Discipline of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering

Final Year Design Projects Brochure

November 2024

Web address: http://eece.ukzn.ac.za

Final Year Design Brochure 2024 2
Table of Contents

Introduction by Prof. Tom Walingo ___________________________________________________ 4

Staff in the EE&CE Discipline ________________________________________________________ 6
Industry Project Prizes – 2024 _______________________________________________________ 8
How to Maximise your Visit _________________________________________________________ 9
General Information ______________________________________________________________ 10
Student Name Index ______________________________________________________________ 11
Project Name Index ______________________________________________________________ 13
The Projects in Student Alphabetical Order ___________________________________________ 16
Floor Plans of the Buildings ________________________________________________________ 35
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 4

Introduction by Prof. Tom Walingo

Welcome to our 2024 Final Year Design Project brochure. The Final Year Design Project is a major module
in the undergraduate curriculum for the majority of our students who are in their final year of study. The
students have put in maximum efforts in their design towards being complete engineers.

An important skill shared by all engineers, and definitely what we require of our graduates, is the ability
to apply the knowledge acquired through their engineering training innovatively so that they create
solutions to problems in society. They create new products and services and maintain them to improve
the quality of our lives and the prosperity of our country. This is the greatest asset that every engineer
can have: the ability to be creative and design new products and services at high level of performance.
Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering are demanding professions in which new theories,
techniques and products must be conceptualized, designed and developed. It is therefore essential for
the engineering graduate to continually sharpen their design skills and update their knowledge to remain
effective through a process of lifelong learning.

Design is a difficult skill to acquire and it takes years to develop. Students must be equipped with the
essential theory, which rests on a foundation of science and mathematics, and is expanded by engineering
science, crowned by specialist skills. The candidate must also develop skills to research and undertake
feasibility studies, to be critical and look out for alternative solutions, and to apply the knowledge
acquired in class. They must also be able to write technical reports related to their projects, as well as
present and defend the proposed solutions and their implementations.

We have prepared students to acquire design skills starting from their first year. By the time they
complete their degree programme, each student will have gone through six design courses. During this
period, they learn to work as individuals, in teams and across disciplines. Students work in groups of three
to five in the earlier design courses for the degree, and this teaches them how to cooperate and pool their
knowledge together. They learn from one another and develop a strong bond, often working late into the
night to meet their goals. Sometimes students are given the same design specifications, and this develops
a wonderful spirit of competition to see whose motor turns fastest or whose radio transmitter produces
the strongest signal!

The Final Year Design Project forms the pinnacle of design activities in the four-year degree. The design
specifications are always technically advanced, and this teaches students good self-study and research
habits. It also gives them confidence in their own abilities by confirming theory through experimentation
and building a product that meets the specifications imposed.

Furthermore, the final year design serves the attainment of the ECSA graduate attributes. A mandatory
aspect towards registration as a professional engineer with ECSA and recognition internationally. The
following graduate attributes must be satisfied in the design project; graduate attribute 1: problem
solving, graduate attribute 2: application of scientific and engineering knowledge, graduate attribute 3:
engineering design and finally, graduate attribute 6: professional and technical communication. Without
satisfying the attributes one cannot graduate and be registered as a professional engineer with the
Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). By extension through collaboration with other international
engineering bodies, one cannot be recognised abroad.

The design projects are a test of an EECE student’s ability to survive as a design engineer. Working alone
for the first time, they are required to meet the individual design specifications associated with each
project. This brochure contains the essential design specifications, which are often incomplete and ill
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 5

defined. The students are given these specifications in July, and in the first few months they research the
topic and begin to form ideas on how to proceed and come up with a paper design. The students then
move on to implementation of their proposed solutions.

To pass the module and its graduate attributes, the design is done in stages where students undergo
rigorous examination. In the first phase the student is examined by one internal examiner with a report.
The second phase sees a student examined by two internal examiners by reports, demonstrations and
presentation. Finally, in the third phase, the students report, presentations and practical implementations
are examined by two internal examiners, one external examiner registered as a professional engineer
with ECSA and finally an external moderator as required by the university regulations.

Successful students pass the module and achieve the ECSA graduate attributes. The most successful
students are honoured with prestigious prices. There are a host of prizes that are awarded to our highest
achieving students mostly by our industrial partners in recognition of their designs and other abilities. The
names of the donors of these prizes are given in the appendix. We are proud of our students and believe
them equal to the best in the world. They have worked long and hard and I would like to congratulate
them on their efforts and wish them the very best for their careers ahead. Evidence of their excellence
has been reported in the industry and the various fields they work in. With most testifying of the
contribution of their design experience in our Electrical Electronic and Computer Engineering discipline.
We wish our students a successful career and their contribution to advancing technology for a better
world.

Prof. T. Walingo
Discipline Academic Leader, EECE
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 6

Staff in the EE&CE Discipline

Management

Discipline Academic Leader T Walingo, PrEng, BT Elec Eng (Moi), MScEng (Natal), PhD
(UKZN), MIEEE
Electrical Programme R Sarma, PrEng, BEng(Hons) (Mauritius), MScEng, PhD (UKZN),
Coordinator SMIEEE

Electronic Programme P Kumar, PrEng, BTech, ME, PhD (India)

Coordinator
Computer Programme E Bhero PrEng, B.Eng (NUST), MPhil (NUST), LLB (UKZN) PhD
Coordinator (NWU) MIEEE, SMSAIEE, SAIIPL

Professors
JT Agee, PrEng, BEng (ATBU), MEng (ATBU), PhD (ATBU)
COREN (Nigeria) SIAMC, SAIEE MIEEE, MIASTED, MITech,
MNAT, COREN, MNSE

AK Saha, PrEng, BEEng (India), PhD (India), FSAIEE, FSAAE,

MASSAf, SMSAIEE, SMIEEE, M-IEEE_HKN, IMCigre

JR Tapamo, BSc, MSc (Yde), DEA, PhD (Rouen), MIEEE, MACM

H Xu, BSc (Guilin), MSc (Shijiazhuang 54), PhD (BUAA), MIEEE

Associate Professors
A L Jarvis, BScEng (Natal), PhD (UKZN) MSAIEE
N Pillay, BScEng (Natal), MScEng (UKZN), PhD (UKZN), MIEEE
T Quazi, BScEng (Natal), MScEng (Natal), PhD (UKZN) SMIEEE,
MHKN
A Swanson PrEng, PhD (Wits), MSc (Wits), BSc (Wits) MSAIEE

Senior Lecturers
M F Khan, PrEng, BScEng, MScEng (Natal), PhD (UKZN), FSAIEE,
MIEEE
B Naidoo, BScEng, MScEng (Natal), MSAIEE, MIEEE, MHKN
R Tiako B.Eng. (Hons)(FUTA), MScEng (UCT), PhD (Curtin
University), MIEEE

Lecturers M Brown, BScEng, MScEng (UKZN)

R Khuboni, BScEng, MScEng (UKZN)
B Mthethwa, PrEng, BScEng (Natal), MScEng, PhD (UKZN)
J Parker, BScEng, MScEng (UKZN)
S Patel, BScEng, PhD (UKZN)
S Rezenom, BScEng, MScEng, PhD (UKZN)
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 7

Honorary Professors T Afullo, PrEng, BScEng (Hons) (Nairobi), MSEE (West Virginia),
PhD (Brussels), FSAIEE, SMIEEE MHKN
DG Dorrel BEng (Hons) (Leeds), MScEng (Bradford), PhD
(Cantab), CEng, FiET (UK)
NM Ijumba, PrEng, CEng, REng(Kenya & Tanzania), MIET,
MIEE, BSc(Eng) (Dar-Es-Salaam), MSc (Salford), PhD.
(Strathclyde).
SH Mneney, PrEng, BSc(Hons)Eng (Kumasi), MASc (Toronto),
PhD (Dar-Es-Salaam), SMSAIEEE, MIEEE
T Ngatched BSc (Licence), MSc (Maitrise), MS Eng (Natal), PhD
(UKZN)
KO Papailiou MSc (Elec Eng), TU Braunschweig), MSc (Civ Eng,
Stuttgart), PhD (RTH), SMIEEE
VM Srivastava, PrEng, BTech (India), MTech (India), PhD
(India), SMSAIEE, SMIEEE
GK Venayagamoorthy, BEng (ABTB Univ, Nigeria), MScEng,
Ph.D. (Natal), FIET, FSAIEE, Duke Energy Distinguished
Professor, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
C Venugopal, B.Eng, M.Eng, PhD (India), SMIEEE. Oregon
Institute of Technology, USA.

