview of natural hazard planning in the Pacific Islands region", The Australasian Journal of Disaster and Trauma Studies, pp.1 - 10. Carney, D. (1998) Sustainable Rural Livelihoods. What contribution can we make? Papers presented at the Department for International Development’s Natural Resources Advisers’ Conference, DFID. July. Checkland, P & Scholes P 1990, Soft Systems Methodology in Action, John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, UK. Russell, S. 2007, A Systems Approach for Dealing with Natural Disasters in Pacific Island Nations, Systems Evaluation and Test and Evaluation Conference, Australia, 25-26 September 2007. United Nations 2005a, World Conference on Disaster Reduction. 18-22 January 2005, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan. Hyogo Declaration. Geneva : UNISDR. Viewed 19 April 2011 < http://www.unisdr.org/wcdr/intergover/official-doc/L-docs/Hyogo-framework-for-action-english.pdf>. United Nations 2005b, International Meeting to Review the Implementation of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States. Mauritius Declaration. New York : United Nations. Viewed 19 April 2011 <http://www.un.org/special-rep/ohrlls/sid/MIM/A-conf.207-L.6-Mauritius%20Declaration.pdf>.

http://www.unisdr.org/wcdr/intergover/official-doc/L-docs/Hyogo-framework-for-action-english.pdf

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Novel Biodegradable Bioelastomers

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Jun Ma

Area: Materials and Mechanical Engineering


Abstract: This project will pioneer a novel hybrid technology, combining polymer science and

biology to develop thermoset bioelastomers with tailor-made biodegradation rate, elasticity,

hardness, mechanical performance and biocompatibility. These materials will be fabricated

using an end-capping technique. They will be of high macromolecular regularity and high

molecular weight (Mw), which will eventually allow manufacturers a high degree of control

over the end-point properties of products made from thermoset bioelastomers.

Related references: Lee K.Y. et al. Macromolecules 2000, 33, 4291.

Temenoff J.S., Athanasiou K.A., LeBaron R.G., Mikos, A.G. J. Biomed. Mater. Res. 2002, 59, 429.

Van Hest J.C.M., Tirrell D.A. Chem. Comm. 2001, 19, 1897.

Welsh E.R., Tirrell D.A. Biomacromolecules 2000, 1, 23.

Urry D.W. et al. J. Biomater. Sci., Polym. Ed. 9, 1998, 1015.

Nagata M., Machida T., Tsutsumi N. J. Polym. Sci: Part A: Polym. Chem.1999, 37, 2005.

Tsutsumi N., Kiyotsukuri T. J. Polym. Sci.: Part A: Polym. Chem. 1991, 29, 1963.

Wang Y., Sheppard B.J., Langer R. Nature Biotechnology 2002, 20, 602.

Yang J., Webb A.R., Ameer G.A. Advance materials 2004, 16(6), 511.

Amsden B., Wang S., Amsden B. Biomacromolecules 2004, 5, 1399.

Liu Q.Y., Zhang L.Q. J. of Applied Polym. Sci. 2005, 98, 2033; (b) Liu Q.Y., Zhang L.Q. J. of Applied

Polym. Sci. submitted.

Deng X., Liu Y., Yuan M. European Polymer Journal 2002, 38,1435.

Advanced Functional Polymer/Rare Earth Nanocomposites

Name of Supervisor/s: Jun Ma; Peter Majewski



Abstract: Polymer/gadolinium (Gd) composites: (a) Chemical modification of Gd particles; (b) Preparation of polymer/Gd composites with tailor-made interface; (c) Structure, mechanical properties and function property characterization; and (d) Structure–property relationship of the composites. Polymer/Gd nanocomposites: (a) Synthesis of Gd nanoparticles of specific geometry; (b) Surface modification of the nanoparticles; (c) Preparation of polymer/Gd nanocomposites; (d) Structure, mechanical properties and function property characterization; (e) Identification of synthesis condition–nanoparticle size–nanoparticle interface relationship; and (f) Structure–property relationship of the nanocomposites; Related references: Hodgkin, J. H.; Simon, G. P.; Varley, R. J. Polymers for Advanced Technologies 1998, 9, 3. Frigione, M. E.; Mascia, L.; Acierno, D. European Polymer Journal 1995, 31, 1021. Bishopp, J. A. International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives 1992, 12, 178. Mezzenga, R.; Boogh, L.; Manson, J. A. E. Composites Science and Technology 2001, 61, 787. Garg, A. C.; Mai, Y. W. Composites Science and Technology 1988, 31, 179. Ratna, D; Simon, G. P. Polymer 2001, 42, 7739. Ragosta, G.; Musto, P.; Scarinzi, G.; Mascia, L. Polymer 2003, 44, (7), 2081-2090. Wang, K.; Chen, L.; Wu, J.; Toh, M. L.; He, C.; Yee, A. F. Macromolecules 2005, 38, (3), 788. Becker, O.; Varley, R. J.; Simon, G. P. Macromolecules, 2003, 36, 1616. Ratna, D.; Becker, O.; Krishnamurthy, R.; Simon, G. P.; Varley, R. J. Polymer 2003, 44, (24), 7449. Ochi, M.; Takemiya, K.; Kiyohara, O.; Nakanishi, T. Polymer 1999, 41, (1), 195. Dean, J. M.; Verghese, N. E.; Pham, H. Q.; Bates, F. S. Macromolecules 2003, 36, (25), 9267. Ma J, Su W, Xu J, et al. Macromolecular Rapid Communications 2003, 24, 676. Ma J, Xiang P, Mai YW, Zhang LQ. Macromolecular Rapid Communications 2004, 25, 1692.

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The Development of Functional Adhesives Based Upon Graphene

Name of Supervisor/s: Jun Ma

Area: Materials Engineering and Mechanical Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Polymeric adhesives are essential in many industries. Until now, attempts to develop high performance adhesives have been mostly focused on the use of non-conductive nanofillers, which are not efficient for electrically and thermally conductive adhesives. This project will develop novel thermoset adhesives with outstanding conductivities and adhesive properties, by taking advantage of graphene and carbon nanotubes. We will also identify the fracture mechanisms of these adhesives.

Related references: Zaman I, Kuan HC, Ma J*, et al. Nanoscale, 2012, 4, 4578-86. Zaman I, Kuan HC, Ma J*, et al. Advanced Functional Materials, 2012, 22, 2735-43. Ma J, Meng QS, Zaman I, Kuan HC, et al. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2013, 1, 4255-64.

Thermoplastic / Graphene Nanocomposites

Name of Supervisor/s: Jun Ma


Suitable as PhD and Masters.

Abstract:

to modify graphene platelets by acidification and surface modification, using

surfactants to promote the exfoliation and uniform dispersion of graphene platelets in

matrixes – essential for the superior functional and mechanical performance of the

resulting nanocomposites;

to compound the modified graphene platelets with a number of important commercial

thermoplastics, to produce the nanocomposites of the necessary interface strength

and thickness;

to investigate the effects of interface on the functionalities and mechanical

performance of tailored nanocomposites, and to determine the underlying science

that will enable their design, fabrication and analysis. Related references:

Kim JK, Mai YW. Composites Science and Technology 1991, 41, 333

Cheah K, Forsyth M, Simon G P. Synthetic Metals 1999, 102, 1232.

Li HCH, Herszberg I, Mouritz AP, Davis CE, Galea SC. Composite Structures 2004, 66, 239.

Naebe M, Hurren C, Maazouz A, Lamnawar K, Wang XG. Fibers and Polymers 2009, 10, 662.

Shekibi Y, Gray-Weale A, MacFarlane D, Hill A, Forsyth M. Journal of Physical Chemistry C 2007,

111, 11463.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/nanocomposites/nanotechnology/prweb892564.htm

Choudalakis G, Gotsis AD. European Polymer Journal 2009, 45, 967.

Podsiadlo P, Kaushik AK, Arruda EM, Waas, AM, et al. Science 2007, 318, 80.

Paul DR, Robeson LM. Polymer 2008, 49(15), 3187.

Zeng QH, Yu AB, Lu GQ, Paul DR. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology 2005, 5, 1574.

Goettler LA, Lee KY, Thakkar H. Polymer Reviews 2007, 47(2), 291.

Ma J, Xu J, Ren JH, Yu ZZ, Mai YW, et al. Polymer 2003, 44(16), 4619.

Ma J, Mai YW, Luck I, et al. Chemistry of Materials 2004, 16, 757.

Ma J, Xiang P, Mai YW, Zhang LQ, et al. Macromolecular Rapid Communications 2004, 25, 1692.

Du XS, Yu ZZ, Dasari A, Ma J, Mai YW. Chemistry of Materials 2008, 20, 2066.

Ma J, Yu ZZ, Kuan, SC, Mai YW et al. Macromolecular Rapid Communication 2005, 26, 830.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/nanocomposites/nanotechnology/prweb892564.htm

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Integration of Large Scale Wind Farms into Power Grid


Area: Renewable Energy Systems

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Wind is the fastest growing renewable energy technology in the world. The worldwide installation of wind turbines in recent years has increased significantly. Squirrel-cage induction generators (SCIG), doubly-fed induction generators (DFIG) with partial converters, and permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) with full converters are commonly used in wind farms. The operating characteristics of wind generators are completely different than that of traditional synchronous generators used in power systems. When large scale wind farms are connected to a power grid, they need to satisfy some challenging operating criteria specified by transmission system operator as grid codes.

The objectives of this research are:

• To investigate the operating characteristics of various wind generators.

• To evaluate the performance of a large scale wind farm with dynamic reactive compensation, energy storage and/or synthetic inertia so that it can behave like a traditional power plant and comply the operating constraints and grid codes.

Related references: M.Z. Kamh and R. Iravani, “Three-phase steady-state model of type-3 wind generating unit – Part II”, IEEE Trans. on Sustainable Energy, Vol. 3(1), pp. 41-48, 2012. A.E. Leon, et. al., “Control strategy of a DVR to improve stability in wind farms using squirrel-cage induction generators”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 26(3), pp. 1609-1617, 2011. D. Osborn, et. al. “Driving forces behind wind”, IEEE Power and Energy Magazine, Vol. 9(6), pp. 61-74, 2011. M.H. Haque, “Analysis of self-excited Induction Generator with P-Q Load Model”, IEEE Trans. on Energy Conversion, Vol. 25(1), 2010. R. Piwko, et. al. “Generator fault tolerance and grid codes”, IEEE Power and Energy Magazine, Vol. 8(2), pp. 18-26, 2010. M. Tsili and S. Papathanassiou, “A review of grid code technical requirements for wind farms”, IET Renewable Power Generation, Vol. 3(3), pp. 303-332, 2009. M.H. Haque, “A novel method of evaluating performance characteristics of a self-excited induction generator”, IEEE Trans. on Energy Conversion, Vol. 24(2), pp. 358-365, 2009.

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Optimal Location of FACTS Devices to Improve Dynamic Performance of Power Systems with Renewable Sources


Area: Power and Energy Systems


Abstract: Transmission networks in modern power systems are more heavily loaded than ever before to meet the growing demand. Building new transmission lines to relief system stress may not be an option because of various environmental, economic and political constraints. Furthermore, deregulated energy market demands more flexible transmission networks to react with diverse load and generation patterns especially with increasing penetration of renewable energy sources. Transmission system operators are now looking for alternative ways of increasing the utilization of existing transmission assets while maintaining adequate system stability, reliability and security margins. Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) are power electronics based static devices used in high voltage transmission networks. They are capable of controlling voltage and power flow as well as improving steady state and dynamic performance of power systems. The objective of this project is to determine the optimal location including type and size of various FACTS devices to improve transient stability and damping of a stressed power system with increased penetration of wind, solar and other intermittent type of renewable energy sources. Related references: M.H. Haque, “Evaluation of first swing stability of a large power system with various FACTS devices”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 23(3), pp. 1144-1151, 2008. M.H. Haque, “Best location of SVC to improve first swing stability limit of a power system”, Electric Power Systems Research, Vol. 77, No. 10, pp. 1402-1409, 2007. M.H. Haque, “Damping improvement by FACTS devices: A comparison between STATCOM and SSSC”, Electric Power Systems Research, Vol. 76, pp. 865-872, 2006. E. Gholipour and S. Saadate, “Improving transient stability of power systems using UPFC”, IEEE. Trans. on Power Delivery, Vol. 20(2), pp. 1677-1682, 2005. M.H. Haque, “Improvement of first swing stability limit by utilizing full benefits of shunt FACTS devices”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 19(4), pp. 1894-102, 2004. U. Gabrijel and R. Mihalic, “Direct methods for transient stability assessment in power systems comprising controllable series devices”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 17(4), pp. 1116-1122, 2002.

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On-line Monitoring and Mitigation of Voltage Instability of Power Systems with Renewable Sources




Abstract: Most of the today’s power transmission networks are heavily loaded to meet the growing demand. One of the consequences of such a stressed system is the threat to voltage collapse and that may cause steady state security problem including wide area system blackout. Voltage instability is associated with reactive power and it can be mitigated by maintaining adequate reactive power reserve. Third generation of flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices can generate/absorb reactive power electronically and are capable of improving dynamic voltage stability of a power system.

The objectives of this research are:

• To develop fast and flexible schemes for voltage stability assessment of power systems with renewable energy sources.

• To implement the developed schemes for on-line monitoring the distance to voltage collapse.

• To formulate an optimal reactive power control strategy of FACTS devices for mitigating voltage instability problem.

Related references: M.H. Haque, “Use of local information to determine the distance to voltage collapse”, Int. Journal of Emerging Electric Power Systems, Vol. 9(2), 2008. G. Andersson, et. al., “Causes of the 2003 major grid blackouts in North America and Europe, and recommended means to improve system dynamic performance”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 20(4), pp. 1922-1928, 2005. M.H. Haque, “Use of V-I characteristic as a tool to assess static voltage stability limit of a power system”, IET Proc. Gener. Transm. Distrib., Vol. 151(1), 2004. M.H. Haque, “On-line monitoring of maximum permissible loading of a power system within voltage stability limit”, IET Proc. Gener. Transm. Distrib., Vol. 150(1), 2003. M.H. Haque, “A fast method for determining the voltage stability limit of a power system”, Electric Power Systems Research, Vol. 32, No. 1, pp. 35-43, 1995.

Probabilistic Load Flow with Wind Farms




Abstract: The generators in a traditional power system closely follow the loads to maintain real time balance between supply and demand. However, with increased penetration of renewable energy sources, especially wind generators, a large proportion of generators has no control on output power because of intermittent nature of wind. The objective of this project is to develop a probabilistic load flow method that deals with uncertainties in wind generations, loads and generation availability. Related references: D. Villanueva, J. L. Pazos and A. Feijoo, “Probabilistic load flow including wind power generation”, IEEE Trans. on Power Systems, Vol. 26, No. 3, 2011, pp. 1659-1776. J. Usaola, “Probabilistic load flow in systems with wind generators”, IET Generation, Transmission and Distribution, Vol. 3, No. 12, 2009, pp. 1031-1041. M.H. Haque, “Novel decoupled load flow method”, IET Generation, Transmission and Distribution”, Vol. 140, No. 3, 1993, pp. 199-205.

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Smart Grid Technology for Sustainable Energy Systems

Name of Supervisor/s: Mohammed H. Haque and Mahfuz Aziz



Abstract: It is hard not to notice the phrase “smart grid” in national news and professional conferences. A smart grid integrates advanced sensing technologies, control methods and integrated communication into existing electricity grid. The objective of a smart grid is to provide reliable, high quality and cheap electric power to our digital society in environmentally friendly and sustainable ways. The scopes of a smart grid are very wide – from centralised bulk generation to small scale distributed generation, from high voltage transmission systems to low voltage distribution systems, from utility control centres to end-user home area networks, from bulk power market to demand response service providers, and from traditional energy sources to distributed generations and storages. It is estimated that hundreds of billions of dollars will be invested worldwide on smart grid in next 10 years. The objective of this research is to study the operation of a smart grid and identify its key technology areas. One of the identified areas will then be investigated in details. It could be related to demand response including home area network, wireless sensor networks for smart monitoring and control, integration of micro-grid to grid, energy efficiency, energy storage systems, etc. Related references: F. Rahimi and A. Ipakchi, “Demand response as a market resource under the smart grid paradigm”, IEEE Trans. on Smart Grid, Vol. 1(1), pp. 82-88, 2010. A. Molderink, et. al., “Management and control of domestic smart grid technology”, IEEE Trans. on Smart Grid, Vol. 1(2), 109-119, 2010. V.C. Gungor, et. al., “Opportunities and challenges in wireless sensor networks in smart grid”, IEEE Trans. on Industrial Electronics, Vol. 57(10), pp. 3557-3564, 2010. E. Santacana, G. Rackliffe, L. Tang and X. Feng, “Getting Smart”, IEEE Power and Energy Magazine, Vol. 8(2), pp.41-49, 2010. B.P. Roberts and C. Sandberg, “The role of energy storage in development of smart grid”, Proc. of the IEEE, Vol. 99(6), pp. 1139-1144, 2011. M. Glinkowski, et. al. “Advances in wind energy technologies in the context of smart grid”, Proc. of the IEEE, Vol. 99(6), pp. 1083-1097, 2011. C. Cecati, et. al., “Combined operations of renewable energy systems and responsive demand in a smart grid”, IEEE Trans. on Sustainable Energy, Vol. 2(4), pp. 468-476, 2011.

