In Cluj-Napoca, Emerson operates one of the largest production facilities in Eastern Europe, producing pressure and temperature measurement and control systems for any type of industrial installation that works with liquid and gaseous fluids (methane gas, oil, etc.) and solid materials with flow properties (grains, various powders, etc.). The activities on June 26 were divided into: a visit to the production units and participation in an industrial measurement course and a workshop where the entire UPBAIR team conducted five laboratory works using the most modern equipment for measuring levels in industrial installations.
The members of the UPBAIR team who participated in the Emerson Travel and Learn tour are Niculescu I Alex-Cosmin, Rosca D Bogdan (second year, Robotics), Ifrim V. Robert-Matei, Ivan I.M. Codrin-Ștefan, and Barbosu C Dan-Alexandru (first year Robotics). The scientific research activities of these students are presented on the laboratory’s website www.smartpneumaticslab.eu.
It is noteworthy that the initiative to organize this tour started from a meeting between Mr. Mihai Ghinea, director of Smart Pneumatics Lab, and Mr. Sebastian Ferecuș, General Director of Emerson Romania, last year, during the organization of the Emerson Roadshow Truck event at UPB, when a truck specialized in presenting industrial equipment launched by Emerson in 2023 was hosted on the university premises on July 6-7, 2023.
June 25, 2024 – Debrecen – Emerson National Instruments
Around the world, National Instruments is recognized as a leader in the field of specialized PCB production for industrial control. Recently, the company was acquired by Emerson Global. The visit was specially designed for our team, as the company usually has restricted access, with visits not allowed on the production lines. Mr. Marton Frigyes, the representative from Emerson Romania, who was present throughout the team’s journey on this Travel and Learn tour, introduced us to the new controllers produced by Emerson National Instruments, used in conjunction with the LabView software application. It is worth noting that in our SmartPneumatics Lab, we use a recent generation controller (MyRio 1900), with which we have conducted specific research on controlling pneumatic equipment used in industry.…
The multinational company Emerson Romania has been a partner of the Smart Pneumatics Lab at the Robotics and Production Systems Department since 2020, when it acquired the German company Aventics, the organizer of the international academic aircars competition – Pneumobile. Through our partnership, Emerson has aimed to create a program of support activities and sponsorships for the UPBAIR team of the university, with clear objectives in improving the students’ applied research capacity. Travel and Learn Edition I represents the first step through which the aforementioned collaboration is elevated to a new level. The period from June 23 to 27 was dedicated to a trip to three of Emerson’s major production facilities in Eastern Europe, namely: Aventics Eger, Hungary, a pneumatic equipment manufacturer, National Instruments Debrecen, a newly acquired company in the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) manufacturing sector, and Emerson Cluj-Napoca, a manufacturer of measurement and control equipment in the field of fluid engineering. A special objective of the trip was also the participation in the discussion regarding the reorganization of the international academic aircars competition Pneumobile, which this year was interrupted due to the new conditions desired in the competition’s regulations by Emerson Headquarter Europe. The discussion was complex, with the UNSTPB team making a contribution considered useful and interesting by the moderators and the competition jury. On June 24, 2024, in Eger – Emerson Aventics, the first working day, namely June 24, was devoted to visiting the Aventics factory and participating in the two seminars proposed by the program, one related to the new automation technologies implemented in the Aventics factory and the other related to high-level technological products produced by Emerson’s new acquisition, the German company AFAG.
Participating at the InnoVeTAS 2024 event a few weeks ago, to present our research paper on “Methods of Improving FDM Prototyping Using Methods of Industry 4.0” was a new and interesting experience for us. Even if we were present online, we felt welcome right from the start as our presentation was well received, with the audience showing interest and providing valuable feedback about their thoughts on some of the different topics we covered, which we will use to better our research to come. These questions and engagement from attendees made us truly feel part of the event, even though we couldn’t be there physically.
The first thing was an opening Plenary session on “Pneumatic Piston Control Optimization”. The presentation was very informative and engaging and got the conference off to a great start. The presentation in this session was very good and useful for us as it was well done and provided concrete information and insight that is relevant to our work. We liked the opportunity to gather more information about topics we care about and hear from others in the field.
