Innovative Projects Realized

Enhancing Waste Detection on Conveyor Belts through Generative Models

In this project, we aim to improve the efficiency of waste detection on conveyor belts using advanced computer vision technology. By incorporating innovative generative models and data fusion techniques, we seek to enhance the accuracy of identifying different types of waste materials. This research will contribute to more effective waste sorting processes, ultimately reducing environmental impact, and promoting recycling efforts. By harnessing the power of these technologies, we aim to significantly improve the accuracy of identifying diverse waste materials on conveyor belts. This not only streamlines waste management processes but also promotes environmental sustainability by enhancing recycling efforts. The outcomes of this project will directly benefit our partner organization, Waste Robotics, by providing them with refined and efficient waste detection technologies, reinforcing their commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable waste management solutions.

Reprocessing of waste poly(butadiene) from ABS plastics

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer plastics are used in many commercial applications, ranging from housing for goods, automotive fascia, LEGO bricks to 3D printing materials. Consequently, the recycling of ABS poses a challenge in the context of recycling plastic waste. It is particularly difficult as it is a multi-phase material. Polystyvert has applied their expertise in recycling polystyrene waste effectively, recovering material with their technology that has equal or better physical properties compared to the polymer entering their process. They have now turned to recycling ABS, and have reached a point where they have been able to separate waste cross-linked poly(butadiene) (PB) from the SAN (styrene/acrylonitrile) matrix but the valorization of the waste PB into a value-added material is an opportunity. McGill and Polystyvert will collaborate, with the intern learning to on develope a recovery methodology for waste PB streams, followed by intensive characterization and assessment for recycling. Life-cycle assessment and circularity will be emphasized to determine the optimal method to recycle PB, which the industrial partner will use to make informed technology decisions on how to recycle ABS efficiently with the lowest carbon footprint possible.

Extension de la propriété intellectuelle par l’optimisation des propriétés de l’anticancéreux RM-581

Le RM-581 est un dérivé aminostéroïde (AM) qui démontre des activités anticancéreuses prometteuses dans plusieurs types de cancers et ce, dans différents modèles in vitro et in vivo. Le défi de recherche dans ce projet sera d’étendre la propriété intellectuelle (PI) actuelle autour de l’aminostéroïde RM-581 par la synthèse de dérivés modifiés de sa partie pipérazine. Cette stratégie d’extension de la PI permettra de mieux protéger la plateforme moléculaire des AM afin d’éviter le contournement potentiel de la PI par un compétiteur. En modifiant la nature du noyau pipérazine il serait donc possible d’obtenir des dérivés d’activité(s) et/ou de stabilité métaboliques supérieures au RM-581 et ainsi possible de déposer un nouveau brevet. La réalisation de ce projet par notre équipe permettra à notre partenaire Néolys Pharma d’obtenir une protection maximale de la technologie et d’en étendre la durée.

Modèle de gouvernance partagée pour le Quartier culturel Saint-Laurent

Comment aider les municipalités à mettre en place des politiques culturelles locales plus ancrées dans les préoccupations et les besoins de leurs habitants ? C’est à quoi cette recherche postdoctorale vise à répondre. Au carrefour de l’innovation communautaire, de l’aménagement urbain et culturel et des politiques publiques, l’objectif est d’expérimenter et documenter des modèles et des pratiques de gouvernance partagée entre les acteurs municipaux, les artistes, les organismes socio-culturels et les citoyens dans l’instauration d’un Quartier culturel dans le Vieux-Saint- Laurent, à Montréal. À la suite de cette recherche, l’arrondissement de Saint-Laurent sera en mesure de mettre en place des actions améliorant les façons de vivre, de travailler et de s’amuser dans un quartier inclusif, dynamique et durable. L’idée étant de mettre en oeuvre des politiques visant l’équité territoriale et favorisant la vitalité, la viabilité et l’attractivité d’un quartier culturel.

Modelling of Intelligent Active Matter Systems

Time-resolved imaging of neuronal growth of human induced stem cell-derived neurons in confined microstructures

Archaeology of Vagabondage: Colonial Encounter and After

Although working as a functional umbrella, the concept of ‘vagabond’ is notoriously nebulous. Can we say with a modicum of certitude that we know what (the phrase) ‘vagabond’ exactly means? In other words, how many of us can define a ‘vagabond’? Fa Hien, Hueng Tsang, Marcopolo, Megasthenes were all travelers who had walked thousands of miles, but were by no means vagabonds. On the other hand, the homeless panhandler who had never stepped out of the town is often maliciously called a ‘vagabond’. One will immediately be arrested as a ‘vagabond’ if found walking on the highways or camping on ‘undesignated’ sites while both Marcopolo and Megasthenes had obtained state sponsorships. In order to understand why and how ‘vagabond’ yields different meanings in different times and places, this project looks into linguistic apparatuses that shape the trajectory of the concept in context of India.

Working in an Industrial Fog Computing Environment

Hiellen Land Based Healing

Develop a business model and establish funding sources for Hiellen Long Houses that generates revenue year-round.
Context: Hiellen Village Longhouses are owned by the Old Massett Village Council (OMVC) and managed by though development corporation. Revenue is almost exclusively generated during the tourist season June- September annually. Land based healing initiatives for First Nations are becoming popular due to their proven effectiveness in health promotion. Land based healing aligns with OMVC’s goals of improving the health of its members. Hiellen’s beauty, spiritual location and local cultural knowledge make it an ideal setting for land-based healing.
Why it matters: Diversifying revenue with initiatives that benefit the local First Nation members will strengthen the community and add additional funds for OMVC. Old Massett has many intergenerational trauma survivors from residential schools, and colonization that will benefit from land-based healing.

Automatic Summarisation of Researchers’ Bodies of Work

Controlling a spacecraft under extreme conditions: eye tracking as performance measure

Multi-scale modeling and simulation of polymers