THE University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is gearing up for its annual Mechanical Engineering Open Day on Friday, 19 October at the Unite School of Engineering building, Howard College Campus from noon to 4pm.
Final-year Mechanical Engineering students are preparing to unveil their innovative engineering projects to the public, parents, sponsors, evaluators, and the media.
Some of the very unique projects on display will include the design of an archery device for use by quadriplegic athletes, a device that creates the illusion of fruit growing on trees, and an electric transporter, powered by solar energy.
The projects, which are part of the degree requirements of the final-year Design and Research Project modules have applications for the agricultural, sanitation, construction, airline, search and rescue, manufacturing, and transport sectors.
The process of completing these design projects simulates a professional working environment in which students have to apply the engineering knowledge gained during their studies to achieve specified project objectives while keeping within predetermined budgets.
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The technology demonstration prototypes that they produce within a nine-month period incorporates a wide variety of engineering sub-disciplines; including vehicle design (electric, air, land, water), green energy technologies, renewable energy harvesting systems and industrial machines.
Assessment of the projects is structured in accordance with the engineering outcomes required by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
Academic Leader for Mechanical Engineering at UKZN, Professor Glen Bright said the focus of the Open Day is to highlight the hard work and technical achievements of the final-year students. “We want the public to experience and interact with these engineering projects,” he said.
In addition, some previous-year design projects will be on display, with staff and students on hand to take the public for a ride on the UKZN pedal bus, electric trike and the rally car simulator. There will also be technology demonstrations throughout the day, including the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a mobile robotic display.
Entry to the venue is via Gate 8, off Rick Turner Road. Thereafter take the first right turn and drive straight to the Unite School of Engineering parking area.
Free admission.
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