Ivo Draganov | Numerical modeling | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ivo Draganov | Numerical modeling | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at University of Ruse, Bulgaria

Summary:

Dr. Ivo Draganov is an accomplished mechanical engineer and academic with over 15 years of experience in both industry and academia. Currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev,” he combines his extensive knowledge of solid mechanics and structural analysis with a passion for teaching and advancing mechanical engineering research. Dr. Draganov’s expertise in the finite element method and his industrial experience contribute to his reputation as a leading specialist in applied mechanics in Bulgaria.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

Dr. Ivo Draganov earned his Ph.D. in Solid Mechanics from the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev” in 2005, with his research focusing on the Application of Finite Element Method for Investigation of Stress and Strain State in Helical Bodies. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution (2001), where he specialized in the finite element method, dynamics of machinery, and structural analysis. His master’s thesis focused on the Calculation of Bus Suspension by the Finite Element Method.

🏢 Professional Experience:

Since 2008, Dr. Draganov has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev” in Bulgaria, where he teaches courses in Applied Mechanics, Mechanics of Materials, Finite Element Method, and Applied Theory of Elasticity and Plasticity. Prior to his academic role, he gained substantial experience in industry at Sparky AD in Ruse, Bulgaria, where he held various positions including Department Manager of Industrial Outsourcing, Outsourcing Coordinator, and Designer-Technologist. His responsibilities ranged from managing subcontractor activities and coordinating outsourcing efforts to preparing technological documentation and introducing new technological solutions for production.

Research Interests:

Dr. Draganov’s primary research interests lie in solid mechanics, particularly the application of the finite element method (FEM) for analyzing stress, strain, and structural behavior in complex materials and mechanical systems. His work includes investigating stress distributions and optimizing mechanical components using FEM, as well as exploring applied theory in elasticity and plasticity.

Author Metrics:

Dr. Draganov has authored and co-authored several research papers and technical reports in solid mechanics, primarily focused on FEM applications and structural optimization. His publications contribute to advancements in stress analysis methodologies and the development of practical solutions for mechanical design. Specific author metrics and publication details can be provided upon request.

Top Noted Publication:

Multi-Criteria Calibration of a Thermo-Mechanical Model of Steel Plate Welding in Vacuum

  • Journal: Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing
  • Date: 2024-10-05
  • DOI: 10.3390/jmmp8050225
  • Contributors: Ivo Draganov, Venko Vitliemov, Yuliyan Angelov, Stiliyana Mileva, Nikolay Ferdinandov, Danail Gospodinov, Rossen Radev
  • Description: This study presents a calibrated thermo-mechanical model for steel plate welding under vacuum conditions, using a multi-criteria approach to enhance prediction accuracy and application reliability.

Finite Element Modeling and Verification of the Plunge Stage in Friction Stir Welding

  • Journal: Materials Science Forum
  • Date: 2023-08-28
  • DOI: 10.4028/p-x4FWYY
  • Contributors: Ivo Draganov, Danail Gospodinov, Rossen Radev, Nikolay Ferdinandov
  • Description: This paper explores finite element modeling of the plunge stage in friction stir welding, providing insights into the thermal and mechanical behaviors during the initial welding process.

Comparison of Two Numerical Models for Friction Stir Welding

  • Journal: Defect and Diffusion Forum
  • Date: 2022-05-27
  • DOI: 10.4028/p-xbmg1c
  • Contributors: Ivo Draganov, Nikolay Ferdinandov
  • Description: This study compares two numerical models for friction stir welding, evaluating their efficacy in simulating temperature distribution and material flow during the welding process.

Finite Element Modeling of Laser Aluminum Marking

  • Journal: Journal of Physics: Conference Series
  • Date: 2021
  • DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/1859/1/012017
  • Contributors: Lazov, L., Angelov, N., Draganov, I., Atanasov, A., Lengerov, A., Teirumnieks, E., Balchev, I.
  • Description: This conference paper focuses on the finite element modeling of laser marking on aluminum surfaces, with an emphasis on optimizing marking quality through controlled parameters.

Conclusion:

Dr. Ivo Draganov’s research achievements and academic contributions make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His expertise in finite element modeling, particularly in welding and material behavior, addresses key challenges in mechanical engineering and has significant implications for industrial processes. His unique combination of industry experience and academic leadership adds further value to his contributions, positioning him as an influential researcher in applied mechanics. By continuing to expand his research scope and increase his international visibility, Dr. Draganov can enhance his standing as a leading expert in his field, making him a highly deserving candidate for this award.