We enjoyed the interactions during this event, and we felt welcome thanks to the efforts of the Chair, László Berényi. We are sorry that we could not attend the conference physically but would have liked to join in person and be part of the event. To show our gratitude for having us and to share our results we are providing the research paper at the end of this post. We hope that these exchanges and collaborations will continue in the future.…
Between 18-20 April 2024, the Polytechnic University of Bucharest proudly hosts the annual Polifest educational fair. Now in its 23rd edition, Polifest continues to champion education, innovation, and technology, promoting a symbiotic relationship between academia and industry and providing a vision of the evolving engineering profession amidst technological advancements.
This year, our university will present two exciting demonstrations on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), showcasing the cutting-edge applications of these technologies in engineering. In addition to these demonstrations, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about our latest scientific research, further bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical technological application.
The three-day event will offer access to scientific conferences, workshops, and exhibitions of state-of-the-art equipment and new technologies. Educational offerings and job opportunities will be presented, along with unexpected surprises, prizes, and interactive games arranged by the organizers.
More than 70 companies, alongside representatives from faculties and student associations, will participate in Polifest. This interaction promises a comprehensive exposure for future engineers to the industry and potential career paths.
We invite all interested to join us at the Politehnica University Rectory from 18-20 April, from 10 AM to 4 PM, to experience the innovative spirit of Polifest and explore the contributions of our university to the fields of AR, VR, and beyond.
In the vibrant landscape of industrial innovation, Smart Pneumatics Lab stands as a beacon of progress, pioneering advancements at the intersection of technology and manufacturing. Like a coiled spring ready to unleash its potential, our laboratory is committed to unraveling the complexities of Industry 4.0.
1. Predictive maintenance on conveyor
In a recent meeting, we delved into the intricacies of four groundbreaking research projects poised to redefine the industrial landscape. One project focuses on a mechanical conveyor system interwoven with an array of sensors, paving the way for predictive maintenance strategies that optimize operational efficiency and minimize downtime.
We have designed a conveyor system to be powered by our Aventics Cylinders by a pinion-rack system going back and forth. This way we can have a heavy load going along the whole conveyor. This load with put wear on the bearings, on the rollers, on the pinions, on the belts etc.
We will use A LOT of sensors along side the IOTIA predictive maintenance app to see HOW each part will degrade over time.
Also, the actuating equipment will also be kitted out with sensors. From pressure sensors to vibration sensors to see if tubes are cut or to see if bearings need to be changed.
2. Simulation vs Real Life
Another endeavor explores the dynamic realm of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation versus real-world simulation, illuminating the nuances and benefits of each approach in industrial contexts.
Our team, Ivan Codrin and Robert Ifrim, has taken on the important task of exploring the subject of energetic efficiency in pneumatic systems.
We started by doing some research that would give us a brief idea of what we were getting ourselves into. The approach we decided on was crucial for the outcome of our research and after further discussions with our teammates, we agreed that the most suitable way to find the energetic efficiency of a whole system would be to take the main components it was made out of and put them to test by using pneumatic sensors and the equipment of our laboratory.
Using the results of the real-life experiment, we will correlate them and put them in comparison to simulations in specialized CFD (computational fluid dynamics) software, so that the combination of the two could help us trace common energy loss causes and methods we can use in order to minimise them.
3. MPU6050 Accelerometer vs Magnetic Linear sensor for vibration analysis on Pneumatic Cylinders
Meanwhile, our investigation into the disparity between linear sensors and accelerometers for vibration analysis promises to unearth invaluable insights into machinery health monitoring, offering clarity amidst the noise of industrial operations.
Sensors play a crucial role in monitoring the behavior of various applications. Two commonly used sensors are the linear position sensor and the accelerometer. While both of these offer a valuable insights, they differ in key aspects, making them more suitable for different uses.
A linear position sensor directly measures the distance of an object relative to the initial position along a single axis, without any additional noise. The acceleration can be calculated from these precise movement differences, offering a high accuracy. By knowing this, the linear sensor is well suited for predicable and controlled environments.
