SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING

ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015

Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
A. Agalgaonkar A1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Evaluation of voltage optimisation Develop models of client loads in suitable simulation package. Develop model of dynamic voltage controller and
in industrial and commercial LV other related equipment. Quantify impacts of reduced voltage on energy use. Quantify impact of reduction in
D. Robinson A1
networks voltage via other mitigation equipment, e.g. transformer tap change.

D. Stirling A1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.

Active, reactive and apparent See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A1 power in a non-sinusoidal system

Application of Hilbert Huang See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A1 Method for Power Quality
waveform classification
Clustering of power quality event See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A1
using data mining
Improving Empirical Mode See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A1 decomposition for end effects
issues
Effect of Power Quality on Modelling, design and testing of equipment to determine life cycle degradation as a consequence of poor power
P. Ciufo A1 Consumer and Network quality.
Equipment
Low Cost power Quality Meter Design and build a plug-in device to measure voltage magnitude, VTHD, harmonics, sag and swell events.
Device should have local storage and an easy interface to upload data stored. It would be desirable to have a
P. Ciufo A1
communications interface to the unit (3G, WiFi, Bluetooth, Power Line Carrier) so that data can be retrieved
remotely.
Performance of Active Harmonic An active harmonic filter is a device that provides harmonic current compensation in such way that it `cancels'
Filters in the Presence of the harmonics that are drawn from the supply by a non-linear load. However, if the device itself is connected to
P. Ciufo A1
Background Distortion a weak part of the network, where there may be significant background distortion, how much does the
performance of the AHF suffer?
Sensitivity Analysis of LV and MV There are limitations on the amount of power generation that is permissible in and LV/MV distribution network.
Networks in the Presence of DG The reasons for such a limits are primarily power quality related, but extend to issues surrounding protection
schemes. The focus of this project is understanding the voltage rise issue across an LV/MV distribution system
P. Ciufo A1 using artificial intelligence (AI) methods. This project seeks to use AI techniques to learn what the influence and
sphere of influence are for a generator in the LV/MV network. High-level modelling and AI techniques will
attempt to model and predict how the change in output of a single generator propagates changes throughout the
distribution network.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Comparison of the outcomes The work involves calculation of the Pst values using shape factor curves and comparing them with what is
using shape factor curves given by a standard flickermeter. The work will also compare the previously developed Matlab toolbox
(IEC61000.3.7) to determine flicker outcomes on RMS values of voltage
emitted by fluctuating sources
and what is produced by a IEC ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
S. Perera A1
compliant (IEC61000.4.15)
flickermeter

ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING

SPRING 2015
Development of a Matlab GUI The work will be based on a recent PhD where the origin of the sources of voltage unbalance (VU) was
interface to display the state of determined in a deterministic way. It is expected that the GUI interface to display the sources of VU would be
voltage unbalance of an attractive to utilities instead of having to go through vast amount of data outputs.
S. Perera A1 interconnected network
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING
SPRING 2015
Experimental validation of single There is a wealth of information on motor performance under differing input voltage conditions but this project is
phase and three phase induction about examining how economics related to motor life and power losses and power output could be related to
motor losses due to low, high and input voltage conditions. The project involves some modelling work but it is mostly experimental in nature.
unbalanced voltages.
S. Perera A1
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING
SPRING 2015