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High Temperature Encapsulated PCM Thermal Storage System for Solar Thermal Power Plants




Abstract: Thermal storage systems using phase change materials (PCMs) are capable of significantly enhancing the thermal storage capacity and dispatch ability of high temperature solar thermal generation systems. While there has been considerable research on PCMs for low temperature applications, very little research has been conducted for the application to concentrating solar thermal power plants. The research proposed here aims to investigate an encapsulated PCM thermal storage system for solar thermal power plants. This will involve the development of a computer model that predicts the heat transfer process in the PCM contained in an encapsulation. This model will be used to optimise the shape and construction material of the encapsulation. A further computer model will be developed to determine the heat flow within a thermal storage system comprising of many PCM encapsulations. The research includes experimental work to validate the models. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013). Liu, M., Saman, W. and Bruno, F., Review on storage materials and thermal performance enhancement techniques for high temperature phase change thermal storage systems, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol 16, Issue 4, pp 2118-2132, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., Designing a PCM storage system using the effectiveness-number of transfer units method in low energy cooling of buildings, Energy and Buildings, Vol 50, pp 234-242, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Bruno F. & Belusko M., Experimental validation of a CFD model for tubes in a phase change thermal energy storage system, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol 55, Issue 4, pp 574-585, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., An effectiveness-NTU technique for characterising tube-in-tank phase change thermal energy storage systems, Applied Energy, Vol 91, Issue 1, pp 309-319, 2012.

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New Methods for Measuring the Thermophysical Properties of High Temperature PCMs




Abstract: Phase change materials (PCMs) have enormous potential as a low cost thermal storage media. Whilst there has been an extensive effort in to characterisation of thermal energy storage material properties, a number of materials have yet to be characterised. Calculated values rather than experimentally verified values for thermophysical properties are often found in the literature. This is not only a problem because incorrect values make it difficult to perform an accurate cost analysis, but also because the materials used on an industrial scale could be of lower purity and hence the values of the thermophysical properties will be further reduced. The discrepancy between calculated and measured values of latent heat is particularly large for mixtures and eutectics that do not exhibit ideal-mixing behaviour. Characterization of thermal properties such as heat capacity, latent heat, melting point, and subcooling for PCMs is generally carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). This research proposes to develop new methods for characterising the thermal properties of PCMs. The student will acquire an extensive knowledge in the heat transfer area. Experiments will be carried out to validate the new methods. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013). Liu, M., Saman, W. and Bruno, F., Review on storage materials and thermal performance enhancement techniques for high temperature phase change thermal storage systems, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol 16, Issue 4, pp 2118-2132, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., Designing a PCM storage system using the effectiveness-number of transfer units method in low energy cooling of buildings, Energy and Buildings, Vol 50, pp 234-242, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Bruno F. & Belusko M., Experimental validation of a CFD model for tubes in a phase change thermal energy storage system, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol 55, Issue 4, pp 574-585, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., An effectiveness-NTU technique for characterising tube-in-tank phase change thermal energy storage systems, Applied Energy, Vol 91, Issue 1, pp 309-319, 2012.

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High Temperature Thermal Storage System for Solar Thermal Power Plants



Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Advanced storage systems using phase change materials (PCMs) are capable of significantly enhancing the thermal storage capacity and dispatch ability of high temperature solar thermal generation systems. While there has been considerable research on PCMs for low temperature applications, very little research has been conducted for CSP applications. The research proposed here aims to build on current UniSA research to develop a practical low cost PCM thermal storage system. This will involve modifying existing computer models of PCM thermal storage systems and then using them to carry out extensive computer simulations. The project will investigate various PCMs, construction materials, reliability and cost for all the storage system types. The most promising storage system type will be selected for prototype construction and this will be tested in a high temperature test facility. Related references: Kuravi S, et al., Thermal energy storage technologies and systems for concentrating solar power plants, Progress in Energy and Combustion Science (2013). Liu, M., Saman, W. and Bruno, F., Review on storage materials and thermal performance enhancement techniques for high temperature phase change thermal storage systems, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Vol 16, Issue 4, pp 2118-2132, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., Designing a PCM storage system using the effectiveness-number of transfer units method in low energy cooling of buildings, Energy and Buildings, Vol 50, pp 234-242, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Bruno F. & Belusko M., Experimental validation of a CFD model for tubes in a phase change thermal energy storage system, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol 55, Issue 4, pp 574-585, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., An effectiveness-NTU technique for characterising tube-in-tank phase change thermal energy storage systems, Applied Energy, Vol 91, Issue 1, pp 309-319, 2012.

Thermal Storage for Thermal Comfort in Energy Efficient Buildings



Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The project will investigate various thermal storage technologies for maintaining thermal comfort in energy efficient buildings. The research will first involve monitoring a number of conventional heating and cooling systems installed in energy efficient homes to establish some baseline data on energy consumption and patterns of energy use. Then various types of thermal storage systems, both sensible and latent heat types, will be investigated through computer modelling to predict their thermal performance. Related references: Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., Designing a PCM storage system using the effectiveness-number of transfer units method in low energy cooling of buildings, Energy and Buildings, Vol 50, pp 234-242, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Bruno F. & Belusko M., Experimental validation of a CFD model for tubes in a phase change thermal energy storage system, International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol 55, Issue 4, pp 574-585, 2012. Tay, N. H. S., Belusko, M. & Bruno, F., An effectiveness-NTU technique for characterising tube-in-tank phase change thermal energy storage systems, Applied Energy, Vol 91, Issue 1, pp 309-319, 2012. Bruno F: Using Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for Space Heating and Cooling in Buildings, in: AIRAH (2004).

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Roll Pass Design Optimisation

Name of Supervisor/s: A/Prof Kazem Abhary

Area: Mechanical Engineering


Abstract: This PhD proposal aims at introducing a new approach to optimisation of roll pass design (RPD). RPD, a principal factor delimiting process efficiency and product quality in rolling mills, is a subject of intensive research bearing in mind socioeconomic importance and environmental impact of these large-scale industrial systems. Stochastic analysis of industrial processes belongs to well established strategies in analysis of complex techniques and asset rich systems. Key idea is that the significant improvements in RPD can be identified by propitious deterministic and statistical analyses of existing and published manufacturing series of long steel products. Criteria for improving rolling operations include process efficiency, resource consumption, system reliability, product quality and ergo-ecological sustainability. An increasing volume of data collected during the industrial rolling can be analysed within the real time due to the advances in computerised information processing. A prerequisite for understanding the logics of rolling passes is to intelligently translate the process parameters into appropriate mathematical forms. In this research project a strategy leading to identifiable mathematical criteria needs to be developed and several mathematical methods selected. The principal approach is to combine the selected mathematical methods into a hybrid model that will be useful in making decisions during the roll pass design tasks. It is important that the optimisation criteria in this model present improved norms (metrics) that will reflect the real manufacturing aspects better than the currently used (published) models Related references: K. Abhary, K. Garner, Z. Kovacic, S. Spuzic, F. Uzunovic, K. Xing, A Knowledge Based Hybrid Model for Improving Manufacturing System in Rolling Mills, Key Engineering Materials. Vol. 443 (2010), p. 3-8. S. Spuzic, A. Izzo, K. Abhary, A New Method for Roll Pass Design Optimisation, The 5th Pan-European Conference on Planning For Minerals and Transport Infrastructure: PEMT'06 - Sarajevo 18-20 May 2006 F. E. Dolzhenkov, Unsolved Problems of Modern Theory of Lengthwise Rolling, Metallurgical and Mining Industry. No 1 (2009), p. 33-37. S.M. Byon, D.H. Na and Y. Lee, Effect of roll gap adjustment on exit cross sectional shape in groove rolling-Experimental and FE analysis, Journal of Materials Processing Technology. Vol. 209, Issue 9 (2009), p. 4465-4470. B. Huang, K. Xing, K. Abhary & S. Spuzic, Investigation of Roll Pass Optimal Design Based on IGA, Advanced Materials Research, Vol. 211-212, (2011), p. 195-199.

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Design of Products for Automatic Assembly


Area: Mechanical Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing Technology


Abstract: Green/Sustainable design of products implies a number of things including design for Automatic Assembly. Although the knowledge is more than two decades old, still there are considerable problems to be solved so that industry can enjoy an efficient, comprehensive, optimized automatic assembly of products. The aim of this project is to research solutions to some of these problems. One of them, for instance, is to determine the optimum assembly sequence of a product of n parts out of, theoretically speaking, n! sequences, via which the product can be assembled. This research should address design the product for modular disassembly and integrity of design for disassembly with design for assembly; one without Artificial Intelligence has a good capacity of application in this area. Related references: Bin, Fang; Liang Tian; The research on automatic recognition of assembly feature and converse parametric design method based on UG, Advanced Materials Research, v 580, p 87-90, 2012. Zha, X.F.; Du, H.; Lim, Y.E.; Knowledge intensive Petri net framework for concurrent intelligent design of automatic assembly systems, Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, v 17, n 5, p 379-398, October 2001. Hu, Q.X.; Xu, Y.Z.; Lu, Q.; Study on automatic assembly design of product based on UG, Key Engineering Materials, v 392-394, p 74-78, 2009. Sanders, David; Tan, Yong Chai; Rogers, Ian; Tewkesbury, Giles E.; An expert system for automatic design-for-assembly, Assembly Automation, v 29, n 4, p 378-388, September 25, 2009.

Design of Products for Automatic Disassembly




Abstract: In the era that environmental issues are of prime importance, automatic disassembly plays an important role in maintaining a sustainable/green environment. Products are to be designed not just for automatic assembly, but for automatic disassembly too, such that after retirement, they can be automatically disassembled with the least negative impact on the environment. There are more unsolved issues here compared to design for assembly, some of them, such as disassembly of hazardous parts, liquids and gases, destructive or non-destructive disassembly are just some issues to be addressed via this project. Economic factors must be addressed in parallel with other issues to justify the design for disassembly. Design for disassembly via modularity, and optimisation of disassembly sequences are two other problems. Artificial Intelligence has a good capacity of application here. Related references: Motevallian, B, Abhary, K, Luong, LHS and Marian, R, (2010),”Optimisation of Product Design for Ease of Disassembly", Engineering the Future",, edited by Aleksandar Lazinica,, ISBN 978-953-7619-X-X, pp. 01-17. Sciyo., Vienna, Austria. Motevallian, B., K. Abhary, K. and Luong, L. H. S. (2004). ‘Cost Modeling for Optimization of Product Disassemblability’. Chapter 38, DAAAM International Scientific Book 2004, ISBN: 3-901509-38-0, ISSN 1726-9687, pp. 397-414.Vienna, Austria Kim, H., S. Chiotellis, and G. Seliger, (2009), “Dynamic process planning control of hybrid disassembly systems,” The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, vol. 40, no. 9, pp. 1016–1023, Feb. 2009. Kopacek, P. and B. Kopacek, (2006), “Intelligent, flexible disassembly,” The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, vol. 30,no. 5, pp. 554–560, 2006. Duflou, J., G. Seliger, S. Kara, Y. Umeda, A. Ometto, and B. Willems, (2008), “Efficiency and feasibility of product disassembly: A case-based study,” CIRP Annals - Manufacturing Technology,

vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 583–600, 2008.

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Design of Products for Upgradability

Name of Supervisor /s: A/Prof Kazem Abhary



Abstract: Sustainable/Green environment implies many considerations at the design stage of products, one of which is to design the product such that it can cope with the rapid development of technology which nowadays force many products to retire well before their useful life is over. This project is to research methods for designing products such that sections of the product (say modules) can be replaced by the newly developed technology so that the product can compete with its next generation and, therefore, its retirement is postponed. To achieve this goal a number of issues must be addressed such as enhancement of the connections and interactions between the design for upgradability and Design for X (say product life-cycle design, design for recyclability). Related references: Xing, Ke; Abhary, Kazem; A genetic algorithm-based optimisation approach for product upgradability design, Journal of Engineering Design, v 21, n 5, p 519-543, 2010. Xing, Ke; Belusko, Martin; Design for upgradability algorithm: Configuring durable products for competitive reutilization, Journal of Mechanical Design, Transactions of the ASME, v 130, n 11, p 1111021-11110214, November 2008. Umeda, Yasushi; Kondoh, Sinsuke; Shimomura, Yoshiki; Tomiyama, Tetsuo; Development of design methodology for upgradable products based on function-behavior-state modelling, Artificial Intelligence for Engineering Design, Analysis and Manufacturing: AIEDAM, v 19, n 3, p 161-182, June 2005. Zhang, Bing; Kimura, Fumihiko; Agent-based and term-rewriting method for product upgradeable design; Proceedings - Fourth International Symposium on Environmentally Conscious Design and

Inverse Manufacturing, Eco Design 2005, v 2005, p 62-69, 2005.

Design of an Intelligent System to Separate Solid Contaminants from Composts Prior to Packaging




Abstract: Composts are produced by some recycle industries from Kerbside green waste. The big size solid contaminants are first removed from the waste before it is processed. However a major problem internationally faced by this industry is the over-sized solid contaminants (rocks, glass, plastics etc.), over the standard limit, in the packaged composts. The aim of this project is to design an intelligent system (process & hardware) to remove these contaminants from the product prior to packaging. The outcome of this project will be of immediate international interest due to its huge positive impact on the environment. This is a Green design for manufacture project. Some preliminary work has already been done in this area in the school. Related references: Anghinolfi, D.; Paolucci, M.; Robba, M.; Taramasso, A.C.; A dynamic model for recycling: Optimization of solid waste separate collection, IFAC Proceedings of the 18th IFAC World Congress, v 18, n PART 1, p 12940-12945, 2011. Sekito, T.; Matsuto, T.; Tanaka, N.; Application of a gas-solid fluidized bed separator for shredded municipal bulky solid waste separation, Waste Management, v 26, n 12, p 1422-1429, 2006. Barsky, E.; Conditions providing optimum separation, Physical Separation in Science and Engineering, v 13, p 153-163, 2004.

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Intelligent Optimisation of Mechanical Structure




Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (Genetic Algorithm) has had wide applications in discrete systems but very narrowly used in continuous systems. Mechanical structures, as continuous systems, are usually of complex shapes therefore their mechanical behaviours are studied via the application of Finite Element Modelling and their optimisations require complicated mathematical procedures. The aim of this project is to model mechanical structures into apparently discrete elements via well-known finite element methods and then apply Artificial Intelligence to optimise the structure. Some preliminary work in this area, on rather simple mechanical structures, has already been done in the school which demonstrated the feasibility and efficiency of the approach. Related references: Sekulski, Z.; Multi-objective optimisation of ship hull structure by genetic algorithm with combined fitness function, Analysis and Design of Marine Structures - Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Marine Structures, MARSTRUCT 2013, p 515-524, 2013. Novak, Marina; Dolšak, Bojan; Intelligent computer-aided structural analysis-based design optimisation, WSEAS Transactions on Information Science and Applications, v 3, n 2, p 307-314, February 2006. Tabakov, P.Y.; Multi-dimensional design optimisation of laminated structures using an improved genetic algorithm, Composite Structures, v 54, n 2-3, p 349-54, Nov.-Dec. 2001.

