Ontario Tech Engineering Students Present Projects at Capstone Competition in Oshawa
More than 350 fourth-year students from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Ontario Tech University presented their final projects at the Engineering Capstone Systems Design Exhibition and Competition on April 24 in Oshawa, according to Ontario Tech University. The university also reported that more than 70 teams participated in the event.
The event marks the end of eight months of project work for graduating students, who completed capstone assignments that draw on knowledge gained throughout their studies. According to the university, fifteen industry professionals evaluated the projects for feasibility, impact, and professionalism.
Awards were given to the top three teams in each of three categories: Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering; and Energy and Nuclear Engineering.
In the Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering category, first place was awarded to a team for their design of an alternative restraint method for wheelchairs on rail transit vehicles. Second place went to an inter-city bus project, and third place was awarded for a nuclear radiation shielding test apparatus.
In the Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering category, first place was given to a team that developed an assistant device for blind persons. Second place went to a power supply for telecom applications, and third place was awarded to a municipal by-law enforcement project.
In the Energy and Nuclear Engineering category, first prize was awarded to a team for designing a waste processing facility for an eVinci microreactor. Second place was given for a small test loop for liquid metals, and third place went to a mechanical manipulator intended for subcritical assembly.
According to Ontario Tech University, the panel of judges included professionals and alumni from a range of organizations: Ontario Power Generation, General Motors Canada, BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada, Toronto Hydro, Cameco Fuel Manufacturing, SmartONE Solutions, Alithya, and LeddarTech. The Society of United Professionals was lead sponsor for the event, with additional support from the Professional Engineers of Ontario – Lake Ontario Chapter.