Modelling of surge arrestors This project will continue the work completed this year and will further the same incorporating the surge
applied to TransGrid network for arrestors in the network. ABB arrestor data available from the datebook have to be carefully understood while
black start studies furthering knowledge on insulation coordination.
S. Perera A1
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
SPRING 2015
A. Agalgaonkar A2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Battery charging for electric See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A2
vehicles
Design of 5-level inverter for PV See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A2
applications
Design of a battery management See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A2 system for an electric vehicle
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Investigation of reactive power See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A2 and power factor in a dc-dc
converter
Distributed Energy Storage to Solar photovoltaic (PV) will form an integral part of future grids in Australia. In the past few years, rooftop solar
Facilitate New Rooftop Solar PV installations have been increasing rapidly. The penetration level of solar PV is about to hit the hosting
K. Muttaqi A2 Photovoltaic Installations capacity limit of low voltage electricity networks in some parts of Australia.This leads to unnecessary barriers to
new rooftop solar PV installations. Higher level of PV penetration is possible if we are able to mitigate the PV
impacts under real-time environments.
Electric Vehicles for the Support EVs are becoming increasingly popular due to high petrol prices and the target for “Zero Emission” from
of Electricity Networks vehicles. EVs are typically charged from the grid; this can impose additional constraints on the grid during
charging periods. The situation may become even worse if most EVs are charging during peak periods. It is
anticipated that a substantial percentage of engine based vehicles today will be replaced by battery driven EVs
K. Muttaqi A2
in the near future, and thus the worst case scenario may become a reality. The purpose of this project is to
extend the capability of the vehicle to grid (V2G) system by designing and implementing a new bi-directional
power interface for the charging system to include continuous control of both active and reactive power and
voltage support.
Improving Fault Ride Through Due to increase in the number and capacity of renewable distributed generation units (DGs) in utility, many
Capability of Renewable Energy countries issued national grid codes mainly regarding the penetration level of DGs and local utility practices and
K. Muttaqi A2 knowledge. One of the main issues in grid codes is Fault Ride Through (FRT) capability of DGs. DGs should
stay connected to grid during utility faults according to technical requirements of related grid code.

Intelligent Micro-grid with At present, most electricity is generated by thermal power plants. These fossil-fuel based generating plants are
Distributed Renewable Energy continuously polluting the air and emitting greenhouse gases. There is a strong commitment by the Australian
K. Muttaqi A2 Resources Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global warming through the use of renewable energy
resources. Locally available renewable resources, such as wind, solar, tidal waves, fuel cells and biomass, can
be used to meet local demands through a micro-grid.
Mobile and Modular Renewable Hybrid electric energy system, consisting of renewable energy resources localised in a central point, has been
Energy based Hybrid Electric identified as one of the alternatives for ensuring supply continuity of emission-free electricity to local consumers.
Energy System for Remore and Diesel generators have been mostly used as the main source of energy to isolated localities that are far from the
K. Muttaqi A2 Offshore Power Supply electricity grid systems. However, diesel price has been increasing since early 2004. This has severely affected
the generation cost by diesel engine, which is an alarm for isolated communities to find an alternative solution for
electricity. Renewable resources can play a crucial role in achieving the objective of electrification for remote
inaccessible areas.
Single-phase, low cost active Design, simulate, build and test a low-cost harmonic filter for removing the 1050 or 750 Hz tarrif signalling
P. Ciufo A2
harmonic filter signal in consumer mains.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
MATLAB/Simulink use of The electronic laboratories use Multisim for simulation of Electronic components but licenses only cover teaching
SimScape Electronics Simulation needs. MATLAB / SimScape is available for Teacvhing and Research via a University Wide license. This project
of second year electronics will simulate various modules used in Teaching electronics and in the Laboratrory to trial SimElectronics as an
P. Vial A2
laboratory alternate simulation package for both research and teaching. This may involve buiding a distributed system
involving aspects of power, communications and sensors simulation.

A. Agalgaonkar A3 **** See academic staff member for project topics.

Analysing big data from the solar Develop algorithms to analyse solar yield and site consumption interval data, site insolation data (from a
industry SensorBox), publically available weather data, inverter status codes, and similar data from nearby solar PV
D. Robinson A3
systems; to determine if solar systems are operating properly or need to be escalated for analysis by a human

Evaluating SBRC green IT from an Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is the practice of hosting a desktop operating system within a virtual
energy use perspective machine running on a centralized server. The Sustainable Buildings Research Centre (SBRC) has employed
VDI to provide computing facility for its staff and research students. The SBRC building has installed Building
Management System (BMS) and power supply scheme with the capability to record the power consumption
status of different devices. The aim of this research is to study VDI-based computing facility in organizations in
D. Robinson A3 the perspective of the energy efficiency. This research project will build up a framework to collect, record, and
retrieve power consumption data in specific settings of computing requirements, to analyse the energy efficiency
status by comparing different solutions of computing facilities, and to identify energy efficiency indicator of
computing facility. This project aims to measure and evaluate the energy savings achieved by the IT system.
Project will include creating suitable model of energy use and lifecycle analysis of equipment.