Vibration Analysis of Mechanical Structures via Substructuring Technique




Abstract: Sub- structuring techniques to analyse complex structures has been around for a long time. However the aim of this project is rather different. It is to use finite element methods to analyse each substructure then develop some mathematical algorithm to convert each substructure into a single element (i.e. a large element) with limited number of nodes at its borders. Thus, the mechanical properties of each substructure would be determined, similar to a finite element. Then all substructures are coupled with each other to achieve dynamic parameters of the whole structure. Thus the whole structure will be modelled with a limited number of large elements. This approach is very useful for mechanical structures which are usually of complex shapes. It is also applicable to composite structures. Related references: Kim, Bum Suk; Kim, Bong Soo; Yoo, Hong Hee; Analysis of vibration characteristics of full vehicle model using substructure synthesis method, 16th International Congress on Sound and Vibration 2009, ICSV 2009, v 6, p 3848-3855, 2009. Barbone, Paul E.; Givoli, Dan; Patlashenko, Igor; Optimal modal reduction of vibrating substructures, International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, v 57, n 3, p 341-369, May 21, 2003. Sarkar, Abhijit; Ghanem, Roger; A substructure approach for the midfrequency vibration of stochastic systems; Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, v 113, n 4 I, p 1922-1934, April 1, 2003. Lee, Jaehyung; Thompson, D.J.; Yoo, Hong Hee; Lee, Jang Moo; Vibration analysis of a vehicle body and suspension system using a substructure synthesis method, International Journal of Vehicle Design, v 24, n 4, p 360-371, 2000.

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Vibration Analysis of Mechanical Structures via Bond Graph Modelling




Abstract: Bond Graph modelling is a unified approach to modelling of physical systems, including mechanical rectilinear systems. The aim of this project is to extend and develop the application of bond graphs to modelling of mechanical continuous systems (mechanical structures) for the purpose of vibration analysis. This can include mechanical structures which are combined of continuous and discrete (rectilinear)/torsional elements. An example of such a system is a gearbox (shaft, gears and the casing). The outcome of this research would allow the unified modelling of complex systems which consist of different types of elements, namely continuous, discrete, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, etc. Comparison of the results with Finite Element Modelling would be an interesting outcome. The research in this area has been very limited.

Related references: El Feki, M.; Jardin, A.; Marquis-Favre, W.; Krähenbühl, L.; Thomasset, D.; Structural analysis by bond graph approach: Duality between causal and bicausal procedures, Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Part I: Journal of Systems and Control Engineering, v 226, n 1, p 82-100, February 2012. Karnopp, Dean; Understanding structural problems in structural damping with bond graphs, Spring Simulation Multiconference 2010, SpringSim'10, 2010. Cellier, François E.; Zimmer, Dirk; Wrapping multi-bond graphs: A structured approach to modeling complex multi-body dynamics, 20th European Conference on Modelling and Simulation: Modelling Methodologies and Simulation Key Technologies in Academia and Industry, ECMS 2006, p 7-13, 2006. Wilson, Bruce H.; Eryilmaz, Bora; Simplified tree-structured decomposition using bond graphs, Automatica, v 35, n 4, p 755-760, April 1999.

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Development of an Efficient Computational Modelling of Biomechanical Integrity and Wear in Total Hip Replacements

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Mohammad Uddin

Area: Biomedical engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Total hip replacements (THRs) are one of the successful applications of biomaterials in medical industries. Over the decades, significant research and development on design, material, and evaluation of implants has been conducted. THRs still suffer from aseptic loosening and osteolysis caused by wear and/or wear debris generated from articulating surfaces. This continually forces biomedical engineers/medical scientists to seek for new material, design that will enable to improve the performance of implants. Generally, the performance of implants in terms of biomechanical integrity and wear are evaluated by conducting tests on expensive hip simulators in laboratory environment. This is quite time consuming and needs reasonably good amount of efforts. Computational modelling has been a powerful approach to model and analyse of any system like THR. By applying such approach, it is possible to easily predict the performance of the implant without doing extensive hip simulator tests. This offers notably more benefits to biomedical engineers to perform parametric studies on the implants particularly with the discovery of new materials and design. Previously, computational tools such as finite element (FE) and boundary element methods are widely applied. By taking the advantage of FE method, the current research will focus on developing a new and efficient computational modelling to accurately predict and analyse biomechanics and wear of the implants. Wear modelling will take into account the underlying wear mechanisms (e.g. abrasion, adhesion fatigue) involved in hip implants made of different bearing material combinations. Related references: M. S. Uddin and L.C. Zhang, Predicting the wear of hard-on-hard hip joint prostheses, Wear, 2013 (accepted and in press) J. C. Fialho, P. R. Fernandes, L. Eca, J. Folgado, Computational hip joint simulator for wear and heat generation, J. Biomech. 40 (2007) 2358-2366. M. N. Harun, F. C. Wang, Z. M. Jin and J. Fisher, Long-term contact-coupled wear prediction for metal-on-metal total hip joint replacement, J. Eng. Trib. 223 (2009) 993-1001. F. Liu, I. Leslie, S. Williams, J. Fisher, Z. Jin, Development of computational wear simulation of metal-on-metal hip resurfacing replacements, J. Biomech. 41 (2008) 686-694.

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Design and Optimization of Shape and Surface Texture of Hip Stem to Promote Bone-Implant Integrity


Area: Biomedical engineering, Mechanical Engineering


Abstract: Bone loss induced stress shielding around the stem causes mechanical loosening failures of hip implants. Stress shielding refers to inhabitation of the transfer to physiological stress to bone tissues due to a difference between elastic stiffness of the bone and that of the implant. Such degradation of bone tissue around the femur causes decrease in bone mechanical function, results in revision hip surgery. Previously significant development has been done to improve properties of biomaterials of implants. It is found that stress shielding depends on interaction of bone and implant surfaces. While conventional geometric shape of stem offers improvements in hip stability, they still are unable to completely remove stress shielding induced failures. Another important factor is geometry of surface texture impacts the strength of bone-implant integration. The current research will focus on design and optimization of shape and surface texture of hip stem, which will enhance bone growth around femur, hence promoting biomechanical strength of the bone-implant integration. Finite element analysis as a computational tool will be used, where multi-objective optimisation algorithm along with a new model of bone growth will be adopted to accurately predict stress shielding. Related references: M. Fraldi, L.Esposito, G. Perrella, A. Cutolo, S.C. Cowin, Topological optimization in hip prosthesis design, Biomechanics and Modelling in Mechanobiology 9(4) (2010) 389-402. G. Luo, AM Sadegh, H. Alexander, W. Jaffe, D. Scott, S.C. Cowin SC, The effect of surface roughness on the stress adaption of trabecular architecture around a cylindrical implant. J Biomech. 32 (1999) 275–284. R.B. Ruben, J. Folgado, P.R. Fernandes, Three-dimensional shape optimization of hip prostheses using a multicriteria formulation, Medical and Bioengineering Applications 34 (2007) 261-275. R.B. Ruben, P.R.Fernandes, J. Folgado, On the optimal shape of hip implants, J of Biomechanics 45(2) (2012) 239-346.

Finite Element Modelling of Effect of Surface Roughness on Corrosion-Fatigue Wear of Hip Implants


Area: Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering


Abstract: Articulating surfaces of hip implants undergo continuous contact loading due to kinematics of physiological gait motion. In addition to abrasive wear, corrosion-fatigue due to cyclic contact loading with electrochemical reactions causes wear generation. Under contact loading in corrosive environment, micro asperities on bearing surface undergo plastic strain, which causes local stressing and nucleate micro crack and pits. The process repeats and removes the pits, which cause wear on the surfaces in contact. The current project aims, using finite element method, to develop a new computation modelling to investigate effect of surface roughness on corrosion-fatigue wear evolution in bearing surfaces of hip implants. Related references: R.A. Antunes, M.C.L. Oliveira, Corrosion fatigue of biomedical metallic alloys: mechanism and mitigation, Acta Biomaterialia 8 (2012) 937-962. T. Koyama, T. Sato, M. Yoshinari, Cyclic fatigue resistance of yttria-stabilized zirconia polycrystals with hot isostatic press processing, Dental Materials Journal 31(6) (2012) 1103-110. M. Kuroda and T.J. Marrow, Modelling the effects of surface finish on fatigue limit in austenitic stainless steels, Fatigue and Fracture in Engineering Materials and Structures 31(7) (2008) 581-598.

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Development of an Innovative Surfacing Technology for the Improvement of Wear Resistance and Surface Integrity of Metallic Implants


Area: Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical manufacturing

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Due to their low wear generation and small-size wear particle, metal-on-metal (MoM) hip implants have been successfully applied for many years. Further, it enables use of relatively thin acetabular cup which permits application of larger femoral head for increased range of motion and improved stability, thus enhancing the longevity of implants. However, metallic implants are still suffering from problems like inflammatory and trauma diseases associated with nanometer-sized metal particulate and metal ions reacting with local tissues. Recent studies on MoM couples showed that there is a thin tribo-chemical reaction (TCR) layer of about 200-250nm thick on the main wear zone, which consists of nano crystalline metal and organic constitutes (e.g. C) originated from synovial fluid. In both cases, such layer with small grained material is found to be hard but brittle. Even though, the layer has a beneficial effect on wear and lubrication by hindering direct metal contact between articulating surfaces, due to fatigue with continuous different stress/strain and sliding, this hard layer is broken and releasing metal ions into surrounding tissues. After that fresh metal surface is again exposed and forms the same TCR layer, and this process continues repeatedly. Therefore, one way to stop generation of nano-crystalline metal particle from the metallic articulating zone is to induce a compressive residual stress within subsurface of the zone during manufacturing process of the bearing components. In addition, surface finish and geometric accuracy of bearing surfaces are significant factors, which impact wear generation. The present research will explore a new surfacing technique by integrating tool based (e.g. milling) and non-tool based (e.g. magnetic abrasive finishing) machining mechanics. Theoretical and computational modelling will be conducted by taking into account important geometric parameters of the process. Further, an optimization of the process will be attempted to attain the maximum level of improvements. Related references: Korovessis et al., Metallosis after contemporary metal-on-metal total hip replacements at a mean of 7 years, Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 88, pp.1183-1191, 2006. Jecobs et al., Loosening and osteolysis associated with metal-on-metal bearing: a local effect of metal hypersensitivity, Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 88, pp. 1171-1172, 2006. Wimmer et al., Wear mechanisms in metal-metal bearings: the importance of tribochemical reaction layers, Journal of Orthopaedic Research, pp. 436-443, 2010. [Liao et al., Graphitic tribological layers in metal-on-metal hip replacements, Science, 334, pp. 1687-1690, 2011.

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Design, Fabricate and Test of an Accurate and Cost-Effective Dynamometer for Cutting Force Measurements


Area: Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Cutting force measurement is an important element of manufacturing process, which indicates the behaviour and performance of the cutting in terms of tool life, power, and torque. In such scenario, accurate measurement is crucial to realize the dynamic characteristics of the underlying process. While cutting force measuring systems e.g. Kistler Dynamometer, are commercially available and accurate, they are significantly expensive. Small to medium sized machine shops cannot afford to buy while they desperately rely on the cutting force parameter to assess the cutting performance of a machining job. The aim of this project is to design, fabricate, and test of an accurate and cost-effective dynamometer for cutting force measurements. Strain gauge sensors will be the fundamental basis of the device, which will detect the displacement signals due to cutting forces in three directions (feed, cutting, normal forces). Once implemented, the dynamometer will be calibrated against a standard force measuring unit, and tested by conducting real cutting on a CNC machine to justify the efficacy of the developed measurement system. Related references: C. Fetecau, F. Stan, Study of cutting force and surface roughness in the turning of polytetrafluoroethylene composites with a polycrystalline diamond, Measurement 45(6) (2012) 1367-1379. S. Yaldiz and F. Unsacar, A dynamometer design for measurement of the cutting forces on turning, Measurement 39(1) (2006) 80-89. G. Totis, G. Wirtz, M.Sortino, D. Veselovac, E. Kuljanic, F. Klocke, Development of a dynamometer for measuring individual cutting edge forces in face milling, Mechanical System and Signal Processing, 24(6) (2010) 1844-1857.

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Modelling and Experimental Analysis of Surface Topography by Considering Tool Wear in High Speed Machining of Biomedical Grade Co-Cr Alloys


Area: Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering


Abstract: High speed machining (HSM) technology has attracted tremendous attentions in manufacturing regime, particularly, aerospace, automotive, medical, optical, and mold industries, to shape and surface the parts. In HSM, the cutting force dictates the machining performance, which, in turn, causes tool wear. Surface roughness is one of the performance indicators in HSM, which is influenced by cutting force, tool wear along with other important cutting parameters including speed, feed, and depth of cut. In order to optimize and achieve the desired results, it is important to capture the mechanics of the machining process by realizing the interaction between the cutting force and tool wear. Motivated with this, the current research aims to conduct a comprehensive study on modelling and experimental analysis of surface topography and roughness with the effect of tool wear in ball end milling of biomedical grade Co-Cr alloys (ASTM F75). Tool geometry, process parameters, and tool wear will be taken into account to develop the models of machined surface generation and roughness. Simulation results obtained from the models will be validated by carrying out actual experiments on CNC machine tools. The developed models are expected to be able to accurately predict surface texture with tool wear progression, and enable the machinists in industries to choose optimum process parameters for the enhanced productivity and quality. Related references: I. B Corral, J.V. Calvet, A.D. Fernández, Surface topography in ball-end milling processes as a function of feed per tooth and radial depth of cut, Int J Machine Tools Manuf. (2012). T. Ozel, Y. Karpat, L. Gigueira, J.P. Davim, Modelling of surface finish and tool flank wear in turning of AISI D2 steel with ceramic wiper intsert, Journal of Materials Processing Technology 189(1-3) (2007) 192-198. L. Zhou and K. Cheng, Dynamic cutting process modelling and its impact on the generation of surface topography and texture in nano/micro cutting, J. Engineering Manufacture 223 (2009) 247-266.

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New Product Development

Name of Supervisor/s: Yousef Amer and Sang-Heon Lee

Area: Materials, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: A key focus in the development of any advanced manufacturing product is to the address the triple bottom line of environment, economic and social concerns whist meeting the customer requirements. Taking a product life cycle approach can mitigate the potential environmental impacts in the product chain. The research focus is on how manufacturing that has a benign environmental effect, that is green engineering, Design for six sigma and methods such as Design for X (environment) combined with artificial intelligence such as fuzzy logic used to assess sustainability, can be integrated into Materials/nano/cell therapy product development and manufacturing.

Related references: Amer, Y., Luong L., Lee S.H. and Ashraf, M.A. 2008 Optimizing order fulfillment using design for six sigma and fuzzy logic, International Journal of Management Science and Engineering Management Vol. 3 No. 2, pp. 83-99 Thomas R.J., Chandra A., Hourd P.C., and Williams D.J. 008 Cell Culture Automation and quality Engineering: A Necessary Partnership to Develop Optimized manufacturing Process for Cell-Based Therapies Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation Vol. 13 No. 3 pp152-158 Davie N.L., Brindley D.A., Culme-Seymour E.J. and Mason C. 2012 Streamlining Cell Therapy Manufacturing BioProcess International Vol 10 No 3 24-29 Gonzalez B., Adenso-Diaz B., and Gonzalez-Torre 2002 A fuzzy logic approach for the impact assessment in LCA Resources, Conservation and Recycling Vol. 37 61-79 Isaacs J. A. 2010 Modelling tools for environmental and economic uncertainties in Nanomanufacturing New England nanomanufacturing Summit 2010 June 22-24 Massachusetts eprints.internano.org/509/1/Isaacs_NanoSummit_2010.pdf Schmidt Karen F. 2007 Green Technology: It’s easier than you think Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Woodrow Wilson Center for Scholars www.nanotechproject.org/file_download/187 Linkov I. and Seager T.P. 2011 Coupling multi-criteria decision analysis, life cycle assessment, and risk assessment for emerging threats Environmental Science and Technology Vol.45 No. 12. pp.5068-5074 Linkov I. and Seager T.P. 2011 Coupling multi-criteria decision analysis, life cycle assessment, and risk assessment for emerging threats Environmental Science and Technology Vol.45 No. 12. pp.5068-5074 Y. Zhang, H.-P. Wang, C. Zhang 2000 QFD-II: A life cycle approach for environmentally conscious manufacturing by integrating LCA and LCC into QFD matrices International Journal of Production Research Vol. 37 No. 5 pp1075–1091 Tsai-Chi Kuo, Hsin-Hung Wu, and Jiunn-I Shieh 2009 Integration of environmental considerations in quality function deployment by using fuzzy logic Expert Systems with Applications Vol 36 No.3 pt 2 pp7148–7156

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Optimising Cell Therapy Manufacturing Using Process Engineering and Statistical Control

Name of Supervisor/s: Yousef Amer and Jun Ma


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Process control provides statistical analysis and a means to manipulate a significant number of variables compared to manual experiments. This research will investigate the development of automated cell culture in conjunction with process engineering and the use of six sigma methodologies to move toward successful commercial production and early-stage development of therapeutic cell cultures. In is anticipated that this research will cross disciplines, therapeutic cell manufacturing, process engineering and industry.

