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Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
1
Faculty of Engineering
and Information Technology
ABSTRACTS
CAPSTONE PROJECT PRESENTATIONS
Autumn Semester 2013
Broadway Campus
27th
& 28th
June 2013
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
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Investigation of the DICER 1500 Indirect Evaporative Cooling System for Future
Completion at the University of Technology, Sydney (12cp)
Ricky Anthony Bertinato - A13-048
Supervisor: John Dartnall
Assessor: Guang Hong
Major: Mechanical
Global warming is a real issue facing the world today, as too is the rising demand in energy
consumption. Air conditioning is an accepted means of cooling globally, however comes at the
expense of high energy usage. In peak heat waves, the overwhelming surge in electrical demand
is damaging and unsustainable. A new energy-efficient method of cooling is required to replace
the current mechanical vapor-compression model.
The DICER1500 indirect evaporative cooling unit is a possible solution to meet the cooling
needs for the Australian public, and internationally. This is achievable by the units ability to
provide sufficient comfort cooling with significantly smaller energy consumption. The unit is
currently installed, however it is yet to have its performance validated.
The project to install and validate the DICER1500 unit began in 2004, with John Dartnall,
leading the project, and John McNab, the designer of the unit. Since then the unit has been
fabricated, transported and installed at the University of Technology, Sydney. The unit has been
worked on for many of the following years but the validation component is still to reach
completion. This is due to the requirement of expensive instrumentation and unavailable
funding.
My project has involved an investigation of the unit to assess the condition of unit components
which are currently installed, as well as what remaining instrumentation is required.
Analysis of the system has allowed me to identify the extent of the work which is required to
complete the instrumentation for evaluating the unit. My report includes recommended
maintenance and/or replacement of key system components and the selection of outstanding
instrumentation which is to be purchased and installed. My work provides all necessary
documentation to enable both testing and continued maintenance of the air conditioning system.
My documentation will allow the final stage of instruction to be completed so that cooling
performance can be monitored and validated. The unit‟s cooling performance is expected to
excel in extreme hot conditions. This performance characteristic makes the DICER1500 a
viable solution as a standalone cooling unit or as a hybrid system, when coupled with a
conventional vapor-compression unit.
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Feasibility Study into the Relief or Prevention of Chronic Xerostomia Caused by
Irradiation of the Head, Neck, and Throat - (12cp)
Haydn Bottle - S12-013
Supervisor: Sarath Kodagoda
Assessor: Shoudong Huang
Major: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering Major BEBBus and BEBSc
Xerostomia is a disabling condition that affects a significant proportion of the population.
Causes are varied, and can be distributed randomly throughout the populous, with different
degrees of effect and severity. Many of the causes are temporary, and can be alleviated or
removed by identifying the causal relationship and addressing the issue. Some causes are non-
treatable, due to the aetiology of xerostomia being irreversible, untreatable or unidentifiable.
This project aims to develop an understanding of the root causes of xerostomia in a broad sense,
and then to focus on the specific consequences of xerostomia caused by irradiation of the head,
neck and throat, specifically in its relationship towards sleep. This undertaking is being done in
the context of engineering from first principles. In order to understand the unique circumstances
surrounding this condition to better evaluate understand and hopefully propose a path forward
for sufferers of more severe and untreatable stages in the condition, there will be a significant
academic development.
The work being undertaken here will demonstrate through extensive theoretical research, as
well as from the contribution of expert opinion that the treatment of xerostomia is a difficult and
sophisticated issue, further exacerbated by the complexity of radiation inducing the condition.
There is currently no significant treatment for xerostomia that is available to all causes for the
condition.
The tools used evaluate this project are academic, and will provide the framework for further
engineering research. The research gathered during the course of this project has been used to
develop, and analyse several first principles, pre-prototype designs in the hopes of providing
engineering requirements and specifications so that future work can be undertaken. By
following the best available information the most suitable candidate for further exploration has
been selected and proposed as a potential step in a Xerostomia solution.
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Monitoring and Control of Cardio-Vascular System during Bicycle Exercise - (12cp)
Thomas Burns - S12-015
Supervisor: Steven Su
Assessor: Li Li
Major: Electrical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The Australian Population is aging. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics the median
age of an Australian today is 36.6 Years. As the population ages we become more susceptible to
various diseases and illnesses, a prime example of this is cardiovascular disease. Coronary
Heart disease alone was responsible for 17% of all deaths in 2007 and affects over 600 000
Australians.
A key treatment of this disease is exercise training, which is recommended between 2-6 times a
week. This exercise is normally performed under the supervision of a doctor in order to ensure
that the exercise is beneficial without being too strenuous, as well as to ensure no cardiac
episodes occur. This process is expensive in terms of time and money for both the doctor and
the patient, as the patient must travel to a specialist facility and requires constant supervision
from a doctor.
An increasing array of small low cost computing platforms such as Android and iOS, have
given rise to a platform on which remote health monitoring solutions can be built. These
systems can reduce the cost rehabilitation.
Android is an open source mobile operating system designed by Google. It currently dominates
the market and is emerging as a health services platform.
This project has been developed in collaboration with the CSIRO. Its base platform is a
Motorola Xoom 2 table PC. This device can wirelessly collects patient cardiac data and
produces an audible output in order to adjust the load placed upon the patient while exercising.
An integral type control has been proposed and implemented in the developed system to
optimize the effect of exercise and ensure the exercise intensity within the safe region.
As this platform contains both 3G and Wi-Fi transceivers it can be used to transmit data back to
the patients and healthcare professional. Furthermore, if the patient experiences excess
difficulty, they have the option of initiating a video call to seek assistance.
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Submersible Pylon Inspection Robot – Designing a Supervised Autonomous Solution for
Inspection and Servicing of Underwater Infrastructure - (12cp)
David Chadwick - S12-021
Supervisor: Dikai Liu
Assessor: Gamini Dissanayake
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The regular inspection and maintenance of bridges is necessary to meet their intended lifetime
and ensure safety. The greater majority of bridges that span bodies of water have part of the
structure submerged. Traditionally human divers are employed to maintain and inspect the
submerged structure. However this work is laborious and dangerous, presenting a problem in
limited operating times and the possibility of serious injury. A supervised autonomous robotic
system provides a promising and feasible solution.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) designs vary
greatly to provide flexibility in operational tasking. However, no AUV has been designed to
perform the complex task of underwater pylon servicing. Given the capability gap in existing
technology and the task requirements, the question posed is; can a supervised AUV be
developed to perform these tasks effectively?
The aim of this project is to produce a supervised autonomous robotic solution for underwater
maintenance and inspection of structures. In order to achieve this, the complex problem must be
analysed and system requirements must be derived. The overall concept design must be
developed. Auxiliary systems, control systems, machine sensing, and a method of adhesion
must be developed, prototyped, and tested. The entire system must be capable of operating in a
hostile and challenging underwater environment.
This capstone provides findings from research into current devices and procedures used to
perform underwater pylon servicing. A detailed constraints analysis of the problem and
recommendations for system requirements is presented. Current literature has been reviewed to
determine the novelty of the research and the results discussed. An overall concept design is
presented with a discussion on its evolution of development and options for several sub-system
solutions explored. A kinematic analysis of one manipulator arm is presented and a way
forward for continued development of the entire design suggested.
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Condition Assessment of Water Mains (Cast Iron -Cement Lined) - (12cp)
Kabiyatri Chapagain - S12-024
Supervisor: Huu Hao Ngo
Assessor: Wenshan Guo
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Many water utilities have identified the need to replace, repair or rehabilitate the cast iron pipes
as the average age of these water mains increase. However, resources required to renew these
aging water distribution systems are large but are limitedly available. An efficient asset
management strategy that inspects and monitors the structural and functional state of these
assets is important. A well-defined proactive condition assessment tool has to be adopted to
prevent failure and improve the reliability, safety and efficiency of water supply.
The purpose of this project is to compile the condition assessment technologies adopted by
water utilities and to identify the gaps that need to be addressed. A comprehensive list of
existing technologies is provided along with their advantages and limitations. Linear
Polarisation Resistance (LPR) is adopted for the assessment of buried Cast Iron Cement Lined
(CICL) water mains. Determining the reliability of this assessment tool is the key point of the
project in addition to the challenges and limitations associated with the assessment tool.
Additionally, the evaluation of the assessment tool and its deficits are addressed for further
investigation.
The results obtained by LPR and the available historical data about the pipe performance and
failure from utility‟s database are analysed. LPR can be adopted as a tool for asset replacement
decision tool for critical assets where no failure is tolerable but for non-critical assets, decisions
made on the basis of actual history of failure and cost benefit analysis could be more
economical. Although a substantial amount of work and effort has been invested in developing
approaches and tools for the condition assessment of water mains, increased field
demonstrations and further research is required to overcome these barriers and challenges.
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Design and Development of an Aurecon Australia Competency System - (12cp)
Gideon Chapman - A13-041
Supervisor: Ravin Bagia
Assessor: Mary Walmsley
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), the governing transport agency of the New South
Wales Government, is changing their competency requirements for rail infrastructure projects.
From 1 July 2013 the newly formed Asset Standards Authority (ASA), an autonomous agency
of TfNSW, will begin formal release of these new requirements. Engineering contractors will
have to have a robust, self-managed competency system in place in order to attain qualification
as an Authorised Engineering Organisation (AEO). Contractors such as Aurecon Australia,
who do not have AEO status, will no longer be eligible to undertake TfNSW rail infrastructure
projects.
This Capstone Project examines Aurecon Australia‟s existing rail competency management
system, the Engineers Australia Competency Standards, and the new ASA/TfNSW
requirements and presents a proposal to Aurecon for a new company-wide competency
management system.
This project begins with a thorough analysis of Aurecon‟s existing competency system in which
its elements and processes are scrutinised to develop a preliminary list of requirements. The
requirements for obtaining AEO status under TfNSW have been added, along with additional
requirements to help align the new system to the Engineers Australia Competency Standards.
Further analysis includes identification of potential implementation issues, particularly with
respect to change management and successful adoption of the new system. Other issues such as
privacy of information and accessibility are also covered.
Finally, this proposal takes the form of a recommendation to Aurecon to implement a
Competency Enterprise Database System. It clearly outlines the benefits of the proposed
internet-based data system and how it satisfies Aurecon‟s competency management
requirements. The proposal outlines how the new system facilitates the process by which
Aurecon may gain AEO status, as well as assist their employees in managing and developing
their competencies.
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The Soil Landscape Mapping Process - Past, Present and Future - (12cp)
Emilio Charles - A13-029
Supervisor: Jane Brennan
Assessor: Pam Hazelton
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The continued trend of population growth and housing shortages in outer CBD areas of
Australian cities has created an exponential demand for urbanised landscapes. The problem
caused by this demand is that land with greater suitability for a variety of purposes is used
singularly for residential or urban development with scant regard for alternatives, such as
agriculture, recreation or preservation. This creates a lack of land for these purposes. A
sustainable solution must be found; one that considers the capacity of the landscape without
degrading the quality of its soil and water resources. As a part of this continued urban
expansion, Soil Landscape Mapping is one of the essential tools of land use planning that
ensures sustainable growth.
However, existing Soil Landscape Maps, whether manual or digital, are limited in its
accessibility to individuals and non-expert stakeholders. There is either limited soil mapping
information, or where available, it is often difficult to interpret by end users for their specific
purpose.
The aim of this capstone thesis is to examine the general methodologies and processes used to
develop soil landscape maps created for land-use planning. In doing so, the report will
rationalise and simplify the mapping process utilised by soil scientists and surveyors. The core
hypothesis of this report is to determine whether it is feasible to automate the Soil Landscape
Mapping process using Digital Soil Mapping. With sufficient soil and landscape data, and logic
based reasoning to emulate a soil surveyor‟s decision making process, the Soil Landscape
Mapping process would be one step closer in making soil information more accessible to end
users.