Technical & Support Staff

Principal Technicians D Moodley, D Maharaj
ICT Officer N Hlambisa
Senior Technicians M Naidoo, A Naicker
Technicians D Maharaj, M Nxumalo, U Roopnund, V Arunajallem
Workshop Assistants M J Mpisi, T Mpisi, S Maphumulo, T Nzuza

Administrative Staff
Administrative Officers D Mbona, B Mokoena, N Ntola
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 8

Industry Project Prizes – 2024

The Discipline of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering is grateful to industry for the prizes they
generously donate. These prizes give our students an incentive to strive for excellence. It is therefore with
pleasure that we list below the companies, who have donated prizes to the students who have shown
outstanding ability in their different fields.
Adams & Adams
Most Innovative Design Project in Computer
Engineering.
EE&CE
Best Final Year Computer Engineering Design
Project.
EE&CE Discipline
Top Final Year Student in Computer Engineering.
EE&CE Discipline
Best Final Year Electronic Engineering Design
Project
EE&CE Discipline
Top Final Year Student in Electronic Engineering
EE&CE Discipline
Top Final Year Student in Electrical Engineering
EE&CE Discipline
Best Control Systems Project
EE&CE Discipline
Most Popular Design Project (Students)
Most Popular Design Project (Public)
Isisusa Engineering Services
The Sustainable Energy Prize
Isisusa Engineering Services
Societal Impact Prize
Reutech Communications
Most Innovative Design Implementation by a Final
Year student in Electronic Engineering
Rhythm Power Solutions
Most Innovative Design by a Final Year Student in
Electrical Engineering
SAIEE
Best Final Year Electrical Engineering Design
Project
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 9

How to Maximise your Visit

The Viewing Route

Student exhibits are on display in several laboratories on all floors in the Electrical, Electronic and
Computer Engineering building as well as in the Howard College building next door.

EE-North EE South
Then across to EE South which is connected to
Ground Floor EE North via a walkway on the second floor.

Our award nominated projects will be displayed Second Floor – EE South

in the Foyer at the entrance.
At the rear of the building, you will find G-02, the On this floor there are projects in Rooms 2-13S,
Material Science Lab (G-12), Machinery Hall (G- 2-14S and 2-15S.
24), HVAC Lab (G-26) and courtyard.
First Floor – EE South
First Floor
Here we have two labs with projects 1-13-2S and
Rooms 1-27 and 1-29 which can be accessed via 1-14S.
Room 1-01 has several projects on display.
Ground Floor – EE South
Second Floor
No exhibits on this floor.
The action on the second floor is in 2-01 at one
end of the building.
Basement – EE South
No exhibits on this floor.
Third Floor
No exhibits on this floor.

Fourth Floor
No exhibits on this floor.
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 10

General Information
The member of staff on duty at the reception table in the foyer or any other member of staff will
be pleased to direct you if you cannot find your way.

We wish you an interesting and enjoyable afternoon

Beware

Equipment at Work

In the interests of your own safety and the feelings of your loved ones, you are urged to consider
all equipment as live and therefore dangerous, thus - please do not touch any item of equipment.

Staff and students, identified by nametags, are available to assist you wherever possible.

Refreshments

Refreshments are available from the kiosk in the

Business Concourse, situated in front

of this building (to the east side).

Toilets
These are situated off the landings between each floor on the main stairway from
the Foyer
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 11

Student Name Index

Abraham, Tristan ...................................... 16 Maqhubu, Sixolile Moses ........................... 23

Almeida, Andre Daniel Neves .................... 16 Mariah, Lavanya........................................ 23
Arumugam, Rene ...................................... 16 Mashaba, Sibuyiselo Linda......................... 24
Bramdutt, Dhirvan .................................... 16 Mathe, Siphesihle ...................................... 24
Cele, Goodpresent Siphesihle Mfanelo....... 17 Mavela, Thabo .......................................... 24
Chetram, Thaeel ........................................ 17 Mavimbela, Samkelo Mehluko .................. 24
Christopher, Joshua Lee ............................. 17 Mbhele, Khumbuzile Prosperous ................ 25
Dladla, Khulekani Guyborn ........................ 18 Mbonambi, Sabelo Mhlengi ....................... 25
Dlamini, Sonke Sandiso ............................. 18 Mdakane, Sfundo Sbusiso .......................... 25
Govender, Tayden Jeremiah ...................... 18 Mdletshe, Nothile Sphesihle ...................... 25
Gubevu, Sbonelo ....................................... 18 Mfuamba, Munekayi Antoine .................... 26
Gumbi, Nhlakanipho Mpilo ....................... 18 Mjadu, Mvelo Kwazikwenkosi ................... 26
Gumede, Philani Nhlonipho ....................... 19 Mngoma, Kendy ........................................ 26
Habib, Sulaiman ........................................ 19 Mntambo, Nkosingimele Steven ................ 26
Hlatshwayo, Sbusiso Blessing .................... 19 Morgan, Luke Lindon ................................. 26
Hossain, Azaan Ifadi .................................. 19 Mpanza, Sibusiso Gift ................................ 27
Kaulasar, Rinesh ........................................ 20 Mthembu, Sibusiso .................................... 27
Khalid, Abdul-Qayyoom............................. 20 Mtshali, Zandile Slondile Goodness ............ 27
Khan, Mohammed Uzair............................ 20 Mvelase, Lindokuhle Khulekani .................. 27
Khan, Mohammed Bilal ............................. 20 Mzobe, Nqobani ........................................ 27
Kistnan, Justin Gerhard ............................. 21 Nagan, Keenan .......................................... 28
Kubheka, Uphile Smangaliso ..................... 21 Ndimande, Philani Clive ............................. 28
Kunene, Thanduxolo Eric ........................... 21 Ngcobo, Sbonelo Protas ............................. 28
Letlatsa, Kopanang Ernest ......................... 21 Ngobeni, Bongani ...................................... 29
Madonda, Nontobeko ............................... 21 Ntombela, Nkanyiso .................................. 29
Maharaj, Mikhail ...................................... 22 Nxele, Noluthando Ethel ............................ 29
Mahomed, Afsaana ................................... 22 Nxumalo, Mthunzi Sydney ......................... 29
Mahomed, Fuzail....................................... 22 Nyandeni, Lindokuhle ................................ 30
Malinga, Skhanyiso ................................... 23 Nzama, Mnqobi Mbusiswa ........................ 30
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 12

Phungula, Senzesihle Minenhle ................. 30

Pillay, Jadene Tarryn ................................. 30
Pillay, Jaishaan Vishnu .............................. 30
Randell, Daniel David ................................ 31
Reddy, Vishalan ........................................ 31
Reddy, Byron Ganesta ............................... 31
Sibiya, Busiswa Bongokuhle ...................... 31
Sikakane, Thembinkosi Nqobani ................ 32
Tshiluka, Tenda ......................................... 32
Xolo, Njabulo Fortune ............................... 33
Yengopal, Jesheran Levien......................... 33
Zondi, Ngcebo ........................................... 33
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 13

Project Name Index

1. Electromagnetic Levitating Display 16 Magnet Wind Generator for Low Wind

2. Smart Audio-Driven Lighting and FX Speed Areas. ..................................... 19
Controller for Karaoke and Music 16. Programmable DC Power Supply . 19
Events............................................... 16 17. Target moving control and tracking
3. Animation Flight Control System ... 16 system .............................................. 20
4. Multi-sensory stimulation device for 18. Sound event detection system ..... 20
Alzheimer and/or dementia patients 16 19. Design and development of impulse
5. The use of Zigbee-based home current generator and measurement
networks in the monitoring and control system .............................................. 20
of domestic electrical loads............... 17 20. Detection and Reporting of
6. Smart Meter Communication Conductor Theft Using Smart Device . 20
Infrastructure ................................... 17 21. Streaming QR codes .................... 21
7. Sign Language to Text Translator .. 17 22. Design and implementation of a
8. Development of a sensor to detect generator tree .................................. 21
the condition of Transmission Tower 23. Design an HVDC transmission
Foundations...................................... 18 system and investigate its impact on
9. A Controlled Twelve- Pulse Rectifier small-signal stability ......................... 21
System .............................................. 18 24. Smart Vehicle Traffic System ....... 21
10. Programmable Electronic DC Load 25. Hospitality Industry Event
......................................................... 18 Advertising Tool ............................... 21
11. Design of a Hybrid Battery/Battery- 26. Sound source localisation system 22
less sensor node................................ 18
27. Coffee maker replenisher ............ 22
12. Electric Power Generation and
Gravity Harvesters ............................ 18 28. Induction Forge ........................... 22

