Science & Research

Simulated Augmented-Reality Varifocal Gl

The purpose of this project was to develop a device that would serve as an optician’s tool to digitally modify a camera image of the environment in real time to simulate different types of glasses lenses for customers. This would serve the double benefit of allowing customers to try glasses before buying them as well as allowing opticians to sell higher quality glasses. This research was done in cooperation with master optician, Christian Küppers in Goch. brillen-kueppers.de

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Solar Panel Cleaning robot

One of the most important renewable energy resources, solar panels, have been installed massively around the world and the number of photovoltaic installations is growing almost exponentially. Much now depends on maintaining this infrastructure and technology. As solar panels age, cleaning, inspection and maintenance are essential to maintain their efficiency since losses from dirt can be as high as 30%. This project presented the design and the first prototype of a robot that is capable of cleaning solar panels autonomously. The robot is equipped with six stepper motors, which provide the required mobility, and a vacuum system, which provides adherence. This first prototype experimentally demonstrates the viability of using autonomous robots for autonomous solar panel cleaning.

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Thermoelectric Waste Heat Utilization

The main task of this project was the practical implementation and embedding of a system tested in the laboratory in a rough industrial environment combined with extensive measurement technology and analysis of the implemented structure. The research was financed by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia on the potential of thermoelectric waste heat utilization. The pilot project was carried out by Mahle Thermoelektronik (formerly O-Flexx GmbH), Salzgitter-Mannesmann AG and the Institut für EnergieTransformation gUG.