December 2013Volume (4), Issue (12)

President of Academy of Sciences Malaysia, Tan Sri Dr. Ahmad Tajuddin Ali presenting certificate of Top Young Research Scientists Malaysia 2013

Best Paper Award presentation ceremony with the Distinguished Keynote SpeakersMaking Its Presence at National Engineering Conferences

Dr Leong Wai Yie Appointed as Member of Young Scientist Network ASM

Associate Professor Dr. Leong Wai Yie has been selected as one of the Top Young Research Scientists Malaysia 2013, together with young scientists from Universiti Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Multimedia University and Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF).

She is also appointed as a member of Young Scientists Network-Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM) for 3-year term until 31 December 2016. Young Scientists Network-Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM) was established in 2012 to bring together outstanding Malaysian young scientists to a common consultative

Best Paper Award for Taylor’s School of Engineering at the 2013 International Symposium on Medical & Rehabilitation Robotics & Instrumentation (MRRI2013)

platform that facilitates networking and collaboration opportunities; exchange of science, technology and innovation (STI) knowledge and views to influence policy decisions for nation building; consolidated representation of the voice of young scientists on STI matters of national and international significance; as well as creation of a pool of highly talented and motivated young scientists that can interact, co-ordinate and implement relevant programmes to contribute towards enhancement of STI capacity and capability in Malaysia.

Associate Professor Dr. Leong Wai Yie from the Electrical and Electronics Engineering programme of Taylor’s University received the Best Paper Award at the 2013 International Symposium on Medical & Rehabilitation Robotics & Instrumentation (MRRI2013) that was held from 2nd to 4th of December 2013 at Shah Alam. The symposium features an annual event to explore and exhibit innovative ideas and design within the scope of Robotics, Sensors, Automation, Computation and Intelligent Systems. More than 250 national and international participants attended the symposium.

The Curtin University of Technology Science and Engineering Conference (CUTSE 2013),Tribological Studies on the Performance of Nano Graphene Platelets as a Biolubricant Additive

3 - 4Dec

Dr Rashmi receiving certificate from conference chair

This paper presented by Dr. Rashmi Gangasa Walvekar focused on a tribological evaluation of graphene nano-platelets (NGPs) as an additive for Palm Oil Trimethlolpropane ester (TMP) base lubricant. NGPs were dispersed in the TMP ester proportionately from 0.01% to 0.1% by weight With the addition of a thickener or a desired amount of NGPs, the lubricant becomes a grease composition. The viscosity enhancements due to the addition of NGPs reached a maximum of 168% when 0.1 wt % concentration of NGPs was added. The evaluation of frictional coefficient was done using a four ball machine. Results showed that the addition

of NGPs as an additive results in the reduction of coefficient of friction (COF) in Palm oil TMP Ester, achieving a maximum reduction of 7% in palm oil TMP esters, and an impressive 16.2% reduction in the wear scar diameter It was observed that the addition of NGP prevented oxidative attacks on the surface of the steel balls through the development of a sturdier lubricating film barrier between nanolubricant and the solid surfaces. The NGPs in TMP ester outperformed its pure TMP counterpart in most of the COF and WSD comparisons, with NGPs at 0.1 wt % exuding significantly better lubricating properties such as stability at higher loads. However the reduction in the coefficient of friction was not very significant at lower concentrations of NGPs and this may be due to the imperfect dispersion of NGPs in TMP ester.

Dr. Kaveh presenting in ICIL 2013

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are proposed as alternatives for ionic liquids (ILs). Presented by Dr. Kaveh Shahbaz, the evaluation of DESs as new generation of solvents for various practical application requires enough knowledge about some main physical, chemical, and thermodynamic properties.

In this work, due lack of data for DESs’ refractive indices, the refractive indices of twenty four DESs base on ammonium and phosphonium salts were measured and predicted using atomic contribution method. The atomic contributions data for molar refraction proposed by Wildman and Crippen which was developed for neutral compounds were employed to calculate the molar refractions of DESs. Subsequently, the refractive indices of DESs were predicted using Lorentz-Lorenz equation through the calculated DESs’ molar refractions and experimental DESs’ densities values. The absolute relative percentage error (ARPE) value of 0.56% proves that this method for prediction of refractive indices of the synthesized DESs is applicable. In addition, the effect of DESs’ composition on refractive index of DESs was investigated and it was found that the refractive index of the DESs lies between that of the salt and HBD.

The International Conference on Ionic Liquids 2013 (ICIL 13), Langkawi Island, Kedah

11 - 13Dec

Taylor’s Engineering Fair December 201316Nov

Taylor’s University School of Engineering (SOE) believes that hands-on experiences bring out the best in students, and this is done through CDIOTM (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) and project-based learning.