Virtual net metering over MV Feasibility of virtual net metering over MV distribution systems for distributed generation resources.
D. Robinson A3
distribution systems for DG Development of framework, documentation of barriers and estimation of associated costs.
alleviating range anxiety for EV See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A3
driver
Hybrid fuel cell and energy See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A3
storage system
Improving PV performance using See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A3
energy storage
Integrating, wind, PV and energy See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A3
storage system
Investigation of the impact of EV See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto A3
charger into power system
D. Sutanto A3 Vehicle to grid investigation See academic staff member for topic details.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Distributed Energy Storage to Solar photovoltaic (PV) will form an integral part of future grids in Australia. In the past few years, rooftop solar
Facilitate New Rooftop Solar PV installations have been increasing rapidly. The penetration level of solar PV is about to hit the hosting
K. Muttaqi A3 Photovoltaic Installations capacity limit of low voltage electricity networks in some parts of Australia.This leads to unnecessary barriers to
new rooftop solar PV installations. Higher level of PV penetration is possible if we are able to mitigate the PV
impacts under real-time environments.
Electric Vehicles for the Support EVs are becoming increasingly popular due to high petrol prices and the target for “Zero Emission” from
of Electricity Networks vehicles. EVs are typically charged from the grid; this can impose additional constraints on the grid during
charging periods. The situation may become even worse if most EVs are charging during peak periods. It is
anticipated that a substantial percentage of engine based vehicles today will be replaced by battery driven EVs
K. Muttaqi A3
in the near future, and thus the worst case scenario may become a reality. The purpose of this project is to
extend the capability of the vehicle to grid (V2G) system by designing and implementing a new bi-directional
power interface for the charging system to include continuous control of both active and reactive power and
voltage support.
Improving Fault Ride Through Due to increase in the number and capacity of renewable distributed generation units (DGs) in utility, many
Capability of Renewable Energy countries issued national grid codes mainly regarding the penetration level of DGs and local utility practices and
K. Muttaqi A3 knowledge. One of the main issues in grid codes is Fault Ride Through (FRT) capability of DGs. DGs should
stay connected to grid during utility faults according to technical requirements of related grid code.

Intelligent Micro-grid with At present, most electricity is generated by thermal power plants. These fossil-fuel based generating plants are
Distributed Renewable Energy continuously polluting the air and emitting greenhouse gases. There is a strong commitment by the Australian
K. Muttaqi A3 Resources Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global warming through the use of renewable energy
resources. Locally available renewable resources, such as wind, solar, tidal waves, fuel cells and biomass, can
be used to meet local demands through a micro-grid.
Long-term Dynamic Phenomena Although the PV resources are mainly installed as rooftop PV systems in the distribution networks, their
in Renewable Energy Rich combined effect may influence the sub-transmission network in the immediate upstream. The voltage rise
Electricity Networks created by numerous PV units in distribution networks may create a necessity to reconfigure the voltage
K. Muttaqi A3 regulator operation at the zone substation or at other points in the sub-transmission network. Hunting of voltage
regulators in the upstream network may take place if the slow transients in voltage caused by passing clouds
over PV systems in a large area increases to a significant level that triggers the regulation action.