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Comparison of Sydney’s Public Transportation System to Hong Kong’s Public
Transportation Systems (12cp)
Ho Lung Cheung - S12-025
Supervisor: Ken Halstead
Assessor: Ali Saleh
Major: Civil Engineering
Abstract
Public transportation is needed in every city to assist the movement of its population. Despite
Sydney being a well-developed city, but its public transport network is underdeveloped causing
much irritation with Sydney‟s population. Sydney's current public transportation system is
under strain and has reached its capacity. Reforms, upgrades and new systems are required to
improve it for the current needs and prepare it for predicted population growth.
In Sydney, public transport development has been stagnant for many years; while in Hong
Kong, the public transport has gone through numerous changes and development. This project
aims to outline advantages of Hong Kong's public transportation and recommend some of these
advantages for Sydney's transport system.
The purpose of this report is to analysis each mode of transport used in each city through its
capacity, efficiency and effectiveness. Then an analysis will be conducted on the entire
transportation infrastructure. The system analysis will focus on convenience and ease of use.
The findings of this report are based on data provided by the government regarding Sydney‟s
commercial, residential and industrial centres. For example Sydney‟s current public transports‟
fares are based on zonal system this is due to the focus on Sydney‟s CBD as the commercial
centre. However, new commercial centres such as Chatswood and Parramatta are emerging.
This report suggests developing transport fare system towards travel distance.
While there are countless other reports analysing multiple cities, this report has been
specifically set for Sydney. This research could also be used as a reference guide to integrate
new up-and-coming technologies, resulting in a further polished transport system.
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Assessment of Strength and Ductility Behaviour of Fibre Reinforced Concretes
Incorporating Steel, Plastic and Glass Fibres - (12cp)
Todd Clarke - A13-018
Supervisor: Kirk Vessalas
Assessor: Robert McLaughlan
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The importance of concrete to modern construction cannot be understated. Any slight
modifications to concrete mix design can lead to long-term implications in service which can
compromise strength and durability. Much research has been carried out to improve the
properties of concrete to reduce its economic cost and adverse effect on the environment. One
effective method of improving the properties of concrete involves the use of fibres. The addition
of fibres in fibre reinforced concrete is known to increase the flexural and tensile strengths, and
post-cracking ductility. Steel fibres are often used to increase the flexural toughness of concrete
while plastic and glass fibers are commonly used as a means to reduce cracking from shrinkage.
Recently, plastic and glass fibres have been proposed as alternatives to steel fibres in structural
applications due to their lower cost and enhanced resistance to chemical attack. This
investigation aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of concrete incorporating different
volumetric additions of steel, plastic and glass fibres.
Three structural fibres have been selected for evaluation in this study: flat-end stainless steel,
high-performance polymer and high-performance alkali resistant glass fibres. These fibres have
been dosed at 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6% by volume of total concrete. For comparison, a control mix
devoid of fibres has also been included. All mixes were tested for compressive and flexural
strengths at 28 and 56 days curing. The benefit of fibre addition to concrete is clearly
demonstrated by improved flexural strength. Compared to the control, the flexural strength of
fibre reinforced concrete containing steel, plastic and glass fibres was observed to increase up to
12%, 11% and 19%, respectively. Results for structural members also signify that post-cracking
ductility increased for steel and plastic fibre additions to concrete. This investigation signifies
the use of plastic and glass fibres in concrete for structural applications for ultimately reducing
member size and lowering the economic cost of producing concrete.
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Investigating the Hydraulic Roughness of Loop Profile - (12cp)
Matthew Cremona - S12-031
Supervisor: Ali Keshavarzi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Since the introduction of trenchless technology into the sewer rehabilitation industry, innovative
technologies have been developed to address the need for cost effective and low disruptive
sewer rehabilitation. Loop Profile, a novel spirally wound trenchless technology, was developed
by Interflow to rehabilitate sewer pipelines incorporating bends. It features a unique „loop‟,
which, when the profile is spirally wound into the deteriorated host pipe, enables the Loop
Profile pipe to contract and extend at the loop to form the shape of the bend.
However, concern had been raised about the „loop‟ potentially acting as a contraction to flow
through the pipe. Therefore, the aim of the Capstone project was to conduct an experimental
investigation to measure the hydraulic roughness of Loop Profile. From this investigation, the
measured roughness of Loop Profile would be compared against roughness values of PVC,
Expanda Profile and concrete to determine the applicability of Loop Profile as a trenchless
rehabilitation technology.
In development of a methodology, it was found that the standard for spirally wound pipes, I.S
EN13566-7:2007 failed to propose a methodology for determination of hydraulic roughness.
Therefore, the secondary aim of the project was to address this limitation through development
of a certified experimental methodology for investigating hydraulic roughness.
The roughness of Loop Profile was calculated through measurement of head losses occurring
throughout a Loop Profile pipe. Pressure measurements were taken from five points along the
pipe and substituted into roughness equations to determine the friction coefficients. These
coefficients were then compared against appropriate roughness coefficients for PVC, Expanda
Profile and concrete.
The project successfully established a methodology for calculating hydraulic roughness and
accurately determined the hydraulic roughness of Loop Profile. The comparison illustrated that
the roughness of Loop Profile was within an acceptable range and certified the profile as an
acceptable rehabilitation technology.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
12
Development of Engineered Bamboo for Structural Application - (12cp)
Srdjan Djukic - S12-038
Supervisor: Rijun Shrestha
Assessor: Emre Erkmen
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
In today‟s world of construction, the greatest topics are the environmental benefits and cost.
Construction consumes large quantities of resources such as materials and energy, which
generate environmental impacts throughout construction, operation, as well as demolition.
Timber is known to be a natural construction material that is environmentally beneficial in
building construction. Timber‟s embodied energy is the lowest compared to majority of
common construction materials as well as minimising energy through production, construction,
and its environmental advantages of renewability and carbon storage. Major let down is that its
supply is found to be depleting.
The environmental aspects of building construction have influenced current industry leaders and
organisations to invest in alternative materials and methods of manufacture, to provide solutions
to environmental benefits and cost reduction. Similar to timber, bamboo is known to be
commonly used as a traditional construction material but in minor construction. Bamboo‟s
tensile strength is comparable to mild steel; however, there is large variation in properties of
bamboo among different species and within even same species. Bamboo‟s harvest duration is
eight times faster than timber, making it one of the most cost effective construction materials
whilst it sequesters an equal or greater amount of carbon. (Hoogendoorn 2010)
This capstone investigates the development of engineered bamboo for structural application
through a low cost method of producing bamboo beams with manufacturing, testing and
analysis with its similar materials (timber) for the processing of bamboo to make it more
durable and usable in terms of building materials. Engineered beams formed out of bamboo will
overcome the unfavorable properties such as presence of inter-nodes, hollow core and durability
issues of bamboo. This was proved to be achievable with comparable results but with major
weaknesses found not within the bamboo structure itself, yet the chemical bonding between
bamboo that need to be further researched and tested for improvement.
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Turbulent Airflow past a Rectangular Cylinder Building - (12cp)
Thomas Downie - S12-040
Supervisor: Phuoc Huynh
Assessor: Vahik Avakian
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The successful use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in wind engineering applications
would significantly reduce the time and resources required in comparison with the industry
standard of scale model testing in a physical wind tunnel. Current research has shown promising
but commercially unviable results and little focus has been placed on the variation of incidence
angle or on a high volume point comparison.
This thesis uses the case study of a rectangular cylinder building to compare the mean pressure
coefficient results simulated using CFD k-ω SST model with wind tunnel measurements. It
analyses findings at four angles of incidence - 0°, 30°, 60° and 90°- in turbulent conditions at
143 separate points for each angle. A comprehensive literature review examines the current
state of computational wind engineering research and the theoretical development and
numerical formulation of turbulence modeling for both wind tunnel and CFD methods.
A wind tunnel test using a commercial blockage-tolerant boundary layer wind tunnel was
performed. It showed mean values within a pressure coefficient range of ±1, except for those
located adjacent to the leading edge on the roof. A CFD simulation was run using Ansys CFX
14.0. The results showed a good agreement with the values obtained in the wind tunnel test for
the front (windward) and oncoming side face points. A significant discrepancy was recorded on
the roof points for all angles and for the back (leeward) faces for all cases except the 0° angle.
This exception signals the need for further study and raises interesting questions about CFD‟s
adaptability between building case studies and the relationship between cross sectional length
and accuracy.
It is concluded that the k-ω SST model may, with future experiments confirming consistency,
be used as a preliminary test method for initial designs and prototypes before extensive wind
tunnel testing is performed. However, the comparison of CFD and wind tunnel numerical
results clearly show that the k-ω SST model is not yet commercially viable for computation
wind engineering applications.
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Firmware and Hardware Design of an Inertial Measurement Unit - (12cp)
Mark Dunstan - S12-041
Supervisor: Steven Su
Assessor: Li Li
Major: Electrical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is a device which can be used to determine the orientation,
velocity and gravitational forces acted upon it by the use of accelerometers, gyroscopes and
magnetometers. IMUs are used in a variety of applications including navigation, entertainment,
motion research and human health and safety. Specifically, UTS has the idea to develop a home
based telecare system, which may include various portable noninvasive sensors to monitor
physiological variables as well as body movements. Another potential application of an IMU by
UTS includes research on gait recognition, as a person‟s self-selected gait can lead to a person‟s
likeliness to fall.
While there are already some IMU solutions on the market, they are either too expensive or do
not have the desired flexibility for uses in many applications. Therefore it is highly
advantageous for UTS to have their own designed IMU. My capstone project involves the
firmware and hardware design of an IMU and to ensure that the IMU designed can be flexible
enough to be used for many future applications.
The IMU that has been designed is self-powered via a re-chargeable Li-Ion battery and includes
communications to a PC via USB and Bluetooth, data storage for sensor samples and 9 degrees
of freedom sensing. The firmware includes a communication protocol that allows external
changes to the configuration of the IMU for different data output formats and frequencies to
ensure high flexibility and optimum performance for different applications.
As my capstone is a continuation of an ongoing project, I commenced the project with a
completely untested prototype of the IMU hardware and no firmware. Since commencement, I
have written all firmware and created a new version of the hardware, in which 20 of the new
version of IMUs have been built and tested successfully.
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15
Investigating the Suitability of Recycled Road Building Material - (12cp)
James El Haiby - A13-053
Supervisor: Ken Halstead
Assessor: Ali Saleh
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, every industry is trying to cut down on
its waste generation or more importantly endeavoring to recycle and reuse this waste in useful
applications. Construction and Demolition activities always result with what we call
“Construction and Demolition Waste” (C&D), which, in an ideal world, would easily find their
way to landfills. However, faced with dwindling landfill resources, an urgent need arises to
reuse such waste. This capstone studies the possibility of using recycled C&D waste in road
building applications. It introduces a sustainable approach to the industry knowing that using
such recycled material carries great economic and environmental benefits as compared to the
extraction of virgin resources from the earth.
In this capstone, two stockpiles of recycled C&D material, namely recycled road base (RRB)
and recycled crushed concrete (RCC) will be studied for their suitability as road base. These
stockpiles, located at Fairfield City Council‟s Sustainable Resource Centre (SRC), will be
subject to a number of tests measuring relevant parameters as specified by Australian Standards.
