Sponsored Research Projects

Externally funded R&D projects tackling specific problems determined by individual funding sponsor.

◊ Predictive Maintenance - Phase 1: A Roadmap for Intelligent Maintenance

     Principle Investigators: C. Saygin, F. Frank Chen, H. Wan, K. Castillo-Villar, and A. Alaeddini

     Sponsor: Harland Clarke

     Timeline: March 2013 - August 2013

Objectives:

The objective of the overall 3-phase effort is to create a prognostics-based approach for predictive maintenance (PdM) of printing systems. The envisioned PdM system will be based on real-time data collected from sensors, devices, and controllers in the printing systems and its interpretation to predict failures ahead of time with an estimated time-to-failure using degradation models. From an operational perspective, the goal is to maximize uptime while reducing maintenance costs.

 

◊ Lean R&D Initiatives at Sandia National Laboratories’ Z Pulsed Power Facility

     Principle Investigators: F. Frank Chen, G. Kuriger, and H. Wan

     Sponsor: Sandia National Labs

     Timeline: October 2011 - September 2014

Objectives:

Understand the current processes, develop lean and six-sigma tools for the research environment, and investigate advanced technological solutions to minimize experimental cycle time and eliminate hazards.

 

◊ Recycling Plant Redesign and Modernization: Monterrey Iron and Metal

     Principle Investigators: H. Wan and G. Kuriger

     Sponsor: Monterrey Iron and Metal

     Timeline: February 2012 - July 2012

Objectives:

The goal of the project was to assist Monterrey Iron and Metal (MIM) to map, analyze, and redesign the layout of the facility to create efficient traffic flow that allows for more efficient loading/unloading of recycled materials.

 

◊ An Intelligent Decision Support System for Workforce Forecast

     Principle Investigators: Dr. H. Wan, Dr. F. Chen, Dr. G. Kuriger

     Sponsor: Air Force Research Laboratory

     Timeline: September 2008 - August 2010

Objectives:

- To assist effective workforce allocation of the Air Force for upcoming timeframe

   through innovative approaches of artificial intelligence.

 

◊ Acquisition of An Automated Assembly System and RFID Equipment for Research and Education in Advanced manufacturing

     Principle Investigators: Dr. C. Saygin, Dr. F. Chen

     Sponsor: NSF

     Timeline: August 2007 - July 2010

Objectives:

- Acquisition of two automated systems and their integration between the MSA and

   FMLS labs.

- Implementation of RFID systems.

- Use the above-mentioned infrastructure to support research and new curricula.

 

◊ Instrumentation for Research and Education in Advanced Manufacturing and Enterprise Systems

     Principle Investigators: Dr. F. Chen, Dr. C. Saygin

     Sponsor: DoD

     Timeline: September 2007 - August 2008

Objectives:

- Establish infrastructure to support advanced manufacturing and

   enterprise systems research and serve as the backbone of new curricula at both

   undergraduate and graduate levels at UTSA.