This project-based course involves the application and integration of knowledge students have learnt across their degrees in computational engineering, data analytics and operations research (from courses including ENGSCI 255, ENGSCI 263, ENGSCI 343, ENGSCI 344). It includes application of engineering design practice along with consideration of regulatory and ethical issues, Te Tiriti, social impact and safety and commercial risks.
The project is focused on a case-study of distributed generation of renewable energy through small scale wind-turbines. It will be undertaken in groups of 4-6 students. Students will be assigned to the groups and will assign and manage their own roles within the teams.
The teams will need to source and analyse wind/weather data for the specific case-study community and identify specific technical and wider considerations for that region. They will identify, analyse and document the implications of the distributed generation for the power grid, required performance conditions for the small-scale turbines, and regulatory, Te Tiriti, social impact aspects and ethical and other risks. They will then undertake design and prototype manufacturing of blades for the turbines to meet these conditions, which will undergo performance testing in the UoA wind-tunnel at Newmarket. The course will include industrial guest lectures to discuss topics such as industrial design practice, Te Tiriti and regulatory frameworks and IP management.
The group project is a semester-long commitment. It is expected that groups will carry out significant parts of the turbine design process during the mid-semester break.