Tests are conducted with the help of the SRC Lab and an external laboratory source (Cardno
Bowler). The measured parameters are then compared with allowable limits specified by
legislative standards (Greenspec and RMS 3051) that govern the use of recycled material in
such applications. Eventually, a real analysis of the final results, taking into consideration
different influential factors that might be involved, reveals the suitability of the stockpiles under
study.
This capstone supports the use of recycled materials as road base in this ever going debate over
whether it is applicable to truly identify the defects of such material in road pavements over the
long term. An interview is conducted with an industry professional Mr. Mohammed Dewji to
obtain his insight on the sustainability approach introduced by this project. Examples of some
local roads that were completely renovated using recycled material will also be presented in
support of this view.
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16
Comparison of Regional Flood Methods for New South Wales - (12cp)
Ian Gilmore - A13-037
Supervisor: James Ball
Assessor: Ken Halstead
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
One of the most common problems facing flood engineers is how to predict flows from
ungauged catchments. Various techniques have been developed by engineers to solve this
problem. When time and resources are lacking one method is to use Regional Flood Frequency
Analysis (RFFA). RFFA involves using regionalised gauged flood data to estimate flood
quantiles of an ungauged catchment.
The RFFA method for eastern NSW specified in Australian Rainfall & Runoff 1987 (ARR87)
was the Probabilistic Rational Method (PRM). In order to improve the predictions from RFFA;
as part of the revision of Australian Rainfall & Runoff (ARR) various RFFA methods were
investigated. As part of Project 5 of the ARR revision the Parameter Regression Technique –
Generalised Least Squares (PRT-GLS) method has been developed and recommended for use in
New South Wales.
The issue that arises is what is the difference in predicted flood discharges between the old and
the new RFFA methods? Project 5 of the ARR revision compared both methods and determined
that the PRT-GLS is the superior method. However no guidance has been given to engineers on
what the difference in predictions will be between the old and new RFFA methods.
The aim of this paper is to compare the PRM with the PRT-GLS across eastern New South
Wales. The comparison will involve comparing the PRM as presented in ARR87 with the PRT-
GLS as developed as part of Project 5 of the ARR revision. The two methods will be compared
spatially for various catchment sizes and for 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 year flood quantiles. The
aim of this comparison is not to determine which method is more accurate; but is to give
guidance to engineers on the differences in predicted flood discharges.
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17
An Investigation into Concentric Pipe Design for a Side-Mount Closed Circuit Rebreather
(SCCR) - (12cp)
Alexander Gilmour - A13-004
Supervisor: Paul Walker
Assessor: Holger Roser
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BEBADipEngPrac
The concept of side mount diving has been and accepted practice by technical and exploration
divers since its development in the 1960‟s. As recreational and technical rebreather diving has
become increasingly popular in recent years there has been an increase in commercial models
available. That these stock models have in turn have been modified and adapted by the more
adventurous and exploratory minded for use as side-mounted rebreathers was inevitable.
The development of singular directional concentric pipes for use in side mount rebreathers is an
essential step in concept design. It will enable cave divers and explorers to dive with individual
side mount rebreather systems and reduce the clutter of the breathing pipes around the diver,
thus reducing the divers profile and the likelihood of equipment entanglement.
The purpose of this study is to determine if the concentric pipe design for the breathing tubes of
a rebreather is plausible. This study focuses on concept design and development of the system
with particular consideration of a suitable concentrically arranged valve assembly, and
incorporates theoretical analysis into the final evaluation. The concepts have been tested and
compared to the current European standards (CEN) for self-contained re-breathing diving
apparatus.
The FEA programs CFD-GEOM and CFD-ACE developed by ESI are essential to the
breakdown and theoretical model development. These programs have allowed for the design
and flow testing of the model. Physical prototypes have been developed on the basis of the
theoretical findings and future direction of development projects have been identified after the
limitations of research have been analysed.
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Sustainable Home Assistant - (12cp)
Joshua Golding - A13-045
Supervisor: Catherine Killen
Assessor: Hiyam Al-Kilidar
Major: Innovation Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Public opinion on „green technology‟ and environmental responsibility has been gradually
increasing for decades, as people become more aware of the detrimental effects of the
consumption of unsustainable resources. Although being a world-wide issue, the Australian
Government and its agencies have implemented a number of initiatives to encourage sustainable
living. These range from construction subsidies to education programs, however they tend to
focus on large-scale projects like buildings and infrastructure, with less focus on the options for
individuals or households. There are currently no readily available tools to assist residents of
Australian households in improving the sustainability features of their home.
By researching a variety of options and additions for home construction, a decision-tool
(Sustainable Home Assistant or SHA) has been created to aid users through the planning stages
of sustainable construction. This was achieved in Microsoft Excel after the collection and
synthesis of relevant data into recognisable criteria. The SHA tool applies to new home builders
and renovators, as well as those simply wishing to improve the sustainable features within their
existing home. The tool gives a customised recommendation after considering input by the user,
including their budget, situational suitability and general preferences.
The SHA is split into a number of categories which present realistic opportunities for
implementation of sustainable features, these are; Energy Use, Water Use, Construction
Materials & Waste, and Household Waste & Pollution. This division allows the user to take a
more direct approach within the desired categories, and accounts for those with a casual interest
in improvement as opposed to a sustainability-focused overhaul. Through the creation of a
database of knowledge on these categories, the assistance tool can also educate the user on
potential options, and in most cases, direct them to another source for further information
should it be desired.
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Feasibility of Implementing a Light Rail Network to Replace Buses along George Street -
(6cp)
Andrei Gudas - A13-016
Supervisor: Ken Halstead
Assessor: Ali Saleh
Major: Civil Engineering Major BBEBBus and BEBsc
On December 13, 2012 as part of the NSW Long Term Transport Masterplan 2012, Premier
Barry O‟Farrell and Minster for Transport Gladys Berejiklian announced that a new light rail
route would be built from Circular Quay to Randwick and Kingsford to be known as the „CBD
and South East Light Rail Project.‟ For the majority of the route within the Central Business
District (CBD) it is proposed that the light rail would operate along George Street, which
coincides with plans to overhaul the CBD bus network under the NSW Long Term Transport
Masterplan; effectively replacing all bus services along George Street with light rail services.
In the absence of any publicly-available feasibility study conducted to support this proposal, this
project will investigate the feasibility of the proposed solution within the CBD and compare it
to the current CBD bus network along George Street. The study will evaluate the general
business case for the proposed CBD light rail network by evaluating the proposal from both an
engineering and financial perspective.
Specifically, this report will investigate engineering challenges in implementing the CBD light
rail network as well as any comparative advantages and disadvantages a light rail network may
have compared to the current CBD bus network. This report will analyse patronage demands
and network capacities of existing and proposed transport systems as well as a top-down
estimate of costs from construction through to operation. This will form the basis of a financial
assessment that will analyse the net present values (NPV) of each solution as well as a cost-
benefit analysis and any economic value added (EVA). Together, all these factors shall be
evaluated together to determine whether the proposed CBD light rail network is a feasible
alternative to the current CBD bus network.
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Can Geothermal Energy Facilitate Required Energy for India’s Emerging Industries -
(12cp)
Anmol Gupta - A13-051
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
India, the world‟s second fastest growing economy, has been exposed to a number of issues
which questions the stability of the country in terms of energy and sustainability. With the rising
industrial sector which outlooks the establishment of the enormous manufacturing projects
invested by the foreign based companies, India will soon need to look beyond their current
source and introduce clean and eco-friendly sources of energy. One of the most convenient
options to be considered is geothermal in order to secure a sustainable future. According to
Gourav et al (2011) the geothermal power projects have not been given any consideration in the
country and hence, have not been exploited at all, owing to a variety of reasons, the chief being
the availability of plentiful coal at cheap costs.
The approach used to acknowledge the problem consisted of hard core research and preliminary
investigations to understand the production process of geothermal energy and why is it
restricted to only certain parts of the world. This research will also facilitate to address the
advantages of geothermal energy by considering the economic issues, which have to be resolved
in the planning stage of the project, to give a clear view of the importance of using geothermal
energy. For example, the concept of geothermal energy arises from the difference in earth‟s
temperature, which usually increases as we go deep, can help to analyse its presence in different
parts of the world which is also a part of this project.
The project provides a detailed written report consisting of the important key points with the
help of case studies and statistical data collected in the primary stage of the project, to give an
insight of the issue and some design and implementation processes are presented in addition.
The problems faced by India in the energy sector are analysed in order to bring the concept in
charge and a real world solution is presented in the form of a recommendation as per the level
of knowledge and experience.
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Compliance of Voltage Unbalance Standards throughout Low Voltage Power Distribution
Networks - (12cp)
Bradley Ham - S12-051
Supervisor: Gerard Boardman
Assessor: Li Li
Major: Electrical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The success of Australia‟s economy and social sustainability depends on the reliability and
quality of its electrical power supply. Power quality standards are put in place to ensure
minimum standards are maintained across Australia‟s power distribution network. Endeavour
Energy, one of three network service providers (NSP) within New South Wales, is responsible
for ensuring all power quality standards set by the regulator are upheld across their franchise
area. The aim of this work is to determine Endeavour Energy‟s ability to achieve present
voltage unbalance tolerances throughout their low voltage network.
This report examines the elements that define a low voltage network and the effect voltage
unbalance has on customer‟s three phase equipment. Network data is analysed across a range of
demographics to determine the current voltage unbalance condition of Endeavour Energy‟s
network. Modeling of a low voltage feeder is then applied to observe the effects individual
elements have on the voltage unbalance experienced by low voltage customers.
The research findings indicate that it is unrealistic to comply with present voltage unbalance
standards across Endeavour Energy‟s entire low voltage network, and that relaxing tolerances
increases the potential of damage to three phase induction motors.
It is the recommendation of this report that an additional clause should be included in AS/NZS
61000.2.2:2003 and the National Electrical Rules (section S5.1a.7). This clause must state; “It is
recognised that the stated voltage unbalance levels are not always achievable. Therefore, before
three phase equipment is connected to the low voltage network, further localised investigations
may be required.”
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Test Rig and Footpad Design for a Bridge Climbing Robot - (12cp)
Mahdi Hassan - S12-054
Supervisor: Dikai Liu
Assessor: Gamini Dissanayake
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Various climbing robots can be used to undertake tasks such as inspection, maintenance and
repair. These robots can be particularly beneficial for performing such tasks on areas where
inspection costs or health and safety risks of having inspectors are high. When considering
inspection on a steel bridge, the choice of the robot and its configuration and components are
limited due to the complexity of the inspection/maintenance zones. The design of the footpad
which is the main focus in this report can be affected to a significant extent due to factors such
as maneuverability of the robot, surface condition of the bridge material, the material itself and
the type of adhesion used.
Footpads with permanent magnets are mainly advantageous for surfaces of ferrous materials
such as the case of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. If Mechanical Advantage principles are used
efficiently to peel the permanent magnets off, this system can be of greater help when compared
to electromagnet applications. Requirements and constraints such as the height of the footpad to
avoid bridge rivets, the outside dimensions to overcome maneuverability over webbing manhole
and the maximum allowable weight of the magnet, limit the practicality of Mechanical
Advantage principles. Numerous footpads were designed and a test rig was constructed to
perform various tests and to check practicality of the prototype. A prototype of a simple design
consisting of three permanent magnets and peeling off mechanism using mechanical advantage
of different sized gears was constructed and found to be practical.
Knowledge of mechanical engineering principles was valuable in this research for finding the
most suitable footpad for this particular application. Understanding concepts such as finite
element analysis for investigating fatigue and life of the footpad, solid mechanics principals
such as stress concentration and distribution were also helpful in examining the strength of the
footpad. Various footpad tests also verified the theoretical values and above mentioned
principles.