13. Blockchain-based Financial Sector 29. Design of a high current test rig to
Conduct Authority Key Individual determine the ampacity of medium
Management Tool ............................ 18 voltage XLPE cables using different
installation methods ......................... 23
14. Deep Vision Sudoku: Webcam-
Based Sudoku Solver with Deep 30. Express View: Facial Expression POV
Learning ........................................... 19 Display with Webcam Integration..... 23

15. Design, Simulation & 31. Design of a smart-home system .. 23

Implementation of a Permanent
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 14

32. Design of a dual winding current 47. Design and simulation of a lighting
transformer for measurement of system for a museum ........................ 27
corona in a corona cage .................... 24 48. Design of a Thyristor-based FACTS
33. Street View Image Localization ... 24 controller for Large-signal rotor
34. Design, Simulation & oscillations ....................................... 27
Implementation of a Sensitive Footstep 49. Programmable Solid State VARIAC
Turbine for a Micro-Power Plant. ...... 24 ......................................................... 27
35. Electric Vehicle Charging Station 50. Hexapod robot ............................ 28
Optimization for Urban Areas ........... 24 51. Planning and design of electrical
36. Road Condition Monitoring From network for the electrification of
camera feed ..................................... 25 informal rural community plagued by
37. Design an HVDC transmission overload trips ................................... 28
system and investigate its impact on 52. PV Solar Panel I-V Test Rig with
transient stability ............................. 25 Temperature Control ........................ 28
38. Design, Simulation & 53. LLM Generated Text Detection .... 29
Implementation of a Semi-Automatic 54. High-Current DC Impulse Generator
Coil Winding Machine. ...................... 25 for High Temperature Superconductor
39. Design and Implementation of a Tape Based Fault Current Limiter ...... 29
three-phase power measurement 55. Temperature control of heating
system with IOT capability ................ 25 element ............................................ 29
40. Blockchain-Based Secure Voting 56. Industrial Sand Heat Storage
System .............................................. 25 System .............................................. 29
41. A Study of the frequency 57. Design, Simulation &
characteristics of some common Implementation of a Mini Steam
domestic electrical appliances .......... 26 Turbine for Domestic Electric-Powered
42. Secure voting technology platform Application. ...................................... 30
......................................................... 26 58. Design, Simulation &
43. Maze Solver: Smart Maze Bot ..... 26 Implementation of an In-Line Turbine
44. An Intelligent Customer Service for Micro-Hydropower Plant. ............ 30
Chatbot ............................................ 26 59. Design of non-controllable rectifier
45. Anatomical Range of Motion for a 400V 16A 3 phase supply .......... 30
Measurement Device ........................ 27 60. Real-Time person Tracking for
46. A 1200VA PV-based nano-grid with Video Surveillance ............................ 30
AC and DC output voltages and DC 61. Drowsiness detection alert system
storage ............................................. 27 for drivers ......................................... 30
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 15

62. Low-Light Image Enhancement ... 31

63. Video-Based Vehicle Detection and
Tracking System ............................... 31
64. Design of 100 kV 40mH inductor for
the corona cage ................................ 31
65. Wireless Underwater
Communication System .................... 31
66. E-Learning Platform with
Interactive Content ........................... 32
67. South African SMME Secure Invoice
Discounting and Factoring Ecosystem32
68. Design of a Thyristor-based FACTS
controller for damping inter-area
oscillations ....................................... 33
69. Development of a Wireless Sensor
Network for Power Plant Equipment
Monitoring ....................................... 33
70. Smart tester ................................ 33
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 16

The Projects in Student Alphabetical Order

A brief specification relating to each student’s final design project follows hereunder, with the
title of the project, the name of the student, and the supervisor with whom they have been
working.

1. Electromagnetic Levitating Display significant gap in the market by providing

Venue: 1-29N smaller, budget-conscious venues like bars,
Abraham, Tristan clubs, and small concert spaces with a tool
Registration: EL that enables operators to create
professional-quality lighting effects without
Description: Design and implement a technical expertise.
magnetic levitating display capable of
supporting at least 300g. The height of Supervisor: Prof. Quazi
levitating should be adjustable.
3. Animation Flight Control System
Supervisor: Mr Brown Venue: 2-13S
Arumugam, Rene
2. Smart Audio-Driven Lighting and FX Registration: EC
Controller for Karaoke and Music Events
Venue: 2-15S Description: Fly through the skies in Aetheria
Almeida, Andre Daniel Neves - a motion-controlled 3D video game inspired
Registration: CE by the hit-movie "Avatar." Become one with
a dragon using only your body movement to
Description: Automatically light up any event explore a mystical world. Aetheria combines
with the Smart Audio-Driven Lighting and FX the Kinect 360s' body tracking technology
Controller. This innovative, automated with advanced techniques such as the
solution is designed for karaoke and music Unscented Kalman Filter, Linear
events, where access to audio and lighting Interpolation, Gesture Recognition, Joint
technicians is often limited. By analyzing live Retargeting, and Procedural Content
audio inputs and responding to audio Generation to create a charming gaming
characteristics like frequency and volume, it experience. Developed with Unity and Visual
generates real-time, dynamic light shows that Studio, the game allows players to navigate
sync with the music, creating an immersive, and interact with a dynamic and infinite
engaging experience. In addition to virtual world —all through their motion.
automatic mode, the system also offers
manual control, allowing operators to adjust Supervisor: Prof. Quazi
lighting effects as needed. Unlike traditional
lighting systems, which are often costly and 4. Multi-sensory stimulation device for
require complex programming, this controller Alzheimer and/or dementia patients
provides an affordable, user-friendly Venue: 2-14S
alternative that requires minimal technical Bramdutt, Dhirvan
expertise. With its ease of use, automation, Registration: CE
and affordability, this controller fills a
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 17

Description: The project involves the foundation for establishing a smart grid. The
research and development of a sensory smart combined AMI system should feature
stimulation device for patients suffering from Power Line Communication (PLC) for the
Alzheimer's and/or dementia. The idea is that power lines that run between the low-
the device can be used for stimulation voltage distribution transformer and the
therapy. The disease as mentioned is customers’ meters. Embedding PLC into the
progressive resulting in the loss of neurons distribution line enables solutions to obtain a
and their connections. Daily communication level of grid intelligence that cannot be
and engagement of the five senses can make matched by any wireless solution. A suitable
drastic improvements to the quality and communication technology, NB-IOT, to be
function of the patient. applied from the data concentrator to the
Head End System. A sponsored project that
Supervisor: Prof. Pillay builds on previous combined meter design
where the design of a low-cost PLC system
5. The use of Zigbee-based home networks and NB-IOT system is of ultimate importance.
in the monitoring and control of domestic
electrical loads Supervisor: Prof. Walingo
Venue: G-02N
Cele, Goodpresent Siphesihle Mfanelo 7. Sign Language to Text Translator
Registration: EL Venue: 1-14S
Christopher, Joshua Lee
Description: Smart electricity metering offers Registration: CE
new possibilities for intelligent domestic load
management. The detection of the power Description: As communication becomes
consumed by some of the critical loads would increasingly important in today’s society, the
provide the data needed for load need to bridge the gap between people with
management schemes. In this project, the disabilities and those without has gained
student shall integrate power measurement further importance. Sign language, a primary
sensors in the circuits of some domestic communication tool for over 4 million South
loads. A wireless home network shall then be Africans, often remains underrepresented in
designed to enable the monitoring (and society despite advancement in technology.
possible control) of such loads. A knowledge This project aims to solve these issues
of wireless technologies/Bluetooth is a pre- through the development of a Sign Language
requisite for doing this project. to Text Translator. By utilizing computer
vision and deep learning, the system offers
Supervisor: Prof. Agee real-time translation of American Sign
Language (ASL) into coherent text. A camera
6. Smart Meter Communication captures user gestures, which are then
Infrastructure analyzed through LSTM models trained on a
Venue: 2-01N WL-ASL 100 dataset containing labelled
Chetram, Thaeel videos of 100 sign language gestures. The
Registration: CE proposed solution focuses on providing an
affordable and scalable for of translation
Description: Designing a combined smart
energy and water meter for the Advanced Supervisor: Mr Parker
metering infrastructure (AMI) infrastructure.
The meter should feature two-way
communications providing the critical
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 18