Related references: Amer Y., Luong L., Lee S.H. and Ashraf M.A. 2008 Optimizing order fulfillment using design for six sigma and fuzzy logic, International Journal of Management Science and Engineering Management Vol. 3 No. 2, pp. 83-99 Thomas R.J., Chandra A., Hourd P.C., and Williams D.J. 2008 Cell Culture Automation and quality Engineering: A Necessary Partnership to Develop Optimized manufacturing Process for Cell-Based Therapies Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation Vol. 13 No. 3 pp152-158 Davie N.L., Brindley D.A., Culme-Seymour E.J. and Mason C. 2012 Streamlining Cell Therapy Manufacturing BioProcess International Vol 10 No 3 pp24-29 Dassau E., Zadok I. and Lewin D.R.2006 Combining Six-Sigma with Integrated Design and Control for Yield Enhancement in Bioprocessing Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research Vol 45 No 25 pp 8299-8309 Gernaey K.V., Cervera-Padrell A.E. and Woodley J.M. 2012 A perspective on PSE in pharmaceutical process development and innovation Computers & Chemical Engineering Vol. 42 No. 11 pp15-29 S. Villani, M. Marazzi, M. Bucco, M. Faustini, M. Klinger, P. Gaetani, F. Crovato, D. Vigo, F. Caviggioli, M.L. Torre 2008 Statistical approach in alginate membrane formulation for cell encapsulation in a GMP-based cell factory Acta Biomaterialia Vol. 4 No. 4 July pp 943-949

An Innovative Decentralised Approach to Supply Chain Scheduling Optimisation Using Discrete-Event Systems

Name of Supervisor/s: Sang-Heon Lee and Yousef Amer

Area: Engineering management, Supply Chain management, manufacturing Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Supply chain scheduling (SCS) is the process of making a plan such that the products are produced and distributed to the right location, and at the right time with the minimum cost. Traditionally centralised SCS models have been developed and used in industry. However, due to the polynomial computational complexity, it is often not practical to find an optimal solution but to search a merely feasible solution with some simplification processes. This research proposes an innovative decentralised SCS approach using supervisory discrete-event system which guarantees the optimal solution rather than a feasible solution. The optimal solution obtained will provide great cost/time savings with the simplified scheduling process in various industries. Related references: Sang-Heon Lee and Kai C. Wong(2002), "Structural decentralised control of concurrent discrete-event systems", European Journal of Control, pp. 477-491, Volume 8, Issue 5 Ramadge P. J. & Wonham W. M. (1987a). Supervisory control of a class of discrete-event processes. SIAM J. Control and Optimization, 25(1), 206–230 Golmakani, H. R., Mills, J. K. & Benhabib, B. (2006). Online scheduling and control of flexible manufacturing cells using automata theory. International journal of computer integrated manufacturing, 19(2), 178-193. Yoo, T. S. & Lafortune, S. (2002). A general architecture for decentralized supervisory control of discrete-event systems. Discrete Event Dynamic Systems: Theory and Applications, 1293), 335-377

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Design for Six Sigma of New Nano Product Development

Name of Supervisor/s: Yousef Amer, Jun Ma


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Nano manufacturing holds great potential for product innovation and plays a considerable part in developing sustainable energy alternatives in solar power, water treatment and technological applications. Much research effort has been placed in developing approaches to reduce environmental risks currently faced in nano-manufacturing. Contributing factors which inhibit sustainable nano manufacturing are a lack of a life-cycle inventory (LCI) data and an integrated approach for a whole-of-life sustainability assessment dedicated to nano-particles and nano-manufacturing. This PhD research will use Design for six sigma approach to nano-product design using Design for X (environment) and Eco Quality Function (QFD) Deployment, with fuzzy logic to accommodate qualitative and limited data to enable environmental risk assessment. The novelty of this approach is that it will investigate an application of fuzzy logic-based QFD integrating the environment as a stakeholder whilst treating nano-manufacturing as a project to strike a balance between customer satisfaction and environmental acceptability. Related references: Gonzalez B., Adenso-Diaz B., and Gonzalez-Torre 2002 A fuzzy logic approach for the impact assessment in LCA Resources, Conservation and Recycling Vol. 37 61-79 Majewski P., Luong L., Xing Ke and Amer Y. 2011 Sustainability of industry-scale nanomanufacturing Creating sustainable communities in a changing world Editors: Philip E.J. Roetman and Christopher B. Daniels Crawford House Australia pp.171-178 Isaacs Jacqueline A. 2010 Modelling tools for environmental and economic uncertainties in Nanomanufacturing New England nanomanufacturing Summit 2010 June 22-24 Massachusetts eprints.internano.org/509/1/Isaacs_NanoSummit_2010.pdf Schmidt Karen F. 2007 Green Technology: It’s easier than you think Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Woodrow Wilson Center for Scholars www.nanotechproject.org/file_download/187 Linkov I. and Seager T.P. 2011 Coupling multi-criteria decision analysis, life cycle assessment, and risk assessment for emerging threats Environmental Science and Technology Vol.45 No. 12. pp.5068-5074 Linkov I. and Seager T.P. 2011 Coupling multi-criteria decision analysis, life cycle assessment, and risk assessment for emerging threats Environmental Science and Technology Vol.45 No. 12. pp.5068-5074 Y. Zhang, H.-P. Wang, C. Zhang 2000 QFD-II: A life cycle approach for environmentally conscious manufacturing by integrating LCA and LCC into QFD matrices International Journal of Production Research Vol. 37 No. 5 pp1075–1091 Tsai-Chi Kuo, Hsin-Hung Wu, and Jiunn-I Shieh 2009 Integration of environmental considerations in quality function deployment by using fuzzy logic Expert Systems with Applications Vol 36 No.3 pt 2 pp7148–7156

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Improved Cracking of Almonds.

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke, Dr Chris Saunders

Area: Post harvest processing, mechanical engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Australia is the second largest almond producing country in the world, behind the Californian almond industry (Almond Board of Australia 2011). The Australian almond industry is highly mechanised and influenced heavily by Californian style equipment for both on farm operations and the processing of almonds. Currently almonds are shaken from the tree and left to dry on the ground until they reduce their moisture to a level where they can be stored under tarpaulins in large bunkers or sheds. Following harvest the almonds are taken to a hulling and shelling facility where there is a cleaning process to remove foreign material, a cracking process to remove the kernels from the shells and then size grading of the kernels. The industry has the opportunity to implement new equipment at this stage to reduce the amount of damaged kernels where currently up to 30% of kernels are scratched, chipped or broken by the cracking equipment. More accurate cleaning of the almonds during this process and removal of mouldy kernels would also provide many benefits to the industry. This work will provide new processes that will reduce the damage done to kernels and hence increase recovery of undamaged kernels, thus reducing losses, improving the appearance of shelled almonds and thus permit better machine vision sorting of defects such as insect and rodent damage.

The outcomes aim to provide to processors:

A more efficient method of shelling almonds that does not break, chip and scratch the

kernel. The work aims to reduce these current amounts of damage by at least 80%.

A more compact piece of equipment that does not require large amounts of cleaning

between stages and hence eliminates a lot of materials handling conveyors.

A much simplified processing line that has a stream lined flow with all equipment at

or near ground level and is not mounted on a series of platforms.

A side benefit of this equipment will be a reduced running (electricity) costs and

maintenance costs as there will be much less equipment for the shelling process. There is a living allowance available to support an Australian or New Zealand resident that is provided by Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) Related references: http://www.australianalmonds.com.au/ C. Aydin. Physical properties of almond nut and kernel. Journal of Food Engineering, 2003, (60):315–320 E. Perry, G. Steven Sibbett. Harvesting and Storing Your Home Orchard’s Nut Crop: Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios, and Chestnuts. Publication 8005, 1998 Mousa Rasouli, Kaveh Mollazade, Reza Fatahi, Zabiholah Zamani, Ali Imani, Pedro Martínez-Gómez. Evaluation of Engineering Properties in Almond Nuts. International Journal of Natural and Engineering Sciences, 2010, 4 (1):17-26

http://www.australianalmonds.com.au/

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Improving the Design of Tillage and Seeding Implements Using Discrete Element Modelling (DEM) of Soil/Tool/Seed Interactions

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke, Dr Jack Desbiolles and Dr Chris Saunders

Area: Mechanical engineering, agricultural engineering, agricultural machinery

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The energy required for tillage processes accounts for a significant proportion of total energy usage in crop production. Development of more efficient tillage tools is essential to reduce the energy consumption and to increase agricultural production. Accurate modelling of the soil-implement interaction will allow optimizing of implements without performing expensive and time consuming field tests which may only be undertaken at certain times of the year. However, modelling of soil-implement interactions is a complex process due to variability of the soil profile, non-linear behaviour of the soil material and the dynamic effect of the soil flow. An approach that gives a further insight is the technique of discrete element modelling (DEM). Work to date at UniSA has highlighted potential models that give reasonable correlations for tillage forces and soil movement. The next stage is to further refine the models and exploit the findings to develop better tillage and seeding implements. Related references: Asaf, Z., D. Rubinstein and I. Shmulevich (2006). Evaluation of link-track performances using DEM." Journal of Terramechanics 43(2): 141-161. Asaf, Z., D. Rubinstein and I. Shmulevich (2007). Determination of discrete element model parameters required for soil tillage. Soil and Tillage Research 92(1-2): 227-242. Shmulevich, I. (2009). State of art modelling of soil tillage interaction using discrete element method. . Presentation at the 18th Triennial Conferance. ISTRO June 15-19, Izmir, Turkey- Oral presentation Shmulevich, I., Z. Asaf and D. Rubinstein (2007). Interaction between soil and a wide cutting blade using the discrete element method. Soil and Tillage Research 97(1): 37-50. Ucgul, M., Fielke, J.M., and Saunders, C. Toward 3D Tillage Simulation Using EDEM: Determination of Parameters Using an Angle of Repose and a Penetration Test. 19th ISTRO Conference, Montevideo Uruguay 24-28 September 2012. Chen, Y., L. J. Munkholm and T. Nyord (2012). A discrete element model for soil-sweep interaction in three different soils. Soil and Tillage Research 126: 34-41

Design of a Seeding System to Integrate with a Bent Leg Tine

Name of supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke, Dr Jack Desbiolles and Dr Chris Saunders


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Australian no-till farming often uses narrow point openers to open the soil and place seed and fertiliser into the furrow. They are generally used in conjunction with the spraying of pre-emergence herbicides for weed control and press-wheels to pack soil over the seeds. These openers can create excessive soil throw which creates problems such as increasing depth of soil cover on adjacent furrows, herbicide contamination above seeds in adjacent furrows, increased stimulation of weed seed germination and soil moisture loss. One method of reducing soil throw is to use bent leg style narrow openers. Work of current PhD student Aliakbar Solhjou has highlighted preferred designs for the opener and these now need to be integrated with a seed delivery system to create a better tined seeding implement. Related references: Solhjou, A., Fielke, J. and Desbiolles, J. (2012). Soil translocation by narrow openers with various rake angles. Biosystems Engineering 112: 65-73. Solhjou, A., Desbiolles, J. and Fielke, J. (2013). Soil translocation by narrow openers with various blade face geometries. Biosystems Engineering 114: 259-266. Fielke, J.M. and Bayhan, Y. Effect of set up parameters for a dual tine and presswheel seeding module on seed placement and germination. Journal of Agricultural Machinery Science, Volume 7, Issue 2 (2011), pp 191-197. Desbiolles, J., & Leonard, E. (2008). Points of difference. Conservation agriculture e The essential guide: Moving beyond adoption. Clare, South Australia: South Australian No-Till Farmers Association.

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Improving Grain Harvester Separation Efficiency for Harvest Time Weed Seed Collection

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke and Dr Chris Saunders


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Conservation agricultural techniques have revolutionised grain production through residue retention and minimal tillage. However, conservation agricultural techniques rely heavily on herbicides for weed control and that reliance can lead to herbicide resistance (Walsh and Powles, 2007). To manage herbicide resistance, harvest weed seed control (HWSC) methods have been implemented in Australia. HWSC methods target weed seed set at harvest time by collecting crop residues and any contained weed seeds. Current HWSC practices in Australia include chaff cart, windrow burn and baling residues. All three of these practices remove the harvest residues from the paddock either by burning or transporting to remove any weed seeds in the residues. By definition, in conservation agriculture practices, residues should be left on the soil surface to reduce evaporation and return nutrients. More recently the Harrington Seed Destructor (HSD) was developed, which is a one pass HWSC operation towed behind the harvester that does not remove residues from the field. The HSD uses a cage mill to process the chaff material and kill any weed seeds contained within (Walsh et al., 2012). The chaff residues are then spread back on the field. The HSD has its own 150 kW engine and its 5 tonne trailer is towed behind the harvester. This project aims to develop adaptations to a grain harvester which provides a more concentrated stream of weed seeds in the chaff fraction that is transferred to a weed seed destructor. Possible approaches could include changes to the sieving arrangement to create a stream of material that contains all of the weed seeds but less of the chaff material. Related references: Berry, N. K., Saunders, C. & Fielke, J. M. Year. Relating the power used by the Harrington Seed Destructor to chaff throughput In: International Conference of Agricultural Engineering, 8-12th July 2012 Valencia, Spain. CIGR. Goldsmith, W. 2001. Impact : the theory and physical behaviour of colliding solids, Mineola, N.Y., Dover Publications. Powles, S. B., Lorraine-Colwill, D. F., Dellow, J. J. & Preston, C. (1998). Evolved resistance to glyphosate in rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) in Australia. Weed Science, 46:604-607. Vogel, L. & Peukert, W. (2003). Breakage behaviour of different materials--construction of a mastercurve for the breakage probability. Powder technology, 129:101-110. Walsh, M. J., Harrington, R. B. & Powles, S. B. (2012). Harrington Seed Destructor: A New Nonchemical Weed Control Tool for Global Grain Crops. Crop Sci., 52:1343-1347. Walsh, M. J. & Powles, S. B. (2007). Management Strategies for Herbicide-resistant Weed Populations in Australian Dryland Crop Production Systems. Weed technology, 21:332-338.

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Improving the Performance of Disc Seeders

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke, Dr Jack Desbiolles and Dr Chris Saunders


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: In no-till farming context, seeds are placed directly into untilled soil with previous crop residues on the surface. Disc seeders are one type of no-till seeding equipment which have recently become popular in Australia due to characteristics such as: low soil disturbance and soil throw, ability to work at fast speeds and with narrow row spacing capabilities (as low as 150 mm) whilst well suited to high residue conditions (Ashworth et al., 2010). While the disc row unit - or seeding system - used on these seeders significantly vary, an important category consists of a single disc blade opener, inclined at a sweep angle to the direction of travel, sometimes also inclined at a tilt angle to the vertical, and often associated with a multi-function side wheel. This side wheel fulfills some or all of the following functions: i) accurately gauges the disc blade operating depth, ii) contains soil entrainment by the rotating blade, iii) cleans the disc face of soil accumulation in sticky conditions and iv) contributes in part or in full to furrow closure. Whilst disc seeders can work well in some conditions in sticky soil they suffer from excessive soil build up that can make them unusable. This project aims to determine ways of assisting disc seeders to work better under sticky soil conditions. Related references: Ashworth, M.B., Desbiolles, J. & Tola E.H.M. (2010). Disc Seeding in Zero-till Farming Systems: A review of technology and paddock issues. Australia: Western Australia No-Tillage Association (WANTFA), 223p. Tola, E. H. M. & Desbiolles, J. (2009). Performance of disc blades in zero tillage context: part1: rolling coulter configurations. 18th ISTRO Congress, Izmir, Turkey, 15-19 June.

Development of a Fuzzy Control Inventory Model to Counter Demand for Perishable Goods in a Supply Demand Network

Name of Supervisor/s: Yousef Amer, Sang-Heon Lee

Area: Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: An ongoing problem in agri-business and food supply chains is that of designing and managing effective supply chains for a specific type of perishable product, fresh produce. The challenge for managing fresh produce is that product value deteriorates significantly over time in the supply chain. This research aims to develop a cost effective inventory model to control demand for perishable goods in a supply demand network which is subject to uncertainty and fluctuating seasonal demand. It is anticipated a simulation model with one- and two- echelon supply demand network will enable testing based on the classical EOQ model and the proposed fuzzy inventory model.

