DCU-Final-Year-Projects-Booklet-2025

81 147. Automated Robotic System for Cassette Extraction in Semiconductor Manufacturing This project focuses on designing a robotic end effector and bench tooling that work together to automate the extraction of cassettes from ‘EPAK’ and ‘Entegris’ lot boxes in a semiconductor fabrication environment. The systemperforms key tasks, including opening both clips, rotating the lot box lid, and removing the cassette. A vision system enhances precision by dynamically adjusting the robot’s path to accommodate variations in bench tool positioning. Comprehensive testing will evaluate tolerances in the x and y directions, as well as rotational adjustments around the z-axis. This project demonstrates expertise in robotic automation, vision systems, and precision engineering, contributing tomore efficient and reliable semiconductor manufacturing processes. Student Programme Mechatronic Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Automation, Computer Vision, Image/Video Processing, Mechanical Design andManufacture, Mechatronic Systems, Robotics Project Technology PLC Programming, Solidworks, KRL Student Name(s) Jason Carragher Email jason.carragher5@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr Harry Esmonde 148. Mixing of LAMP reagents for screening applications on Lab-on-a-Disc This project explores the development and optimisation of a Lab-on-a-Disc (LoaD) system for mixing Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) reagents, aimed at point-of-care (POC) diagnostic applications. LAMP, a DNA amplification technique, operates at a constant temperature of 65 degrees Celsius, and provides a rapid, cost-effective alternative to PCR testing. This project focuses on the recommissioning of an existing LoaD rig to achieve reagent mixing and temperature control, while integrating a colorimetric detection method for simplified results monitoring. The rig was further enhanced through hardware and software updates, including replacing existing electronic components. The project demonstrates the feasibility of compact, portable LoaD systems for molecular diagnostics. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 5) Project Area Arduino, Automation, Biomedical Engineering Project Technology C/C++, LabVIEW Student Name(s) Donal Duignan Email donal.duignan6@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Dr David Kinahan 149. Orifice Plate FlowMeter Test Bed An orifice plate is amechanical device used in fluid systems tomeasure flow rate and reduce pressure. This project develops an experimental test bed to investigate and evaluate differential pressure using an orifice plate. Designed for academic use, the test bed integrates three differential pressure measurement devices to analyse fluid flow under controlled conditions across various orifice plate designs. This experimental test bed enhances the understanding of fluidmechanics and flow behaviour. Student Programme Mechanical andManufacturing Engineering (Year 4) Project Area 3-DModelling, AdditiveManufacturing, FluidMechanics, Mechanical Design andManufacture Project Technology Excel/VB, Solidworks Student Name(s) Sean Church Email sean.church2@mail.dcu.ie Supervisor Prof Brian Corcoran