Statement of Purpose

I remember my eighth grade physics classes being an absolute joy for me, mostly due to my
curiosity and appreciation for scientific knowledge. From middle school grasping the
explanations for questions like what constitutes light and the building blocks of matter never
failed to excite me. My curiosity and appreciation turned into a passion for science which
allowed me to secure above 90 percent in physics and chemistry which put me in a favorable
position to apply for my engineering studies and pursue my undergrad at Mahatma Gandhi
University in the Mechanical department. I chose Mechanical Engineering as I aim for a career
in the design and manufacturing sector in addition it is a broad field encompassing the many
disciplines of science.

Undergrad studies strengthened my fundamental knowledge in the field and also instilled in
me a longing to learn about advanced concepts like entropy explained via analogies which is
understandable as a complete examination is beyond the scope of undergrad studies. This
yearning for higher knowledge and practical experience offered by the MEng program
influenced me in my decision to apply for graduate studies right after completing
undergrad.

In the final years of undergrad a whole lot of time was spent pursuing my project ‘Twist Lock
for Intermodal Containers’ which can be used in theory to lift two containers at the same time.
The locking mechanism was a gear rack design conveniently operated with a rod from below.
I compared various categories of steel before settling on the one with high tensile strength that
can handle the load. Supports were designed on the lock member taking into account swaying
of the container. The project could be used to double the unloading efficiency of small
containers by reducing the unlocking and crane handling time.

Although a bit ambitious for an undergrad project I was able to gain some valuable experience
and knowledge. The project involved creating and loading simple 3D structures in ANSYS and
finite element analysis at fine and coarse mesh levels, Material selection involving various
compositions of steel and Design and hot forging of the prototype. I learnt to face situations
where I had to improvise due to lack of resources for instance the prototype wouldn’t fit in the
chucks provided at the college lab so I designed forged metal plates to hold the ends of the
prototype and hence was able to complete the testing with available facilities. Certified training
in AutoCAD and CATIA helped me a lot in the pursuit of the project.

I presented a seminar on ‘Whiplash Protection Systems’ involving a detailed study of neck

injury data and its interpretations along with a presentation of various seat mechanisms
presently available to mitigate injury risk. It was an emboldening experience to present this to
a panel constituting my erudite professors their commendation of my work really boosted my
morale.

I was fortunate to do an Industrial training at Travancore cements in Nattakom, Kerala. The

only company of its kind that produces white cement using clamshells free from magnesium
oxide making it more durable. Observing the practical side of large scale manufacturing
processes like dredging of the basic raw material (lime shell), grinding in ball mills and baking
slurry in rotary kilns was an educating experience that left me with a greater appreciation for
industrial processes that make mega-structures and comfortable modern life possible.
In the green hilly areas of my hometown Ranny, working with National Service Scheme
volunteers in ‘NSS bhavan’ programme to build houses for underprivileged students, I was
able to strengthen my team and social skills. It inured my ability to face harsh environments.
Most importantly it gave me a better perspective about life.

I see myself in the challenging work environment of the design and manufacturing sector,
where I am able to enhance my imagination and skills, along with my technical abilities. I have
always wondered at simple yet crucial designs like the worm gear, and with adequate
experience the exciting prospect of ultimately coming up with entirely new product designs of
my own seems alluring. The Professional MEng degree suits me as I aim to gain both practical
and theoretical knowledge in design and manufacturing.

I stand to gain much from University of Regina. The distinguished faculty with outstanding
research experience in the field and academic resources available in your libraries will guide
me in my exploration of knowledge. The practicals in your advanced laboratories and co-op
opportunities in your university will give me the necessary hands on training, which will greatly
improve my employability. Interacting with people of many nationalities in the campus will
further broaden my perspective and contribute to my personality.

I am confident that I have imagination, 3D-visualisation capabilities, artistic talent and basic
programming skills. With these abilities along with the practical skills and specialized
knowledge gained from MEng program at your university I can become a valued professional
in my field.