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An Investigation into the Construction and Design Aspects of Tailings Dams and Stability
Analysis Using Slope/W - (12cp)
Hang He - S12-055
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Recent increase in tailings dam‟s failures in mining project brought significant awareness in the
engineering construction and design of tailings dams. Many of these failures cause vital impacts
on both the community and the environment.
Numerous engineering applications need to be considered during the construction of the tailings
dams. They are often designed to last for a long lifetime. The structural stability is essential to
guarantee that structural failure does not occur through years of weathering and by natural
impacts. Therefore, research and evaluations in the geotechnical design and construction
aspects, as well as the stability of the impoundments design are significant ensuring the
structural safety of the tailings dams.
In this study, common types of tailings dams‟ construction and design methods that are
currently practiced worldwide are investigated and examined in detail. This includes the
comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tailings dam for the specific
planned purpose. Nonetheless, other applications including failure modes and historical
perspective of the tailings dams including disposals method of tailings and historical failures of
tailings dams are also explored in this project.
In this study, the safety factors for the stability of three main construction methods of tailings
dams: upstream method, downstream method and centerline method are examined using
SLOPE/W package, a limit equilibrium analysis based software. This software package is
developed enabling simulation of the slope stability for different construction and design
scenarios of tailings dams. This makes possible for close examination of the minimum safety
factor in the stability for each type of construction methods of the embankment.
The results and detailed discussion on the construction and design aspects of tailings dams
provided in this report will assist practicing civil engineers in selecting the most appropriate and
reasonable procedures applicable to the future design and construction of tailings dams.
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Analysis and Design Compliance Checks of Truss Systems - (12cp)
Trung Huynh - A13-021
Supervisor: Emre Erkmen
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Steel has been utilised throughout history as a very reliable ductile material that performs
exceptionally well when undergoing both compressive and tensile actions. Due to steel‟s
exceptional load bearing properties, it is used extensively in the civil engineering industry as a
reinforcing material in concrete structures, structural frame of buildings, suspension cables, as
well as structural members of truss bridges to name a few.
Truss bridges are typically made up of straight elements interconnected at joints generally in
triangular patterns, with the elements exposed to either tension or compression loads without
bending stresses. A truss bridge can contain a vast number of members, with each member
exposed to varying compressive and tensile stresses depending on the truss‟s configuration and
exposure to external loads.
Due to many components of a truss bridge, the structural analysis of a truss bridge and each of
its individual structural members can become a complex and extensive process. The creation of
tools to aid engineers with design is a valuable part of structural design in the engineering
industry. The calculations involved in analysing structures are extensive, and coupled with the
accuracy needed to ensure the analysis calculations are correct in order to verify the design
compliance in accordance with Australian Standards and Design Codes, it is crucial that
computations in analysis are done correctly and efficiently.
This project will involve the creation of an analysis tool that will allow a user to input the
properties of a truss bridge which would then compute and analyse the distribution of forces
within the truss bridge. Using the k-stiffness method, the program will conduct static analysis of
the truss. From the static analysis of axial compressive and tension forces, the program will
perform a design compliance check of each individual truss members against Australian
Standards (AS4100 for Steel Design and AS-NZS1170[1].0 for Load Combinations) to
determine if the truss bridge design and load combinations comply with standards outlined in
the design codes.
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Systems Integration: Business Systems Re-Engineering Perspective - (12cp)
Rishabh Jain - S12-066
Supervisor: Zenon Chaczko
Assessor: Julia Prior
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
This project evaluates the needs for integrating business systems and the challenges
organizations are facing in its successful implementation. This research is primarily based on
the case studies on three main industry sectors: healthcare, manufacturing, banking and finance.
The project also covers the concepts and technology of Cloud Computing as well as its scope in
the industry. An attempt has been made to link the high-level business workflows and the low-
level information system applications. It has been found that many prevalent approaches for
integrating business systems tend to model the entire organization using activity- based process
models.
The aim of this project is to explore more transparent workflow models that eliminate the issues
of traditional business software systems such as: an excessive use of paper artifacts, a lack of
integrated real time and updated information, repetitiveness and redundancy of manual data
entry. Most of the system integration projects, however, have failed to resolve the above
aspects, resulting in a slow rate of adoption and diffusion of the phenomenon. This is partly due
to practitioner‟s skepticism on its actual benefits. Despite of all these issues, systems integration
has been on the forefront of the IT sector in the past few years.
In conclusion, this project evaluates the present progress and advancement integration
technologies have made and its future aspects. A thorough analysis of the implementation
techniques adopted by manufacturing, healthcare and banking and finance industries have been
performed with insight into possible future developments. A basic need to integrate large scale
business systems has been developed. An effort has also been made to interlink systems
integration with cloud computing methodologies.
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An Interactive Virtual Stock Exchange Simulator for Investment and Analysis - (12cp)
Arman Jizan - S12-070
Supervisor: Zenon Chaczko
Assessor: Robin Braun
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The stock exchange market is a market where a trader is able to purchase or sell shares in the
company. The use of virtual stock simulators is regarded as an alternative for users at entry
level to practice trading without risking their real funds. Entry level users are keen to get
engaged in real market trading after confidence is gained from practicing.
In recent years, there has been considerable interest for use of stock simulators that operate in a
safe environment. There is, however, a shortage of stock trading desktop applications tools that
integrate variety of options and trading capabilities. Furthermore, the inclusion of irrelevant
information on the simulator websites and lack of clear system feedback messages do not
provide positive user experience. Other factors such as slow responsiveness and insufficient
data visualisation are considered to be problematic and less engaging for entry level traders.
The capstone project attempts to overcome the above issues by implementing a highly
functional stock market simulator that is simple to use for desktop platform. The user-friendly
tool consolidates various functionalities with dashboard visualisation. The solution is
characterised by intuitive features that ensure the barrier to entry is kept at a low level for
beginners to stock trading. The software tool provides the users with virtual funds and utilises
real financial market data that is fed from Google stock API as well as Yahoo finance to present
historical and live feed data. Other features include, enhancement of user experience by
allowing users to view stock information, transaction history, ranking position, personalised
portfolio and access market news articles.
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An Investigation of Contamination Management and Disposal Practices for the North
Strathfield Rail Underpass Project - (12cp)
Natalie Jongebloed - A13-012
Supervisor: Huu Hao Ngo
Assessor: Wenshan Guo
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
This investigation focuses on developing a method for dealing with unexpected contaminated
materials on the North Strathfield Rail Underpass (NSRU) project through a contamination
management plan. As the disposal of contaminated materials is a large cost to this project, it is
of value to ensure the correct and most efficient way of disposing of the materials is imposed
throughout the duration of the job. The investigation determined the best disposal methods for
dealing with the contamination, specifically in regards to cost and recyclability of the material
in accordance with NSW Legislation. Subcontractor(s) were chosen to conduct further testing
on the contaminated material, and to dispose of the materials in accordance with the NSRU
Procurement Management Plan.
All waste materials and spoil to removed off site were assessed, classified and managed in
accordance with the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) Waste Classification
Guidelines (DECC 2008) as per legislative requirements. The investigation has been carried out
by sourcing material from previous projects, and these requirements. The commercial team and
environmental team have worked together to produce the outcomes in this investigation to
ensure costs are kept to a minimum and the best management practices are in place.
The results outline the requirements for unexpected contamination during construction, and
demonstrate effective contamination management practices with a contamination management
plan. Subcontractors have been selected by following the NSRU procurement guidelines and
contracts will be in place for efficiency and consistency throughout the project. As a practicing
civil engineer, it is of significance to have a good understanding of management plans and
guidelines for any project. Each civil project is different, however the knowledge gained from
this investigation will be helpful when dealing with large amounts or even small amounts of
contamination in future projects.
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Experimental Analysis of Routing Optimisation Using Mutual and Other Information in
Wireless Sensor Networks - (12cp)
Adarsh Kesari - S12-076
Supervisor: Robin Braun
Assessor: Zenon Chaczko
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
In any communications network, the optimization of traffic is a fundamental step to ensure the
effective transmission of information through the topology. This is further typified in wireless
sensor networks, which often encounter larger information losses, due to noise and other
interferences. The concept of mutual information defines the information space that is shared
between two wireless sensors, essentially the information that is known by each of the sensors
simultaneously.
The global mutual information aims to determine the amount of commonality in information
spaces for wireless sensor networks. The mutual information is a probability function with
values between 0 and 1. The summation of these values in an entire network provides the least
cost route across the network, as less “new” information needs to be transmitted through the
network. This theory has been explored theoretically by Braun & Chaczko (2011).
The capstone project undertaken explores the optimization mechanisms used in routing network
traffic through wireless sensor networks. Using Java, this experimental analysis addresses
various topologies and nodal network structures, to determine the least cost route through the
wireless sensor network. The aim is to determine find the “best-case” optimization value for the
global mutual based upon the routes taken in the constrained test cases. This analysis will
address the benefits and constraints of various routing algorithms, and provide a scenario-
tailored optimization methodology to dynamically route wireless sensor traffic.
The theory of mutual information can form the basis to a greater understanding of information
flow in ad-hoc networks. In an ad-hoc network, information needs to travel between the start
and final positions as efficiently as possible, with minimal data loss. As a result, the information
paths taken require an understanding of the topology and the various link values to determine
the best path to get information to the recipient.
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An Assessment of Concrete Properties Using Recycled Glass Sand in Standard and RMS
Paving Applications - (12cp)
Abraham Khoury - A13-020
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The rising difficulties associated with escalating carbon dioxide emissions and the increasing
demand for more sustainable building solutions, are concurrently placing pressures on the
concrete industry to amend traditional concrete mix design practices. Concrete manufacture is
not only heavily reliant on the use of earth‟s scarce resources, but also an intensive energy
process leading to the generation of undesirable greenhouse gases. Such characteristics define
the unsustainable nature associated with traditional concrete manufacture.
Boral Australia has recognised the importance in catering for the development of
environmentally sustainable concrete. The organisation has introduced a recycled glass sand
product into its standard 32 MPa concrete mixes. Glass constitutes an approximate fine
aggregate replacement value of 25%. This study aims to investigate the influence of
incorporating such glass content by comparing performance of fresh and hardened concrete
properties in relation to a control mix design not containing glass sand.
In further facilitating the development of environmentally sustainable concrete, this study aims
to investigate the influence of incorporating recycled glass sand at various replacement contents
of the fine aggregate component in RMS R83 concrete designed mixes. Such study of
assessment pertained to assessing fresh and hardened concrete properties in relation to
performance tolerances depicted in the R83 specification. Incorporation of recycled glass at
replacement contents of 10%, 20% and 40 % of the fine aggregate component in a paving base
concrete mix, enabled the determination of how recycled glass interacts within the concrete
matrix at various intensity volumes and assessment of the suggested 30% replacement rate as
specified in the proposed new revision of the RMS R83 specification. Hence, trends in concrete
performance with relation to replacement levels of incorporated recycled glass are studied to
verify the optimal glass replacement content in paving base mixes. The findings of this project
indicate that using recycled glass sand in paving applications can yield sustainable concrete at
40% replacement rates whilst inducing improvements in drying shrinkage behavior and
concrete workability. The neutral effects of glass sand on air entrainment and marginal
reductions in hardened concrete properties yielded from such study further supports the use of
glass sand in a paving application.
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Android Application – Music Store Locator - (12cp)
Vu La - S12-081
Supervisor: Zenon Chaczko
Assessor: Doan B. Hoang
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Consider yourself a musician and you are in need of a replacement for a component of one of
your musical equipment. What do you do? The first answer would most likely to Google it and
then spend a considerable amount of time browsing through pages and pages to locate a music
store that meets your needs as well as being closest to you. Well now imagine how much time
you can save if all of the stores that are available are gathered into a single place where you can
locate these stores by just a few touches. With today‟s modern advancement in smart devices
technology this can be achievable through the development of Android application.