An accelerometer measures the acceleration of an object in each one of the 3 axis. This makes it excellent at detecting rapid movements, and vibrations, making them ideal for dynamic situations. The accelerometers have a higher polling rate than the linear position sensor, that cause them to have a higher noise in readings. Furthermore, they need to be calibrated before using them, while the linear position sensors don’t need to.
4. AllDay: Productivity measurement and sensor availability tool
Lastly, we delve into the realm of human-machine interaction with an innovative application designed to monitor personnel productivity, streamline meeting scheduling, and ensure the seamless operation of MQTT sensors throughout our laboratory environment.
Starting as a small, over the winter break project, the local WI-FI tracker is now the subject of a case study, regarding the power of locally transmitted information packages. The base concept is centred around how one can determine who is connected to the local network and what can be done with that information.
The project was divided into two smaller appliances, first of which is now ready and working, a presence tracker website with smart data analysis called AllDay. Users create an account which will allow them to see who is present in the router’s proximity at any time and then can analyze metrics such as: productivity, best hours for meetings, presence in the past and much more.
The next, more ambitious, project will build on the base AllDay created, making it a software offering centralized data gathering and instantaneous maintenance for any IIoT device available in the workspace.
As we embark on this journey of discovery, Smart Pneumatics Lab remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technological possibility, driving progress, and catalyzing transformation in the realm of Industry 4.0.…
We recently doubled the number of screens at our pneumatic experimental workstation and it has more than doubled our productivity.
Before we had to switch between our three programs (Grafana, NodeRED and Machine Edition) along side mountains of documentations whenever we wanted to make a change or see the effect of our changes. Usually that wouldn’t be a problem because split screening has been a basic feature of windows for the last two decades.
The problem arises when we want to analyze multiple things at once or we are setting up for a new analysis project. Switching between multiple programs can cause windows to break the organization that is originally set up. Another problem is window scaling. Two apps can work on the same monitor but some things are hidden and makes it annoying having to always full screen an app just to access a simple button.
Using multiple monitors enabled us to dedicate one app to a single screen. On our second monitor we just leave Grafana or a document on at all times and it has been fantastic. On the main monitor we still fight for screen space but it is still much better. Usually programming a new analysis requires only one app at a time anyways.
As Paul Krugman would say “productivity isn’t everything, but, in the long run, it is almost everything”. That being said, let’s see how multiple monitors improved our productivity.
Enhanced Multitasking: With two monitors at my disposal, I found myself effortlessly juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. Whether cross-referencing data, writing reports, or analyzing results, the ability to view different applications side by side has streamlined our workflow and allowed for a seamless transition between various research-related activities.
Increased Screen Real Estate: The expanded screen real estate provided by the second monitor has been a game-changer. Complex datasets and intricate graphs that once required constant zooming and scrolling are now visible in their entirety. This has not only accelerated data analysis but also reduced eye strain, contributing to a more comfortable and efficient work environment.
Facilitated Collaboration: Collaboration is at the heart of scientific research. The addition of a second monitor has facilitated collaborative efforts within our team. Whether working on joint projects or sharing findings during team meetings, the ability to display information on one screen while keeping reference materials on another has fostered better communication and idea exchange.
Improved Research Document Management: Managing numerous research documents and literature is an integral part of scientific work. The second monitor has allowed me to keep reference materials open and accessible while simultaneously drafting reports or conducting experiments on the primary screen. This has significantly reduced the time spent searching for relevant information and improved overall document organization.