Mobile and Modular Renewable
Energy based Hybrid Electric
Energy System for Remore and
K. Muttaqi A3 Offshore Power Supply
Hybrid electric energy system, consisting of renewable energy resources localised in a central point, has been
identified as one of the alternatives for ensuring supply continuity of emission-free electricity to local consumers.
Diesel generators have been mostly used as the main source of energy to isolated localities that are far from the
electricity grid systems. However, diesel price has been increasing since early 2004. This has severely affected
the generation cost by diesel engine, which is an alarm for isolated communities to find an alternative solution for
electricity. Renewable resources can play a crucial role in achieving the objective of electrification for remote
inaccessible areas.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Solar Ramp Rate Mobile Testbed The intermittent nature of energy availability from solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is to be explored in this
project. The concept would evolve around designing, building and deploying a test bed for monitoring the
availability of energy from PV systems. Using several, small-scale PV panels, a system is to be constructed that
P. Ciufo A3
measures and analyses how the energy availability varies over extended periods; i.e. rate of change of available
power. The system should be designed to be standalone so that it might be left in the field for extended periods.
Data collection would be via a wireless data link.
Savonious rotor based power Using a prebuilt commercial savonious rotor (1.5m tall) , the student is expected to develop a very efficient
P. Premaratne A3 generator assessment generator using supermagnets and coils and assess its performance and optimize its usability using power
electronics.
D. Stirling B1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
G. Naghdy B1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
L.Phung B1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Body Motion Pattern analysis Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
M. Ros B1 using a Parallel Robot and IMUs http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf

Improved Thread Scheduling and Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
Migration Algorithms for http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
M. Ros B1
Heterogenous Multi-Core
Processors
Lossy Compression Techniques Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
M. Ros B1 used for Code Compression in http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
VLIW processors
Real Time Human Body Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
M. Ros B1 Kinematics using Wireless IMUs http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf

Structural Integrity Monitor Develop a structural integrity monitor based on a pre-patent application using remote energy transfer and
P. Premaratne B1
wireless networking.
(Wildcard) Any topic on simulation and simple hardware (with the total cost of a thesis project in mind) that the student is
P. Vial B1 interested in, is at the level of a research based elect/tele/comp engineering thesis and that Dr Vial agrees to.

Design and develop a system
which incorporates a Wireless TI
P. Vial B1 watch and a pill popping
mechanism for older at home
patients needing medication.
This project requires the development of a system which interfaces a pill popping system (could be purchased
off the shelf) with a computer and TI (Texas Instrument) watch. Components of the system have been
developped by previous thesis work and the student can concentrate on either the watch or the pill popp[ing
mechanism or both to develop the system. The system should be developped for those suffering from memory
loss and to minimise system cost to within thesis budget.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
MATLAB/Simulink use of The electronic laboratories use Multisim for simulation of Electronic components but licenses only cover teaching
SimScape Electronics Simulation needs. MATLAB / SimScape is available for Teacvhing and Research via a University Wide license. This project
of second year electronics will simulate various modules used in Teaching electronics and in the Laboratrory to trial SimElectronics as an
P. Vial B1
laboratory alternate simulation package for both research and teaching. This may involve buiding a distributed system
involving aspects of power, communications and sensors simulation.

Mind Headset Controller using Two past projects are combined using a Bluetooth mindset to control throuigh a TINI (Tini Internet Interface) a
eye blink and brain wave antenna positioning system. Design will need to consider the accuracy of movements and develop mechanisms
P. Vial B1 measurements to move a small to ensure that the antenna can be positioned with a pre-defined movement range.
antenna mount using a TINI
embedded system.
D. Stirling B2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Robot navigation using See academic staff member for topic details.
D. Sutanto B2 information from the surrounding,
such as RFID
Building a five degree haptic Further details available from associated staff member
F. Naghdy B2 device using two Falcon Novit
devices
Development and control of a 2 Further details available from associated staff member
F. Naghdy B2
DOF planar robot
Finger rehabilition robot - low Further details available from associated staff member
F. Naghdy B2
level control
Handwriting restoration in stroke Intent and emotion identification through body posture and motion
F. Naghdy B2 patients using Falcon Novit haptic
device
Balance control of an electric This project aims to develop advanced control strategies for the balance control of electric unicycle. Modelling,
unicycle simulation and control algorithms need to be conducted with possible experimental validation.
H. Du B2
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
SPRING 2015
Optimal control of antilock This project aims to develop optimation control for antilock braking system. The main objective is to control the
braking system slip ratio as the optimal value to achieve the shortest stopping distance. Experimental validation is expected to
H. Du B2 gether with Matlab simulation.
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING
SPRING 2015 ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Vehicle parameter and state This project aims to develop effective algorithms for estimation of vehilce parameters such as vehicle mass,
estimation centre of gravity, and state variables such as bank angle, slip angle, etc, used for vehicle control. Modelling,
simulation and estimation algorithms need to be conducted with possible experimental validation based on a
H. Du B2
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING scaled vehicle model.
SPRING 2015
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015
L.Phung B2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Flying Inverted Pendulum Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
M. Ros B2
Analysis of Response to Impact http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
Low-Cost Static Input or Motion- Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
M. Ros B2 Sensing Input Controlled Dynamic http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
Shape Display
Real‐time Classification of Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
Hand‐written Characters using the http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
M. Ros B2 Leap Motion Infrared Skeletal
Recognition Controller

