DCU-Final-Year-Projects-Booklet-2025

69 111. Sustainable Heat Networks: Exploring the Potential of Data Centres in Urban Ireland This project investigates the potential for using data centre waste heat to support sustainable district heating networks in urban Ireland. The research evaluates the feasibility of integrating waste heat as a renewable resource, focusing on its environmental and economic benefits. Using EnergyPlus modelling software, the study simulates heat recovery fromdata centres and analyses urban heat demand based on heat maps. Despite challenges in system-wide modelling, the project highlights key insights into the efficiency and practicality of waste heat integration. By combining simulation results with findings from the literature, this research demonstrates how data centres can contribute to low-carbon district heating systems, supporting Ireland’s decarbonising goals. Student Programme Mechanical and Sustainability Engineering (Year 4) Project Area Waste Heat Recovery Project Technology EnergyPlus Student Name(s) Jude Denofra Email jude.denofra2@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Lorna Fitzsimons 112. Finite Element Analysis of Heel PadMechanics for Assessment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers This project investigates the state-of-the-art finite element modelling of the heel pad of the foot under relevant loading conditions, particularly in combination with inserts, to enhance understanding of the effect of mechanical loading on diabetic foot injury. The project involves developing a finite element model of the heel pad using ANSYSWorkbench software to simulate stress and pressure distributions under various loading conditions. It focuses on examining the material properties and structural biomechanics of the heel pad, establishing representative loading conditions, and determining how different loading scenarios influence stress distribution. Student Programme Biomedical Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Finite Element Analysis Project Technology ANSYSWorkbench, Solidworks Student Name(s) Caoimhe Carr Email caoimhe.carr9@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Garrett McGuinness 113. Energy Harvesting Flooring This project involves using the concept of contact-mode triboelectricity to create a floor panel that harvests mechanical energy expended by humans when they stand on it. The floor panel harvests mechanical energy, converting it to electrical energy. This project is intended as a demonstration of the capabilities of triboelectric nano-generators, which could be used to harvest energy in countless settings. Student Programme Mechatronic Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Electric Generation, Renewable Energy Technology, Simulation, Materials Testing Project Technology Matlab, Simulink Student Name(s) AdamWorthington Email Adam.worthington3@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Shirley Coyle