Related references: Arindam Roy, Samarjit Kar, Manoranjan Maiti, 2008 A deteriorating multi-item inventory model with fuzzy costs and resources based on two different defuzzification techniques, Applied Mathematical Modelling, Vol 32, No 2, February 2008, pp 208-223 Bera, M.K. Maiti, M. Maiti, 2012 Inventory model with fuzzy lead-time and dynamic demand over finite time horizon using a multi-objective genetic algorithm, Computers & Mathematics with Applications, Vol 64, No 6, pp 1822-1838 Ata Allah Taleizadeh, Farnaz Barzinpour, Hui-Ming Wee, 2011 Meta-heuristic algorithms for solving a fuzzy single-period problem, Mathematical and Computer Modelling, Vol 54, No 5–6, pp1273-1285 Manish Shukla, Sanjay Jharkharia, 2013 Agri-fresh produce supply chain management: a state-of-the-art literature review, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp.114 - 158

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Improving Grain Harvester Separation Efficiency for Harvest Time Weed Seed Collection

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc Prof John Fielke and Dr Chris Saunders


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Conservation agricultural techniques have revolutionised grain production through residue retention and minimal tillage. However, conservation agricultural techniques rely heavily on herbicides for weed control and that reliance can lead to herbicide resistance (Walsh and Powles, 2007). To manage herbicide resistance, harvest weed seed control (HWSC) methods have been implemented in Australia. HWSC methods target weed seed set at harvest time by collecting crop residues and any contained weed seeds. Current HWSC practices in Australia include chaff cart, windrow burn and baling residues. All three of these practices remove the harvest residues from the paddock either by burning or transporting to remove any weed seeds in the residues. By definition, in conservation agriculture practices, residues should be left on the soil surface to reduce evaporation and return nutrients. More recently the Harrington Seed Destructor (HSD) was developed, which is a one pass HWSC operation towed behind the harvester that does not remove residues from the field. The HSD uses a cage mill to process the chaff material and kill any weed seeds contained within (Walsh et al., 2012). The chaff residues are then spread back on the field. The HSD has its own 150 kW engine and its 5 tonne trailer is towed behind the harvester. This project aims to develop adaptations to a grain harvester which provides a more concentrated stream of weed seeds in the chaff fraction that is transferred to a weed seed destructor. Possible approaches could include changes to the sieving arrangement to create a stream of material that contains all of the weed seeds but less of the chaff material. Related references: Berry, N. K., Saunders, C. & Fielke, J. M. Year. Relating the power used by the Harrington Seed Destructor to chaff throughput In: International Conference of Agricultural Engineering, 8-12th July 2012 Valencia, Spain. CIGR. Goldsmith, W. 2001. Impact : the theory and physical behaviour of colliding solids, Mineola, N.Y., Dover Publications. Powles, S. B., Lorraine-Colwill, D. F., Dellow, J. J. & Preston, C. (1998). Evolved resistance to glyphosate in rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) in Australia. Weed Science, 46:604-607. Vogel, L. & Peukert, W. (2003). Breakage behaviour of different materials--construction of a mastercurve for the breakage probability. Powder technology, 129:101-110. Walsh, M. J., Harrington, R. B. & Powles, S. B. (2012). Harrington Seed Destructor: A New Nonchemical Weed Control Tool for Global Grain Crops. Crop Sci., 52:1343-1347. Walsh, M. J. & Powles, S. B. (2007). Management Strategies for Herbicide-resistant Weed Populations in Australian Dryland Crop Production Systems. Weed technology, 21:332-338.

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Collaborative Distribution Network Optimisation for Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Name of Supervisor/s: Yousef Amer, Sang-Heon Lee

Area: Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The movement of products through a distribution network is a complex dynamic process that depends on understanding the networks fixed topology including how each node stores handles and forwards items. Increased traffic congestion, carbon emissions, rising fuel costs and consumer environmental concerns mean there is a need to optimise distribution networks. Firms across supply chains have been increasing collaborative efforts in planning, forecasting and replenishment initiatives (CPFR) through greater information sharing and vendor managed inventory (VMI). With sustainability demands there is now the opportunity to develop collaborative distribution networks (CDN) for physical logistics, transportation, warehousing and infrastructure. This research proposes to develop a CDN optimisation model for sustainable supply chain management using fuzzy goal programming to address this multi objective and multi supply chain member problem. It is also proposed that analytical hierarchy process (AHP) a multi- objective decision making method may also be employed to evaluate priorities of goals and weights of deviation variables that occur through complex collaborative supply chain arrangements. It is anticipated that a case study or simulation will illustrate the potential of the CDN optimisation model to optimise complex CDN’s and help decision makers monitor sustainable supply chain performance and ongoing improvement initiatives. Related references: Lazaros G. Papageorgiou, 2009 Supply chain optimisation for the process industries: Advances and opportunities, Computers & Chemical Engineering, Vol 33, No 12, pp1931-1938 Feng Pan, Rakesh Nagi, 2013 Multi-echelon supply chain network design in agile manufacturing, Omega, Vol 41, No 6, pp969-983 Daniela Ambrosino, Maria Grazia Scutellà, 2005 Distribution network design: New problems and related models, European Journal of Operational Research, Vol 165, No 3, pp610-624 Jianxin (Roger) Jiao, Xiao You, Arun Kumar, 2006 An agent-based framework for collaborative negotiation in the global manufacturing supply chain network, Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, Vol 22, No 3, pp239-255 Hasan Selim and Irem Ozkarahan 2008 A supply chain distribution network design model: An interactive fuzzy goal programming-based solution approach The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology Vol 36, No 3-4, pp 401-418

http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Hasan+Selim%22

http://link.springer.com/search?facet-author=%22Irem+Ozkarahan%22

http://link.springer.com/journal/170

http://link.springer.com/journal/170

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Development of an Intelligent Swarm Robotic Mechanism Using Biologically Inspired vSLAM Approach

Name of Supervisor/s: Sang-Heon Lee and Hung-Yao Hsu

Area: Robotics, mechatronics, Machine vision system

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The challenge of navigation and mapping for autonomous robots is to develop an intelligent system that can simultaneously localize, map and navigate over the lifetime of the robot with little or no human intervention. The simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) problem is mostly aims to produce highly accurate maps of areas that are assumed to be mainly static. SLAM is often identified as one of the key challenges in autonomous mobile robotics that must be solved before robots can become part of everyday life in domestic homes and the workplace. Typically, research in the SLAM is focused on the generation of commonly available data sets by gathering data obtained from multiple mobiles robots and improving or upgrading them continuously to provide a more efficient navigation scheme. However, still there are great difficulties to concurrently maintain and use map efficiently for the navigation mainly due the complicated nature of the environment and dynamic changes around it. In this project, we are proposing a biologically inspired visual SLAM using the brain activities of rodent. They are navigating wide area that is constantly changing due to the activities of other animals or weather or season. Despite the constant state of flux of sensory cues and available paths, the rat can reliably return to known sources of food and return home to its own nest. Recent research indicated that they do not use the whole data stored in their brain instead they use effective sorting system to recollect necessary features of environment only. Based on this insight, this project will investigate a biologically inspired approach (called hippocampal based visual SLAM) to the persistent navigation and mapping problem. Potentially the outcome of this project could be used for the security monitoring or delivery system across a large building or office area. Related references: Burgess, N., Donnett, J. G., Jeffery, K. J. and O’Keefe, J. (1997). “Robotic and neuronal simulation of the hippocampus and rat navigation.” Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London B Biological Sciences, 352: 1535–1543. Abdullah Zawawi MOHAMED, Sang Heon LEE, Hung Yao HSU (2011), "Autonomous mobile robot system concept based on PSO path planner and vSLAM", Proceedings of 2011 International Conference on Computer Science and Automation Engineering, CSAE, pp 92-97. Abdullah Zawawi MOHAMED, Sang Heon LEE, Hung Yao HSU (2009), "Development of Multi-Agent Robot System for Surveillance Purpose Using Swarm Intelligence:A Review and Proposal", International Conference on Robotics,Vision,Signal Processing and Power Application, 2009. Abdullah Zawawi MOHAMED, Sang Heon LEE, Hung Yao HSU (2012), "A Survey on Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Mobile Robotics System", Artificial Intelligence Review Milford, M. J.,Wyeth, G. and Prasser, D. (2004). “RatSLAM: a hippocampal model for simultaneous localization and mapping.” Proceedings of the International Conference on Robotics and Automation, New Orleans, LA, 2004. Michael Milford and Gordon Wyeth (2009), “Persistent Navigation and Mapping using a Biologically Inspired SLAM System”, The International Journal of Robotics Research published online 21 July 2009, http://www.uq.edu.au/think/docs/Milford_PersistantNavigationAndMap.pdf Barrera, A. and Weitzenfeld, A. (2008). “Biologically-inspired robot spatial cognition based on rat neurophysiological studies”. Autonomous Robots, 25: 147–169

http://www.uq.edu.au/think/docs/Milford_PersistantNavigationAndMap.pdf

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Development of Locomotive System for a Gastro-Shuttle for Small Intestine Bacteria Overgrowth Diagnosis


Area: Robotics, mechatronics, machine vision system

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is currently one of the most common functional digestive tract disorders which is characterised by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habitats. Unfortunately diagnosis of IBS is more exigent since no one symptom or test is pathognomonic mainly because most of the time these symptoms overlap with other disorders. Endoscopy procedures are used today to manage some gastro intestinal diseases and disorders like IBS but they are highly invasive and expensive. Gastro Intestinal Tract (GIT) viewing techniques have introduced as an alternative diagnostic tool. The technique has improved rapidly since the endoscopy capsule was introduced to the market in year 2001 by Given Imaging. Even though imaging techniques suites advanced diagnose and monitoring disease progression, treatments for GI tract diseases were not advanced with the same phase. In addition endoscopy capsules could only provide image viewing, movement is uncontrollable once it is swallowed and could not cover the whole intestine. To develop treatment procedures and to overcome above mentioned issues there is an immense need for incorporating reliable locomotion system and controlling mechanism to gastro capsules. The proposed project aims to develop locomotion system for gastro capsules which will allow full controllability over the device. The locomotion principle of the gastro capsule will mimic bacterial motility and artificial cilia will be the driving mechanism. Expected outcome of this project is a device that can to move through currently inaccessible regions of GIT and provide functions imaging, targeted drug delivery and tissue sampling at a specified region. Related references: Nakamura, T. and A. Terano (2008), “Capsule endoscopy: past, present, and future.” Journal of Gastroenterology, 43(2): p. 93-99 Zuo, J., G. Yan, and Z. Gao,(2005) “A micro creeping robot for colonoscopy based on the earthworm”. Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology, 29(1): p. 1-7 Gábor Kósa, Moshe Shoham, and M. Zaaroor. 92007), “Propulsion Method for Swimming Microrobots”. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON ROBOTICS, 30(1) Edd, J., et al. (2003), “Biomimetic propulsion for a swimming surgical micro-robot.” in Intelligent Robots and Systems, 2003. (IROS 2003). Proceedings. 2003 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on. Byungkyu Kim, Park Sukho, and Park Jong-Oh.(2009) “Microrobots for a Capsule Endoscope.” in IEEE/ASME International Conference on Advanced Intelligent Mechatronics. Suntec Convention and Exhibition Center Singapore Woo, S.H., et al.(2009), “Implemented edge shape of an electrical stimulus capsule”. The International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery, 5(1): p. 59-65. Hyunjun, P., et al. (2007) “Paddling based Microrobot for Capsule Endoscopes.” in Robotics and Automation, 2007 IEEE International Conference on. 2007

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Development of Intelligent Machine Vision System to Identify Fruit for the Automatic Fruit Harvesting Robot.


Area: Machine vision system, mechatronics, Agricultural engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: In horticultural industry, conventional harvesting is done by ‘handpicking’ methods to remove hundreds of fruits (like citrus fruits) in random spatial locations on the individual fruit trees. It is well known that harvesting fruits in a large scale is still inefficient and not cost effective. To solve this challenging task, mechanical harvesting systems have been investigated and practiced to enhance profitability and efficiency of horticultural businesses. However they often damage fruits in the harvesting process. Development of efficient automatic fruit removal schemes is required for better fruits quality. This project proposes to develop an intelligent machine vision system to identify fruits for the automatic harvesting robot. According to the research conducted up to now, multi-spectral analysis using Near-Infrared spectrum with self-organising map scheme of neural network can produce some promising results. However the system needs to be more intelligent and independent from human inputs, hence, much further investigation is necessary. This research will seek for a solution for the detection and possibly a classification of ripeness of fruits. This could be an initial step towards the development of robust and intelligent fruit harvesting robot in the long term. Related references: D.M. Bulanon, T.K., H. Okamoto, S.Hata, (2004) “Determining the 3-D location of the apple fruit during harvest”, in American Society of Agricultural Engineers, no.701P1004 Kevin E. Kane, W.S.L., (2007) “Multispectral Imaging for In-field Green Citrus Identification”, in American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, no.073025 Kevin E. Kane, W.S.L., 92006) “Spectral Sensing of Different Citrus Varieties for Precision Agriculture”, in American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, no.061065 Li, P, Lee, S-H & Hsu, H-Y (2011), 'Review on fruit harvesting method for potential use of automatic fruit harvesting systems', Procedia Engineering, vol. 23, pp. 351-366 Li, P., S.-H. Lee, and H.-Y. Hsu (2011), 'Study on citrus fruit image data separability by segmentation methods', 2011 International Conference on Power Electronics and Engineering Application. Shenzhen, China, Procedia Engineering Elsevier, no.23, 2011, 408-416. Li, P., S.-H. Lee, and H.-Y. Hsu (2012), 'Fusion on Citrus Image Data from Cold Mirror Acquisition System', International Journal of Computer Vision and Image Processing, vol.2, no.4, 2012

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Development of a Scheme for Fugitive Fume/Smoke Emission Detection from Industrial Factory using Machine Vision System.

Name of Supervisor/s: Sang-Heon Lee

Area: Machine vision system, mechatronics, manufacturing Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Due to mainly the fact that some industrial factories are located in the living area, the detection of fugitive fumes or smoke is an important issue for the factory managers to establish a good public relationship. Generally these fugitive fumes or smokes are not considered as critical for health impact point of view rather they are a significant nuisance affecting enjoyable everyday life for the people around. A lot of emotion has surrounded this issue however surprisingly very little research to detect them efficiently. A lot of complaints exist but there is no real way to correlate these complaints to any specific levels of density, size or colours of fumes or smoke. However it is very critical to detect whatever forms of fumes of smokes as early as possible so that some actions can be taken to correct the situation. In this research, we are proposing to develop a machine vision system to detect such fumes or smokes. Note that any escaped smokes or fumes especially related to human health are thoroughly monitored by mainly chemical sensors. Hence it is not our interests to pursue to replace those chemical sensors with the development of proposed system. Rather, it is aimed to develop a video image processing scheme to detect the smoke or fumes using localised variation in colour or intensity level. Using the available CCTV covering wide area, the system will detect unusual localised smoke or fumes using digital image processing. One of main issues of this problem is since the system is installed outside without any intended control; the performance is greatly affected environment around for example weather conditions. Hence simply the application of spatial analysis will not work properly under certain conditions. Hence it is necessary to use an intelligent method to make this possible. At this stage, we are investigating fuzzy decision making process with learning capability obtained from neural network. According to the literature review conducted, there are only quite few researches have conducted up to now. Hence if this is developed successfully, there would be great potential to be commercialised. Related references: Thou-Ho Chen, Yen-Hui Yin; Shi-Feng Huang; Yan-Ting Ye (2006), “The Smoke Detection for Early Fire-Alarming System Base on Video Processing”, Intelligent Information Hiding and Multimedia Signal Processing, 2006. IIH-MSP '06. International Conference on, 427-430. Steven Verstockt, Peter Lambert, Rik Van de Walle, Bart Merci and Bart Sette (2012) “State of the art in vision-based fire and smoke detection,” https://biblio.ugent.be/input/download?func=downloadFile&recordOId=785789&fileOId=785805 P. Piccinini, S. Calderara, R. Cucchiara, (2008) “Reliable smoke detection system in the domains of image energy and color, ICIP Rubaiyat Yasmin (2009), “ Detection of Smoke Propagation Direction Using Color Video Sequences”. International Journal of Soft Computing , Vol 4. 45-48.

https://biblio.ugent.be/input/download?func=downloadFile&recordOId=785789&fileOId=785805

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Development of a Miniature Vibration-Based Energy Harvesting System for Powering MEMS Biomedical Devices

Name of Supervisor/s: Hung-Yao Hsu

Area: Additive Manufacturing

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: This project will focus on the development of a miniature energy harvesting system to be used together with various small scale biomedical devices used inside human body. The system will harvest energy through the vibration sources from the environment and provide the energy to the host biomedical systems whenever needed. Since the number of vibration sources within human body is huge, an investigation about a tuneable inertial mechanical harvester to respond the excitations will be a major focus of this project. In addition, how to manage the harvested energy in order to provide the power in response to the required specifications of biomedical devices will be the other key area of study. Finally the system dimensions and weight will need to be taken into consideration in order to accommodate the geometric constraints due to the host devices in this project. Related references: Cook-Chennault, KA, Thambi, N & Sastry AM 2008, “Powering MEMS portable devices-a review of non-generative and regenerative power supply systems with special emphasis in piezoelectric energy harvesting systems”, Journal of Smart Materials and Structures, vol. 17, no. 4. 043001 (33pp). Kazmierski, Tom J & Steve Beeby, 2011, Energy Harvesting Systems: Principles, Modeling and Applications, Springer. Boisseau, S, Despesse, G & Ahmed Seddik B 2012, “Electrostatic conversion for vibration energy havesting”, in Lallart, M (ed), Small-scale Energy Harvesting, InTech, Chapter 5.