Efficient Data Visualization: In scientific research, visualizing data is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions. The dual-monitor setup has allowed me to compare and contrast different data sets in real-time, leading to more insightful observations and faster decision-making. Whether working with complex detailed graphs, the enhanced visual clarity has been instrumental in our research processes.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the integration of a second monitor into our laboratory workstation has undeniably elevated our efficiency and productivity. From improved multitasking to streamlined collaboration and enhanced data visualization, the benefits are evident across various aspects of our scientific work. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is clear that the dual-monitor setup has become an indispensable tool for researchers striving to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.…
On December 7, 2023 at the headquarters of the SPL laboratory there was a working meeting between the SPL team, represented by the laboratory manager, Mihai Ghinea and the coordinator of the UPBAIR student team, Bogdan Rosca, the technical director of Robomatic Bucharest Process Control Bucharest, Mr. Anghel Enache and the management of Emerson Romania, represented by General Director Sebastian Ferecus and engineer Alexandrul Atanasescu. It was discussed how the triangular collaboration in the field of intelligent pneumatics materialized in the last two years, and above all, some collaboration ideas were established to be put into practice in the year 2024.…
During 30 Oct – 1 Nov, from the UNSTPB, a delegation consisting of Bogdan Rosca, Niculescu Alex Cosmin, Stoica Vadim and Stefan Mihnea at the ITU headquarters in view of the discussions within WP5. Since in the period 2023-2027 UNSTPB will lead WP4 – European Campus together with PSL Paris, the interest of the meeting focused more on the presentation of the BeeNOME platform made by ITU. The platform will have to be integrated by the IT team of UNSTPB in the general platform of the EELISA alliance, which is why all the components of the platform created by the Turkish colleagues have been detailed.
Going into this meeting we were expecting to recieve a presentation about the BeeNOME platform. The website created by the stuff at Istanbul Technical Univesity to connect students, professors and corporations into one. The students played the part of fresh new blood wanting to learn and do new things. The professors had access to different tools to help spread their work with everyone on the internet. And the corporations provided the capitalist efficiency to the entire ecosystem, meaning they could either look for students to hire and post bounties with different projects they were willing to finance.
We were greeted by the professors from ITU and brought into their operations room. It was filled with people excited to talk about their work on the BeeNOME project and their future plans with it. We got a sneek peak at their project and got to see the backend and frontend of it.
Even thought the project is this under construction, we are optimisitic it will be a great value to out society as a whole.…
On October 2, 2023, Bucharest hosted the significant EELISA Conference from October 3 to 6—a pivotal event since the alliance’s inception. Attended by notable figures from 12 nations, the conference featured diverse activities and discussions on topics such as the European Commission’s European Universities program, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the future of academic education in Europe. Importantly, during the Governing and Executive Board sessions, UNSTPB assumed the presidency for the next six months, signifying a leadership phase within EELISA’s strategic objectives. The conference stands as a testament to proactive engagement and the collective pursuit of academic excellence within the dynamic framework of the EELISA alliance.…
Laboratory Director Mihalache Ghinea represented UNSTPB at the annual SEFI Conference (European Society for Engineering Education) held in Dublin on September 10, 2023. During this notable occasion, the SEFI Executive Board convened to announce the appointment of new members to the SEFI Board of Directors for the ensuing 2 and 3 years. With the election of Mihalache Ghinea from UNSTPB and Emrah Acar (Istanbul University of Technology), it is discerned that a lasting and operational connection has been established between SEFI and the EELISA alliance. Furthermore, at this distinguished event, the investiture of the new SEFI president was disclosed, with Balazs Nagy Vince (Budapest BME) assuming the role of the new Chairman of the EELISA Executive Board effective from November 1, 2023.
Emerson has met the demands of today’s challenging environment by offering you the opportunity to connect with our innovative products and industry experts at our unique roadshow. This mobile resource of innovation provides dynamic demonstrations of the latest product advancements in digital transformation, machine automation systems, and fluid control solutions. At the beginning of July 2023, this exhibition on wheels will be hosted by Smart Pneumatics Lab, a research laboratory belonging to the Department of Robots and Manufacturing Systems (The Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest)
From March 12 to March 19 2023, a group of international students participated in a BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) course on Virtual Reality (VR) at the Athens Network camp. The course, organized by AVRENG, focused on the AVRENG Lab’s pillar of Augmented and Virtual Reality, which is a vital component of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The ATHENS Network, established in 1997, is a collaborative effort among 14 European technological universities and nine ParisTech Graduate Schools of Engineering. Its primary objective is to facilitate the exchange of students, teachers, and researchers from prominent European technological universities and jointly participate in European technological development and training programs.