8. Development of a sensor to detect the

condition of Transmission Tower Supervisor: Mr Brown
Foundations
Venue: 1-27N 11. Design of a Hybrid Battery/Battery-less
Dladla, Khulekani Guyborn sensor node
Registration: EL Venue: 2-14S
Gubevu, Sbonelo
Description: The project involves a system to Registration: CE
detect the condition of a transmission tower
foundation (concrete block with steel rods). It Description: In this project, the student is to
should be capable of detecting corrosion or research and develop a hybrid powered
voids within the foundation and sensor node. The node must utilise battery
communicating any anomalies to relevant and battery-less modes in order to extend the
personal. This project includes simulation battery life of the sensor node. The node
with must be demonstrated as part of a wireless
COMSOL prior to constructing and testing the sensor network. The sensor should be used
device. for environmental sensing. Both modes, i.e.
battery and battery-less must be investigated
Supervisor: Dr Khan in detail with relevant analysis such as to
formulate a solution. A suitable power
9. A Controlled Twelve- Pulse Rectifier harvesting IC, e.g. P2110B by Powercast must
System be identified and procured early in the
Venue: G-02N project.
Dlamini, Sonke Sandiso
Registration: EL Supervisor: Prof. Pillay

Description: High-pulse rectifiers are suitable 12. Electric Power Generation and Gravity
for HVDC generation. This project shall design Harvesters
a 12-pulse controlled rectifier, supplied from Venue: 2-01N
a three-phase power source. The output of Gumbi, Nhlakanipho Mpilo
the rectifier shall be adjustable, and also Registration: EC
regulated. Consideration shall be given to the
minimisation of input-line harmonics. The Description: This project is based on a South
design shall also achieve 2KVA rating. A African Patent, 2021 / 08347. At this stage of
suitable three-phase transformer is available study, the work to be done by a student is
for the projects. mostly simulation-based. The patent is about
the generation of electricity by ultra-chutes
Supervisor: Prof. Agee and gravity harvesters. The core object of the
project is to prove or disprove the
10. Programmable Electronic DC Load commercial viability of the patent by carrying
Venue: 1-29N out detailed simulations of all scenarios of
Govender, Tayden Jeremiah implementing this patent.
Registration: EL
Supervisor: Dr Bhero
Description: This project entails the design
and implementation of a programmable 13. Blockchain-based Financial Sector
electronic DC load. The thermal design is Conduct Authority Key Individual
included. Management Tool
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 19

Venue: 1-13-2S Leveraging computer vision and deep

Gumede, Philani Nhlonipho learning techniques, the system captures
Registration: EC Sudoku grids from a webcam feed, processes
the images to extract digits, applies a trained
Description: The Financial Sector Conduct neural network to recognize the numbers,
Authority (FSCA) requires crypto asset and employs a solving algorithm to provide
intermediary services based companies to the solution.
register as crypto asset service providers
(CASP) to comply with the financial advisory Supervisor: Mr Khuboni
and intermediary services (FAIS) Act of 2002.
However, to register a startup as a CASP, they 15. Design, Simulation & Implementation of
require a Key Individual (KI) with a Permanent Magnet Wind Generator for
demonstrated history or experience of Low Wind Speed Areas.
managing crypto assets to be part of the Venue: 1-27N
Management or Shareholding of the startup Hlatshwayo, Sbusiso Blessing
in order to comply with one of the Registration: EL
requirements stated in the Board Notice 194
of 2017. KIs not only have experience Description: The candidate is expected to
managing crypto assets but also have paased design, develop and build an innovative full
required regulatory examinations (RE) wind turbine & generator. The design is
required to manage crypto assets and also performed at a large- scale level, but the
have continous professional development construction is done at a small-scale level
(CPD) points linked to courses such as using upcycling electro-mechanical devices if
financial intelligence centre act (FICA) necessary.
compliance. It is currently very challenging
for startups to locate these reputable KIs. It is Supervisor: Dr Tiako
thus required for the student to develop an
immutable record of these KIs, their 16. Programmable DC Power Supply
qualifications, type of assets they have Venue: 1-29N
managed, and also link their location and Hossain, Azaan Ifadi
current companies they are acting as KIs for. Registration: EL
This is to allow startups to be able to search
for possible KIs in their area with the requisite Description: DC power supplies are essential
asset management experience, in electronics, from basic testing to advanced
qualifications, relevant CPD courses, e.t.c so research tasks by providing necessary DC
that startups can contant them easily for an voltage and current for circuits and devices.
opportunity to partner with them. While fixed-output supplies have limited
adaptability, programmable DC power
Supervisor: Dr Mthethwa supplies offer precise control over voltage
and current, supporting a wider range of
14. Deep Vision Sudoku: Webcam-Based applications. Their flexibility enables them to
Sudoku Solver with Deep Learning mimic DC sources, test power converters, and
Venue: 1-14S serve as universal lab power supplies.
Habib, Sulaiman Programmable features enable remote
Registration: EC control, real-time adjustments, and
integration into automated tests, optimizing
Description: Deep Vision Sudoku is aimed at performance and identifying faults under
solving Sudoku puzzles using webcam input. varied loads. This project presents the design
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 20

and implementation of a programmable DC Venue: G-26N

power supply utilizing a SEPIC (Single-Ended Khan, Mohammed Uzair
Primary Inductor Converter) topology, aimed Registration: EL
at providing adjustable voltage and current
outputs for various applications. The power Description: This project involves the design
supply operates with an input voltage of 24V of a 10/350 µs current impulse generator
and is designed to deliver an adjustable tailored for testing voltage leads on overhead
output voltage range of 0-48V and output line post conductors. Such a generator
current of up to 6.25A, with a maximum produces a high-energy impulse replicating
output power of 300W. lightning strikes, critical for assessing the
voltage withstand capability of conductors.
Supervisor: Mr Brown The design emphasizes precise waveform
shaping to achieve a peak current with a 10
17. Target moving control and tracking µs rise time and a 350 µs decay, aligning with
system IEC 62305 standards. Key components
Venue: 2-13S include a capacitor bank, a air gap switch, and
Kaulasar, Rinesh energy-dissipating resistors, ensuring
Registration: EC stability and repeatability. Testing
demonstrates the generator’s performance.
Description: This project models a target
moving control and target tracking system. Supervisor: Dr Swanson
The system consists of two subsystems,
target moving control system and target 20. Detection and Reporting of Conductor
tracking system. The first subsystem Theft Using Smart Device
randomly controls the target moving in a Venue: 1-27N
limited area (for example, a small square Khan, Mohammed Bilal
area). Then the target tracking system Registration: EL
automatically tracks the target. There is no
communications between these two Description: This project presents a smart
subsystems. device designed to detect and report
conductor theft, an issue that disrupts power
Supervisor: Prof. Xu supply and results in significant economic
losses. The system uses an ESP32
18. Sound event detection system microcontroller with an MPU6050
Venue: 2-15S accelerometer and a SCT-013 non-invasive
Khalid, Abdul-Qayyoom current clamp to monitor overhead
Registration: EC conductors. If a theft is detected, the device
immediately sends a real-time alert. Unlike
Description: The project is concerned with traditional security approaches, this solution
the design of a sound event detection system is compact, self-powered, and capable of
that can identify and categorise different continuous operation, even in remote
types of sounds from the acoustic scene. locations. The solar power system and
backup battery allow the device to function
Supervisor: Dr Rezenom reliably without frequent maintenance,
making it a scalable and sustainable solution
19. Design and development of impulse to address conductor theft. This system aims
current generator and measurement to reduce service interruptions, enhance
system
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 21

infrastructure security, and mitigate the Supervisor: Prof. Saha

economic impacts of conductor theft.
23. Design an HVDC transmission system
Supervisor: Dr Khan and investigate its impact on small-signal
stability
21. Streaming QR codes Venue: G-24N
Venue: 2-01N Kunene, Thanduxolo Eric
Kistnan, Justin Gerhard Registration: EL
Registration: CE
Description: The student is expected to
Description: This project requires the design develop a detailed simulation model of an
and analysis of a QR code streaming sysstem. HVDC link and its converter and inverter
A monitor must be used to display streaming stations on PSCAD. Once the models of the
QR codes and a camera must be used as a converter and inverter stations have been
receiver. The aim is to maximize the developed and verified, the student is then
achievable data rate and to analyse the non- required to incorporate the HVDC in a
ideal effects in the communication system. benchmarked power system to determine
the improvement that can be achieved on the
Supervisor: Prof. Pillay small- signal stability of the system.