 

 

Ritwik Maiti | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ritwik Maiti | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, India

Summary:

Dr. Ritwik Maiti is an accomplished researcher in the field of fluid dynamics and granular flow, with a particular emphasis on the behavior of granular materials in various contexts such as silos, open channels, and underground cavities. His work has contributed significantly to understanding the flow of granular media in natural and industrial processes. Dr. Maiti has held prestigious research positions at the National University of Singapore and the University of Sheffield, where he worked on projects ranging from wind-tunnel tests to flow modeling in porous media. He is currently contributing to the academic and research community at Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, where he continues his innovative research on granular flows and their interactions with fluid dynamics.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

Dr. Ritwik Maiti is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi. He earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (2011–2017), where his research focused on the dynamics of dense granular flows through silos, closed channels, and open channels. Dr. Maiti holds a Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Heat Power Engineering from Jadavpur University, Kolkata (2009–2011), and a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering from Kalyani Government Engineering College, West Bengal (2008).

🏢 Professional Experience:

Dr. Maiti has extensive research experience in both mechanical and civil engineering. From 2018 to 2021, he was a Research Fellow with the Fluid Mechanics Research Group at the National University of Singapore, where he worked on projects related to wind-tree interaction and the minimization of granular mixture segregation. Prior to this, he was a Research Associate at the University of Sheffield (2017–2018), where he focused on modeling flow through porous granular media as part of the Geotechnical Engineering Research Group. His professional expertise includes the design and development of experimental fluid flow facilities and the handling of advanced equipment such as high-speed cameras, particle image velocimetry, and particle analyzers.

Research Interests:

Dr. Maiti’s research interests lie at the intersection of fluid mechanics and granular flow. His areas of focus include:

  • Experimental Fluid Dynamics
  • Granular Flow Dynamics
  • Geophysical Flows and Avalanches
  • Granular Mixing and Segregation
  • Fluid-Structure Interaction
  • Impact Crater Analysis
  • Underground Cavity Collapse
  • Multiphase Flows
  • Discrete Element Model (DEM)
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and CFD-DEM Coupling

He is also skilled in high-speed photography, image processing, and the use of software such as Matlab, Autocad, and LIGGGHTS for simulation and analysis.

Author Metrics:

Dr. Maiti has published numerous articles in international journals and conferences, including:

  • 10 publications in top-tier journals such as Physics of Fluids, Powder Technology, and AIChE Journal.
  • Contributions to leading conferences such as the International Conference on Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Power and the International Conference on Multiphase Flow.
  • A book chapter published by Springer in 2017.
  • Several research papers currently under review in journals like Powder Technology and Ocean Engineering.

Dr. Maiti’s research on granular dynamics has garnered significant attention in his field, contributing valuable insights into both theoretical models and practical applications.

Top Noted Publication:

Experiments on Eccentric Granular Discharge from a Quasi-Two-Dimensional Silo

  • Authors: R. Maiti, G. Das, P.K. Das
  • Journal: Powder Technology
  • Volume: 301
  • Pages: 1054-1066
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 35
  • Summary: This study presents experimental investigations on granular discharge from a quasi-two-dimensional silo with an eccentric outlet. The paper discusses the flow behavior, discharge rates, and the formation of patterns in the granular material as it exits the silo. The experiments provide a detailed understanding of the flow field dynamics during eccentric discharge.

Granular Drainage from a Quasi-2D Rectangular Silo through Two Orifices Symmetrically and Asymmetrically Placed at the Bottom

  • Authors: R. Maiti, G. Das, P.K. Das
  • Journal: Physics of Fluids
  • Volume: 29 (10)
  • Year: 2017
  • Citations: 25
  • Summary: This research explores the granular flow through a rectangular silo with two bottom orifices, placed both symmetrically and asymmetrically. The work examines how different placement configurations of the orifices affect the flow and drainage dynamics of granular materials, contributing valuable insights into granular discharge mechanics.

Flow Field During Eccentric Discharge from Quasi-Two-Dimensional Silos—Extension of the Kinematic Model with Validation

  • Authors: R. Maiti, S. Meena, P.K. Das, G. Das
  • Journal: AIChE Journal
  • Volume: 62 (5)
  • Pages: 1439-1453
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 19
  • Summary: This paper extends a kinematic model to describe the flow field during eccentric discharge from a quasi-2D silo. The study provides experimental validation of the model and offers insights into the flow patterns and velocity fields of granular materials, expanding the understanding of discharge processes in industrial and natural granular systems.