One of the network’s noteworthy initiatives is the ATHENS week, an intensive program of coursework taught at each member institution during November and March. In addition to the traditional ATHENS courses, the network introduced the BIP, a blended program that combines the ATHENS course during the ATHENS week with an online component before or after the session.
For the participating students, completing a BIP entailed earning a minimum of 3 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) and receiving a daily allowance of 70 € for on-site participation. There was an additional incentive of 50 € for “green traveling,” promoting sustainable transportation options. Students were advised to consult their home university’s local coordinator for further details before applying.
The AVRENG Lab, dedicated to the advancement of Augmented and Virtual Reality, specializes in academic and industrial connections, research infrastructure development, and specialized staff training. Five years ago, the lab initiated a master’s program called Educational Techniques in Virtual Environments, offering courses on LSM platforms and Augmented Reality used in e-learning platforms. During this period, the lab published several scientific papers and books, marking the emergence of A&VR activities in their faculty.
Under the leadership of AVRENG, the lab has been actively selecting students who understand the significance of virtual environments and experiences for industry and manufacturing. They aim to translate the technology from entertainment to the factories of the 21st century.
In pursuit of collaborative opportunities, AVRENG established ties with ENSAM Cluny for a Double Diploma program in 2006. This collaboration provided insights into the activities of the Institute Image in Chalon-sur-Saône, France. In May 2016, a working visit involving key representatives from both institutions took place, resulting in the decision to establish the AVRENG lab, specifically focusing on industrial applications of Augmented and Virtual Reality.
Over the next 2-3 years, AVRENG’s main objectives include integrating the lab into the university strategy, connecting it with national and international applicative research networks, securing funding for infrastructure development, identifying Romanian industries utilizing or planning to implement such technologies, fostering A&VR interest within the faculty’s programs, and establishing a strong partnership with the Institute Image.
AVRENG has already initiated projects involving holographic systems for telepresence and has acquired a virtual immersion system based on Oculus Rift glasses, enabling real research to commence. The collaboration between AVRENG and the Institute Image holds promise for advancing their shared objectives and furthering their respective scientific endeavors.
The participation of international students in the BIP VR course at Athens Network’s camp not only contributes to their academic growth but also fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of Augmented and Virtual Reality. With the AVRENG Lab’s dedication and the support of the ATHENS Network, the future of A&VR in engineering appears promising, paving the way for innovation and advancements in various industries.
From May 19th to 21st, 2023, the prestigious EELISA Student Scientific Competition took place in Pisa, organized by EELISA (European Engineering Learning Innovation and Science Alliance). The event attracted over 40 teams from the University Politehnica Bucharest, showcasing their innovative projects and research endeavors. Among these teams was our own, presenting our project on ” THE USE OF SMART PNEUMATICS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES WITH PNEUMATIC ENGINES”
The EELISA Student Scientific Competition is a platform that fosters talent management and offers opportunities for self-education and elite training to nurture the future generation of scientists. It has been a cornerstone of talent development in Hungary for the past 70 years, with the participation of numerous top Hungarian researchers.
This year’s competition was held in conjunction with the 2nd Research-based Learning Symposia, with the aim of establishing collaborative research interests and activities among EELISA partners. The event followed a hybrid format, allowing participants to engage both on-site and online.
Our team joined the competition with great enthusiasm, presenting our groundbreaking project that focused on the application of intelligent pneumatics in the construction of engines for vehicles powered by compressed air. Our research delved deep into this field, exploring innovative techniques and addressing professional questions related to this technology.
The benefits of participating in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition are manifold. Firstly, it provided us with the opportunity to write a research paper akin to those published in the Scientific Student Associations movement. Moreover, it allowed us to delve deeper into our specific area of study, enabling us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
To participate in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition, we were required to submit a research report spanning 20 to 60 pages, prepared with the guidance of experienced supervisors. These reports underwent thorough evaluation by two reviewers before the event, ensuring the quality and rigor of our work.
At the symposia, each team delivered a 10-minute presentation, followed by a scientific discussion, in sessions dedicated to their respective fields of expertise. These presentations were evaluated based on the established rules of the Hungarian TDK and OTDK conferences.