22. Design and implementation of a Supervisor: Dr Sarma

generator tree
Venue: G-02N 24. Smart Vehicle Traffic System
Kubheka, Uphile Smangaliso Venue: 2-01N
Registration: EL Letlatsa, Kopanang Ernest
Registration: EC
Description: The generator tree is an
innovative renewable energy solution that Description: The main aim of this project is
combines nature's aesthetic with power that it saves energy by putting on the lights of
generation's functionality. By mimicking the the system only when the system detects
form of a tree, this system captures energy movement of vehicle. The system switches on
from both solar and wind sources. Using solar the street light ahead of the vehicle and
panels and small wind turbines strategically switches off the trailing lights simultaneously.
positioned on its branches. These energy The system should adjust the dimness of the
sources work together to create a hybrid lights depending on the intensity and time of
solar-wind power supply. The generator tree the day. Further advance to the system
is unique as it has the ability to harness should include the uses a camera/RADAR
energy effectively from multiple sources in a sensor/Bluetooth to enable one additional
compact, nature-inspired design. The feature such as lane departure warning,
generator tree is designed to bled in traffic light detection, object detection and
seamlessly into various landscapes, offering blind spot detection.
power without disrupting the environment
unlike tradition solar-wind setups which Supervisor: Prof. Walingo
require large spaces. The generator tree aims
to inspire a new wave of green energy 25. Hospitality Industry Event Advertising
solution which is not only functional but also Tool
blends in with it surroundings. Venue: 1-13-2S
Madonda, Nontobeko
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 22

Registration: CE money moving from event to event. It also

gives advertising exposure to the
Description: The student needs to design a establishments.
mobile application that will allow potential
hospitality industry patrons to search for Supervisor: Dr Mthethwa
social events, hosted by enrolled hospitality
industry establishments, that match their 26. Sound source localisation system
search criteria within a defined kilometre Venue: 2-15S
radius of their current location or specified Maharaj, Mikhail
physical address. The hospitality industry Registration: EC
establishments must be able to enrol their
restuarants or clubs onto the system for a Description: The project requires the design
fixed registration fee payable by credit card. and implementation of a sound localisation
Once enrolled, they can create events in system based on machine learning
advance, which they pay for on-demand via technology.
credit card, with specific themes e.g (All white
party, or Bikini party e.t.c with entrance fee Supervisor: Dr Rezenom
requirements, dress code, physical address of
event, List of DJ names or Hostesses for the 27. Coffee maker replenisher
event, e.t.c). The patrons should be able to Venue: 2-14S
search for events, on their App, that meet Mahomed, Afsaana
their search criteria within a specified Registration: CE
kilometre radius and on a specified day. The
search results must appear on a Google Maps Description: The project aims to automate
canvas with the Google maps location the replenishment of the inputs of a coffee
pins/beacons showing the different event maker. The replenisher should be able to
locations and the main event theme name. detect and determine the levels of the inputs
When the patron hovers over the location and then actuate the replenishment process
pin, the event details must appear also when necessary.
showing the event capacity (maximum
number of people catered for) and also Supervisor: Dr Bhero
showing the number of people currently at
the venue. The number of people currently at 28. Induction Forge
the venue will be counted using a wireless Venue: 1-29N
electronic device installed at the entrance of Mahomed, Fuzail
the venue of the event. The wireless Registration: EL
electronic device shall be designed and built
by the student and it shall signal when each Description: This induction forge is a heating
person enters or leaves the venue. The system designed specifically for knife
headcount data must be aggregated and hobbyists, providing rapid and even metal
make its way to an online server which will heating through a series resonant inverter
overlay the data on the Google Maps canvas combined with Maximum Power Point
when detailed event information is requested Tracking (MPPT) control. The series resonant
using the hovering action on the location pin. inverter allows for efficient power transfer by
The problems this project solves is that, some maintaining a high-frequency
patrons do not want to go to events that are electromagnetic field, optimized to heat
too packed some patrons want very packed metal workpieces consistently. The MPPT
events. This will save people's time and control dynamically adjusts the system to
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 23

achieve peak power output, even as load project presents a complex engineering
conditions change when a workpiece is challenge involving real-time image
inserted, altering the system’s inductance. processing, classification of emotions using
The forge stands out due to its ability to adapt deep learning, and synchronization with the
to these fluctuations, ensuring stable hardware required for POV displays.
resonance and maximum efficiency at all Addressing these complexities involves
times. In contrast to traditional forges that integrating principles of machine learning,
may lose efficiency with load changes, this image processing, signal timing, and system
design maintains consistent heating while design for effective display on a moving
minimizing energy waste. This combination of platform.
precise control and energy efficiency makes it
ideal for applications requiring sustainable, Supervisor: Mr Khuboni
high-performance heating solutions.
31. Design of a smart-home system
Supervisor: Mr Brown Venue: G-02N
Mariah, Lavanya
29. Design of a high current test rig to Registration: EL
determine the ampacity of medium voltage
XLPE cables using different installation Description: This project presents a low-cost
methods comprehensive smart home system that
Venue: G-24N seamlessly integrates automated features for
Malinga, Skhanyiso enhanced security, comfort and ease of use,
Registration: EL advancing traditional home setups. Equipped
with multiple sensors (gas, flame, PIR, LDR,
Description: The project is to develop a rig to sound, temperature and rain sensors), the
cycle the current through copper and system continuously monitors environmental
aluminium XLPE cables. A control system for conditions. It automatically adjusts home
the phase angle power controller will be functions (windows, door, alarm, lights, fan,
designed to control the current and a geyser and gate) based on real time data to
temperature measurement system must be optimise power consumption and ensure a
designed to monitor the temperature rise. comfortable living environment. The system
The installation methods can include cable incorporates an IOT app available on both IOS
trays, buried or backfilled, or any other and android, that can be used to monitor and
alternative method. control the home remotely. This smart home
system prioritises user customisation,
Supervisor: Dr Swanson allowing owners to enable or disable specific
functions in their home as desired, providing
30. Express View: Facial Expression POV highly adaptable automation. Enhancing
Display with Webcam Integration safety, energy efficiency and convenience,
Venue: 1-14S this project exemplifies advanced electrical
Maqhubu, Sixolile Moses engineering, combining embedded systems,
Registration: CE automation, power management and
wireless connectivity to make a meaningful
Description: This project focuses on impact on smart home innovation.
designing a system that can detect human
facial expressions through a deep learning Supervisor: Prof. Saha
model and display them in real-time on a
Persistence of Vision (POV) display. The
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 24

32. Design of a dual winding current 34. Design, Simulation & Implementation of
transformer for measurement of corona in a Sensitive Footstep Turbine for a Micro-
a corona cage Power Plant.
Venue: G-26N Venue: 1-27N
Mashaba, Sibuyiselo Linda Mavela, Thabo
Registration: EL Registration: EL

Description: This project presents the design Description: The increasing need for
and implementation of a dual-winding sustainable and renewable energy sources
current transformer for precise has led interest in alternative energy
measurement of corona currents in a solutions. Power generation through
controlled corona cage environment. The footstep-based systems presents an eco-
transformer is designed to detect both the 50 friendly approach, utilizing the kinetic energy
Hz component and high-frequency pulse produced when people walk over specially
components of corona current. This dual- designed system. These systems can be
frequency measurement capability provides strategically installed in high-footfall areas,
a comprehensive view of corona discharge such as sidewalks, shopping centres, and
behaviour, a crucial factor in high-voltage transit hubs, where the mechanical energy
systems. A key focus of this project is to from footsteps can be harvested to produce
analyse and mitigate the influence of each electricity. The aim of this project is to
winding on the other, ensuring independent harness this energy effectively, converting
and accurate readings across both frequency the mechanical force of footsteps into
ranges. This innovative approach offers a electrical power. This generated energy can
significant improvement in the accuracy and be used to supplement the local power grid
reliability of corona current measurements, or support various applications, including
contributing to the field of high-voltage street lighting and pedestrian-focused
equipment diagnostics and safety. infrastructure.