Cracking of Tar by Steam Reforming and Hydrogenation: An Equilibrium Model Development

  • Authors: R. Maiti, S. Ghosh, S. De
  • Journal: Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery
  • Volume: 3
  • Pages: 103-111
  • Year: 2013
  • Citations: 6
  • Summary: This paper focuses on developing an equilibrium model for tar cracking using steam reforming and hydrogenation. The study addresses the challenges associated with tar removal in biomass gasification and proposes a model to predict the outcomes of chemical reactions involved in the process.

Self-Organization of Granular Flow by Basal Friction Variation: Natural Jump, Moving Bore, and Flying Avalanche

  • Authors: R. Maiti, G. Das, P.K. Das
  • Journal: AIChE Journal
  • Volume: 69 (1)
  • Article: e17943
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 2
  • Summary: This recent study investigates the self-organization phenomena in granular flows due to variations in basal friction. The paper describes natural jumps, moving bores, and flying avalanches in granular media, providing key insights into the mechanics of granular flow and segregation.

Conclusion:

Dr. Ritwik Maiti’s contributions to fluid dynamics and granular flow research, particularly in areas like silo flows and porous media, make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His published work demonstrates both depth and innovation in key fields of mechanical engineering, and his international experience enhances his profile. While expanding his research into more applied fields and taking on greater leadership roles could strengthen his application, his current contributions to science are exceptional, positioning him well for recognition in the field of mechanical engineering research.

 

Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo | Mechanical Engineering | Academic Excellence Paper Award

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Christian Mathew | Engineering Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Christian Mathew, Engineering Mechanics, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, United States

Summary:

Dr. Christian Mathew is an accomplished researcher and academic in the field of engineering mechanics. With extensive experience in both theoretical and applied research, Dr. Mathew has contributed significantly to the understanding of solid mechanics, composite materials, and innovative manufacturing processes. He is currently an Affiliate Faculty in the Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Tech and actively engages in cutting-edge research, teaching, and professional service.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

PhD (in view), Engineering Science and Mechanics (2021-current), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, US

  • Advisor: Dr. Yao Fu, Co-advisor: Dr. Jie Song

M.S. Engineering Science and Mechanics (2023), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, US

  • Advisor: Dr. Yao Fu, Co-advisor: Dr. Jie Song

M.S. Advanced Computational and Civil Engineering Structural Studies (2021), Technical University of Dresden, Germany

  • Advisor: Dr. Rainer Schlebusch

B.S. Civil (Structural) Engineering (2014), Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria

Professional Experience:

Dr. Mathew’s professional journey is marked by a series of impactful academic and research appointments. At Virginia Tech, he serves as an Affiliate Faculty in the Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering and as a Graduate Teaching and Research Assistant in the Department of Engineering Mechanics since 2021. His role involves developing and refining multiphysics phase field models and finite element models, analyzing experimental data, and conducting large-deformation solid mechanics simulations.

Previously, at the Technical University of Dresden (2017-2021), Dr. Mathew contributed to modeling plasticity in anisotropic metallic materials, implementing models in finite element codes, and leading verification and validation efforts. His industry experience includes working as an engineer at CHRITZEC NIG LIMITED (2015-2017), where he was responsible for interpreting technical drawings, characterizing building materials, supervising construction sites, and managing procurement and materials.

Research and Innovations:

Dr. Mathew’s research interests lie at the intersection of solid mechanics, composite materials, and computational modeling. His specific areas of focus include:

  • Solid mechanics and composite laminates
  • Environment-assisted fracture and fatigue behavior
  • Computationally guided innovative materials and manufacturing design
  • Multi-scale simulation modeling of microstructural evolution in additive manufacturing processes
  • Phase field modeling

Publications Top Noted: 

Flexural Stability Analysis of Doubly Symmetric Single Cell Thin-Walled Box Column Based On Rayleigh-Ritz Method [RRM]

  • Authors: K.C. Nwachukwu, J.C. Ezeh, O.M. Ibearugbulem, U.C. Anya, F.K. Atulomah, et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Recent Research in Thesis and Dissertation
  • Volume: 5
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 79-90
  • Year: 2024

A Numerical Phase Field Model to Simulate Crack Initiation from Pitting Site

  • Author: C. Mathew
  • Platform: ResearchGate
  • Year: 2023

Optimization of Flexural Strength and Split Tensile Strength of Hybrid Polypropylene Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete (HPSFRC)

