DCU Expo 2024 - Final Year Projects

84 162. Development of a Small-Scale Gravity Battery This project explores the development of small-scale gravity energy storage as a sustainable and renewable storage solution. By evaluating the efficiency, feasibility, and potential applications of gravity energy storage systems, its goal is to design a compact, inexpensive, and scalable prototype. It investigates factors influencing power output and examines the practical applications in various settings. The study addresses the dire need for sustainable storage solutions, aligning with the Paris Agreement’s goals for sustainable energy access in developing countries, particularly in Africa. The initiative tackles energy poverty, emphasising the critical role of renewable technologies in promoting economic growth, improving healthcare and education, and improving the quality of life. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 5) Project Area 3-DModelling, Energy Conservation, Mechanical Design andManufacture, Simulation Project Technology Excel/VB, Solidworks Student Name(s) Paul Fowler Email paul.fowler2@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Prof Brian Corcoran 163. Final Year Project Expo App The project looks at amobile application designed to replace or supplement the current Project Expo booklet. This application would include amap which would allow the users to easily locate where each of the project demonstrations are located. The map would be interactive, meaning users can tap on a booth/stall where the demo is located, which would then take them to a page or side menu containing the project information. This includes its description, project area, project technology, andmember details. The map can then be cleared after the Expo concludes and be repurposed for a future Expo, meaning it can be refreshed. The app will also contain a list featuring all the projects in the Expo. When a user taps on a project from the list, it will lead them to the location of the project demo. Student Programme Computer Applications Project Area Android, Databases, Information Retrieval, Mobile App, Software Development, Web Application Project Technology C#, CSS, HTML5, JavaScript, SQL, Angular CLI, Ionic Student Name(s) Matt Simon Enriquez  |  BienManagbanag Email matt.enriquez3@mail.dcu.ie   |   bien.managbanag2@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Jennifer Foster 164. Integrating Renewable Energy Technologies for Sustainable Energy Management: Solar-AssistedHeat Pump This project elaborates on solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings in Ireland, which significantly contribute to total carbon emissions. It focuses on the performance optimisation and economic viability of solar-assisted heat pumps in comparison to stand-alone heat pumps in residential buildings. Using a building archetype for a semi-detached home in Dublin, load estimation calculations were performed to get the energy load for the building. GeoT*SOL was used tomodel and simulate the results of the experiment. Data fromboth were evaluated to see if SAHPs can reduce GHG emissions, increase renewable energy integration, and enhance overall energy efficiency. The study aligns with Ireland’s EU goals and provides insights into sustainable residential heating solutions. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Renewable Energy Technology, Simulation Project Technology GeoT*SOL Student Name(s) Oscar Scanlan Email oscar.scanlan3@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Reihaneh Aghamolaei