Our team’s participation in the EELISA Student Scientific Competition has been an invaluable experience, allowing us to showcase our innovative research and collaborate with fellow scholars. We are immensely proud to have represented our university and contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge in our field…
We are delighted to announce that our team participated in the prestigious scientific session at Productica 2023, held on May 12-13, 2023. The event was organized by the Polytechnic University of Bucharest and the Municipality of Mioveni, in collaboration with the Academy of Romanian Scientists and the INCERTRANS SA Institute of Transport Research.
Productica 2023 marked its fifteenth edition since its inception in 2009 by the Center for Creativity Development, affiliated with the Academy of Romanian Scientists. The session aimed to showcase the latest scientific advancements from universities, research institutes, and companies. The conference included several sections, namely:
Innovative Products and Technologies
Advanced Materials for Human and Environmental Protection
Innovation based on Smart Development Strategies
Business Environment Development – dedicated section for companies
Our team presented a remarkable project titled “THE USE OF SMART PNEUMATICS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES WITH PNEUMATIC ENGINES” The project focused on exploring the potential of intelligent pneumatic systems in engine construction for vehicles powered by compressed air. Our research highlighted the advantages of this innovative approach, such as improved energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced performance.
We would like to express our gratitude to the organizing committee of Productica 2023 for providing us with this invaluable opportunity to present our research and contribute to the advancement of science and technology. Our participation in this session has not only expanded our knowledge but also fostered collaborations and exchanges with experts from various fields…
Embarking on a transformative journey, three students from Politehnica University of Bucharest had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Blended Intensive Programmes mobility at the prestigious Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). As part of the Athens Week, this once-in-a-lifetime experience allowed them to delve into the realm of sustainable hydropower development. Guided by exceptional professors, they engaged in a range of activities, including hands-on experiments, research, and exploration of cutting-edge technologies. Let’s dive into their remarkable week and the impact it had on their academic and personal growth. The collaboration between Politehnica University of Bucharest and NTNU provided a platform for academic enrichment and international collaboration. This Blended Intensive Programmes mobility offered our students an immersive experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. Their one-week journey was filled with eye-opening activities and encounters that expanded their understanding of sustainable hydropower development. During their time at NTNU, our students were immersed in the world of complex calculations and data analysis. They had the unique opportunity to collect samples from a local mountain and apply computational techniques to determine the potential power generation from the hydropower resources available. This hands-on experience gave them a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in harnessing sustainable energy from natural sources. At NTNU, our students were granted access to state-of-the-art laboratories showcasing the latest prototypes in sustainable hydropower technology. They witnessed firsthand the innovative solutions being developed for future hydropower projects. Exploring these advanced prototypes not only expanded their knowledge but also fueled their imagination, inspiring them to contribute to the future of clean energy. As part of their enriching experience, our students had exclusive access to an advanced meteorological station. This opportunity allowed them to collect vital environmental data, including weather patterns, precipitation levels, and other relevant metrics. By understanding the intricate relationship between the environment and hydropower generation, they gained a holistic perspective on sustainable development. The partnership between Politehnica University of Bucharest and NTNU proved to be highly successful, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and personal growth. This transformative experience not only strengthened their academic foundation but also nurtured lasting connections with professors and students from diverse backgrounds. The possibilities for future collaborations are endless, as both institutions strive for continued advancement in the field of sustainable energy.
The Blended Intensive Programmes mobility at NTNU was a remarkable journey that left an indelible mark on the lives of three students from Politehnica University of Bucharest. Through their participation in the Athens Week, they were immersed in the world of sustainable hydropower development, gaining invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. Their exposure to cutting-edge technologies, computational calculations, and environmental data collection fueled their passion for clean energy and solidified their commitment to a sustainable future. The successful partnership between the two universities serves as a testament to the power of international collaboration and the limitless possibilities it holds for future generations of students.…
Imagine that you are part of a treasure hunt game, a classic concept that takes you on a journey full of mystery and adventure.
