Research

Multisensor Data Fusion Driven Digital Twin for CNC Machining

In this project, we use multiple sensors (dynamometer, accelerometer, acoustic emission sensor, etc.) to collect real-time data in the CNC machining operations. Data fusion technology will be used to built a digital twin for machining condition opeation, machining parameter optimization and adaptive control, tool wear monitoring and predictive maintenance.

3D Printed Multiplex Microfluidic Electrochemical Biosensors for Early Cancer Diagnosis

A major factor contributing to the high mortality of cancer is late diagnosis due to the limited accessibility to modern diagnostic equipment in low-income communities and rural areas. It has been reported that early cancer diagnosis can provide a more effective way to ultimately successful treatment of cancer. Electrochemical sensors, which convert the interaction between a biometric element and a recognition target into a detectable electrical signal, has gained significant attention for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. In this project, we aim to develop multiplex electrochemical sensors for early cancer diagnosis based on microfluidics and 3D printing technology.

 

Fabrication of Biodegradable Magnetic Microrobots for Targeted Drug Delivery

Targeted therapeutic delivery applies various technologies to enable precise delivery of therapeutic agents (drugs or cells) to specific areas within the human body. Compared with traditional oral ingestion or intravascular injection, targeted therapeutic delivery has higher efficacy, reduced medication dosage and side effects. We will use 3D printing and MEMS technologies to fabricate biodegradable magnetic microrobots. The robots will be manipulated wirelessly by a three-axis Helmholtz magnetic coil system for drug delivery applications.

 

Fabrication of Organic Memory Devices for Next Generation Green Electronics

The rapid development of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and big data requires more and more data storage. Currently, the global data storage demand is growing exponentially and predicted to exceed 175 Zettabytes (1.75×1014 GB) by 2025. Nevertheless, the continuous size reduction of traditional silicon-based transistors has almost reached its physical limit, which makes further scaling less cost-effective than before. On the other hand, large amounts of electronic wastes are produced each year, and subsequently cause ecological problems due to the short lifetime of silicon-based consumer electronics. According to a report announced by the United Nations Environment Program, there are over 50 million tons of e-waste being generated and abandoned annually. The recycling of conventional e-wastes encounters enormous obstacles and challenges due to their diverse device structures. Furthermore, these e-wastes usually contain various non-degradable and toxic components, which are harmful to human beings and the environment. Therefore, the implementation of biocompatible and biodegradable data storage would be a significant advance toward next-generation green electronics.