Sign Language Gesture Full summary of topic, including links to additional information available from:
Recognition using Leap Motion http://http://www.uow.edu.au/~montse/ThesisTopics2015.pdf
M. Ros B2
Infrared Skeletal Controller and
the Encog Neural Network
Development of mini electric See academic staff member for topic details.
generator that is super quiet and
super efficientDevelopment of
P. Premaratne B2
mini electric generator that is
super quiet and super efficient

Tricopter with GPS assisted Using a prebuilt tricopter to use a arduino based microcontroller to use GPS and a communication link for flying
P. Premaratne B2 autonomous flight to a designated GPS coordinate. The project will also include developing autonomous takeoff and landing.

P. Premaratne B2 Twin-copter design Continue the foundation work of a twin copter design undertaken by a previous project
(Wildcard) Any topic on simulation and simple hardware (with the total cost of a thesis project in mind) that the student is
P. Vial B2 interested in, is at the level of a research based elect/tele/comp engineering thesis and that Dr Vial agrees to.

Design and develop a system
which incorporates a Wireless TI
P. Vial B2 watch and a pill popping
mechanism for older at home
patients needing medication.
This project requires the development of a system which interfaces a pill popping system (could be purchased
off the shelf) with a computer and TI (Texas Instrument) watch. Components of the system have been
developped by previous thesis work and the student can concentrate on either the watch or the pill popp[ing
mechanism or both to develop the system. The system should be developped for those suffering from memory
loss and to minimise system cost to within thesis budget.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Mind Headset Controller using Two past projects are combined using a Bluetooth mindset to control throuigh a TINI (Tini Internet Interface) a
eye blink and brain wave antenna positioning system. Design will need to consider the accuracy of movements and develop mechanisms
P. Vial B2 measurements to move a small to ensure that the antenna can be positioned with a pre-defined movement range.
antenna mount using a TINI
embedded system.
A new emerging sensing technology, called self-mixing interferometry (SMI), is based on this phenomina: when
Semiconductor lasers for presice
sensing a small fraction of light emitted by a semiconductor laser (SL) is reflected or backscattered by an external target
and re-enters the laser active cavity, both the amplitude and the frequency of the emitted laser power will be
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING varied. The SMI is used in presice sensing for physical quantities (such as displacement, vibration, velocity, et.
SPRING 2015 al) and the laser parameters. This project is aimed at 1. employing new commercial SL products to enhance
Y. Yu B2 the sensing performance; 2. exploring new applications in the field of material engineering, such as
measurement of material parameters 3. improving the existing sensing system for measuring the parameters of
SLs (such as improving the temparature control, current control and signal detection).

ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015

A Computer Controlled Ball-and- Further details available from associated staff member
Z. Li B2
Beam System
A Computer Controlled Inverted The control of an inverted pendulum is a benchmark problem in control engineering and has many important
Pendulum applications. It can also be used for illustration of control applications for education. The aim of this project is
Z. Li B2
to develop a low cost, flexible and computer controlled inverted pendulum for education

A Simulink demonstrator for Further details available from associated staff member
Z. Li B2
control laboratories
A Test Bed for Control of Further details available from associated staff member
Z. Li B2
Electrical Car
Lane Keeping Control of an Autonomous car or driverless car is an exciting and rapidly developing field for both research and industry. It
Electrical Car could see wide applications in our everyday life in a near future. Lane keeping controller (LKC) is a part of this
Z. Li B2 technology and could be used to replace the current lane keeping warning system in a very near future just like
the cruise control system replacing the speed warning system in our cars.

