Media Release, Research Story

Students engineer our future today

An unmanned hovercraft that detects landmines... a robot capable of balancing on a ball... and a Wheelbike inspired by a fictional vehicle in Star Wars Episode III...

These are just some of the many projects designed and built by the engineers of tomorrow going on public display at the Adelaide Showgrounds this week (Thursday 22 October).

The University of Adelaide's School of Mechanical Engineering [1] is holding its 15th Annual Honours Student Project Exhibition, showcasing 50 amazing works to the public and members of industry.

Many of these projects are closely linked to industry needs, and many of them touch on aspects of our daily lives.

This year, projects also include: a device that extracts water out of thin air, an esky that keeps cool thanks to solar power, a wind-powered water desalination system, and a high-performance bio-diesel motorbike.

"For the past 15 years, this event has been growing into a major display of engineering talent, one that is widely recognised by industry and government," says the Acting Head of Mechanical Engineering, Associate Professor Bassam Dally [2].

"Our students have been working extremely hard to solve current and future issues for industry and society, as well as showing what is technically achievable. On a number of occasions in the past these student projects have led to patentable systems.

"The breadth of their talent - individually and in teams - is on display to the public this week in our biggest exhibition yet."

A range of prizes will be given to the best student projects.

WHAT: School of Mechanical Engineering 15th Annual Honours Student Project Exhibition
WHERE: Goyder Pavilion, Royal Adelaide Showgrounds, Wayville
WHEN: 9.00am-4.00pm Thursday 22 October
COST: Free entry. All are welcome. Free car and bus parking off Rose Terrace.

www.mecheng.adelaide.edu.au [3]

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This futuristic-looking Electric DiWheel is among the many projects that have been designed and built by Honours students in the School of Mechanical Engineering.
Full Image (86.41K) [8]