Now, think about how exciting it would be to take this concept and turn it into a captivating way to find your next dream job. Well, that’s what we, the members of the UPBAIR club, in collaboration with VEEAM Software and Open for Business organization, have done by combining the treasure hunt concept with a recruitment process.
Open for Business is an organization focused on organizing events and actions that help young people and others integrate into the job market and promote sustainable career development that has collaborated in the last 5 years with VEEAM Software – a privately held US-based IT company that specializes in simplifying backups for virtual machines, an industry leader that continues to innovate the industry to provide data protection anywhere in the hybrid cloud.
During a day full of action and adventure, students were challenged to find employers, answer questions, and demonstrate problem-solving and teamwork skills. This activity was not only fun, but also provided a unique opportunity for students to showcase their abilities and make a good impression on employers.
The UPBAIR team played a crucial role in organizing the event, leading the employers to the places where they were to be found by the students. Additionally, they were involved in creating clues and riddles for the Treasure Hunt. In the end, the students felt excited and motivated to work in teams, having the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and receive direct feedback from VEEAM employers.
Between 20-22 April, the Politehnica University of Bucharest invites you to participate in the Polifest educational fair.
The 12th edition of the engineering educational fair, Polifest promotes education, innovation and technology. The event aims to create a bridge between academia and business and to give future engineers a clearer picture of the evolution of this profession in relation to technological progress.
During the three days dedicated to the event, participants will have access to scientific conferences, workshops, exhibitions of equipment and new technologies, presentations of educational offers and job opportunities. Participants will also enjoy surprises, prizes and interactive games prepared by the organisers.
More than 70 companies, along with representatives of faculties and members of associations of students will be present at Polifest.
During this event the UPBAIR team will participate by presenting two cars: the car with which they participated in the 2022 Pneumobile competition and the car from 2019 that they have restored. Along with the two cars, the team will also have a booth showing how the pistons work and operate with compressed air.
If you would like to see the cars and find out more about the UPBAIR team, we invite you to come to the Politehnica University Rectory on 20-22 April from 10am to 4pm.
On January 12, 2023, the UPBAIR team of the Polytechnic University of Bucharest participated in the gala of the national competition Patriotfest, held at the National Military Circle. This participation was a great honor for the team, which returned home with the “Research for Defence” Award with the project “Pure Pneumatic Engine”.
PatriotFest is the only national innovation competition organized by the defense and national security institutions. At each edition, experts from the PatriotFest community select and reward the most interesting, functional, and practical ideas from Romanian innovators from home and abroad. The winners receive support to improve their projects and have access to consultations between the organizing institutions and members of the PatriotFest community.
The competition focuses on creativity, technological evolution, and authenticity while aiming at facilitating the innovation process to increase Romania’s security in a challenging period when hybrid threats are becoming increasingly varied and sophisticated. Also through the competition’s interplay, Romanian performance is supported by providing opportunities and leveraging results.
The fifth edition of the PatriotFest competition focused specifically on the areas of autonomous systems and artificial intelligence.
Of the nine prizes awarded at the PatriotFest Gala, one was won by Mihalache Ghinea, a professor at the Polytechnic University of Bucharest, and the UPB AIR team. Our team participated by presenting the project “Pure pneumatic engine” which travels 5 km at a maximum speed of 40km/h with only 10 liters of standard compressed gas, such a type of engine, which does not contain electronic elements, brings many advantages both in the field of safety and in other areas.
PatriotFest is initiated by the New Strategy Center Association and organized with the support of several institutions in the field of defense and national security: the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Romanian Intelligence Service, the Special Telecommunications Service, and the Protection and Security Service.
The event was broadcast live online on the New Strategy Center Association’s YouTube channel and on www.caleaeuropeana.ro and the Calea Europeană Facebook page, the media partner of the event.
Recently, new members joined the team with fresh forces, motivated and eager to get involved in the many activities of the laboratory. The recruitment took place in two stages: Completing the online form and interviewing with the coordinating teacher
A main quality we are looking for is involved because the work in the laboratory requires time and dedication, as demonstrated by the young members fully. They quickly integrated themselves starting with enthusiasm for the work on both the practical and the theoretical side. Under the guidance of the “old ones” the recruits gain the experience, knowledge, and skills that will maximize the team’s competencies.