Sustainable Manufacturing for Industry-Scale Production of Nanomaterials

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Ke Xing; Prof Peter Majewski

Area: Nano technology, Engineering Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: With the significantly increasing use of nanoparticles the fundamental question arises whether the various production techniques of these nanoparticles are economically and ecologically sustainable. Or does the requirements of especially the large scale production of nanoparticles on resources, handling, and disposal of by-products outweigh the benefits of the innovative products which exciting properties base on nanoparticles? The proposed research project is aimed for studying this fundamental question, which is crucial for the industrial future of nanotechnology, through Life Cycle Analysis and Life Cycle Costing analyses. Based on the results of these studies a comprehensive decision support tool will be developed for the design of optimal production processes to achieve economic and environmental sustainability in manufacturing of nanomaterials, e.g. carbon nanotubes or gold nanoparticles. Related references: Ok, Z.D., J.C. Benneyan, and J.A. Issacs (2008), Risk Analysis Modelling of Production Costs and Occupational Health Exposure of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Manufacturing. Journal of Industrial Ecology, 12(3), pp. 411-434. Naidu, S., R. Sawhney, and X.-P. Li (2008), A Methodology for Evaluation and Selection of Nanoparticle Manufacturing Processes Based on Sustainability Metrics. Environmental Science and Technology, 42, pp. 6697-6702.

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Cloud Platform for Collaborative Life-cycle Footprint Assessment

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Ke Xing

Area: Engineering Management; Supply Chain Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Managing life-cycle information presents a critical challenge for supply chain footprint assessment and performance measurement. Extant literature and supply chain collaboration models fall short in providing an interactive platform to enable cross-organisational life-cycle information gathering, sharing and management. A cloud-based collaborative life-cycle assessment (LCA) model can enable dynamic life-cycle data collection and exchange, and supports supply chain collaboration for environmental footprint assessment. The model integrates web-based data management technologies with the hybrid cloud platform. This integration is aimed at increasing the accuracy and timeliness of life-cycle information and allows information directly relevant to the characteristics of a particular operation system to be identified and traced. Related references: Chen, J. & Ma, Y.-W. (2011) The research of supply chain information collaboration based on cloud computing, Procedia Environmental Sciences, 10(2011), pp.875-880 Hagelaar, G.J.L.F. & van der Vorst, J. G.A.J. (2002) Environmental supply chain management: using life cycle assessment to structure supply chains, International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, 4(2002), pp.399-412 Li, B.-H., Zhang, L. & Chai, X.-D. (2010) Introduction to cloud manufacturing, ZTE Communications, 8(4), pp.6-9

Network and Contract Optimisation for Product-Oriented Services

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Ke Xing and Sang-Heon Lee

Area: Engineering Management; Manufacturing Management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Contracts for long term product-oriented services, such as maintenance and replacement, often involve remanufacturing of some components removed or replaced during the equipment overhaul. To ensure the effectiveness and profitability of the service operations, it is important to find the optimal solutions for the design and management of service networks and service contracts. In this research, a multi-criteria decision-support model is to be developed to simultaneously optimise the costs, the service interval, the logistics network, and labour requirements, while satisfy the price and service performance requirements. Related references: Wang, Wenbin (2010) A model for maintenance service contract design, negotiation and optimization, European Journal of Operational Research, 201(1), pp239-246 Jackson, Canek; Pascual, Rodrigo (2008) Optimal maintenance service contract negotiation with aging equipment, European Journal of Operational Research, 189(2), pp.387-398 Vishv Jeet; Erhan Kutanoglu (2004) An Algorithm for Logistic Network Design Problems with Time-Based Service Constraints, Proceedings of IIE Annual Conference, pp.1-6

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School of Information

Technology and Mathematical

Sciences

Computer science, information technology, forensic computing, and information

management. Analysis, applied mathematics, mathematical modelling, optimisation and

operations research, statistics, biometrics, bioinformatics, biological image analysis,

computational biology and mathematical biology


Dr Jiuyong Li: (Information Technology) [email protected]

A/Prof Regina Burachik: (Mathematical Sciences) [email protected]

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Jiuyong.Li&Search=%20JIUYONG%20LI%20


http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Regina.Burachik


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Digital Forensics (e.g. Forensic Visualisation, Cloud Forensics, Big Data Forensics, Mobile and Anti-Mobile Forensics, Hard Disk Forensics, Multimedia Forensics, and Digital Forensic and Incident Response Standards)

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Raymond Choo

Area: Computer Science, Information Technology, Digital Forensics


Abstract: Digital forensics (also known as forensic computing, computational forensics and computer forensics) is the discipline that is used for the acquisition and analysis of digital evidence. The use of digital forensics can be applied to any crime that involves a digital device capable of storing electronic/digital information (e.g. in murder investigations where computers, (smart) mobile devices and digital cameras were used). Given the increase in ICT in everyday life, digital forensics is increasingly being used in the courts in Australia and overseas. To reduce the risk of digital (forensic) evidence being called into question in judicial proceedings, it is important to have a rigorous methodology and set of procedures for conducting forensic investigations and examinations. There is a range of projects available across vastly different disciplinary bases. Examples include:

Forensic visualisation (e.g. using visualisation such as virtual reality application to produce interactive prototypes to visualise, present and reconstruct electronic evidence)

Cloud forensics

Big data forensics

Mobile and anti-mobile forensics

Hard disk forensics, particularly Solid State Drives (SSDs) forensics

Multimedia forensics

Digital forensic and incident response standards

Cyber and Information Security (e.g. Anti-Mobile Malware, Mobile Security Including Money Honeypot, VoIP Security and Interception, Critical Information Infrastructure Protection, Anti-Phishing/Spam, Cryptographic Protocols and Information Security Risk Management Framework and Standards)

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Raymond Choo

Area: Computer Science, Information Technology, Cyber security


Abstract: Cyber threats are increasingly important and strategically relevant in developed economies, and cyber security has been identified as one of the highest-priority items on the global policy and national security agendas, and an increasingly challenging policy area for governments (including the Australian Government). Cyber security is a highly specialised and interdisciplinary field, which requires a deep understanding of the underlying technical and social aspects, intimate knowledge of temporal trends – historical, recent and emerging trends, etc. For example, what are the challenges and implications of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, IPv6 and Voice over IP (VoIP) for governments and other key stakeholders; and what ICT are needed to protect and secure our critical infrastructure sectors from cyber criminals? There is a range of project available across vastly different disciplinary bases. Examples include:

Anti-mobile malware

Mobile security (e.g. money honeypot)

VoIP security and interception

Critical information infrastructure protection (e.g. smart grid)

Anti-phishing/spam

Cryptographic protocols (e.g. key management protocols and digital signatures)

Information security risk management framework and standards

~ 83 ~

New Perspectives on Computational Methods for Mathematical Signal Processing

Name of Supervisor/s: Assoc. Prof. Anatoli Torokhti

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: This project is aimed at techniques for solution of new problems related, directly and indirectly, to different types of best constrained matrix approximation. Such problems have become a formidable challenge that attract research minds both in its own right and because of their close relationship to topics in bio-informatics, computer science, electrical engineering and statistics (e.g., analysis of DNA microarrays, optimal data comparison and compression, and optimal filtering of stochastic signals). While the topics have been intensively studied, a number of related fundamental questions are still open. The theoretical aim of this thesis will be to understand features associated with the underlying nature of the problems under consideration, implement them in new methodologies and rigorously justify associated advantages. The algorithmic aim will be to elaborate related specific computing techniques. The perspective supervisor’s (A. Torokhti) significant contributions (provided, e.g., in [3-5]) represent the background to this project. Related References: G.H. Golub and C.F. Van Loan, Matrix Computation, John Hopkins Univ. Press, 3rd Ed., 1996. Y. Tsaig, M. Elad, P. Milanfar, G.H. Golub, Variable projection for near-optimal filtering in low bit-rate block coders, IEEE Trans. Circuits & Systems for Video Technology, 15, 2005 A.Torokhti and S. Friedland, Towards theory of generic Principal Component Analysis, J. Multivariate Analysis, 100, 4, pp. 661-669, 2009. S. Friedland and A. P. Torokhti, Generalized rank-constrained matrix approximations, SIAM J. Matrix Anal. Appl., 29, issue 2, pp. 656-659, 2008. V. Ejov, A. Torokhti, How to transform matrices U_1, ..., U_p to matrices V_1, ..., V_p so that V_i V_j^T=O if i\neq j? Numerical Algebra, Control and Optimization, 2, No. 2, pp. 293-299, 2012.

Mathematical Models for the NMR Diffusion Experiment

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Bronwyn Hajek and Prof Lee White

Area: Mathematical modelling

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Sedimentary rocks, concrete and cancer tissue are examples of porous materials. This project will develop a new theoretical understanding of the behaviour of liquid and gas contained within these important everyday materials by developing mathematical models for the NMR diffusion experiment. Currently, the diffusion of liquid and gas through porous media can only be calculated accurately if the exact microstructure of the porous media is known a priori. In this project, we will reformulate the existing models to include just the average properties of the material such as its volume fraction and its surface area to volume ratio.

Related references: H.C Torrey, Bloch equations with diffusion terms, Phys. Rev. 104 (1956) 563-565. Nordin M, Jacobi Nilsson M, Nydén M: Deriving time-dependent diffusion and relaxation rate in porous systems using eigenfunctions of the Laplace operator. Journal of Magnetic Resonance 2009; 201: 205–211. Nordin M, Nilsson-Jacobi M, Nydén M: A mixed basis approach in the SGP-Limit. Journal of Magnetic Resonance 2011; 212 2:274-279. M. Nordin, M. Jacobi, D. Grebenkov, An efficient eigenfunction approach to calculate spin-echo signals in heterogeneous porous media, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, to appear.

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Automated Debugging and Repair of Programs

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Wolfgang Mayer

Area: Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Developing Software can be challenging, and finding and fixing faults is often difficult. Software bugs can be costly. Testing and debugging can consume up to 30\% of the total development resources! Companies like Coverity in the U.S.A. make good business out of finding bugs in other people's programs. Automated debugging tools aim to find and fix bugs in software automatically. This project will create methods and tools that enable software engineers to automatically gather information about their faulty programs and explore different fault hypotheses more quickly in order to identify the root cause of an observed program failure. Sometimes, even automatically repairing a broken program may be possible. Relevant research questions include: + How to monitor systems to detect abnormal state and behaviour? + Which events are most relevant to explaining an observed program failure? + Which program parts are most likely to contain the bug? + How to generate fixes and how to choose the best fixes? + How to present the result to the software engineer? You will apply selected ideas from fields like Compilers, Virtual Machines, Artificial Intelligence, Software Testing and Verification. Other fields such as Machine Learning and Language Processing can be investigated if you are keen to explore novel methods for debugging. The same principles transfer to other areas, including embedded software systems, physical systems, workflow models, computational processes, etc. Related references: Kinshuman Kinshumann, Kirk Glerum, Steve Greenberg, Gabriel Aul, Vince Orgovan, Greg Nichols, David Grant, Gretchen Loihle, Galen C. Hunt: Debugging in the (very) large: ten years of implementation and experience. Commun. ACM (CACM) 54(7):111-116 (2011). Andrew J. Ko, Brad A. Myers: Extracting and answering why and why not questions about Java program output. ACM Trans. Softw. Eng. Methodol. 20(2): (2010). Mauro Pezzè, Martin C. Rinard, Westley Weimer, Andreas Zeller: Self-Repairing Programs (Dagstuhl Seminar 11062). Dagstuhl Reports 1(2): 16-29 (2011).

Mathematical Models for Electric Field Assisted Interfacial Capture of Particles

Name of Supervisor/s: Bronwyn Hajek, Prof Stan Miklavcic

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The separation of fine particles is an important step in many industrial processes, including mineral processing, waste water purification and paper recycling. One separation technique involves flowing the liquid past an interface – the particles are absorbed onto the interface and captured. In the absence of external driving forces, the delivery of particles to the interface is governed by Brownian diffusion. This process is inefficient and results in poor particle capture efficiencies. One way to increase particle capture is by using an externally applied field. In this project, we will theoretically study the absorption of fine particles at an interface under the influence of an applied field. Related references: Dagastine RR, White LR (2001) J Colloid Interface Sci, 247:310-320. Lin CY, Slattery JC (1982) AIChE J, 28:147-156. Carnie SL, Chan DYC, Lewis C, Manica R, Dagastine RR (2005) Langmuir, 21:2912-2922.

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Who's in the Cloud? Securing Cloud Data Centres from Insider DOS Attacks

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Belinda Chiera

Area: Cyber attacks


Abstract: As the number of applications exported to cloud data centres increases, cloud security will become more critical than ever before. Customers from different organisations are often hosted on virtual machines located on the same physical infrastructure and transparently share physical resources; a configuration that unintentionally provides an extended attack surface for an adversary. Recent cloud security vulnerabilities demonstrated that attacks starting inside a cloud pose a realistic threat that is difficult to detect, since such attacks are disguised as genuine customer traffic. Denial Of Service (DOS) attacks generated inside a cloud are particularly attractive as they are fast and economical to deploy. Adversaries take advantage of bandwidth under-provisioning to attack bottlenecked links and degrade the level of service offered. This project supports cloud data centre security by building a software prototype showcasing a real-time dynamic capability in infrastructure management to automatically detect DOS attacks. We will probe cloud structures to construct sufficiently representative cloud router/host topologies, including estimating link bandwidth and profiling traffic behaviour. We will then develop models derived from these topologies and traffic profiles, to produce an anomaly detection system to distinguish between customer and adversary generated traffic, in the advent of an insider DOS attack.

Visuo-Haptic Augmented Reality

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Christian Sandor

Area: Computer Science

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Human perception is multi-modal: the senses of touch and vision do not operate in isolation, but rather closely coupled. This observation has inspired systems that allow users to see and touch virtual objects at the same location in space. This research project explores potential applications of this technology in areas such as medical training, education, industrial design and entertainment. To gain insight into the proposed topic quickly, potential applicants are strongly encouraged to visit http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/vhar/ for an introduction based on movies

References below as pdf and more references are available at http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/vhar/. Sandor, C., Uchiyama, S., and Yamamoto, H. Visuo-Haptic Systems: Half-Mirrors Considered Harmful WHC '07: Proceedings of the Second Joint EuroHaptics Conference and Symposium on Haptic Interfaces for Virtual Environment and Teleoperator Systems. pages 292--297, Tsukuba, Japan, 2007. Sandor, C., Kuroki, T., Uchiyama, S., and Yamamoto, H. Exploring Visuo-Haptic Mixed Reality

Technical Report PRMU2006-199 IEICE, Tokyo, Japan, 2007.

http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/vhar/

http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/vhar/

~ 86 ~

Mobile Augmented Reality

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Christian Sandor

Area: Computer Science

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Most of today's mobile internet devices contain facilities to search the user's immediate environment. The search results are then displayed on a map. Several research projects have aimed to provide more intuitive displays by using augmented reality to overlay points of interest on a video image of the real world. To gain insight into the proposed topic quickly, potential applicants are strongly encouraged to visit http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/mars/ for an introduction based on movies.

