The proposed research project involves developing machine learning models to predict the mechanical properties of polymer composites. The interns will collect and preprocess data from various sources including open-source databases and conducting extensive experimental tests, build artificial neural network (ANN) models using advanced algorithms, and validate the accuracy of these models using test data.

As electronic components shrink in size and become more powerful, they create more concentrated heat that needs to be dissipated to ensure reliable operation. Due to the finite conductivity of the sink material, the temperature at the centre of the base plate is higher than the edges, leading to better performance of the fins at the centre compared with the periphery.

Automotive makers are facing increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and shift from the use of more conventional internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. Along with this shift comes a demand for on-board electronics that can operate at higher power densities, such as the electric motor. A less utilized, yet cheaper and more efficient e-motor type is a wound-field synchronous motor.

Electric machine condition monitoring and control techniques are being widely investigated for electric vehicle applications, which are essential to ensure high performance, efficiency, and reliability in electric traction drive system. However, the testing and validation of these techniques are challenging and have not received enough attention. Thus, the research project aims to propose new testing methodologies for validation of electric machine condition monitoring and control techniques to fill this knowledge gap in electric machine field.

It is critical that on-board power electronic components of electric vehicle inverters operate within optimal temperature ranges. Failure to accomplish this results in overheating, oversizing and degradation of electronic components. Moreover, reduced efficiency and motor drive performance will have significant economical impacts on global automakers. This research will further contribute to developing a new thermal management system incorporating impinging-jet-based technology with liquid cooling, for improved heat transfer capabilities; a current prototype had been tested.

Thermal management of power electronic devices in an electric vehicle inverter is a critical factor influencing cost, size, efficiency and reliability of the system. Liquid cooling is a viable option; however, for peak power operation, the existing liquid cooling system must be optimized. A new impinging-jet-based liquid cooling system with enhanced heat transfer was designed and developed at the University of Windsor in collaboration with MAGNA International. Initial evaluations have shown that the new system has significant advantages over existing liquid cooling systems.