  • Author: C.M. Kingsley Chibuzor Nwachukwu
  • Journal: International Journal of Advanced Research and Innovative Ideas in Education (IJARIIE)
  • Volume: 9
  • Issue: 4
  • Pages: 18
  • Year: 2023

Investigation into the Failure Mechanism of Masonry under Uniaxial Compression Based on Fracture Mechanics and Nonlinear Finite Element Modelling

  • Author: C. Mathew
  • Journal: International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications
  • Year: 2023

Advancements in Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM): A Comprehensive Literature Review

  • Author: C. Mathew
  • Platform: ResearchGate
  • Year: 2023

Bolaji Oladipo | Mechanical Engineering

Posted on by Best Paper Award
Mr. Bolaji Oladipo: Leading Researcher in Mechanical Engineering

Summary:

Bolaji Oladipo is a dedicated and accomplished mechanical engineer currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Rhode Island, USA, where he maintains an impressive GPA of 3.74/4.00. His academic journey includes a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Rowan University, New Jersey, USA, and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Bolaji has made significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in areas such as auxetic metamaterials, corrosion assessment, and material interface adhesion. His expertise extends to machine learning, finite element analysis, and materials modeling, as evidenced by his presentations at various conferences and workshops. He has showcased research findings through poster presentations on topics like auxetic TPU metamaterials and efficient strengthening of concrete cylinders.

Professional Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Rhode Island, USA (2022 – Present) with a GPA of 3.74/4.00.
  • Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Rowan University, New Jersey, USA (2018 – 2020) with a GPA of 3.76/4.00.
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria (2008 – 2014) with a GPA of 3.30/4.00.

📊 Conference Presentations: He have consistently demonstrated my expertise in machine learning, finite element analysis, and materials modeling through engaging presentations at diverse conferences and workshops. These platforms have provided me with opportunities to share and discuss cutting-edge research findings, contributing to the broader academic and professional discourse.

📝 Poster Presentations: He have effectively communicated my research insights through visually compelling posters, covering subjects like auxetic TPU metamaterials and the efficient strengthening of concrete cylinders. These presentations, showcased at various conferences and forums, have facilitated discussions and knowledge exchange within the academic and professional communities.

🔍 Journal Review: He contribute to the academic community by serving as a meticulous reviewer for the Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, a prestigious publication under the American Society of Civil Engineers. This role involves evaluating and providing valuable insights into scientific research articles.

🏆 Awards and Honors: He take pride in receiving accolades for my research contributions, securing 1st place in the Sixth Rhode Island Transportation and Engineering Poster Competition. Additionally, He achieved 2nd place in the 2022 TIDC Student Poster Fan Favorite Contest, showcasing the recognition of my work within the academic realm.

🌐 Professional Memberships: As a dedicated professional, He hold esteemed memberships in reputable organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Nigerian Society of Engineers. These affiliations reflect my commitment to staying connected with the broader engineering community and staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field.

👨‍💼 Work Experience: In the capacity of Founder and CEO of Custod Engineering Services Limited, He lead a dynamic team, providing comprehensive training in CAD/CAM software and delivering top-notch engineering consultancy services.

💼 Research Associate: Currently serving as a Graduate Research Associate at the Multiscale And Multiphysics Mechanics Laboratory, University of Rhode Island, He engage in diverse numerical simulations and experiments related to concrete cylinders. My responsibilities also include interpreting data and contributing to research articles.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience: With a background as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and Graduate Teaching Fellow, He actively contribute to the education sector. My roles have involved teaching labs and lectures, grading assignments, and fostering an enriching learning environment.

🌐 Global Experience: He have showcased my research findings on a global platform by presenting virtually at international conferences. This experience reflects my commitment to a broader perspective in academia and research.

🏆 Judging Experience: He was honored to be invited as a judge at the 2023 Virginia Junior Academy of Science (VJAS) Research Symposium, where He assessed and scored research papers, particularly in the engineering category.