Currently in the Android application market there has yet to be an app that allows the location
of music stores. There are various applications that have similar functionalities which could be
referred to as locator apps; however these apps are primarily for locating places such as
restaurants, banks, coffee stores and so forth. There has yet to be one for locating music stores
which is understandable as the market size for this would be considerably less than the above
mentioned. Despite the market being relatively smaller than others, it has been identified that
there is still a need for such an app which has yet to be covered.
In order to address this, the development of an Android application that will allow the location
of all the music stores available to be revealed to the user will be developed. Some basic
functionality of the application will include searching functionalities such as returning stores
around a specified radius; displaying store information (i.e. phone number and addresses) and
the visual representation of all the stores based on the user search criterion on a map. The
development will be targeted at the Android operating system and hence will be programmed
using a combination of the Java and XML programming languages. Being in the initial stages of
development the app will be restricted to only stores within Sydney, however if proven to be
successful the scope would naturally be expanded further.
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Derivation, Implementation and Testing of Fuzzy and LQR Controllers for Active
Hydraulically Interconnected Suspension – (12cp)
Quang Viet Cuong Lam - S12-225
Supervisor: Prof Nong Zhang
Assessor: Lifu Wang
Major: Mechanical and Mechatronics
Active Hydraulically Interconnected Suspension (HIS) has proposed a solution to compensate
the limitations of conventional active suspensions such as expensive cost and high energy
consumption. Active HIS is constructed by two hydraulic circuits crossing-connected between
front and rear actuators at each side. The four actuators are mounted between the wheel hub and
a roll plane of vehicle and powered by a hydraulic pressure unit through the hydraulic
interconnected pipes. This configuration of suspension allows the controls of rolling motion of
vehicle under external disturbances such as ground input causing by road roughness and/or
lateral excitation due turning maneuver.
Under external disturbance, the vehicle‟s body rolls about a longitudinal axis. Rollover
accident, which seriously causes injuries or death may occur if the roll angle of the vehicle is
out of a threshold. Therefore, the priority target of this project is to minimize the roll angle by
controlling the roll motion of the vehicle‟s body
Deriving the controller for the active HIS is necessary to capture the primary target of this
project. In this project, Fuzzy Logic Control, which is a modern control theory without using
model-base, is investigated and applied to derive linear and none-linear Fuzzy controller. In
addition, mathematical model is developed in order to utilize optimal control method such as
LQR is addressed in this project.
This project aims to verify a control method which can be applied to active HIS to control the
roll motion. Several control algorithms such as Fuzzy Logic Control, Fuzzy-PID and LQR are
developed in simulation then experimentally tested on the proposed system. Finding results
indicate that linear and none-linear Fuzzy controllers show the controllability and applicability
to active HIS system. In the future, applying adaptive Fuzzy Logic method such as T-S Fuzzy
and Fuzzy Type II is suggested with a purpose to optimize the control performance of the
system.
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Development of a Condition Monitoring Framework - A Case Study in the
Implementation of ISO 17359:2011 - (6cp)
Michael Leversha - A13-311
Supervisor: Shoudong Huang
Assessor: Sarath Kodagoda
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BEBBus and BEBSc
Condition monitoring plays a vital role in Condition Based Maintenance (CBM), a program of
maintenance that is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the most efficient strategies for
conducting maintenance across a wide range of industries.
There is a growing body of evidence which shows that a correctly implemented condition
monitoring program can drastically reduce maintenance costs across a wide number of
industries. However, there are also a number of instances where condition monitoring programs
have been implemented which have delivered no measureable improvement to plant reliability,
or any significant cost savings. Thus, it is important that a condition monitoring program is
developed correctly, with careful selection of condition monitoring techniques and purposeful
selection of equipment to be included.
International Standard ISO 17359:20011 Condition Monitoring and Diagnostics of Machines –
General Guidelines is an international standard that has been developed to provide a series of
guidelines and a generic procedure for the development of a condition monitoring framework.
This generic procedure is designed to ensure that any condition monitoring program
implemented includes only relevant condition monitoring techniques, and is targeted to detect
measurable failure modes in the equipment.
This project follows the method for the development of a condition monitoring framework as
outlined in ISO 17359:2011, and implements this method in a real world situation. By following
the generic procedures outlined in ISO 17359:2011 this project identifies the critical stages of
the procedure which must be followed to implement an effective condition monitoring program.
With the development of a condition monitoring program, key areas are identified where
additional work can be conducted to reduce the complexity of the procedure, and identify data
that can be captured, stored and reused to allow for more efficient procedure to be developed for
future use.
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Improvement of Mechanical Properties of Kaolinite Using Whey - (12cp)
Weiqi Li - S12-083
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Deep soil mixing technic is a relative new but advanced technic applying in improving soil
property, particularly in clay, which is not suitable for civil or structural construction. Such
technic is widely applied in Australia for the civil construction site. And generally the project
involving this technic is relatively large and long construction period, therefore, quantities of
material, which cement and water, is required and such cost is significant. This research aims to
find out alternative material (whey) which is treated as waste or by-product during
manufacturing to replace or partially replace the water or cement content maintaining its
strength resulting in reducing the cost of construction.
This research selects Kaolinite Q38 as the experiment material, simplifying and simulating the
most common soil properties in Australia. Base on the previous experiment result, it can be
concluded that 50% water content would reach its liquid limit state and can be applied in this
experiment.
Whey which is the by-product in cheese manufacturing process is commonly treated as waste in
most cheese production company. By considering its large production and low cost, it is chosen
to be the main alternative component in the deep soil mixing material. Different percentages of
whey mixing with cement for two curing periods are conducted in this experiment providing a
reasonable conclusive result.
The result indicates an obvious relationship between whey content and soil properties. The
samples‟ strength tends to decrease by increasing whey content mixing with cement but tend to
increase by curing for longer period. Thus the consideration of applying whey mixing with
cement should be thoughtful and careful.
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Investigation of Leakage and Obstructs in Pipes - (12cp)
Xuesong Li - S12-084
Supervisor: Phuoc Huynh
Assessor: Vahik Avakian
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
With more and more pipelines being implemented around the world, there is an increasing
number of problems occurs in the pipe which will result in the loss of natural energy. There are
two main issues that will lead to such problems are leaking and blockage in pipeline systems.
The main aim of this project is to investigate the effect of leaking and blockage in the pipeline
mainly by analysis the pressure difference in the pipe due to it is one of the main reasons that
cause harm to the pipeline system.
In order to achieve this goal, a computational fluid dynamics model has been developed to
simulate and analyse the problem. The media we use in the pipeline is water due to it is one of
the substances that being transferred in the pipeline network. In the research, the standard k-ε
turbulence method was adopted. The CFD model is developed and verified for simulating a
steady state process. During the simulation, difference percentage of leaking has been used to
determine the trend of the pressure in some particular points.
There are two methods that have been used to investigate this problem. Setting the inlet velocity
as constant is one way of doing the simulation and the other way is set the inlet pressure as
constant. There is a limitation of comparing the result with real world experiment due to the
inappropriate of doing the experiment at this stage. However, compare with the result with
theoretical calculation, the data from CFD is trustworthy.
Another simulation that has been done is to extend the “blockage in pipe” part which see the
blockage as a soft particle and see how it moves in the pipe. To simplify this part, the simulation
just uses oil as media.
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Finite Element Simulation of Accelerated Preloading Using Vacuum to Improve Soft
Clays - (12cp)
Benjamin Ling - A13-026
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
As urban population centres grow, future development may occur away from preferable land
and favorable ground conditions. Soft clays will need improvement prior to construction of high
density commercial or residential infrastructure. This issue is particularly pertinent to Sydney,
which must continue expanding west away from traditional sandstone grounds towards softer
clays/sandy loam. Because the widely popular Plaxis software has no native feature or function
to automatically model vacuum preloading, validation of this proposed method will reduce the
need for costlier software package alternatives.
Vacuum suction preloading can be used instead of or in conjunction with traditional fill
consolidation and PVDs. This suction induces isotropic effective stress increase and eliminates
the traditional failure surface - therefore it can be applied in one full loading stage in situations
where several smaller fill loading stages would normally be required to achieve similar
consolidation. Vacuum preloading also achieves required consolidation much more rapidly than
traditional preloading.
This paper will describe the problematic nature of soft soils, traditional preloading and vacuum
preloading; a brief overview of Plaxis; and detail a possible vacuum modeling method in Plaxis.
The results of a previously conducted laboratory experiment and numerical predictions
available in literature on clay soils were replicated using Plaxis. This proposed method to
simulate vacuum preloading using Plaxis finite element software can be used by practicing
geotechnical engineers in ground improvement projects.
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Investigation into Conversion of Existing Gasoline Internal Combustion Engines to 85%
Ethanol Blended Fuels (E85) - (12cp)
Franjo Lukacevic - A13-047
Supervisor: Terry Brown
Assessor: Guang Hong
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Gasoline has long dominated the automotive industry as the fuel of choice for spark ignition
engines. With fossil fuel depletion and climate change becoming an ever increasing concern a
replacement to gasoline that is renewable and clean is needed. Alternatives like electric and
hybrid vehicles are still in their early stages and are not currently practical enough to remove
society‟s reliance on gasoline.
Ethyl alcohol, better known as Ethanol, is a fuel that is both renewable and considered to be
significantly cleaner than gasoline. Ethanol is currently blended with gasoline to form E10 fuel
as most vehicles cannot operate with more than 10% ethanol. To reduce reliance on gasoline,
automobiles will be required to run higher quantities of ethanol like E85. Only a few specially
designed vehicles are able operate with E85 fuel. Converting existing vehicles and internal
combustion engines to use E85 fuel rather than waiting on automotive manufactures to release
E85 compatible vehicles presents a solution to reducing gasoline dependence. Conversion of
existing vehicles and engines may present a cheaper and quicker solution than waiting for
automotive manufactures to design and manufacture E85 compatible vehicles.
This research project examined the current issues with gasoline designed engines and vehicles
when operating on E85 fuel. The project made justified recommendations on requirements for
all the affected vehicles systems to run E85 without issue. The project used theory along with
referenced and original experimental research to determine important relevant issues and
recommendations to overcome them. The project identified and corrected common
misunderstandings about ethanol fuels used in gasoline vehicles. The project will serve as
reference to academics, engineers and automotive enthusiasts wishing to convert from gasoline
to E85 fuel.
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Investigation of Timber Concrete Composite Shear Connectors Using Light Weight
Concrete EPS - (12cp)
Angus Lumsden - A13-030
Supervisor: Rijun Shrestha
Assessor: Shami Nejadi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BBEBBus and BEBsc
The use of light weight concrete in construction is limited in applications. However it provides a
great deal of benefits, including reduced self-weight of structure, improved energy absorption
under earth quake loading and improved thermal properties.
Timber Concrete Composite (TCC) systems utilize the strengths of each material with concrete
subjected to compression and timber subjected to tension. This will have potential to be used in
the construction industry because of its ability to provide a high strength beam that is light
weight, ductile compared to full concrete beams, and environmentally friendly.
There are two types of light weight concrete that will be tested. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
and scoria. These concretes replace the heavy aggregates of conventional concrete with
polystyrene beads and light weight pumice rock. Light weight concrete has a lower mass
density, a higher ductility as well reduced ultimate compressive and tensile strength compared
to conventional concrete.
A difficulty in creating a Timber Composite Concrete beam is the interlayer connection. The
shear connection between the timber and concrete face is crucial to the composition and
efficiency of the beam. Several different methods for shear connection have been tested using
conventional concrete.