References below as pdf and more references are available at http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/mars/ Dey, A., Cunningham, A., and Sandor, C. Evaluating Depth Perception of Photorealistic Mixed Reality Visualizations for Occluded Objects in Outdoor Environments In Proceedings of ACM Symposium on Virtual Reality Software and Technology, pages 211--218, Hong Kong, China, November, 2010. Sandor, C., Cunningham, A., Dey, A., and Mattila, V. An Augmented Reality X-Ray System Based on Visual Saliency In Proceedings of IEEE International Symposium on Mixed and Augmented Reality, pages 27--36, Seoul, Korea, October, 2010. Sandor, C., Cunningham, A., Eck, U., Urquhart, D., Jarvis, G., Dey, A., Barbier, S., Marner, M., and Rhee, S. Egocentric Space-Distorting Visualizations for Rapid Environment Exploration in Mobile Mixed Reality Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality, pages 47--50, Waltham, MA, USA, March, 2010.

Moving Object Detection and Tracking using Compressive Video Sensing

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr. Ivan Lee

Area: Computer Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Compressive sensing is a new technique for efficient signal acquisition and reconstruction. This technique allows acquiring sparse signals at a sampling rate below Nyquist–Shannon sampling theorem. Benefits of compressive sensing include (1) offloading computational complexity from the encoder to its decoder, (2) out-of-order measurements can be used to reconstruct original signals, (3) improving reconstructed signal quality with increased number of measurements. Image sensor is a good example where compressive sensing technique well applies. However, challenges arise for adopting this technique for advanced video coding and analysing the content under the compress domain. The student in this project will collaborate with a current PhD student who works on compressive video coding for indoor monitoring, and this project will focus on moving object detection and tracking for surveillance applications. This project will optionally include using general purpose CPU cluster and Tesla GPU nodes to implement multi-video decoders. Related references: E. Candes and M. Wakin, "An Introduction To Compressive Sampling", IEEE Signal Processing Magazine, vol. 25, pp. 21-30, 2008.

http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/mars/

http://magicvisionlab.com/projects/mars/

~ 87 ~

Multi-View and Free-Viewpoint Video Streaming




Abstract: This project's objective is to develop an adaptive multimedia communication system which addresses the nature of heterogeneous network and devices, to facilitate stereoscopic and free-viewpoint video streaming applications such as 3D TV to fixed and mobile devices, over wired and wireless Internet. In this project, the student will investigate advanced multi-view video coding techniques, as well as studying networking protocols for real-time video streaming.

Related references: G. J. Sullivan, J.-R. Ohm, W.-J. Han, and T. Wiegand, “Overview of the High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standard,” IEEE Trans. Circuits Syst. Video Technol., vol. 22, no. 12, pp. 1648–1667, Dec. 2012. A. Vetro, T. Wiegand, and G. J. Sullivan, BOverview of the stereo and multiview video coding extensions of the H.264/AVC standard,[ Proc. IEEE, Special Issue on 3D Media and Displays.

Multi-Sensor Smart Homecare System




Abstract: This project aims to develop smart home applications for ambient assistive living. Students in this project will investigate different data fusion techniques for combining sensory information acquired from heterogeneous sensors such as video, sound, depth, wearable biometrics sensors. The student will investigate advanced and multi-sensor data fusion and computer vision techniques for abnormal activity detection to facilitate elderly independent living. The lab is equipped with a wide range of sensors, arduino and raspberry-pi based devices, multiple video cameras. The student will collaborate with two current PhD students who work on applying robotics and depth sensors in smart homecare.

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School of Natural and Built

Environments

Biodiversity, environmental and park management, ecology, conservation, environmental,

geotechnical, structural and other civil engineering specialisations, water and wastewater

engineering, geomatics, geospatial Information science, including remote sensing, land

surveying, biodiversity, soil science, and plant physiology.


Dr Don Cameron: (Environmental Science) [email protected]

Dr Nicholas Chileshe: (Building and Construction) [email protected]

http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Donald.Cameron


http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/homepage.asp?Name=Nicholas.Chileshe


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Modelling fossil fuel depletion as an upper bound to greenhouse gas emission scenarios

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr James Ward

Prerequisites: Engineering, Mathematics, Natural Resources, Computer Modelling

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Unknown future greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels are a large driver of the uncertainty in predictions of future climate change. Recent research suggests that we are nearing a peak in fossil fuel production and that future emissions may be lower than previously anticipated. One of the issues affecting our prediction of fossil fuel production (and carbon emissions) is a lack of understanding of the transition from our current blend of conventional fossil fuel production to some future blend of non-conventional fuel types (shale gas, oil shale, methane hydrates). This transition will involve a rise in fuel price, which will tend to suppress demand. Meanwhile, as non-conventional fuels yield a lower energy profit ratio, a greater share of the world’s energy supply must be diverted away from economic energy services and into the energy sector itself. These complex interconnected issues must be explored using dynamical systems modelling. The project will involve setting up a systems model of the energy economy, which includes the economic feedback effects outlined above. The model will be tested using a range of hypothetical and real-world scenarios to generate a better-informed picture of likely transitions to non-conventional fossil fuels and the resultant range of greenhouse gas emissions we can expect in the future. Related references: Ward, J.D., S.H. Mohr, B.R. Myers and W.P. Nel (2012) High estimates of supply constrained emissions scenarios for long-term climate risk assessment, Energy Policy 51, pp. 598-604. Ward, J. D., A.D. Werner, W.P. Nel and S. Beecham (2011) The influence of constrained fossil fuel emissions scenarios on climate and water resource projections, Hydrology and Earth System Sciences 15, pp. 1879-1893, doi:10.5194/hess-15-1879-2011.

~ 90 ~

Integrated urban aquaculture, agriculture and aquaponics

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr James Ward and Prof Chris Saint

Prerequisites: Water / Environmental Engineering, Water Quality, Ecology, Sustainable Design

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The world faces critical food security issues due to the combined pressures of population growth, depletion of finite resources and uncertainty in future climate. Of particular concern is the depletion of stocks in wild fisheries, and land-based aquaculture is one response to this problem. This research will look at opportunities to engineer highly efficient, integrated food production systems that combine novel water and nutrient recycling streams to maximise productivity while minimising waste. Conventional forms of aquaculture require large amounts of fresh water to flush the system and maintain a fresh environment for fish; integrated aquaculture uses productive plant systems (such as vegetable garden beds) to filter the water and re-use the nutrients generated by the fish production. This provides a highly productive system supplying nutritious food. The research is divided into three main themes with a variety of potential student projects: Theme 1. Microbiological and water quality aspects

Measuring microbiological and chemical parameters of the water

Determining tolerances / thresholds in terms of input water quality (potable, stormwater, wastewater)

Sensors for online water quality monitoring. Theme 2. Technical feasibility and design aspects

Review of backyard “aquaponics” installations

Steady-state and transient modelling

Assessment of nutritional and financial yield

Comparison of plant and animal species

Life cycle assessment and sustainable fish feeds

Open versus closed system design. Theme 3. Community engagement

Urban agriculture / aquaculture: governance, funding and maintenance issues.

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An experimental approach to the mathematical modelling and design of permeable pavements

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Simon Beecham

Prerequisites: Civil/Environmental Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: We will develop new models for flow of stormwater through permeable pavements by adapting and extending models for deep bed filtration. We will use mono-dispersed suspensions to identify and measure key engineering parameters for fine sediment capture and transmission in porous concrete to define expected pavement lifetimes and provide a physical basis for the mathematical model. We will study clogging and the impact of various cleaning techniques and find optimal configurations for different materials and microstructures that enable more efficient design. Related references: Pezzaniti, D., Beecham, S. and Kandasamy, J. (2009), Influence of Clogging on the Effective Life of Permeable Pavements, Journal of Water Management, Institution of Civil Engineers UK, 162(3), pp211-220. Lucke, T. and Beecham, S. (in press), Field Investigation of Clogging in a Permeable Pavement System, Journal of Building Research and Information, Routledge, Accepted for publication: June 2011 - paper BR7429 Myers, B., Beecham, S., van Leeuwen, J. and Keegan, A. (2009), Depletion of E. coli in Permeable Pavement Mineral Aggregate Storage and Reuse Systems, Journal of Water Science and Technology, IWA, 60(12), pp3091-3099. Myers, B., Beecham, S. and van Leeuwen, J. (2011), Water Quality with Storage in Permeable Pavement Basecourse, Journal of Water Management, Institution of Civil Engineers UK, 167(7), pp361-372. Beecham, S., Pezzaniti, D. and Kandasamy, J. (in press), Stormwater Treatment Using Permeable Pavements, Journal of Water Management, Institution of Civil Engineers UK, Accepted for publication:

March 2011 - paper WATER-D-10-00097R1.

Evaluation of the efficiency of laboratory testing in predicting the performance of unbound granular pavements

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Don Cameron

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Repeated load triaxial testing (RLTT) has become the standard for pavement engineers for parameters for design of pavements and for assessment of material applications based on resilient modulus and permanent strain rate. However the transfer of such data to wheel loading of a pavement has not been as successful as first hoped. Jameson et al (2010) compared accelerated wheel loading (ALF) rutting data with projections of performance based on RLTT, with moderate success. In this proposal, simple pulse loading of prototype pavements over a circular patch will be compared with RLTT data, and finite element analyses. Outcomes may include development of testing procedures and improvement in specification of unbound granular materials. Related references: Jameson, G, Vuong, B, Moffatt, M, Martin, A and Lourensz, S (2010). Assessment of rut-resistance of granular bases using the repeated load triaxial test. AUSTROADS Research Report, AP-R360/10, 204 pages.

~ 92 ~

An investigation into the water demand of trees and the impacts of vegetation on infrastructure


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: A subdivision has been developed as an experimental site for monitoring tree growth and changes in water demand with weather patterns and the changing suburban landscape. The ground contains reactive soils and so shrinks and swells as moisture levels change. Over the years the researchers have acquired equipment suitable for evaluating water demand of the ten year old trees. Cased boreholes have been installed along with deep benchmarks, to enable deep monitoring of soil moisture and to ensure reliable level surveys can be made. Collection and analysis of the data are needed to successfully conclude this field trial. Water demand of trees will be studied using sap flux sensors and compared with data from a nearby weather station. A study of tree root development may be undertaken through partial excavation and ground-penetrating radar surveys. The information that will be obtained is vital to local government, designers of infrastructure as well as to the environment. Related references: O’Malley, A. P. K and Cameron, D. A. (2005). The influence of trees on soil moisture, dwellings and pavements in an urban environment. Report to Local Government Association and City of Salisbury, November, 90 pages, http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/webdata/resources/project/The_Influence_of_Trees_on_Soil_Moisture_Dwellings_and_Pavements_in_an_Urban_Environment_-_2005_Report_-_Section_1.pdf. Cameron, D. A., Jaksa, M. B., Potter, W. and O’Malley, A. (2006). “The Influence of Trees on Expansive Soils in Southern Australia”, Chapter 21 in Expansive Soils: Recent Advances in Characterization and Treatment, ISBN: 0415396816, eds. Al-Rawas, A. A. and Goosen, M. F. A., Taylor and Francis (UK), pp 295-314. Cameron, D. A. and Mills, K. G. (2010). Tree water use, soil suctions and reference evapotranspiration in a semi-arid climate. Proc. 4th Asia-Pacific Conf. Unsaturated Soils, eds Buzzi, O., Fityus, S. and Sheng, D., Taylor & Francis, London, Newcastle, Nov, V1, pp 295-300. Cameron, D. A. and Beal, N. S. (2011). Estimation of foundation movement and design of footing systems on reactive soils for the effects of trees. Australian Geomechanics J, V46(3), Sept, pp 97-113.

Geogrids in pavements on expansive soil


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Geogrids have begun to be used in pavement bases to either reduce pavement thickness or to reduce the incidence of longitudinal cracking on expansive clay soils. The nature of the beneficial influence of the geogrid reinforcement will be studied through physical testing of pavement sections and numerical modelling. Field test trials on expansive clay sites will be implemented. Related references: Zornberg, J.G. & Gupta, R. (2010). Geosynthetics in pavements: North American contributions. Proc, 9th International Conference on Geosynthetics, Brazil, pp 379-398. Kwon, J., Tutumluer, E., and Kim, M.(2005). Development of a mechanistic model for geogrid reinforced flexible pavements. Geosynthetics International, Volume 12, No. 6, December, 2005, pp.

310-320.

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/webdata/resources/project/The_Influence_of_Trees_on_Soil_Moisture_Dwellings_and_Pavements_in_an_Urban_Environment_-_2005_Report_-_Section_1.pdf

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/webdata/resources/project/The_Influence_of_Trees_on_Soil_Moisture_Dwellings_and_Pavements_in_an_Urban_Environment_-_2005_Report_-_Section_1.pdf

~ 93 ~

Evaluation of the efficiency of laboratory testing in predicting the performance of unbound granular pavements


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Repeated load triaxial testing (RLTT) has become the standard for pavement engineers for parameters for design of pavements and for assessment of material applications based on resilient modulus and permanent strain rate. However the transfer of such data to wheel loading of a pavement has not been as successful as first hoped. Jameson et al (2010) compared accelerated wheel loading (ALF) rutting data with projections of performance based on RLTT, with moderate success. In this proposal, simple pulse loading of prototype pavements over a circular patch will be compared with RLTT data, and finite element analyses. Outcomes may include development of testing procedures and improvement in specification of unbound granular materials. Related references: Jameson, G, Vuong, B, Moffatt, M, Martin, A and Lourensz, S (2010). Assessment of rut-resistance of granular bases using the repeated load triaxial test. AUSTROADS Research Report, AP-R360/10, 204 pages.

Evaluation of the influence of climate on pavement design in unbound granular materials


Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (ME-PDG) adopted in the USA factors in climate patterns on the resilient modulus of subgrades and pavement materials as well as asphaltic content (AC). AC is particularly sensitive to temperature and will not be considered in this project. The other materials respond to changes in moisture content (or suction) and so knowledge of unsaturated soil mechanics and, in particular, the soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) becomes important. There exist empirical formulations for predicting the SWCC which need to be examined for their applicability to local pavement materials and subgrades. The reduction of resilient modulus in response to moisture gain needs to be investigated also. In-situ non-destructive testing of in service pavements may form part of this research. Related references: Zapata, C E and Houston, W N (2008). Calibration and validation of the enhanced integrated climatic model for pavement design. National Cooperative Highway Research Program, NCHRP Report 602.

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An investigation on instability behaviour of sandy soil (sand with fines) under critical state soil mechanics

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Md Mizanur Rahman

Prerequisites: Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The project is inspired by the movements and failure of sandy soil slope which has a major socio-economic impact in many developing countries like China, Indonesia, Bangladesh etc. The underlying failure mechanism of sandy soil slope often related to instability behaviour which is associated with rapid pore water generation. Over the last 7 years, I have been working to develop a mathematical model based on experimental data to predict the triggering mechanism of instability. While, the model is capable of predicting a range of sandy soils instability; there is a scope to generalize for a wide range of sandy soils. This can be achieved by incorporating parameters for particle shape (angularity), mineralogy etc. into the mathematical model. Thus, the project requires scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, discrete element method (DEM) as well as other laboratory testing such undrained triaxial test, constant deviatoric stress path etc. Since the model will be generalized with simple soil parameter such as angularity, it has potential for application in different sandy soils in different part of the world, specially, developing countries where advanced testing is not easily accessible. Related references: Rahman, M. M. and Lo, S. R. (2012) “Predicting the onset of static liquefaction of loose sand with fines” Journal of geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering, ASCE, USA 138(10), doi: 10.1061/(ASCE)GT.1943-5606.0000661. Sayeed, M. A., Suzuki, K. and Rahman, M. M. (2011) “Strength and deformation characteristics of granular materials under extremely low to high confining pressures in triaxial compression” International Journal of Civil & Environmental Engineering (IJCEE-IJES), 11(4), 1-6. Rahman, M. M., Lo, S. R., and Gnanendran, C. T. (2008) "On equivalent granular void ratio and steady state behaviour of loose sand with fines." Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 45(10):1439-1455. doi: 10.1139/T08-064. Rahman, M. M., and Lo, S. R. (2008) "The prediction of equivalent granular steady state line of loose sand with fines." Geomechanics and Geoengineering, 3(3): 179-190. doi: 10.1080/17486020802206867. Rahman, M. M., and Lo, S. R. (2008) "Effect of sand gradation and fines type on the liquefaction behaviour of sand-fines mixtures." 4th decennial Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering and Soil Dynamics Conference (GSP 181), ASCE, Sacramento, California, USA. doi: 10.1061/40975(318)90.