D. Stirling B3 **** See academic staff member for project topics.

Intent and emotion identification Further details available from associated staff member
F. Naghdy B3 through body posture and motion

L.Phung B3 **** See academic staff member for project topics.

 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
**** **Projects will be on offer from Spring 2015 in the broad area of C.1 Digital Signal Processing for applications
such as audio, speech and acoustics using microphone and loudspeaker arrays. Students interested in such
C. Ritz C1
projects can approach A/Prof Ritz to potentially arrange commencement in Autumn session with a co-
supervisor.**
Cross echo cancellation The project focuses on developing an audio echo cancellation method across multiple co-located users, when
F. Safaei C1
using video conferencing systems.
Implementation of a new video The project will implement a new optimum signal residue method developed in UOW using a suitable tool (e.g.
F. Safaei C1 coded using the optimum signal Matlab or in C)
residue
Scalable video bit rate The project will develop a new method to arrange information in a coded video so that different quality of video
F. Safaei C1
organization can be obtained by taking a pre-defined portion of data.
G. Naghdy C1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Beamforming Under Model Knowledge about the target's direction and the covariance matrix of the interference-plus-noise are essential for
Uncertainty forming desired beam patters in antenna arrays. Model uncertainty arises when such knowledge is imprecise.
J. Tong C1 There are different approaches to address this issue, such as the subspace method and covariance matrix
regularization schemes. This project investigates the performance of the different robustification approaches
when different types of model uncertainty are present.
Iterative Waveform Decorrelation Correlation among the transmit waveforms can significantly affect the performance of target detection and
in MIMO Radar Systems parameter estimation in MIMO radar systems. Decorrelation can be applied to alleviate this effect. However,
when multiple range bins and multiple antennas are involved, traditional approaches suffer from high
J. Tong C1
complexities. This project studies iterative approaches based on the Carley-Hamilton theorem and Krylov
subspace to address the complexity issue. The resulting detection and estimation performance of MIMO radar
systems will be investigated.
Polynomial Channel Estimation in Linear equations of very high dimensions need to be solved for massive MIMO systems which may be one of
Massive MIMO Communications the key techniques for future generation wireless communications. Direct solutions can incur very high
J. Tong C1 complexities. Schemes based on polynomial-based inversion of large matrices will be designed and analysed in
this project, which may address the high complexity issue of traditional treatments.

Regularized Covariance Matrix The optimal investment strategy that achieves the best risk-return tradeoff depends on the statistics of the asset
Estimation for Minimum Variance returns from sample market observations. However, due to the limited number of observations (samples), the
J. Tong C1 Portfolios statistics can never be perfectly estimated. In this case, robust solutions that can address the uncertainty in
statistics are desired. This project will explore the application of regularized covariance matrix estimation in
minimum variance portfolios.
Robustifying Communication Superimposed training allows simultaneous transmission of information-carrying data and training symbols in
Systems Using Superimposed communication systems. The latter is used for channel estimation. In a practical scenario, channel estimation
Training suffers from errors due to noise, interference or mobility. This project aims to use robust signal processing
J. Tong C1
techniques to enhance the overall performance of communication systems with superimposed training. The
power allocation issue will be studied. The performance and complexity of the resulting system with be
analysed.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
L. C. Tran C1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
L.Phung C1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Q. Guo C1 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
Convergence behavior analysis of This project aims at investigating the convergence behaviors of various iteratively decodable by using the
S. Tong C1 iteratively decodable codes on density evolution tool. Density evolution along with its simplified versions, e.g., Gaussian approximation and
graphs EXIT chart, will be realized and their accuracies will be compared.
Performance study of Concatenated zigzag (CZ) codes is a class of channel codes, which has low complexities in both encoding and
S. Tong C1 concatenated zigzag codes on decoding. This project is to investigate the performance CZ codes on the binary erasure channels (BECs) and
binary erasure channels identify the typical error prone subgraph in the graph respesentation of CZ codes.
Performance study of Product Product accumulate (PA) codes are a class of serially concatenated codes, with an accumulator as the inner
S. Tong C1 Accumulate codes code and a parallel concatenation of 2 branches of single parity check codes as the outer code. This project
aims at investigating the performance of PA codes on fading on different types of channels.
Performance study of Repeat Repeat accumulate (RA) codes is a class of channel codes, which has low complexities in both encoding and
Accumulate codes on binary decoding. This project is to investigate the performance of RA codes on the binary erasure channels (BECs)
S. Tong C1
erasure channels and identify the typical error prone subgraph in the graph respesentation of RA codes.