This capstone paper presents a comparison of shear connectors in different concretes. The tests
will compare a series of shear connectors including SPAX and SFS screws at different lengths
and angles to the connection face. The Timber beam will be a laminate veneer lumber (LVL)
timber, and the concrete EPS.
The samples will be tested by push-out tests to find shear strength, stiffness that will
characterize the composite actions of these connections. The findings will then be compared to
past studies of the same connection types in conventional concrete and scoria concrete.
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Laser Scanner Interface - Model LS-PA-IF1 - (12cp)
Dean McNiven - S12-091
Supervisor: Rob Jarman
Assessor: Peter McLean
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The laser scanner interface (model LS-PA-IF1) was developed at TOMRA Sorting Solutions
Pty Ltd between July 2012 and May 2013. The laser scanner interface project addresses several
problems with the current laser scanner used on an ore sorting machine for the mining industry.
The existing control electronics consist of several individual PCBs, increasing the total cost of
the system. The number of inter-board connections used between these PCBs coupled with their
physical separation within the sorter greatly increases the chances that noise will affect the
signal quality.
The other significant problem with the existing control electronics is the increasing financial
costs of maintaining the hardware as the significant components are now classed as legacy
devices by their respective manufacturers. As such, these components are becoming
increasingly difficult, and therefore increasingly more expensive to obtain.
To address these issues with the existing control electronics I have developed the laser scanner
interface. The laser scanner interface replaces the existing combination of PCBs with a single
integrated solution that is installed within the laser scanner assembly.
The benefits of the laser scanner interface project include a reduction in the cost of the laser
scanner, a modular design allowing the laser scanner to be used with any commercial machine
vision system and integrated signal processing providing better quality data.
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An Assessment of the Current Design and Construction Aspects of Tailings Dams - (6cp)
Christopher Millar - A13-028
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Australia has become immersed in the mining boom over the past ten years and is the leading
exporter of mined ores throughout the world, with our exported ore totaling approximately
A$138 billion in 2012. With these vast quantities of mined material comes waste, commonly
called tailings. These tailings require storage, management and stringent environmental
controls. The tailings impoundments are commonly referred to as tailings storage facilities. This
report has focused solely on the design principles, construction methodologies, management,
foundation stability and drainage of tailings dams.
Design and construction attributes were explored, noting current construction and design
procedures within Australia. Advantages and disadvantages of design characteristics and
construction methodologies were identified in order to propose ideal construction practices.
Identification and exploration of the phreatic surface was explored, recognising various
procedures and methods to control and reduce the effect of the phreatic surface of
embankments. It was identified that the phreatic surface under both static and seismic
conditions is one the largest contributors to tailings dam failures.
The Olympic Dam Expansion Project was chosen as the dedicated case study for this thesis.
Various construction design inputs and lessons learnt were identified from the existing
operations and the newly proposed tailings dam. A detailed study and assessment of the
proposed embankment was carried out using PLAXIS 2D software to analyse the stability of
various slope designs and scenarios, while identifying the best possible solution for the
proposed works.
The aforementioned design and construction attributes, including the findings from the Olympic
Dam Expansion project, have been detailed in a full list of recommendations, highlighting
construction and design techniques and methods to be noted and implemented for future
projects. Further to these recommendations, risk management processes have identified the
most suitable and justifiable procedures applicable to future projects and generations.
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Investigation and Characterisation of Gas Flow through an FSAE Engine - (12cp)
David Moloney - S11-154
Supervisor: Peter Tawadros
Assessor: Guang Hong
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
This capstone investigates and defines the characteristic changes that can be seen in a Formula
SAE engine‟s performance through changes in the design of the gas flow systems attached to
the engine using simplified empirical methods as well as through the use of Ricardo Wave 1D
gas dynamics and engine simulation software.
The investigation found that while empirical methods give an approximation of volumetric
efficiency performance characteristics due to changes in intake runner and exhaust lengths, a
much more in depth investigation could be conducted using Ricardo Wave.
A detailed engine model was produced before several simulations were run. Results showed that
performance characteristics such as engine power profile could be significantly altered though
changes to intake runner and exhaust geometries, whereas changes to plenum volume showed
much less performance variation. Variation in fuel type, compression ratio and air-fuel ratio
also showed changes in power/torque produced, fuel consumption and BSFC, however had
small effects on the overall shape of the power curve. Simulations were also able to aid in the
selection of throttle diameter in order to allow for a predictable power produced to throttle angle
relationship.
An empirical investigation into the use of exhaust gas energy recovery in a normally aspirated
application showed that the comparatively low mass flow rate through a normally aspirated
engine combined with the exhaust restriction present in applying the system gave insignificant
gains to performance in comparison to the complexity and weight added to the engine package.
While results were sufficient to produce a detailed intake model and provide information for the
design of an exhaust system, there is scope for further simulation of fueling and compression
ratio variation as outlined herein.
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Mobile SCADA Systems - (12cp)
Ali Moussa - S12-097
Supervisor: Zenon Chaczko
Assessor: Robin Braun
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems are traditionally used for
supervision of large scale industrial systems. Examples of their use are found in water treatment
plants, distribution systems as well as manufacturing plants.
With the emergence of the internet and mobile technology, a new generation of 'Networked'
SCADA systems have emerged. Their accessibility over the internet has unlocked a myriad of
possibilities for new uses. An example of this is the onset of 'Portable SCADA Systems'. These
are systems which mimic the functionality of traditional control room SCADA systems on
portable devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptop computers. There are examples of
their use in many emerging systems, especially where budget, maintenance and resources are an
issue.
This project examines the need for a modern, portable Mobile SCADA System. It aims to
demonstrate its use in the form of a prototype using a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) as a test
bed. The system provides data acquisition and control capabilities using standard web protocols
such as HTTP as well as processing of data and generation of events and alarms based on
configurations set by the user. The user is able to configure the system environment to
accommodate different sensors and their uses. A database is used to store system configurations
and log events, alarms and errors. The system demonstrates that smart mobility is applicable to
many domains including both industrial and personal uses.
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Finite Element and Numerical Analysis Long-Term Deflections of Slabs - (12cp)
Alan Ngo - A13-035
Supervisor: Shami Nejadi
Assessor: Rijun Shrestha
Major: Civil Engineering Major BBEBBus and BEBsc
The serviceability of concrete structures is possibly the most difficult portion of the design
phase in structural engineering. Long-term deflection in particular represents a problem to
designers due to the dependence on material properties which may not be available at the design
phase in addition to the non-linear behavior of concrete. International design codes have
attempted to account for long-term deflection through simplified approaches. These however,
can lead to over or underestimation of results. Most codes permit a more refined method if
available, however little or no guidance is given in terms of methods or how variables are
considered.
The aim of this project is to understand the time-dependent behavior of reinforced concrete
slabs and the design provisions in place in different international codes that account for the
long-term deflection in concrete members. This comparative study will utilise finite element
analysis (FEA) as well as numerical methods in conjunction with the Australian Standard for
Concrete Structures (AS3600-09), Design of Concrete Structures (EuroCode 2, 2004) and
Building Code Requirement for Structural Concrete (ACI318-08) as well a numerical method
proposed by Dr. Ian Gilbert (Gilbert 2001) for calculating the long-term deflection of six
reinforced concrete slabs in the experimental study by Dr. Shami Nejadi (Nejadi 2004). An
analysis will attempt to explain the differing methods permitted within these codes and how
deflections obtained differ to experimental results.
FEA will be carried out using commercial software package RAM Concept by Bentley
Software Solutions and long-term deflection will be modeled with its strip-based method. FEA
is a refined calculation method that is permitted in international design codes with little or no
guidance but is frequently used in industry. Its accuracy and ability to model the long-term
deflection will be compared to the numerical methods and experimental data.
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Adour Engine Driven Fuel Pump and Sub-idle Fuel Control Test Stand - (12cp)
Loretto O'Donnell - S12-104
Supervisor: Guang Hong
Assessor: John Dartnall
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
UTC Aerospace Systems, Sydney specializes in providing global aftermarket solutions for both
commercial and military aerospace markets. The Sydney campus provides comprehensive
repair and overhaul services to civil and military operators across Asia Pacific region.
Capabilities include repair and overhaul of Main Fuel Pump (MGC) and Speed Term Switch
(STS) (sub-idle fuel control) as fitted to the Rolls Royce Adour Engine installed on BAE Hawk
200 Series Aircraft. The recent addition of new customers coupled with the steadily increasing
number of units from existing customers and the lengthy test regimes has created a backlog on
the existing test stand. The aim of this project is to design, develop, build and commission a fuel
test stand capable of functional acceptance testing of high pressure engine driven pumps and
sub-idle fuel control units. The commissioning of the new test stand will provide additional
capacity for testing MGC, STS and related sub-assemblies and offload work from the existing
Adour Test Stand.
The new test stand utilises electronic measuring equipment and a data acquisition system as a
means of capturing component performance parameters under specified test conditions and
provides electronic setting of selected parameters to enhance operator effectiveness and reduce
test times. All component tests comply with the OEM‟s (Original Equipment Manufacturers)
published technical data. The data acquisition operator interface displays all instrumentation
outputs and allows the operator to input speed and pressure settings. In addition, the test stand
has mechanical controls for flow. Operator protection is provided which complies with the
relevant Australian standards. The test stand is unique in that it has a data acquisition
programme written specifically for this application as part of the project. Also unique is that this
test stand enables the STS to be tested without the need of a slave aircraft MGC fuel pump.
Validating and verifying the design is achieved by carrying out a cross correlation of test results
with the existing Adour Test Stand.
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A Feasibility Study on the Implementation of Sustainable Cogeneration at University of
Technology, Sydney - (12cp)
Tia Oetojo - S12-224
Supervisor: Jafar Madadnia
Assessor: Khaled Chahine
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
This project presents a feasibility study on a renewable energy-based cogeneration system for
heat and electrical generation at University of Technology, Sydney (UTS). The sustainable
cogeneration design aims to minimise direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions, which
negatively impacts the current and future state of our environment. The design uses renewable
energy systems to reduce its reliance on electricity from the grid, sourced from non-renewable
resources. The sustainability of the system was assessed in the context of the efficiency of
resource usage, and covered technological, environmental, social and economic considerations.
Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) cladding on UTS Building 1 Tower was proposed to
provide a renewable energy source for sustainable cogeneration. The BIPV system converts
solar irradiation into cogeneration of electricity and heat generation, and assist in cogeneration
demand. Battery energy storage was proposed in the design to provide electrical energy when
supply exceeds demand.
A preliminary design for the sustainable cogeneration system and its implementation is
discussed in this report. Sustainability in renewable cogeneration systems was critical for the
feasibility of the design. The economic benefit of the system includes reduced cost of
purchasing electricity. Environmental benefits include lower direct and indirect emissions of
carbon dioxide, and reduced dependence on non-renewable energy sources that harm the
environment. In terms of technological sustainability, the system was highly efficient, with
minimal maintenance. Finally, the system promoted social sustainability through increased
sense of social responsibility and improved corporate governance.
Recommendations for future work will focus on alternative methods for electricity and heat
generation at UTS. There is potential to implement other renewable energy systems, integrated
with a cogeneration or trigeneration system. Testing‟s and accuracies of PV modules can be
further developed for efficiencies in various climate conditions.
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Modeling, Control and Experimental Testing of the Active Hydraulically Interconnected
Suspension - (12cp)
Tuan Pham - S12-114
Supervisor: Nong Zhang
Assessor: Li Fu Wang
Major: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) users are exposed to great risk of rollover accidents. The
increasing popularity of this type of vehicle has elevated the risk of rollover accidents in urban
and suburban areas to an alarming level. Gaubauer and Gabler (2009) revealed that SUVs are
approximately 8 times more likely to be involved in rollover accidents than in traffic barrier
collisions which surpass that of large pickup trucks.