~ 95 ~

An investigation on liquefaction susceptibility of low laying estuarine deposits in Adelaide

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Md Mizanur Rahman

Prerequisites: Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The sandy alluvium and low laying estuarine deposits in Adelaide, especially areas adjacent to lower Torrens river, costal area, port Adelaide etc. are may be in ‘loose’ state and might be susceptible to liquefaction. One may argue that Adelaide may not be at an immediate risk of occurring a big earthquake of Mw>6.5, thus liquefaction due cyclic loading (earthquake) may not be a serious concern. However, liquefaction due to static loading is little known but not uncommon for ‘loose’ soils (Olson, et al., 2000, Fourie and Tshabalala, 2005). Thus, this project focuses on the static liquefaction susceptibility of ‘loose’ soil around the coastal area which covers a large area of Adelaide. The static liquefaction characterization will be done by laboratory experiments such as soil classification, triaxial testing etc. as well as numerical tools such as neural network. The outcome of the research will be to develop better understanding on liquefaction susceptibility and to advise on ground improvement techniques for the coastal area. Related references: Rahman, M. M., Lo S.R. and Mofiz, S. A. (2010) “Artificial Neural Network in CPT base liquefaction prediction” Proc. 17th South East Asia Geotechnical Conference, Taiwan, May 10-13, 2010. Vol.2, pp.343-346. Fourie, A. B., and Tshabalala, L. (2005). "Initiation of static liquefaction and the role of k0 consolidation." Canadian Geotechnical Journal, 42, 892-906. Olson, S. M., Stark, T. D., Walton, W. H., and Castro, G. (2000). "1907 static liquefaction flow failure of the north dike of wachusett dam." Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, 126(12), 1184-1193.

Ion selective functionalization of carbon nanomaterials for water purification and desalination

Name of Supervisor/s: Prof Linda Zou & Prof Namita Choudhury

Prerequisites: Materials Science, Organic chemistry

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: The project aims to determine the optimum levels of the grafted ion selective functional groups on the surface of the carbon nanomaterials. The functionalization will be conducted using species with different molecular weight in order to impart ionic characteristics and enable it to retain original physical and chemical property of the substrates. The application in water purification and desalination of the functionalized materials will be investigated. Related references: Li, H., Zou, L., Pan, L. and Sun, Z. (2010). Novel graphene-like electrodes for capacitive deionization. Environmental Science & Technology, 44, 8692–9687. Li, H., Zhang, W., Zou, L., Pan, L. and Sun, Z. (2011). An environmentally friendly approach to synthesis TiO2-graphene composites via visible light photocatalytic reduction of graphene oxide. Journal of Materials Research, vol 26, pp970-973. Subianto, S., Choudhury, N.R. and Dutta, D.K. (2008). Journal of Polymer Science Part A: Polymer Chemistry, 46, 5431. Subianto, S., Mistry, M., Choudhury, N.R., Dutta, N.K. and Knott, R. (2009). ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 1(6), 1173.

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Risk assessment and management practices within the Australian small and medium sized construction organisations

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Nicholas Chileshe

Prerequisites: Project Management, Risk Management, Sustainable construction

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Risk factors associated with construction projects have a major impact on issues related to cost, time, quality and sustainability of project delivery. Unexpected events result in either positive or negative outcomes often causing deviations from project plans and making construction projects particularly prone to risk. Despite the extensive research on risk management in the construction industry, there is limited literature dealing specifically with project risk in Small and Medium sized construction organisations. The use of such tools within a risk assessment and management framework will be an essential requirement to avoid cost and time overruns, and support future project delivery. The research is focused on the development of explanatory models and new approaches for the effective delivery of construction projects through the integration of project risk management and sustainability principles. The aims of the research are to investigate the implementation of risk assessment and management practices in small and medium sized enterprises within the Australian Construction Industry, and to develop a framework that would facilitate effective risk assessment and management practices. Related references: Agyakwa-Baah, A. and Chileshe, N. (2010) Construction Professions Perceptions of Risk Assessment and Management Practices (RAMP): Does Length of Service in Construction Industry Matter? In: Egbu, C. (Ed) Proceedings of the 26

th Annual ARCOM Conference, 6 - 8 September 2010, Leeds,

UK, Association of Researchers in Construction Management, Vol. 2, pp. 1219-1228. Agyakwa-Baah, A., Chileshe, N., and Stephenson, P. (2010), A Risk Assessment and Management Framework to Support Project Delivery’, In Pantovakis, J-P (Ed), Proceedings of the Fifth Scientific Conference on Project Management (PM-05), Advancing Project Management for the 21

st Century

“Concepts, Tools & Techniques for Managing Successful Projects”, 29th-31

st May, Heraklion, Crete,

Greece, pp. 52-59. Kerzner, H. (2006), Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling and Controlling, (5

th edition), Van Nostrand Reinhold.

Mills, A. (2001), “A Systematic Approach to Risk Management for Construction”, Structural Survey, 19(5), 245-252. Tah, J. et al (2008), Conceptual Information Modelling for Risk Analysis and Management in an nD Modelling Environment”, The Built and Human Environment Review, Vol. 1, 1-5.

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An investigation into factors affecting the stakeholders risk attitudes in delivering sustainable construction projects.

Name of Supervisor/s: Dr Nicholas Chileshe

Prerequisites: Project Management, Construction Management, Supply chain management

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Studies have shown that risk-based decision making as critical in successful

construction project management. Within the context of delivering sustainable construction

projects, it could also be argued that decisions are often made in isolation of systemic

influences in the operational environment. These have the ability of undermining the

sustainability and credibility of initiatives. While previous studies have focussed on the

identification of risk factors affecting the delivery of construction projects at either the macro,

micro and meso levels, and various categorisation of sources of risk has been established,

little attention is given to the exploration of the risk factors underpinning the three areas of

sustainability, such as environmental, economic and social. Furthermore, there are limited

studies which have attempted specifically various metrics and models for assessing

sustainability have been proposed, the exploration of the likelihood of occurrence and

degree of impact of the variables contained within the social, economic and environmental

factors have not been explored in depth. This research project is aimed at bridging that

knowledge gap. The specific research objectives for this proposed investigation are as

follows: (1) To identify and evaluate the risk factors that might affect the implementation of

the sustainability initiatives; (2) To explore the relationships between construction logistics

and the attainment of sustainability; (3) To develop, validate and refine a measurement

framework that is capable of delivering sustainability initiatives while taking into account the

risk factors and construction logistics principles.

Related references:

Abidin, N.Z. and Pasquire, C.L. (2005). Delivering sustainability through value management, concept

and performance overview. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management. 12(2), 168-

180.

Ahmed, A., Kayis, B. and Amornsawadwatana, S. (2007), ‘A review of techniques for risk

management in project’, Benchmarking: An International Journal, 14 (1), 22-36.

Sev, A. (2009). How can the Construction Industry Contribute to Sustainable Development? A

Conceptual Framework. Sustainable Development. John Wiley & Sons. 17: 161-173.

Shakantu, W.M.W., Tookey, J.E. and Chileshe, N. (2007). Optimization of Construction Logistics: A

Core Competency for a Future Construction Industry. Journal of Construction. 1(1), 12-19.

Project Management Institute, PMI (2008) A Guide to Project Management Body of Knowledge:

PMBOK Guide. 4th ed. Pennsylvania: Project Management Institute, Inc.

~ 98 ~

Measurement of sustainability within small and medium sized construction related organisations using structural equation modelling (SEM) approach

Name of Supervisors: Dr Nicholas Chileshe

Prerequisites: Sustainable construction, Structural equation modelling

Suitable as PhD

Abstract: Despite the extensive research on sustainability, there is a paucity of studies that examine the Critical Success Factors (CSF) for the deployment of sustainability within Small and Medium sized construction related organisations. Furthermore, while attempts have been made at measuring sustainability, the key drivers (CSF) of sustainability and their impact on the organisational performance of SME are less understood. Given the importance of the construction industry to the national economy and the fact that the majority of the firms within the industry are SMEs, the need for identifying the key drivers of sustainability and associated measurement instruments becomes more significant. In addition, the process of implementing sustainability initiatives could be closely aligned to the identification of critical success factors. It could thus be argued that for SMEs to effectively pursue the sustainability agenda there is a need for detailed understanding the ‘direct and indirect’ complex effects and the individual contributory effects of these CSF to the overall sustainability implementation process. The aim of this research project is to utilise Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach to identify the contributory effect of the critical success factors of sustainability towards effective project delivery thereby achieving overall organizational performance. The overarching purpose of the research is to develop a generic measurement model focused on the assessment and monitoring aspects of sustainability initiatives within the construction related SME’s. It is proposed that the application of structural equation modeling will be in the form of first order sustainability encompassing the individual strands (i.e. economic, social and environmental), second order (i.e. economic and social, economic and environmental or social and environmental), and finally the third order which would be the holistic approach to integrated sustainability design encompassing the three individual strands. Related references: Cheng, E.W.L. (2001) SEM being more effective than multiple regressions in parsimonious model testing for management development research, Journal of Management Development, 20(7), 650-667. Chileshe, N. (2005) Validation of the EFQM Excellence Model in Construction Organisations: A Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) Approach, In: Sidwell, A.C. (ed.) CD-ROM Conference Proceedings, Queensland University of Technology, COBRA Research Week, International: Responding to Change, 4-8 July 2005, Brisbane, Australia: QUT, [ISBN 1741071003] pp. 427 - 441. Chileshe, N. and Haupt, T.C. (2005) Modelling Critical Success Factors of Construction Project Management (CPM), Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 3(2), December 2005, pp 140-154. Edum-Fotwe, F. and Price, A.D.F. 2009. A social ontology for appraising sustainability of construction projects and developments. International Journal of Project Management. 27: 313-322. Kline, R.B. (1985) Structural Equation Modelling, The Guildford Press: New York, London. Sev, A. (2009). How can the Construction Industry Contribute to Sustainable Development? A Conceptual Framework. Sustainable Development. John Wiley & Sons. 17: 161-173.

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How to Apply

There are seven application steps:

1. Check your eligibility

Your first step in applying to do a research degree is to check that you are eligible.

Do you meet the entry requirements for a research degree program?

Decide which type of program you wish to apply for

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD),

Professional Doctorate,

Masters by Research.

Check the entry requirements for your chosen program.

PhD and Professional Doctorate by Research*

You may be eligible to be considered for admission if you have:

Honours Level 1, Honours Level 2A (H2A), a Masters by Research or a Masters by

coursework

Honours Level 2B (H2B) or a Graduate Diploma, plus demonstrated capabilities as proven

through evidence of professional work experience in the field of proposed study and by

relevant quality publications

a Bachelor Degree, Double Degree, Honours Level 3 (H3) or a Graduate Certificate, plus:

1. demonstrated research capabilities as proven through evidence of

professional work experience in the field of proposed study and by

relevant quality publications

2. additional work experience and publications.

* Professional Doctorate by Research candidates must also demonstrate at least 5 years’

experience of practice in a relevant field and normally within the last 10 years.

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/What-you-can-study/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/How-to-apply/Entry-requirements-and-eligibility/

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Masters by Research

You may be eligible to be considered for admission if you have:

Honours Level 2B (H2B) or a Graduate Diploma

a Bachelor Degree, Double Degree, Honours Level 3 (H3) or a Graduate Certificate, plus

demonstrated research capabilities as proven through evidence of professional work

experience in the field of proposed study and by relevant quality publications

no tertiary qualifications, but can demonstrate research capabilities as proven through

evidence of professional work experience in the field of proposed study and by relevant

quality publications

Do you meet the English language requirements?

All international higher degree by research applicants are expected to be proficient in

English comprehension and expression.

You must provide evidence of your English language proficiency with your application.

You are strongly advised to complete this entry requirement before travelling to Australia by

studying for and sitting an IELTS test in your home country.

2. Find a program

You then need to decide which program (discipline or research area) is suitable for your

degree.

In your online application, you will need to provide information about your proposed program

of study.

Most people undertake a research degree in a field related or semi-related to what they

studied in their undergraduate degree. However, you need not confine yourself to this.

A. Search available research degree programs

To make your choice, explore the research degree programs offered by UniSA.

Research degree programs

The University of South Australia offers a range of research degree programs under

discipline/research areas.

http://www.ielts.org/

~ 101 ~

Research Degree Programs in the Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment

Masters by Research

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

Professional Doctorate

B. Consider the research concentrations at UniSA

The quality of training and supervision will be far greater if your research is in one of the

University's research concentrations or an area of research expertise or priority.

Research Institutes

Barbara Hardy Institute

Research Centres

Advanced Computing Research Centre

Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation

Centre for Industrial and Applied Mathematics

Defence and Systems Institute

Mawson Institute

Phenomics and Bioinformatics Research Centre

SA Water Centre for Water Management and Reuse

3. Find a supervisor

You then need to find a suitable supervisor for your degree.

Who can supervise my degree?

In your online application, you will be asked to provide the name of your proposed supervisor

at UniSA. Whilst you can still apply without nominating a supervisor, it is preferable to

identify a supervisor for your project.

Applicants for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Masters by Research programs must find

an academic staff member prepared to supervise their research project.

Please note: an academic staff member agreeing to supervise your research is not a

guarantee that your application will be successful.

http://programs.unisa.edu.au/public/pcms/program.aspx?pageid=375&sid=1181


http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/What-you-can-study/Professional-doctorates/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-institutes-and-centres/

http://wapfarm.unisa.edu.au/public/dore/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Barbara-Hardy-Institute/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Advanced-Computing-Research-Centre/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Centre-for-Environmental-Risk-Assessment-and-Remediation-/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Centre-for-Industrial-and-Applied-Mathematics/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Defence-and-Systems-Institute/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Mawson-Institute/

http://w3.unisa.edu.au/PBRC/default.asp

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/CWMR/

~ 102 ~

How can you find a supervisor?

Explore one or more of these ways to find a supervisor for your research project.

1. Use the research degree program directory to find out about research areas available and

key research staff

2. Contact a Research Education Portfolio Leader in the relevant research area, (please refer

to the Research Degree Program Directory).This person can refer you to a potential

supervisor/research project.

Deciding on a suitable research project

In your online application, you will be required to answer some questions about your

proposed research.

A supervisor or Research Education Portfolio Leader may be able to offer help with your

research topic.

Some research topics may be available within projects being undertaken by academic staff

in their school or institute.

Applicants for research Professional Doctorates must contact the Program Director;

Program code

Program name Program Director(s)

IPPJ

Doctor of Project Management

Dr Nicholas Chileshe

LPEX

Doctor of Engineering Practice

Dr Tim Ferris

4. Find a scholarship

You may be eligible for a scholarship to finance your degree.

In your online application, you will need to provide information about any scholarships you

may wish to apply for:

Domestic Scholarships: Australian and New Zealand applicants

Check the scholarships available to New Zealand Citizens, Australian Citizens and

Australian Permanent Residency holders by referring to this web page,

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/Scholarships/Australian-scholarships/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/What-you-can-study/Research-degree-programs/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/How-to-apply/Find-a-research-degree-coordinator/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/What-you-can-study/Professional-doctorates/





http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/staff-list.asp?Name=Timothy.Ferris

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/Scholarships/Australian-scholarships/

~ 103 ~

International Scholarships: Non Australian and New Zealand applicants

Check the scholarships available to international applicants by referring to this web page,

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/Scholarships/International-

scholarships/

5. Organise referee reports

You will need to contact two academic referees and ask them to recommend you.

These Academic Referee Reports will be used to rank your application. Your referees must

complete all sections of the report.

Ask your academic referees to complete the Academic Referees Report which can be found

here, http://www.unisa.edu.au/Global/Research/How%20to%20apply/HDRrefereesreport.rtf

6. Apply online

You are now ready to complete the online application form.

What information must you provide?

In your online application, you will need to provide details about:

your proposed research, including the proposed thesis title

any awards or prizes you've received

any professional experience

any publications you have authored or co-authored

The Apply Online web page can be found by following this link,

https://webapplications.unisa.edu.au/student/applyonline/register/register.aspx

7. Provide documentation

Once you have completed your online application, all you need to do now is provide copies

of your documentation via email to [email protected]

With your online application you will need to provide:

transcripts of undergraduate, honours and postgraduate courses undertaken (even if not

completed)

certification of English language proficiency (if relevant)

passport details or evidence of citizenship

copies of any publications you have authored or co-authored or ISBN references.

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/Scholarships/International-scholarships/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Research/Research-degrees/Scholarships/International-scholarships/

http://www.unisa.edu.au/Global/Research/How%20to%20apply/HDRrefereesreport.rtf

https://webapplications.unisa.edu.au/student/applyonline/register/register.aspx


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