Soft-input soft-output decoding of Traditionally, source decoding and channel decoding are separately performed. Recently, with the development
variable length codes of iterative processing techniques, joint decoding of source and channel codes are proposed to improve the
S. Tong C1 receiver performance. This project is to implement soft-input soft-output decoding of variable length codes,
which is an important component in the design of the iterative receiver for joint source channel coding.

The project is aimed at enhancing the performance of the existing laser sensing system, by applying advanced
Advanced signal processing for
laser sensing signal processing techniques. the research tasks include: 1. Developing FPGA based signal processing
algorithm for achieving fast real-time sensing. 2. time-domain and frequency domain analysis on the sensing
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING signals to retrieve vibration information and eliminate the noise conatined in sensing signals, 3. simulation
Y. Yu C1
SPRING 2015 analysis on the complex signal waveform (when a strong feedback is applied on the system).

ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015

Optical chaotic communications a chaotic transmitter/receiver can be designed by using a semiconductor laser (SL) with external optical
feedback. this is a new secure technolgy for communication systems which can be deployed at the physical
Y. Yu C1 layer. in this project, we will 1. study the existing synchronization techniques and design a suitable one for our
experimental system. 2. Investigate the influence of the system parameters on the chaose, 3. system stability
analysis, 4. encoding/decoding methods.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
a chaotic transmitter/receiver can be designed by using a semiconductor laser (SL) with external optical
Optical chaotic communications
feedback. this is a new secure technolgy for communication systems which can be deployed at the physical
ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING layer. in this project, we will 1. study the existing synchronization techniques and design a suitable one for our
Y. Yu C1 SPRING 2015 experimental system. 2. Investigate the influence of the system parameters on the chaose, 3. system stability
analysis, 4. encoding/decoding methods.

ONLY FOR STUDENTS STARTING SPRING 2015

Development of Novel Schedulers WiFi is now ubiquitous and it is a critical resource for end-users, especially those with smart phones who want to
for WLANs offload any traffic from the more expensive 3G connection. In this respect, it is important that WiFi provides
high data rates to end-users. The current standard, IEEE 802.11n, provides up to 600 Mb/s with the help of
multiple antennas. A key component of any Access Points (APs) employing IEEE 802.11n is scheduling of
K.W Chin C2 traffic such that it is delivered within user requirements. Moreover, it is important that scheduling is carried out
within the energy constraint imposed by end user devices. In this area, there are two projects: (i) Designing and
evaluating cooperative schedulers for large scale IEEE 802.11n WLANs, and (ii) Developing energy efficient
schedulers that support varying Quality of Service (QoS) metrics

Novel Protocols for Energy Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) collect, calculate and exchange sensed data using tens to hundreds of
Harvesting and Rechargeable nodes with wireless capability. A key property of WSNs is that nodes are severely resource constrained. By far
Wireless Sensor Networks the most expensive operation is communication. Consequently, algorithms/protocols are required to arbitrate
channel access and route sensed data to one or more sink or base station nodes. Recently, researchers have
K.W Chin C2 proposed energy harvesting or recharging techniques to replenish energy supplies. These techniques involve
the use of solar, thermal, kinetic, and also wirelessly. There are a number of projects in this area: (i)
Determining a low latency path through a WSN with energy harvesting, (ii) Determining the placement of
recharging nodes to prolong the lifetime of WSNs, and (iii) Prolongong the coverage lifetime of energy
harvesting WSNs.
Radio Resource Allocation Emerging cellular networks, so called 4G/LTE networks, are expected to carry a significant amount of data
Algorithms traffic. This is especially critical given diverse applications such as VoIP, and video chat that require substantial
bandwidth as well as Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, not to mention the proliferation of 4G capable
K.W Chin C2 smart phones. To this end, resource allocation algorithms form a critical component that ensures these
applications are well supported, and also ensures the maximum spectral efficiency is achieved. The project will
evaluate a number of channel aware and unaware scheduling strategies for use in 4G networks.