To address this safety issue of SUVs without compromising qualities of handling and ride
comfort, Zhang et.al (2009) has developed an active hydraulically interconnected suspension
(HIS) system which provides such vehicles with an ability to actively adjust its roll angle,
therefore preventing rollover. Since the system ultilise hydraulic networks, unpredictable non-
linearity of the working fluid is present. The time delay of fluids flowing through pipes have
made a huge difference between simulated and experimental results and hence the low
performance of the system.
In this project, a more sophisticated mathematical model of the HIS system will be developed
with the main focus of addressing the flow and creating openings for further research. In
addition, the developed model is a linear model which allows advanced controllers to be
integrated to control the system. Experimental data comparison and model parameters tuning
were carried out which resulted in a model whose performance showed significant improvement
over previously developed models.
Advanced controllers using LQR and H-infinity methods were also developed in this project as
a follow-up to the new model. Simulation results suggested substantially improved performance
of the system due to presence of the fluid flow in the model although the controllers were only
developed up to a basic level.
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Influence of Polyurethane Soil Stabiliser on the Strength of Cement Treated Kaolinite Soil
- (12cp)
Wen Shan - S12-131
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Due to the issue of the overpopulation and environmental pollution, the soil conditions of the
construction sites have become not only limited but worse than ever. Hence, the ground
improvement becomes one of the most significant aspects that should be considered before
carrying the construction. Chemical stabilisation is a method to improve the consistency,
strength, and permeability of the soft soil by applying chemical admixtures to the soil-cement
slurry. This method is becoming popular especially in Australia as it has a wide range of
advantages. And this experimental study will investigate the influence of the polyurethane
stabilizer on the compressive strength of cement-treated columns.
There were three groups of samples that each of them contained the various amounts of cement
and additive. The soil stabiliser has been applied during the stage of mixing the soil and cement
slurry. After 14 days curing time, the results show that the strength of the cement-treated soil
increased as the soil stabiliser contents increased. However, the influence of polyurethane
addition is insignificant in 10% cement content range, which is not adequate amount of cement
to react with soil stabiliser. Moreover, this dissertation also explores the physical properties
including moisture content and density of the cement-treated kaolinite samples.
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Composite Action Investigation Using Static Based Method - (12cp)
Nirmal Shrestha - S12-135
Supervisor: Rijun Shrestha
Assessor: Emre Erkmen
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Timber floor for large span structures requires composite systems such as box beam sections; I
beam sections, T-beam sections, etc. Structural performance of such systems depends upon the
degree of composite action between the web(s) and the flange(s) which depends upon the type
and number of shear connectors used. Metal fasteners such as screws are one of the simplest
and cheapest ways of achieving composite action between web and flange in such composite
systems. A high degree of composite action can be achieved by using large number of screws
but may not be economical and practical.
The main objective focus of this research was to investigate the partial composite action
between the flange and the web in a composite T-beam section and to identify the effect of
shear connector (screw) spacing in terms of stiffness and strength in such system.
This research paper presents a comprehensive review on partial composite action and methods
to analyze the composite action on flooring systems. The research investigates different stages
of partial composite action in a T-beam with two LVL components acting as flange and web
connected using screws at various spacing under serviceability loads. In order to numerically
model the composite T-beam, the connection is characterized during the experimental program
followed by numerical modeling using γ-Method outlined in Eurocode 5.
This research paper further demonstrates that the performance of any composite system relies
upon the characteristics of the connectors (screws) and their relative spacing. Results from the
experimental investigation and the numerical model were also compared against the dynamic
based non-destructive vibration test which can be useful in predicting the degree of composite
action in existing flooring systems. The effect of friction on the stiffness of composite sections
was also investigated.
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Roller Compacted Concrete Dam Design and Construction - Case Study of Enlarged
Cotter Dam - (12cp)
Nicholas Stewart - A13-007
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Dams have been a sign of significance in society for centuries based upon their application, may
it be for irrigation, power generation, flood mitigation and/or potable water supply. As dams
have been a vital part of society and sustainability of great cities the materials and methods for
construction have grown significantly to accommodate for new construction methods, standards
and tight construction programs.
Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) was developed in the 1970‟s for dam repairs and in the early
1980‟s was used to build the Willow Creek dam in Oregon, which is recognized as the first dam
to be constructed almost entirely out of RCC. Since its first application the construction
methods, systems, concrete design and materials have changed significantly to adhere to today‟s
construction standards and requirements. New innovations have paved the way for faster
placing methods to limit down time of construction and therefore allowing construction crews
to place thousands of cubic meters of concrete in one day, this has allowed for RCC rapid
construction to fit into short construction programs. To this date RCC construction has streamed
lined mass concrete placement for dam construction even further by developing integrated
system for constructing the upstream and downstream faces to reducing the chance of seepage
occurring through dam during its lifetime and therefore increasing the dams service life.
In Australia RCC dams are a rare occurrence, and I have the opportunity to work on the
Enlarged Cotter Dam project in Canberra, which I will be using as a case study in this paper to
illustrate the advancements in RCC placement, and how they are effectively used in engineering
practice. The Cotter Dam has used a new method of placement of using 400mm individual layer
concretes lifts compared to the traditional 300mm and has also used a fairly new method for the
upstream and downstream faces know as Grout Enriched Roller Compacted Concrete
(GERCC), these new methods will be discussed on their effectiveness on meeting the projects
requirements.
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Biotechnical Stabilisation of Kaolinite Soil Using Micro-organism - (12cp)
Willis Susanto - S12-138
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Soil improvement techniques in geotechnical discipline have been largely developed through
the emerged approaches of studies related to soil properties. Soft clays are particularly complied
as poor performing soils for construction purposes. Bio-cementation is one of notable
application that introduces microbial process in situ thus the strength of soil can be improved.
Microbial cementation acts as formation of microbes and additive material in soil particle which
result can be increased by stable biological bindings. Thus it aims to improve mechanical
properties of problematic soil.
The focus of this paper is to investigate the influence of bio-cementation method on the clay
with different cement contents. It is outlined from research that it is a linear gradient between
the increase of cement content and strength of soil-cement column.
Kaolinite clay sample with liquid limit of 50% was selected for the test representing a typical
soft soil. The testing program includes unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test, instruments
checked to meet proper procedures and accuracy. Cement was mixed with various percentage of
liquid whey material that contains microorganisms particularly bacillus type. Samples were
subject to compressive test after 14 and 56 days and the stress-strain graphs were the plotted.
The preliminary results obtained from this study indicate that whey can be used as replacement
for water in deep soil mixing (DSM). The strength gained from cemented column may increase
with time due to addition of whey. Since whey material is waste product from cheese
manufacturing, it can be easily gained with relatively low cost. Thus it offers valuable
construction benefit such as increase soil stability and enhanced the bearing capacity.
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Investigation into the Noise Levels within an Australian Hospital Emergency Department
and Methods of Managing These Levels - (12cp)
Erol Tanner - S12-143
Supervisor: Jin Chen Ji
Assessor: Zhen Luo
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
There is no doubt that a hospital is an extremely noisy environment. The high density of people,
coupled with the alarms, paging systems and electronic equipment creates an acoustic
nightmare. This especially applies to areas such as the emergency department where the flow of
traffic is markedly higher than most other areas. There are few studies that have investigated
noise levels in a hospital emergency department and even fewer in an Australian context.
This study examines the noise levels in the emergency department of a major Australian
metropolitan hospital. One emergency area of an emergency department within one hospital in a
large metropolitan area was studied. Continuous decibel levels [dB(A)] were measured in the
reception area for 12 continuous hours over three days.
Recorded data was analysed and compared across the three days and compared with World
Health Organization (WHO) and Australian sound level standards. The results indicated
continuous high noise levels. The three 12-hour average sound levels (LAeq) varied between
54 and 58.9 dB(A), with peak noise levels (LAmax) of between 87.1 and 91.5 dB(A), thus
consistently exceeding Australian recommended levels by over 10 db(A) and maximum levels
by over 40 dB(A).
As researched, these high noise levels are a significant problem and can potentially contribute to
stress in hospital staff, reduced speed of patient recovery and have many other negative effects
on staff and patients. Sound reducing/absorbing materials potentially suitable for a hospital
environment as well as behavior modification strategies were researched. Many of these
methods led to a significant reduction in noise levels. Unfortunately due to practicality these
methods could not be tested in this study for noise reducing effectiveness. There is an
imperative need for further evaluation of noise levels in hospitals, their effect on patients and
staff and intervention strategies to manage noise levels.
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Cooling System Design for Formula SAE - (12cp)
Simon Varley - S12-154
Supervisor: Terry Brown
Assessor: Guang Hong
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
This project involved the design, development and construction of a cooling system for the
2012 UTS Formula SAE race car.
Formula SAE is an annual educational competition based around the design and construction of
a small formula style race car. Although UTS has taken part in the competition since 2001, there
has never been a concerted design effort in regards to the cars‟ cooling systems.
Sufficient cooling is important to the life of an engine - excessive engine temperatures reduce
the reliability of the car, affecting the competitiveness of the team. In the past the UTS team has
experienced engine failures related to elevated oil temperatures due to in-sufficient cooling.
The need of this project was recognized after the 2011 competition where unsustainable engine
temperatures were seen.
Performance data was obtained from the 2011 cooling system and used in the design of the
2012 cooling system. The thermal performance of different size radiators was predicted and an
informed decision made. A cooling system was designed to suit the chosen radiator including
integration into the pre-existing race car.
The new cooling system was constructed, engine data was logged from track test sessions, the
performance of the system was evaluated and required modifications were made.
The car competed successfully at the 2012 competition, demonstrating the effectiveness of the
new cooling system. Later analysis showed the capacity of the system exceeded the engine‟s
heat load requirements due to assumptions made during the design process.
The achievements of this project include a functional cooling system and a design procedure for
future teams to follow, including advice about potential pitfalls. Also, important design data
relating to radiator performance and the engine's heat load has been collected for future use.
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The Settlement of Twin Tunnels in Weak Ground - (12cp)
Kieran Vekeria - S12-1550
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
As the population of the world grows, there has been an increase in the demand for larger
capacity transportation systems. Due to the lack of available land or achieving quicker travel
times, engineers are resorting to constructing tunnels underground.
In order to design safe tunnels, engineers need to find a suitable location to construct tunnels
and be able to estimate the settlement of the tunnels. This needs to be completed accurately,
especially where weak ground exists, as a failure to do this can result in the structural integrity
of a tunnel and buildings to be compromised.
This project investigates two methods that can be used to estimate the settlement, the first
method being an empirical relationship that was developed by Peck and Schmidt in 1969, and
the second method involved using PLAXIS, a finite element method based software, to estimate
the settlement. After completing various tests and as expected, it was established that PLAXIS
predicts the settlement more accurately, as it takes into account many properties of the soil and
the tunnel construction methods. Peck‟s formula does not take into consideration the soil
properties (except volume loss) and the tunnel construction method, which means the calculated
settlement, will be the same if the volume loss of the soil is the same.
The variation of different parameters have been studied numerically, which include the depth,
the distance between tunnels, the diameter of tunnels, the soil types and various soil properties.