Supervisor: Dr Swanson Supervisor: Dr Tiako

33. Street View Image Localization 35. Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Venue: 1-14S Optimization for Urban Areas
Mathe, Siphesihle Venue: 1-27N
Registration: CE Mavimbela, Samkelo Mehluko
Registration: EL
Description: Develop a system that
determines the location from which a given Description: This design focuses on using
street view image (or images) was taken, solar energy to power an electric vehicle
using only the visual content in the image(s). charging station. In an event the solar power
This can be a valuable tool for tasks like is insufficient to charge an electric vehicle,
image-based localisation, image retrieval there is a option to switch to using power
based on location, navigation assistance, and from grid. A user app is designed to so that
urban scene analysis. the user can book a slot for charging. The app
also shows charging costs for the user.
Supervisor: Mr Parker
Supervisor: Dr Khan
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 25

36. Road Condition Monitoring From essential for producing electrical components
camera feed like transformers and inductors. By offering
Venue: 1-14S Bluetooth control and a user-friendly
Mbhele, Khumbuzile Prosperous interface, this project provides small
Registration: CE businesses with an affordable and reliable
solution for efficient coil winding, improving
Description: This project main goal is to use productivity and quality without expensive
cheap and real-time approach to monitor the industrial equipment.
condition of the road. Machine learning
models will be used to analyse video camera Supervisor: Dr Tiako
feed to categorize road conditions.
39. Design and Implementation of a three-
Supervisor: Prof. Tapamo phase power measurement system with IOT
capability
37. Design an HVDC transmission system Venue: G-02N
and investigate its impact on transient Mdletshe, Nothile Sphesihle
stability Registration: EL
Venue: G-24N
Mbonambi, Sabelo Mhlengi Description: This project designs and
Registration: EL implements a three-phase power
measurement system with Internet of Things
Description: The student is expected to (IoT) capability. the need for maximum power
develop a detailed simulation model of an saving is the motivation for this study since
HVDC link and its converter and inverter we use electricity daily and for many
stations on PSCAD. Once the models of the purposes - Industrial and commercial. Hence
converter and inverter stations have been the need of managing and maintaining
developed and verified, the student is then electrical load is getting tougher and tougher.
required to incorporate the HVDC in a This system provides extensive analytics,
benchmarked power system to determine real-time monitoring capabilities, and remote
the improvement that can be achieved on the accessibility of electrical parameters such as
transient stability of the system. voltage, current, real power, reactive power,
apparent power, and power factor by utilizing
Supervisor: Dr Sarma sensors, microcontrollers, wireless
networking, cloud-based data processing
38. Design, Simulation & Implementation of power, and Internet of Things technologies.
a Semi-Automatic Coil Winding Machine. It has a body that wirelessly transmits data
Venue: 1-27N from energy consumers which can be part of
Mdakane, Sfundo Sbusiso monitoring electricity consumption. The
Registration: EL project offers a comprehensive approach to
minimizing power consumption, boosting
Description: This project develops a semi- reliability, and promoting sustainability in
automatic coil winding machine using an contemporary power infrastructures, which
Arduino, Bluetooth, stepper motors, and an advances energy management techniques.
LCD display to automate the coil winding
process. Users can control winding speed, set Supervisor: Prof. Agee
the number of turns, and track progress via a
mobile app or physical interface. The system 40. Blockchain-Based Secure Voting System
ensures precise, consistent coil winding, Venue: 1-13-2S
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 26

Mfuamba, Munekayi Antoine Supervisor: Dr Rezenom

Registration: CE
43. Maze Solver: Smart Maze Bot
Description: The objective of this project is to Venue: 2-13S
develop a secure and transparent voting Mntambo, Nkosingimele Steven
system using blockchain technology. The Registration: EC
system will ensure the integrity and
anonymity of votes, providing a reliable Description: This project presents a Smart
platform for elections. By leveraging the Maze-Solving Robot designed to navigate and
decentralized and immutable nature of identify the shortest path in an unfamiliar
blockchain, this system aims to address terrain maze. Equipped with three ultrasonic
common issues such as vote tampering and sensors, the robot detects obstacles (i.e.,
lack of transparency. walls) and selects optimal routes, while
motor control ensures precise movement. As
Supervisor: Dr Mthethwa it explores the maze, it tracks its path and
updates the 2D map in the queue memory.
41. A Study of the frequency characteristics The robot uses an optimized Breadth-First
of some common domestic electrical Search (BFS) algorithm, where nodes are
appliances explored level by level. Once all nodes at the
Venue: 1-29N current depth are processed, BFS moves to
Mjadu, Mvelo Kwazikwenkosi the next level by processing nodes that are
Registration: EL one step further from the start. The robot
employs a FIFO memory queue to manage
Description: The student is expected to the nodes and uses a node-set to remove
measure, evaluate and characterise the dead-ends from memory. The project will
variation in the output frequency and demonstrate the robot’s real-time problem-
harmonics associated with the input voltage solving and decision-making capabilities,
and current variations in some commonly adapting to unknown mazes through sensor
used household electrical appliances feedback and advanced pathfinding
(Heaters, electric kettles, ovens, fridges, algorithms.
freezers, etc).
Supervisor: Mr Khuboni
Supervisor: Prof. Agee
44. An Intelligent Customer Service Chatbot
42. Secure voting technology platform Venue: 1-13-2S
Venue: 1-13-2S Morgan, Luke Lindon
Mngoma, Kendy Registration: CE
Registration: EC
Description: The Intelligent Customer Service
Description: The project involves the design Chatbot is a solution that streamlines
of a secure technology platform to be used customer support by automating responses
for voting applications. An extensive to frequently asked questions (FAQs) and
background on existing voting technology providing instant access to product
platforms is expected to serve as a guideline information. Designed with Natural Language
for selecting desired features. The designed Processing, this chatbot understands and
system is expected to be secure and responds to customer queries, retrieves real-
transparent. time data from a product database, and
delivers answers in seconds. Accessible on
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 27

both web and Telegram, it enables seamless PV panels are unable to supply power to the
customer interactions wherever they are. loads, power will be drawn from the AC grid
With a blend of rule-based answers for FAQs through the bidirectional converter. This
and machine learning-driven insights for project can help households to reduce their
complex product inquiries, the Intelligent electricity bills and provide electricity to rural
Customer Service Chatbot will reduce wait communities with no access to the AC grid
times, free up support staff for high-priority electricity.
cases, and ensure 24/7 customer service
availability, ultimately improving both Supervisor: Prof. Agee
efficiency and customer satisfaction.
47. Design and simulation of a lighting
Supervisor: Dr Bhero system for a museum
Venue: G-02N
45. Anatomical Range of Motion Mtshali, Zandile Slondile Goodness
Measurement Device Registration: EL
Venue: 2-14S
Mpanza, Sibusiso Gift Description: The project involves design and
Registration: CE simulation of a standard museum considering
illumination levels required for various
Description: Design an application that can locations, statues and objects
be used by health care providers to measure
the post-operative range of motion of a Supervisor: Prof. Saha
patient’s ankle in a walking gate cycle. The
app should be used to give biofeedback to 48. Design of a Thyristor-based FACTS
help rehabilitate the patient towards normal controller for Large-signal rotor oscillations
functionality. Venue: G-24N
Mvelase, Lindokuhle Khulekani
Supervisor: Prof. Quazi Registration: EL

46. A 1200VA PV-based nano-grid with AC Description: The student is expected to

and DC output voltages and DC storage develop a single machine infinite bus SMIB
Venue: Courtyard - North Building system on PSCAD and test the response of the
Mthembu, Sibusiso system model against well- known published
Registration: EL results. The student is then expected to
develop a TCSC model on PSCAD and test its
Description: My project is an AC to DC operation by verifying its impedance
bidirectional converter, integrated with a characteristics versus well known
1200W photovoltaic (PV) system. Four 300W mathematical model of the device.
solar panels charge a 300Wh battery bank, Finally, the student is required to design an
and supply power to the AC and DC loads appropriate control loop around the TCSC to
through a voltage regulator. If the PV panels improve large-signal rotor angle stability of
provide a surplus of power, access power is the system.
fed to the AC grid through a bidirectional AC
to DC converter. If the PV panels are unable Supervisor: Dr Sarma
to provide power to the battery bank and
loads, power will be drawn from the battery 49. Programmable Solid State VARIAC
bank to supply power to the loads. If the state Venue: 1-29N
of charge of the battery bank is low and the Mzobe, Nqobani
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 28