At the end of each semester, students showcase their projects at the Engineering Fair. Here, all student projects for the semester, each addressing at least one of the 14 Grand Challenges for Engineering; are exhibited to and marveled at by the public. This Engineering fair was also the first the showcase the iPad-controlled robots CDIO-ed by our first cohort of Foundation in Engineering students.

These projects, although designed and prototyped by students, are breath-taking and impressive, and some even have the potential of changing the world as we know it by addressing the Grand Challenges. SOE believes that we are witnessing history in the making, through both technology and engineering education.

RoboRace Challenge 2013

The RoboRace is a sophisticated robotic challenge in which teams of foundation students will compete to build a robot that can complete an obstacle course track in the fastest time. The robot will be maneuver using iPads. Teams of students will have to work together to build a fully functioning robot in 15 weeks.

Champion – Thunderbolt 1st Runner Up – iTeam 2nd Runner Up – The 5

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1

RoboSoccer 2013

The RoboSoccer Competition is where students compete against each other in a game of soccer with their miniature robots. This will provide a new challenge to students as it does not only places significance on the factor of maneuverability but also design and teamwork.

Best Presentation Award – Diamonds Best Robot Design Award – Innov8Champion Team – INFINITE 1st Runner Up – Nerdz United

Sem

2 Women Concept Car

Award: Best Ergonomic Design

A functional and practical way to deter snatch thieves all the while being aesthetically pleasing. The product also adds an extra hidden storage space to the limited hidden storage space in the car.

Team Members: Arsia Lee Amini, Khoo Yin Hui, Tang Yok Yi, Chua Sue Yin, Derek Goh

Sem 2

Handbag Compartment

Award: Highest Marketing Potential

The project is about a hidden compartment installled below the passenger seat. This compartment can be used to put valuable things such as handbags, documents, phones, camera etc. This compartment is made convenient and safe for women especially when they are driving alone.

Team Members: Ho Wei Jian, Syazana binti Samsudin, Selvindaraj a/l Anandarajah, AfiqahZafirah Binti Abu Hurairah, Sydney Cyril Anak ChidlimSijar

Sem

2 Multi Purpose Car Compartment

Award: Best Environmetal Friendly Design

This product has many compartments divided to organize things wisely in the car other than putting bag inside. It is convenient because it is only located below the car seat. It is also easy to use as it has a lever on it.

Team Members: Ginisha, Lee Carmen, Lee Chia Sing, Darren Lee Jun Weng, Rabiul Hoque Faisal

Sem 3

Sem 3

Green Prix 2

Award: Best Environmental Friendly Design

The Green Prix is organised by Taylor’s Motorsport and it will be the first electric car race in Malaysia to be held within a university campus in 2014. This project does not only involve engineering aspects but also business principles.

Team Members: Naresh Jeyapalan, Tengku Faris, Heng Jing Lei, Lee Jia Hin

Sem

3 Taylor’s Racing Team

Award: Best Multidisciplinary Project

Taylor’s Racing Team (TRT) is a multi-disciplinary team geared up with excellent innovative and creative fresh young minds. We design and build our car based on the CDIOTM methodology. Success is our mission. The talent that shines, the flaming passion and excellent design are what we ought to present.

Team Members: Justin Moo Xian Yuen, Jason Law Sie Wei, Leroy Liaw Kwok Leung, Ooi Chong Kiat, Khine Thin Zar Sint, Azzam Syafiq Samsuddin

Simulation and Design of Reactor

of Biodiesel Production from Algae

Award: Best Return of Investment

A photobioreactor is designed and modified as an algae cultivation medium for biodiesel production. Photobioreactor provides an enclosed growing environment for algae where all the growing conditions are supplied at regulated rate, well displayed and monitored by display units; some parameters can be controlled for experiment or research purpose.

Team Members: TohKhai Liang, Janice Low Jie-Ni, Tan She-Reen, Soo Hui Qing, Chiah Thong Ling

Sem

4Sem

5

Novel Adsorbent for Carbon Capture

Award: Most Innovative Design Project

An innovative Mechanical Assembly Design to hold the Carbon Capture filter in exhaust of a motor vehicles.

Team Members: Muhammad Hidayat bin Hamzah, Luke Wong Zhi Kiang, Ahmad Syafiq Bin TajulZahari, George Kenji Putra, Shaun Yu Yong Jian, Bryan Loh Jian Yun

Sem 4

The Design Aerodynamic Cover for Electric Power Car

Award: Best CAD/CAM Design Project

The objective of this project is to design and construct an aerodynamic cover of an electrical car which has been built last semester in order to achieve the most efficient design possible a few computer simulations has been done and lastly this design will be constructed and assembled to the car.