By undertaking such an investigation I have been able to determine the relationship between the
parameters and the settlement. In addition to this, through a sensitivity analysis, it has been
established which parameters are more sensitive in prediction of the ground settlement above
the tunnels. The findings of this study can be useful in twin tunnel design.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
53
The Benefits of Subgrade Stabilisation using Geosynthetics in Pavement Construction -
(12cp)
Wayne Vella - A13-023
Supervisor: Hadi Khabbaz
Assessor: Behzad Fatahi
Major: Civil and Environmental Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Various types of geosynthetics have been implemented in the stabilization of road pavements
worldwide for several decades. Geosynthetics such as geotextiles, geogrids, geonets,
geocomposites and geomembranes are used to separate, filter, drain and reinforce road
pavements. The material used in the manufacture of geosynthetics, as well as their physical
structure is addressed in this report.
The main benefits that geosynthetics provide when implemented to stabilize pavement subgrade
include; greater subgrade strength, a reduction in pavement thickness as well as reduced
construction periods and associated costs. Several case studies from within Australia and
construction sites overseas are included to further highlight the advantages of implementing
geosynthetics into pavement construction. The cost benefits obtained through the use of
geosynthetics as a form of subgrade stabilization are demonstrated using data obtained by the
author through practical experiences and collaboration with geosynthetic suppliers. These costs
are also contrasted to traditional methods of subgrade stabilization for further comparison.
The report contains a critical literature review on the several types of geosynthetics applicable
to the construction of roads and their respective function. Furthermore contained in this report is
a review of current methods used to determine the design capacity of pavement structure. This
report also contains a thorough methodology for the preparation of pavement subgrade as well
as the supply, storage and installation of geosynthetics when stabilising subgrade. Finally an
analysis of current Road and Maritime Services specifications relating to the use of
geosynthetics in pavement construction is conducted in the attempt to determine if the
implementation of these products into their road construction practices is valid.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
54
Reliability Based Maintenance Program for Pharmaceutical Machines - (12cp)
Prasanna Wignarajah - S12-060
Supervisor: John Dartnall
Assessor: Zenon Chaczko
Major: Mechanical Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The purpose of this project is to demonstrate that there are alternative approaches to
maintenance servicing other than the industry norm of Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM).
RCM has become an essential approach to asset management for many organisations when
identifying opportunities for preventative and predictive maintenance to increase asset or plant
uptime and to avoid the undesired practice of corrective maintenance in the event of a
breakdown. However in doing so, RCM diagnostic events or projects are an exhaustive process
and requires the full time resources of both maintenance personnel and engineers.
The cost of taking these two key technical personnel from the day to day running of plant and
machinery can be cumbersome as the cost to support or backfill these staff are high as well as
the cost of hiring external RCM experts to facilitate these sessions. Particularly in the mining,
manufacturing, transport and processing industries, a typical RCM event can take up two to five
years for completion, before maintenance strategies have been implemented and put in place. It
involves heavy Root Cause Analysis (RCA) or a Five Why Analysis (5WA) of almost every
critical part that could have multiple failure modes.
However, at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a multinational pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare
manufacturer, the organisation has adopted a Reliability Based Maintenance (RBM) approach,
that only focuses on some of the top tier failure modes, based on some downtime history. This
is done by conducting a streamlined RCM study that addresses 75% of failure modes, that are of
higher frequency and which causes the business the greatest downtime as opposed to the
standard RCM approach of identifying every possible failure mode. Although an RBM
approach ignores 25% of lower frequent and potentially unknown failure modes, the study for a
particular machine can then be reduced to months instead of years, or even in the recent study
performed at GSK Ermington in Sydney, where the organisation completed RBM sessions per
week for each work centre.
This paper will identify some of the findings of industry results of plant uptime from an RCM
aspect versus the RBM performance of various GSK sites around the globe. The scope of this
RBM project study will also cover spares management, an area that is quite often ignored in
RCM, as the focus is primarily on maintenance strategies without the acknowledgement of
identifying and assessing the availability of necessary critical and planned maintenance spares.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
55
Dynamic Analysis of Moving Loads and Damping Effects on the Vibration of Truss
Bridges - (12cp)
Matthew Wilde - S12-162
Supervisor: Ali Saleh
Assessor: Jianchun Li
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Comprised of elements with joint connections, trusses undergo tensile and compressive forces
in their members. When considering truss bridge design, it is important to take into account the
forces applied through this system and there likely effects.
The main objective of this capstone is to develop a program that is able, in steps, to analyse load
cases on truss bridges. The progressive iterations of the code shall incorporate:
• Accounting for static loading and corresponding effects.
• Accounting for dynamic loading and corresponding effects.
• Account for the effect of amplitudes and frequencies on vibrations, and corresponding
damping effects.
A better understanding of these effects can lead to improved truss bridge design in a number of
areas. Consequently, this can lead to reductions in cost, improved material selection, improved
safety, and in particular, improved design in regards to serviceability.
The key to the success of this project is in implementing the program effectively. Currently, the
MatLab programming language has been used to develop the program. MatLab allows for the
manipulation of matrices which are essential in the writing of the program. The program is
written in a „script‟ within MatLab. The input variables and output values are obtained from and
written in a simple text file format. These variables identify coordinates to determine element
locations, attributes and applied forces.
In addition, Microsoft Excel has been used to assist in error checking and in results testing to
ensure the program works as intended. FORTRAN and Excel are held in a standby state if there
are any problems with the current setup. An effective program can thus be produced based on
the required criteria.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
56
Cloud-Based Enterprise Solutions for SMES: Adapting SOA Pattern on an Enterprise
System - (12cp)
Kevin Wiradinata - A12-010
Supervisor: Zenon Chaczko
Assessor: Robin Braun
Major: ICT Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Due to modern enterprise applications becoming comprised of complex business systems, the
enterprise service-oriented architecture (ESOA) has started to become common practice for
enterprise applications. Consequently, the rapid increase in popularity for cloud computing has
also become an option for enterprises to deploy their applications on, subsequently, cloud
computing is also an extension of SOA. The aim of the paper is to find a solution for enterprise
cloud-based applications with regards to the software architecture, ensuring that the application
has the optimal framework for its cloud-based activities.
Through the identification and accumulation of the strengths of the proposed architecture has,
there are concepts that overlap in today‟s popular SOA architectures possess, such as the
structure of the structure of the Enterprise Service Bus (from “Generic SOA Framework” and
“SOA-based framework) as well as the autonomy structure in terms of system monitoring (from
Generic SOA Framework and Autonomous SOA framework).
After reviewing and identifying the major components of what an ESOA model should
implement, I have developed a generic ESOA model for a cloud-based enterprise application,
shown in the figure below. A uses case, using Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services
environments, of the proposed architecture is currently still in progress to provide a concrete
proof for the feasibility and practicality of the proposed architecture.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
57
Application of Fibre Reinforced Polymer for Strengthening Reinforced Concrete Beams -
(12cp)
Lianxin Xie - S12-167
Supervisor: Bijan Samali
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) (also fibre-reinforced plastic) is a composite material made of a
polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. It was developed since 1940‟s started only with glass
fibres, later on, as the progress of technology, other better fibres as aramid, basalt and carbon
became available. In some special scenario, fibres could be asbestos, wood even paper. The
polymer work as adhesive as well as matrix, they are vinylester, polyester thermosetting plastic,
expoxy etc. also, phenol formaldehyde resins could be used as polymer.
Due to economic and technological reasons, Engineers prefer repairing and strengthening
bridges rather than demolition and rebuild it. Engineers developed many methods to strengthen
concrete structures in bridges. The most popular one is FRP, or Fibre Reinforced Polymer
system. This method can equip bridges extra capacity and it is also cost effective, corrosion
resistant and easy to install.
To design the FRP strengthen system, there are numerous conditions have to be considered.
Engineers have developed many formulas for design purpose. Most formulas are based on
experimental research and have the limitation of utility. Those formulas could work perfectly in
simplified lab experiments. But in reality, engineers have to consider much more conditions and
limitations. The only practical way of FRP design is finite element analysis.
In my thesis, I use ANTENA to model flexural failure for FRP beams. I had many problems and
eventually, I managed to overcome the problems both in theory and software operation. The
most important problem I have solved is punching failure. In point load case, small amount of
load can make huge concentrated stress, this stress is normally higher than the concrete strength,
as the result, the concrete bursts at the load point and produces weird load-displacement graph. I
creatively put additional stirrup reinforcement and overcame this problem. In my model, all
beams failed in flexural failure and the load-displacement graph is smooth and consistent. Most
important, the additional stirrup don‟t affect the flexural capacity, the results are reliable for
bending capacity. And from this capstone, I gained valuable experience of effectively using FE
software. In future career, I can use what I have done in ATENA to assess the accuracy of other
FE software.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
58
Human Gesture Capture based Robotic Imitation and Recall - (12cp)
Michelle Youssef - S12-169
Supervisor: Mary-Anne Williams
Assessor: Benjamin Johnston
Major: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
The presence of robots operating in society is continuously increasing. To compensate for this
many methods have been designed to enable easier programming of robots, both industrial and
domestic. Often the methods that are used are complex, involve expensive technologies and
result in the robot generating non-human-like motions. This can cause reluctance for humans to
interact with the robotic systems.
Instead of devising new systems for each robot that needs to be taught a task, it would be easier
if a human could demonstrate the task as if they were showing another person. This promotes
human-robot interactions and makes working with robots much simpler.
This project involved exploring different possibilities to teach a robot action from a human
example using various tools. Willow Garage technologies were mainly used for
implementations with the accessibility of their robot operating system (ROS) and their PR2
platform. The XBOX Kinect was also used in conjunction with OpenNI which contains
modules to interact with the Kinect. Other methods were also explored with the intention of
comparison to the Kinect-ROS-PR2 system.
The project is based on real-time data transference between the movement mapping device, the
interpretation program, and a robot‟s actuators. The project consisted of developing a PC
program to change the input from the movement capture in to an output for the robot‟s joints.
The real-time nature of the project implementation showcases the ability of a demonstrator to
perform corrections and adjustments to movement as you go.
Advanced robotics is one of the fields identified as a “disruptive technology” or a technology
that will cause drastic changes to the future of living. Advances in learning technology for
robots could have immense implications on future robotics frameworks. This project aims to
promote further development in the fields of social robotics and human-robot interaction.
Further developments could include using neural networks for motion planning and comparison
of programming interfaces.
Capstone Project D/HD Presentation Day Draft Only
59
Influence of Soil Stabiliser - Polymer Polyurethane on Stiffness of Cement-Treated
Mixture - (12cp)
Yue Zhao - 48006
Supervisor: Behzad Fatahi
Assessor: Hadi Khabbaz
Major: Civil Engineering Major BE and BEDipEngPrac
In some areas, soil conditions are poor therefore the ground improvement can be considered
prior to the construction. By mixing the soil with chemical stabilizer the properties of the soil
such as strength and stiffness can be improved .The soil mixing method is a soil treatment that
in-situ soils are blended with cementitious materials.
The main objective of this paper is to investigate the influence of the Polymer Polyurethane on
the stiffness on Kaolinite-cement samples in various cement contents. According to the
published literature Lorenzo and Bergodo (2004), when cement content increases the clay-
cement strength also increases. However the influence of the soil stabiliser on clay-cement
strength is unknown.
In this experimental program, Q38 Kaolinite with liquid limit of 50% was used. There were 3
groups of kaolinite samples which were mixed with various cements content and soil stabiliser.
The cement content of 10%, 15% and 20% were used and the soil additive content of 1%, 2%,
5% and 10% were adopted. The soil stabiliser was added to the kaolinite and water during the
mixing process. After curing period of 14 days, unconfined stress strain relationship at the
treated kaolinite was determined and plotted.
The corresponding results indicate that with adequate amount of free water in soil-cement slurry
reacting with soil stabilizer, the stiffness of samples increase when the soil stabiliser content
increases.
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