Registration: EL Registration: EL

Description: A programmable solid-state Description: The project seeks to address the

VARIAC that replicates the functionality of a problem of overload tripouts in the Southern
traditional variable autotransformer but Area of Umbumbulu. The project looks at the
without moving parts. A traditional VARIAC, design, planning and simulation of the
or variable autotransformer, achieves problem experienced by the community and
adjustable output voltage through a carbon proposes a solution that seeks to address this
brush that slides along a winding, providing problem. What sets the project apart is that
fine voltage control. The programmable solid- the area is different from your formal area
state VARIAC, however, uses power where forecasting can be done by looking at
electronics to control voltage electronically, the plots available. The population growth is
resulting in a more adaptable and user- sporadic and increases exponentially, making
friendly solution. Its design enables precise, it challenging to predict. The solution will be
software-controlled voltage adjustments, at the high voltage (132 kV) and medium
making it ideal for modern applications that voltage (11 kV) level. The proposed solution
benefit from easy integration and real-time looks to increase capacity at the Feeder
control without the need for mechanical substations, to meet the current and future
components. demand. Implementation of this solution will
also solve the water supply issue as loss of
Supervisor: Mr Brown electricity supply affects also the water
reservoir.
50. Hexapod robot
Venue: 2-13S Supervisor: Dr Sarma
Nagan, Keenan
Registration: EC 52. PV Solar Panel I-V Test Rig with
Temperature Control
Description: Design and build a command Venue: G12-N
and control system for a hexapod robot Ngcobo, Sbonelo Protas
platform. A prebuilt mechanical platform Registration: EL
with servo motors, is available. This may be
modified if needed. All electronics and Description: Design and implement an
software must be developed. We require a automated, computer-based I-V curve tracing
basic and robust collection of hardware system for solar PV panels. The system must
modules, software features and system be capable of determining the following
abilities. This must use an onboard controller critical parameters at various set
for low-level motion control via kinematic temperatures ranging from room
models. A digital communications link must temperature to 100°C: open-circuit voltage
be deployed to support remote command (V_OC), short-circuit current (I_SC),
and control from PC or smart devices. maximum power point (MPP), and fill factor
(FF). A PV solar panel I-V (Current-Voltage)
Supervisor: Mr Naidoo Test Rig with Temperature Control is a
specific test arrangement intended to
51. Planning and design of electrical measure and evaluate the electrical
network for the electrification of informal performance of photovoltaic (solar) panels
rural community plagued by overload trips under different environmental conditions,
Venue: G-24N especially varying temperatures. This system
Ndimande, Philani Clive can give detailed insights into how the
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 29

performance of a solar panel changes with limiter (FCL) technologies, ensuring reliability
temperature, which is fundamental for in electrical systems.
understanding the efficiency, power output,
and overall behavior of solar cells. Supervisor: Prof. Jarvis

Supervisor: Prof. Jarvis 55. Temperature control of heating element

Venue: G-02N
53. LLM Generated Text Detection Nxele, Noluthando Ethel
Venue: 1-14S Registration: EL
Ngobeni, Bongani
Registration: CE Description: This project focuses on
designing a heating system for precise
Description: Design and implement a tool temperature control of small materials like
that is able to distinguish between text that water and paraffin wax. A thermocouple
has been automatically generated e.g. by a monitors the material’s temperature, and an
LLM based system) and text that has been on/off control mechanism activates the
written by a human. This tool should then be heater when the temperature falls below a
deployed to assist academic institutions who setpoint and deactivates it once the target
wish to monitor attempts at academic temperature is reached. This creates a
dishonesty and ensure originality of student hysteresis band, preventing frequent cycling
submissions. and ensuring stability. The system also
monitors the heating element's temperature
Supervisor: Mr Parker to avoid overheating. Calculations for heat
energy, power, and heating time ensure
54. High-Current DC Impulse Generator for efficient energy use and precise temperature
High Temperature Superconductor Tape control. The design is tested for performance,
Based Fault Current Limiter focusing on temperature uniformity,
Venue: G12-N efficiency, and response time, making it ideal
Ntombela, Nkanyiso for small-scale industries needing accurate,
Registration: EL energy-efficient temperature management.

Description: This project focuses on the Supervisor: Prof. Saha

design and construction of a High-Current DC
Impulse Generator tailored to evaluate High- 56. Industrial Sand Heat Storage System
Temperature Superconductor (HTS) tapes, Venue: G12-N
specifically YBCO tapes, under extreme Nxumalo, Mthunzi Sydney
current conditions. Utilizing an 8/20 µs Registration: EL
impulse waveform, in line with IEC standards,
the generator delivers precise, controllable Description: Sand heat storage systems are
high-current impulses up to 80A to test the thermal energy storage solutions that utilize
performance and durability of HTS tapes. sand's high heat capacity and thermal
Unlike conventional setups, this design conductivity to store and release energy
prioritizes flexibility and safety through a efficiently. In these systems, surplus
custom-built circuit, integrating an Arduino- industrial waste heat can be used to heat
controlled system with a high-power resistor, sand to high temperatures. The heated sand
solid-state relays, and a capacitor bank for can then store this thermal energy for
efficient energy discharge. This generator extended periods with minimal loss. When
plays a crucial role in advancing fault current energy is needed, the stored heat can be
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 30

extracted and converted back into electricity 59. Design of non-controllable rectifier for a
or used directly for heating purposes. Design 400V 16A 3 phase supply
and implement a heat store system to store Venue: G-24N
0.5 kWh @ a max temperature of 250oC. A Phungula, Senzesihle Minenhle
controller must control the flow of heat in Registration: EL
and out the store system. The store system
must be used for something practical. The Description: The project is to design and
following two heat sources must be designed develop a rectifier that can draw 16A
and implemented (i) I2R powered by continuously. Aspects of the design include
photovoltaics (PV) and (ii) industrial waste correctly sizing of the components for
heat. minimal ripple at full load, design of the filter
for the supply size, protection for incoming
Supervisor: Prof. Jarvis supply and outgoing supply, optimal thermal
design for power electronics. The device must
57. Design, Simulation & Implementation of be safe to use and compact.
a Mini Steam Turbine for Domestic Electric-
Powered Application. Supervisor: Dr Swanson
Venue: Courtyard - North Building
Nyandeni, Lindokuhle 60. Real-Time person Tracking for Video
Registration: EL Surveillance
Venue: 2-13S
Description: The candidate is expected to Pillay, Jadene Tarryn
design, develop and build an innovative Registration: CE
steam turbine & generator. The design
may be performed at a large-scale level, but Description: This project aims to use deep
the construction should be done at a small- learning models to analyse real time camera
scale level using upcycling electro-mechanical feed to track persons in various
devices if necessarily. environments, such as public areas,
commercial buildings.
Supervisor: Dr Tiako
Supervisor: Prof. Tapamo
58. Design, Simulation & Implementation of
an In-Line Turbine for Micro-Hydropower 61. Drowsiness detection alert system for
Plant. drivers
Venue: Courtyard - North Building Venue: 1-14S
Nzama, Mnqobi Mbusiswa Pillay, Jaishaan Vishnu
Registration: EL Registration: EC