Publication Top Noted:

Title: Corrosion assessment of some buried metal pipes using neural network algorithm

  • Authors: B.A. Oladipo, O.O. Ajide, C.G. Monyei
  • Journal: International Journal of Engineering and Manufacturing (IJEM)
  • Volume: 7
  • Issue: 6
  • Pages: 27-42
  • Year: 2017

Title: Integrating Experiments, Finite Element Analysis, and Interpretable Machine Learning to Evaluate the Auxetic Response of 3D Printed Re-entrant Metamaterials

  • Authors: B. Oladipo, H. Matos, N.M.A. Krishnan, S. Das
  • Journal: Journal of Materials Research and Technology
  • Volume: 2
  • Year: 2023

Title: Evaluating the adhesion response of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fused interface using multiscale simulation and experiments

  • Authors: J.T. Villada, G.A. Lyngdoh, R. Paswan, B. Oladipo, S. Das
  • Journal: Materials & Design
  • Volume: 232
  • Pages: 112155
  • Year: 2023

Research Focus:

Auxetic Metamaterials: Bolaji has delved into the study of auxetic materials, exploring their unique mechanical properties and potential applications. These materials exhibit negative Poisson’s ratios, making them valuable for specific engineering applications due to their ability to expand laterally when stretched.

Corrosion Assessment: Bolaji has conducted research on the corrosion assessment of buried metal pipes, employing neural network algorithms to analyze and predict corrosion behavior. This work contributes to the understanding of corrosion processes and aids in the development of effective mitigation strategies.

Material Interface Adhesion: His research extends to evaluating the adhesion response of material interfaces, specifically focusing on acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fused interfaces. This work involves multiscale simulation and experiments to enhance our understanding of material interactions.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Bolaji has expertise in finite element analysis, utilizing tools like ANSYS Multiphysics to simulate and analyze complex mechanical systems. His work involves applying FEA techniques to study the mechanical behavior of structures, such as concrete cylinders.

Machine Learning Applications: With a keen interest in machine learning, Bolaji integrates this technology into materials science and engineering. His research involves the use of interpretable machine learning to evaluate the auxetic response of 3D printed re-entrant metamaterials, showcasing an interdisciplinary approach.

Global Infrastructure and Transportation: Bolaji’s research extends to the domain of transportation infrastructure durability. He has presented findings at conferences on topics related to the efficient strengthening of concrete cylinders, contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable infrastructure.

 

 

Xuhao Cui | Transportation engineering

Posted on by Best Paper Award
Dr. Xuhao Cui: Leading Researcher in Transportation engineering

🎉 Congratulations Dr. Xuhao Cui on Winning the Best Paper Award! 🏆 Your dedication to research, mentorship, and collaboration with international teams is truly commendable. This award is a testament to your outstanding work and the impact it has on the broader community.

Professional Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Received B.S. degree in civil engineering from Lanzhou Jiaotong University in 2016.
  • Attained Ph.D. in road & railway engineering from Beijing Jiaotong University in 2022.

🚄 Currently serving as a postdoctoral fellow at Beijing University of Technology and as a lecturer.

🔍 Research Interests: Specializes in the in-service performance of track structure infrastructure.

💡 Achievements: Secured funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China in 2023 and the Central University Basic Research Business Fee project in 2019.

👨‍💼 Professional Experience: Hosted and participated in multiple projects, contributing to the field of railway track infrastructure.

📄 Publication Top Noted: 

  • Effects of lateral differential settlement of the subgrade on deformation behavior and damage evolution of CRTS II slab track
  • Analysis of ballast breakage in ballast bed when using under sleeper pads
  • Effects of the subgrade differential arch on damage characteristics of CRTS III slab track and vehicle dynamic response
  • Vibration characteristics of spring-steel floating slab track and cause analysis of rail corrugation
  • Influence of Uneven Subgrade Frost Heave on Deformation and Damage of CRTSIII Slab Track

🔬 Research Contributions:

  1. Developed an improved bilinear mixed mode cohesive force model for simulating interlayer bonding damage behavior in ballastless track structures.
  2. Established an instability and arch analysis model for longitudinal continuous slab ballastless track structures under complex temperature action.
  3. Conducted morphological reconstruction of irregular shapes of railway ballast, proposing technology for delaying ballast degradation.

🏆 Impact: Has tremendous influence in the industry, making significant contributions to the safe construction and service of railway track infrastructure.

👨‍🏫 Contribution to Research & Development:

  1. Established a spatial nonlinear coupled dynamic model of high-speed train ballastless track subgrade system.
  2. Explored interlayer gap and arch deformation laws of longitudinal continuous slab ballastless track structure under complex temperature action and joint damage.
  3. Developed a coupling analysis method between train ballast bed discrete element and finite element, as well as a simulation method for ballast fragmentation and degradation.
  4. Proposed technology for delaying ballast degradation based on the combination of track optimization and structural vibration reduction.