L. C. Tran C2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.

(Wildcard) Any topic on simulation and simple hardware (with the total cost of a thesis project in mind) that the student is
P. Vial C2 interested in, is at the level of a research based elect/tele/comp engineering thesis and that Dr Vial agrees to.
 SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL, COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING
ECTE451 Thesis – Proposed Projects 2015
Project Area
Name Topic Description (30 - to a max or ~200 words)
(A1-C2)
Android App to control remotely We have developped remote control of the Rhodes and Schwarz VNA. This control can function over an
(via WiFi) a VNA using internet connection (TCP/IP). The VNA is legacy equipment and it would be useful to have an android
Apache/Tomcat and a PC application run on a Smart Phone (Say a Samsung Note II, III or IV - sometimes called a phablet) which could
P. Vial C2 connected to a Rhodes and control the VNA remotely. This project involves developping software in Java for a PC and a android phone
Schwarz VNA using an ethernet using available free ware application development platforms (such as sclipse). The project involves developping
connection. a user interface and associated modules on the connected PC to interface directly with the VNA across an
intranet.
Design and develop a system This project requires the development of a system which interfaces a pill popping system (could be purchased
which incorporates a Wireless TI off the shelf) with a computer and TI (Texas Instrument) watch. Components of the system have been
P. Vial C2 watch and a pill popping developped by previous thesis work and the student can concentrate on either the watch or the pill popp[ing
mechanism for older at home mechanism or both to develop the system. The system should be developped for those suffering from memory
patients needing medication. loss and to minimise system cost to within thesis budget.
MATLAB/Simulink simulation of Previous student has developped polarised antenna simulations in MATLAB for 2 by 1 system. Studies will
UWB PPM MIMO systems with include BER and PER analysis on related simulations with and without perfect channel coefficient knowledge at
P. Vial C2
polarised antennas for 2 by 1 and the receiver for transmit diversity.
4 by 2 and 4 by 4
MATLAB/Simulink simulation of Previous student (Mr X Gao) has done simulations in MATLAB without time hopping. This extends the simulation
UWB PPM MIMO systems with by incorporating time hopping into the simulations. WSe use BER (Bit Error Rate) and PER (Packet Error Rate)
P. Vial C2
Time Hopping for 2 by 1, 2 by 2 in the presence of Forward Error Correction (FEC) and interleaving. We look at perfect and imperfect
and 4 by 4 systems knowledge of the transmit channel at the receiver for UWB systems.
MATLAB/Simulink use of The electronic laboratories use Multisim for simulation of Electronic components but licenses only cover teaching
SimScape Electronics Simulation needs. MATLAB / SimScape is available for Teacvhing and Research via a University Wide license. This project
of second year electronics will simulate various modules used in Teaching electronics and in the Laboratrory to trial SimElectronics as an
P. Vial C2
laboratory alternate simulation package for both research and teaching. This may involve buiding a distributed system
involving aspects of power, communications and sensors simulation.

Mind Headset Controller using Two past projects are combined using a Bluetooth mindset to control throuigh a TINI (Tini Internet Interface) a
eye blink and brain wave antenna positioning system. Design will need to consider the accuracy of movements and develop mechanisms
P. Vial C2 measurements to move a small to ensure that the antenna can be positioned with a pre-defined movement range.
antenna mount using a TINI
embedded system.
Q. Guo C2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.
R. Raad C2 **** See academic staff member for project topics.