Description: The candidate is expected to Description: The advanced Driver Safety

design, develop and build an innovative full System detects drowsy or intoxicated driving
pipe turbine & generator. The design in real-time using computer vision, image
may be performed at a large- scale level, but processing, and an alcohol sensor. Processing
the construction should be done at a small- data locally ensures driver privacy. The
scale level using upcycling electro-mechanical system monitors telltale signs of drowsiness
devices if necessarily. via camera and measures Blood Alcohol
Concentration. If the driver appears drowsy
Supervisor: Dr Tiako or exceeds the legal limit, it alerts the driver
and designated stakeholders, safely stopping
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 31

the vehicle if necessary. With 95% of vehicles transfer learning to achieve accurate and
lacking similar safety measures, especially efficient vehicle tracking.
older models and commercial trucks, and
62% of truck drivers admitting to nodding off Supervisor: Prof. Tapamo
at the wheel, this cost-effective solution
addresses a critical need. Its compact design, 64. Design of 100 kV 40mH inductor for the
advanced low-light capabilities, and user- corona cage
focused functionality make it an innovative Venue: G-26N
lifesaver. The system prevents accidents, Reddy, Byron Ganesta
reduces liabilities, promotes safe driving Registration: EL
practices, and saves lives. Suitable for older
vehicles and trucks, it fills a significant gap in Description: This project involves the design
road safety, providing peace of mind for and development of a high voltage inductor
drivers, fleet owners, and the public. rated at 100 kV, 40 mH for use in a corona
cage test. The corona cage test is a crucial
Supervisor: Prof. Xu method for studying the effects of corona
discharge and evaluating the insulation
62. Low-Light Image Enhancement performance of materials. A significant
Venue: 1-14S challenge that occurs when performing this
Randell, Daniel David test is the presence of high frequency
Registration: EC interference from the supply voltage. This will
alter the measurements that are recorded
Description: There is a visibility problem in and lead to an inaccurate evaluation of the
low-light images. The low-light images can be testing object. The inductor is used as a high-
enhanced by using the cell vibration model or frequency filter that blocks unwanted
self-reinforced retinex projection model. The frequency signals from the source and allows
student who takes this project needs to do the required 50 Hz voltage to be applied to
literature survey and makes decision the corona cage.
implementing one or two models, for
example, cell vibration model, self-reinforced Supervisor: Dr Swanson
retinex projection model or multi-scale
retinex approach. 65. Wireless Underwater Communication
System
Supervisor: Prof. Xu Venue: 2-01N
Sibiya, Busiswa Bongokuhle
63. Video-Based Vehicle Detection and Registration: EC
Tracking System
Venue: 2-13S Description: Designing of an IR based
Reddy, Vishalan underwater communication system that can
Registration: CE be used for wireless communication of
messages through water. Reliable
Description: The proposed system leverages underwater communication is critical for
computer vision algorithms to detect and ocean research, remote underwater vehicles,
track vehicles in video streams. By analysing and monitoring offshore infrastructure, but
real-time video data, we aim to enhance road current solutions are expensive, low data
safety, traffic management, and autonomous rate, or require long wired connections. A
driving systems. Our approach combines cheap simple system that can be used as an
existing models, custom data collection, and alternative to long heavy physical wires that
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 32

run through seas, rivers and require large

costs for laying those wires and their Supervisor: Prof. Kumar
maintenance. The system should use an IR or
alternative transceiver to send messages 67. South African SMME Secure Invoice
through a transparent water tank to Discounting and Factoring Ecosystem
demonstrate underwater communication Venue: 1-13-2S
signals passing through the tank. The system Tshiluka, Tenda
also has an acknowledgement receipt Registration: CE
message that is sent back from the receiving
transmitter on message receipt. The Description: The student must develop an
performance of the system for different SMME invoice discounting and factoring
operational scenarios like water turbidity ecosystem that incorporates the knowledge
should be investigated. gained from research on Blockchain
technology (Cryptography, smart contracts,
Supervisor: Prof. Walingo and NFT technology), cryptocurrency and
software engineering. This project is
66. E-Learning Platform with Interactive classified as a FinTech project therefore the
Content student must research and be conversant
Venue: 1-13-2S about the FinTech software development
Sikakane, Thembinkosi Nqobani best practices for creating secure software to
Registration: CE facilatte financial transactions. The problem
that needs solving is based on the current
Description: An online educational system challenge that SMMEs, in South Africa,
created to present training materials and experience very unreasonable delays in
courses in a way that actively engages users payments of their invoices once lodged to the
is known as an interactive e-learning state owned enterpriceses (SoEs in RSA) and
platform. Interactive content enables some private companies. The software will
dynamic engagement, in contrast to typical e- facilitate the uploading of unpaid invoices. An
learning systems that may mostly rely on age analysis will be run, periodically, on all
static information (such as text-based lessons unpaid invoices to detect which invoices have
or pre-recorded lectures). This comprises been unpaid relative to an adjustable invoice
functionalities that facilitate bidirectional age threshold. If that age threshold of the
communication, instantaneous feedback, unpaid invoice is exceeded, then an invoice
cooperative exercises, and flexible NFT image, with its ERC-721 compliant
educational opportunities. The goal of this metadata, must be automatically created and
project is to create an e-learning platform a real-time notification pushed to a
that incorporates cutting-edge features to noticeboard of the software application
improve the online learning environment. requesting the SMME representative to
Exam monitoring tools, a communication approve the minting of the NFT invoice onto
system for student alerts, a face emotion an immutable decentralised blockchain
detection subsystem, and content integration under the SMME crypto wallet address. The
through the YouTube Data API make up the SMME must be able to register on an NFT
entire system. By offering interactive and marketplace , created by the student and
adaptable learning features, encouraging view all their minted NFT invoices under their
efficient monitoring, and guaranteeing wallet address. The NFT Marketplace must
individualized communication, this platform allow the SMME to place the NFT invoices on
seeks to enhance the online learning an English auction, with a deadline and
environment discounted invoice price, so that invoice
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 33

buyers can bid on the discounted invoice. This

gives the SMME a chance to get the best Supervisor: Dr Sarma
invoice discounting or factoring deal. The
winner of the auction pays cryptocurrency 69. Development of a Wireless Sensor
worth the bid amount and the invoice NFT Network for Power Plant Equipment
ownership is transfered to the auction winner Monitoring
as proof of the invoice ownership transfer or Venue: 1-27N
immutable proof of the loan. The Invoice Yengopal, Jesheran Levien
Factoring company auction winner can then Registration: EL
use this invoice NFT and its associated
globally unique identifier (GUID) to make a Description: In electrical power stations,
claim from the private company that owes power system equipment is monitored via
the SMME money to pay them the full copper control and protection cables. These
outstanding invoice amount shown in their cables are targeted by criminals for their
age analysis of the unpaid invoice. A private copper - due to their high resale value. Theft
company can prove ownership of the invoice, of these cables results in a lack of real-time
using the NFT GUID and searching the monitoring of equipment. Without real-time
relevant public Blockchain, when an invoice monitoring, it is unsafe to operate the
buyer makes a full claim on the invoice substation. This leads to a substation
amount. A court can also check proof of the shutdown, for cable replacement, which
loan made on a blockchain using a similar disrupts power supplied to the public. A
process. The student must also cater for the Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), using Radio
event when the loan is fully paid and the NFT Frequency communication, has been
invoice ownership is transfered back to the developed as an alternative method for the
SMME from the invoice discounting real-time monitoring of plant equipment.
company. This WSN has three different Slave Nodes
(SNs) - for a transformer, a circuit breaker and
Supervisor: Dr Mthethwa a surge arrester, respectively. The SNs
communicate sensor data/fault events
68. Design of a Thyristor-based FACTS wirelessly to the Master Node (MN) in the
controller for damping inter-area control room. The MN is linked to a
oscillations dashboard where alarms, trips and node data
Venue: G-24N can be viewed in real time.
Xolo, Njabulo Fortune
Registration: EL Supervisor: Dr Khan

Description: The student is expected to 70. Smart tester

develop a two-area four generator system on Venue: 2-14S
PSCAD and test the response of the system Zondi, Ngcebo
model against well-known published results. Registration: EC
The student is then expected to develop a
TCSC model on PSCAD and test its operation Description: Using a 2-channel Picoscope
by verifying its impedance characteristics with arbitrary waveform generator,
versus well known mathematical model of combined with the Picoscope API and if
the device. Finally, the student is required to required, a custom adaptor PCB, design a
design an appropriate control loop around programmable test jig that can be used to
the TCSC to improve the damping of inter- inject signals into a target under test, then
area oscillations in the system. capture responses from various target nodes,
 Final Year Design Brochure 2024 34

thereafter analyse the responses and

produce a test report. The system should also
use some degree of AI and/or structured logic
decision system to calculate device
parameters and diagnose specific problems
and provide associated remedies.

Supervisor: Mr Naidoo
 Final Year Design Brochure 2023 35

Floor Plans of the Buildings

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 Final Year Design Brochure 2023 36

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Final Year Design Brochure 2023 37

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Final Year Design Brochure 2023 38

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 Final Year Design Brochure 2023 39

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 Final Year Design Brochure 2023 40

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 Final Year Design Brochure 2023 41

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