Team Members: Navid Toosi Saidy, Chong You Liang, Sanjan Peter Balan, Mohd. KamarulYusri, Sivaneshararan Raja, Ng Yi Ming

Sem

5 Human-powered vehicle

Award: Taylor’s Capstone Project

To design and build a human-powered vehicle and compete in race.

Team Members: Yong Lik Hong, Chan KarMeng, Andy, Deon Lee Xiang Jen, Nigel Lopez Michael, Yeoh Joe Han

Human Powered Vehicle (HPV)

Award: Best CAD/CAM Design Project

Human-powered vehicle is a vehicle which is powered only by human muscular strength. This is a land human powered vehicle and it takes the form of a recumbent bicycle. This HPV is designed mainly for competition. However, there is now a growing interest in the use of HPV in industrialized nation, due to urban growth, congestion, and air quality concerns.

Team Members: Chong Lit Sime, ChoongPui Yung, Koay Song Leng, Lee Neng Yung, Tan Huey Meing, Tan Jun Liang

Sem

5 Innovate on The Process and Commercialization of Cadmium Ions Removal in Aqueous Solutions by Biosorption on Immobilized Microalgae

Award: Best Environmental Friendly Award

This project is about using algae to remove heavy metals from the water hence it can be drinkable. The project comprises on how microbe-technology can be harnessed to counter react with the current global water pollution crisis. Furthermore this project enables us to study the use of green technology on a large scale basis that would prove to be cost effective yet profitable to all including the environment.

Team Members: Tarkessh Mahendren, Pavin Prahaladar, Kuljit Singh, Nadia Tiziana Abdullah, Yunesh Raj Mohan, Ahmad Syabil Zorin

Sem

6Se

m 6

Obstacle Detection Wheelchair

Award: Taylor’s Capstone Project

The obstacle detection systems were applied on an intelligence semi-automated wheelchair. The system was specially build for patients who were having slow in response like Parkinson or even disable people are allowed to be part of it. It was built to assist patients in transportation so that they were more independent. The main purpose of the system was to help the patient in preventing collision during travelling with wheelchair; therefore, this system will improve the safety factor such as indoor used.

Team Members: Reynold Hariyadi, Lam Pin Wen, Lawrence Ch’ngSimKiat

Sem 7

Sem 7

Sem 5

Implement and Operate of Human Powered Vehicle and its associates Technical Operation and Maintenance Manual

Award: Taylor’s Capstone Project

Conceive and design a human powered vehicle was done by student last semester. The aim of this semester is to implement a human powered vehicle (HPV) according to the previous design. Parameter such as chain length, safety factor, vehicle speed, ergonomics

will be applied to the design. Real testing will be conducted to ensure the performance of HPV. Besides that, aerodynamic design of fairing will be implement and install on to HPV to provide better performance to HPV and more safety to be use.

Team Members: Pang Zong Xin, Chan Jian Sheng, Lim Ze Qian, Yap Kian Hoong

4-Wheel Human Powered Vehicle

Award: Taylor’s Capstone Project

Apply 4-wheel concept on HPV and build it up so that users can drive and even, race safely compare to common 3-wheel HPVs.

Team Members: Jang Kyung Moon, Henry EuZi Sheng, Shahroozeftekhari, Ahmed Saeed Abood Bahagari, Muhammad Fuad Abry

Vulcan Spectar

Award: Best Environmental Friendly Award

The purpose of the project is to design and build a human powered vehicle (HPV) which is one of the most sustainable vehicles. None of the vehicles uses a drop of gasoline. These vehicles are powered by the students’ legs and, sometimes, arms. We are planning to use a aerodynamic body which can cut to through the air and larger front wheels compare to the back wheels.

Team Members: Joel Ryan Imanuel, BaapuShrreraj, Amir JavadKarimi, Kogulavarman, Rouvinkumar, JayaPrakash

Removal of Glycerol from Palm Oil-Based Biodiesel Using New Ionic Liquids Analogous (by Ho Kah Chun)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Chemical Engineering)

This project promotes an economical and environmentally benign technology to remove glycerol from palm oil-based biodiesel by using deep eutectic solvents (DES). The ultimate aim of this research is to synthesise new DESs based on ammonium salt for removal of glycerol from biodiesel to meet permissible limit set by the EN 14214 and ASTM D6751 international biodiesel standards.