“Forming a team is just the beginning, staying together is progress, working together is a success.” Like the words of the famous philosopher Henry David Thoreau, the team often organizes meetings where problems are discussed, events are planned, and possible weekly tasks are. Communication is an essential part of the team’s efficiency, which is why we organize parties, the most recent being Christmas, when recruits, games evenings, and group projects participated.
Without adding anything else, we are happy to introduce you to the new members of our team.in
Dovînteza Constantin-Leontin is a student in the year of the Faculty of Energy. Building and repairing electronic items is one of his hobbies, which influenced his choice of faculty. She is also passionate about photography and walks in nature.
What made you choose to join the UPB Air team?
“The opportunity to learn new things in an interactive and possibly fun way, in a field different from the one I’m going to specialize in at my chosen college.”
Which area is most of your interest in the team?
“The field that arouses my greatest interest in the team is the manufacturing and testing of the prototype, this includes both the electrical and the mechanical and pneumatic parts.
Do you think that the things learned at UPB Air will be useful to you during and after your studies?
“I think any study opportunity is welcome given that engineering is a complex field involving knowledge in most technical fields, Deepening my knowledge of air and mechanics at UPB Air becoming an important advantage for the start of my engineering career.”
Olteanu Vlad-Andrei is a third-year student of the Faculty of Industrial and Robotics Engineering. His hobbies include Volunteering, camping, skydiving, music, and skateboarding.
What made you choose to join the UPB Air team?
“Since high school, I’ve been attracted to the idea of being part of an engineering club in the faculty. I think it’s nice to be part of a team of people working together on a project. Once I found out that there was such a place in our college, I didn’t think long before I enrolled.
From what source did you find out about recruitment?
“From my group mates, although I had seen that there was a room with such a club a long time ago.”
Do you think that the things learned at UPB Air will be useful to you during and after your studies?
“I am convinced that through UPB Air I will develop a lot professionally, gaining as much technical knowledge as possible, but also personally, because where you can learn better to work in a team than at an engineering club.”
Făsie Răzvan Tudor, a second-year student at the Faculty of Energy is passionate about design, problem-solving, music, and video essays.
What made you choose to join the UPB Air team?
“I chose to enroll in UPB Air because I wanted to be part of a project that challenges skills that cannot be used normally in our university. When I was registered in my first year, I was extremely disappointed because I expected many things to be different, especially the way we are prepared to become engineers. From what I had seen and heard almost everywhere, I understood that the engineer must be someone who, faced with a difficult situation, uses science and ingenuity to solve the problem. This image that was imprinted on my mind was the reason why I abandoned any other alternative to enrolling in UPB. However, the style of teaching I have found only encourages scientific training (and this, in large part, through memorization and writing after dictation), never encouraging the creative spirit. That’s why I consider myself lucky because I learned about the UPB Air project. In just 3 days after signing up, I learned many technical terms that will use after graduation, and I had to use my creativity to improvise a tool that I didn’t have in the workshop. I know it sounds like an extremely insignificant thing, but for me, it was very satisfying to see my “invention” go. I can’t wait to take part in the design of a new pneumatic car, with which I hope we will win the Pneumobile contest.”
When did you first hear about UPB Air?
“I first heard about the project when I was walking around the campus, and
I saw the first car created on the workshop. “
Do you think that the things learned at UPB Air will be useful to you
during and after your studies?
“UPB Air allows me to develop practical skills, and I’m sure that anything you do during college can help you be a better engineer. Given that information is everywhere on the internet and anyone can access it, employers believe that hard skills and discipline are much more important than the theory of college years. “
Arafat Khaled Marius, a first-year student of the Faculty of Industrial and Robotics Engineering is passionate about drawing, programming, application development, and experiments, especially on Arduino.
From what source did you find out about recruitment?
“I was just leaving the drawing class when a colleague told me that a car was walking in the college lobby so I met two UPB Air members who guided us toward the decision to join the team.”