The Department of Engineering and Technology is exceptionally well resourced with extensive experimental facilities; specialist software; and associated hardware.
These resources combined with the experience of the staff produce an environment that encourages innovative research. The spectrum of activity in this vibrant environment is broad and hence the Department welcomes enquires relating to any aspect of engineering. The following is a small sample of our research activity.
There is a range of activity in this area including the development of signal and image processing techniques to complete non-contacting surface topology measurements.
One manifestation of this work is non-contacting measurement of hree-dimensional back shape for scoliosis patients. This work undertaken in conjunction with surgeons from a range of hospitals and the Director of Research at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham has resulted in the development and deployment of systems in several ospitals including the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre in Oxford and the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham. Research continues and includes quantifying and enhancing system esponsiveness and clinical parameters.
Signal processing is key to the research involved in developing an enhanced artificial larynx and hence synthesized speech that complements the dialect of the potential recipient of the larynx.
A number of staff work in the area of implant design and post-implant function. Considerable effort is expended on refining implant geometry, implant-body integration, and post-operative unction. Post-operative function is being examined in the context of full stress systems, hence bone growth models which include external factors such as gait and distributed mass. A considerable volume of work is undertaken with implant manufacturers.
The ability of nature to produce exceptional engineering structures and systems is sensational and fascinates staff within the Department.
Hence the ability to utilize the engineering of nature in the man-made environment, Biomimetics, is another
Partnering Eosint, a leading developer of Direct Metal Laser Sintering equipment, has enabled the Department to maximise the research potential of the two machines it posseses. The technology utilises a laser to build up fine layers, ~20 microns, of metal powder to create highly complex three dimensional physical forms. The forms can be functional parts, aesthetically pleasing artefacts, production tooling, or almost anything else that can be imagined.
One machine is dedicated to exotic metals including titanium and silver and is the only EOS machine in Europe and outside of Eosint’s research laboratories capable of processing such materials. The second machine is configured to utilise more traditional powders including steel and bronze based.
Research undertaken includes: powder development; process simulation and optimisation; scanning strategy development; design for manufacture; total process life-cycle analysis; powder recycling; and applications.
The supplementary equipment contained within the Department’s laboratories includes:
The Department also undertakes research in the areas of:
traditional manufacturing and its associated simulation.
School of Technology Tel: 01902 321402 Email: stech@wlv.ac.uk Web: www.wlv.ac.uk/stech
