Understanding evolution in natural systems using robotic models. This project aims to build biologically-inspired robotic and computational systems, and then modify these in ways which are either not possible, or have not yet occurred in natural systems. A comparison of these two systems will then allow a quantitative understanding of how well optimised biological structures are and where the limitations to optimisation lie. Expected outcomes include advancing the understanding of evolutionary p ....Understanding evolution in natural systems using robotic models. This project aims to build biologically-inspired robotic and computational systems, and then modify these in ways which are either not possible, or have not yet occurred in natural systems. A comparison of these two systems will then allow a quantitative understanding of how well optimised biological structures are and where the limitations to optimisation lie. Expected outcomes include advancing the understanding of evolutionary processes, and will provide significant benefits, such as aiding the manufacture of efficient autonomous robots.Read moreRead less
The influence of sway-roll coupling on the dynamics of an inverted sailing yacht in waves. The ability of a sailing yacht to re-right in waves after capsize will influence the safety of those on board in extreme conditions.
The aim of this project is to incorporate the effects of sway-roll coupling into a numerical simulation of the behaviour of an inverted yacht in waves to assess design features which influence re-righting. Experimental work being conducted during 2001 will be extended to ....The influence of sway-roll coupling on the dynamics of an inverted sailing yacht in waves. The ability of a sailing yacht to re-right in waves after capsize will influence the safety of those on board in extreme conditions.
The aim of this project is to incorporate the effects of sway-roll coupling into a numerical simulation of the behaviour of an inverted yacht in waves to assess design features which influence re-righting. Experimental work being conducted during 2001 will be extended to enable the forces on a model of an inverted yacht in a breaking wave to be determined. and incorporated along with theoretical predictions into the simulation.Read moreRead less
Dual input clutchless power-shifting transmission for hybrid vehicles. This project studies a newly proposed clutchless power-shifting transmission (CPT) for hybrid and electric vehicle applications. It aims to design new methods and actuators for power-on gear change to realise the best possible performance of the CPT, and through simulation and experimentation evaluate the system performance and response under both steady state and transient conditions. The proposed transmission is expected to ....Dual input clutchless power-shifting transmission for hybrid vehicles. This project studies a newly proposed clutchless power-shifting transmission (CPT) for hybrid and electric vehicle applications. It aims to design new methods and actuators for power-on gear change to realise the best possible performance of the CPT, and through simulation and experimentation evaluate the system performance and response under both steady state and transient conditions. The proposed transmission is expected to significantly reduce the efficiency losses present in modern vehicles and establish new techniques for achieving gear and mode changes that do not rely on friction clutches. It is anticipated that these novel technologies will provide new direction for developing the next generation of very high efficiency automotive power train technologies.Read moreRead less
Cost-effective autonomous systems for large scale monitoring of marine protected areas. This project seeks to develop autonomous technologies that will enable Australia's expanding system of marine protected areas (MPAs) to more effectively preserve marine biodiversity and long term ecosystem function through scalable, cost-effective monitoring. Monitoring will enable MPA managers to assess whether preservation and sustainability goals are being met and to adapt zoning policies in response. Au ....Cost-effective autonomous systems for large scale monitoring of marine protected areas. This project seeks to develop autonomous technologies that will enable Australia's expanding system of marine protected areas (MPAs) to more effectively preserve marine biodiversity and long term ecosystem function through scalable, cost-effective monitoring. Monitoring will enable MPA managers to assess whether preservation and sustainability goals are being met and to adapt zoning policies in response. Australia will benefit from informed sustainable use policies that preserve the marine environment for future generations without unnecessarily restricting recreational and commercial access today.Read moreRead less
Autonomous Exploration and Characterization of Benthic Habitats Linked to Oceanographic Processes. The work specifically addresses the National Research Priorities in sustainable use of Australia's biodiversity and climate change. Without a thorough understanding of processes that affect the state of health of our oceans they will continue to be affected by natural phenomena and stresses caused by human activity. A more comprehensive understanding of these natural systems and the interplay with ....Autonomous Exploration and Characterization of Benthic Habitats Linked to Oceanographic Processes. The work specifically addresses the National Research Priorities in sustainable use of Australia's biodiversity and climate change. Without a thorough understanding of processes that affect the state of health of our oceans they will continue to be affected by natural phenomena and stresses caused by human activity. A more comprehensive understanding of these natural systems and the interplay with human activities is therefore essential.Read moreRead less