Large-scale Thermo-acoustic Refrigerator (by Khawaja Asad Akhtar)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Mechanical Engineering)

This project is a continuation of last year’s final year project. In last year’s project the concept of thermo-acoustic refrigeration was proved. Also different parameters were analysed and a small prototype was built. The prototype was able to achieve a temperature drop of 25°C. The current project aims to design and fabricate a large-scale thermo-acoustic refrigerator for industrial use. The previous results achieved by the former students will also be verified and used to improve the current model.

Sem

7Sem

7

Development of Tissue Engineering Skin Culture System - Rotating System (by Ng Kun Yong)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Mechanical Engineering)

Tissue-engineering skin has provided an alternative solution to cure various skin injuries and skin defect. Examples of skin injuries are limb amputations, venous leg ulcer, burns, bedsores and avulsions. A mimicking human skin was developed to reduce the time taken for wound healing process and accelerate skin regeneration. the objective of this project is to design and develop tissue engineering skin culture system that enable to produce mimicking epithelium layer of human skin with lower production cost and higher productivity volume.

The Effect of Aluminium Trihydrate (ATH) on Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) and Montmorillonite (MMT) Nanoclay Blend (by Firnaaz Ahamed)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Chemical Engineering)

This research proposes the combination of cassava starch,montmorillonite nanoclay (MMT) and alumina trihydrate (ATH) to improve the mechanical properties where the loadings of ATH and MMT is to be varied between 33 – 61 wt% and 1 – 8 wt%, respectively. The mechanical properties will be examined according to ASTM D882-97, where additional assessments will be conducted by means of TEM, FTIR, XRD and SEM.

Sem 7

Effect of Drying on Bioactive Components of Natural Herbs (by Khek Chun Hong)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Chemical Engineering)

This work studied the effects of drying on the retention of bioactive components in natural herbs and the effect of blanching pretreatment process on the drying kinetics as well as retention of phytochemicals by evaluating the drying kinetics of different drying methods including a freeze drying method, a solar drying method, a convection air drying method and hybrid drying methods and assess the retention of phytochemical component and drying kinetic will be analysed.

Sem

7

Taylor’s University, Lakeside Campus (JPT/BPP/1000-801/67/Jld.2(32) KPT/JPS/DFT/US/B21)

No.1, Jalan Taylor’s, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

(603) 5629 5000 admissions@taylors.edu.my www.taylors.edu.my(603) 5629 5001

The Application of Image Processing for Attendance Capturing (by Jonathan Chin Eu Tsun)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Electrical & Electronic Engineering)

The world is looking for methods to accurately identify a human being and to differentiate one from another. Currently, the methods have far evolved from those of pin codes and passwords to using a method which is deemed to be more effective which is identification using biometrics. Biometric authentication is the usage of human traits or characteristics to identify them, such as using thumb prints, retina scan of the eye and also image processing of a human’s face for recognition based on the features of the face.To improve the current attendance system of universities and campuses, the application of image processing for attendance taking is implemented to achieve greater efficiency compared to the current methods used.

Sem 7

Sem 7

Design a single stator axial machine for vertical axis wind turbine (by Kamalinni Mohan Raj)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Electrical & Electronic Engineering)

Due to the absence of brushes, the brushless machine is electronically commutated and hence finding rapid applications in dynamic renewable technology such as wind and tidal power generations. These types of machines are gaining popularity compared to other machines due to its many advantages. This research work would focus on designing a generator using electromagnetic design principles and to integrate to the vertical axis wind turbine for performance evaluations. The research is expected to successfully design a novel high torque density VAWT that derives a minimal ripple harmonics and cogging torque.

Sem

7Se

m 7

Design and Development of Colour Sorting Robot (by Lim Jie Shen)

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Electrical & Electronic Engineering)

The ability to differentiate colours is essential for human life as it gives us the awareness about the changes in surrounding through our vision. Different types of robots are created nowadays to have their own intelligence and behave like human beings. By utilising the ability of image and colour capturing, intelligent machine gains ability to plan the motion variety of targets among them, to differentiate, sort and arrange. With the use of Arduino microcontroller, Light Dependence Resistor sensor, motor drive and some other electronic component, a colour sorting robot with a robotic arm powered by 9V battery is researched, designed and created.

Developing an Integrated Approach to Base Pan FE Model Correlation

Award: Taylor’s Research Prize (Mechanical Engineering)

The main objective of this project is to develop a model analysis using finite element model of a base pan. The application of model analysis will be used to reduce the amount of vibration of the base pan and hence will produce a more suitable design. In order to optimise the modal test results, a correlation analysis application will be developed to validate the base pan and finite element model, to design of optimal test conditions and as well as to identify modelling errors.