Engineering and Computer Science Co-op

For: Excellence in professional communications

With: Bell Canada

Topic: Assessment of On-Premises Vulnerability Scanners

Alexander (Master of Engineering in Telecommunications and Information Security) worked with Bell Canada’s Network Services Technology team testing the unified security platform for SD-WAN services as a continuation of work in the previous work term. An evaluation of the Nessus and OpenVAS vulnerability scanners was completed including functionality, cost, availability, and compatibility. The Nessus Professional Edition scanner was recommended as the best option.

This report was very well written and made very good use of all elements in a professional report.  Cyber security is an important field of research for Bell as data security is an increasing concern for most organizations. Detailed recommendations were provided that indicated the best strategy for implementing a “vulnerability” scanner for the Vancouver TD Lab.

For: Demonstration of benefit to the client

With: Morgan Stanley

Topic: Methods to Encrypt Basis Calculation with Gainskeeper at Shareworks

Stephan’s (software engineering) work term was with Shareworks by Morgan Stanley in Calgary as a software developer as part of a team. The company develops software to manage corporate employee stock options and shared equity. In this project, client data is to be shared with a third party company, Gainskeeper, to perform cost basis calculations. The project reviewed file encryption algorithms DES, 3DES, AES and RSA. Criteria for comparison were encryption time, decryption time, memory used and entropy. AES Blowfish software was recommended.

This report provided a differential comparison of encryption and decryption tools operating between Shareworks and GainsKeeper. This process is critical for the employer and the quantitative analysis demonstrated the Blowfish’s algorithms were the best solution which provides significant benefits to the many clients of Morgan Stanley services.

For: Demonstration of high level engineering skills and enterprise

With: Codan Radio Communications

Topic: Consistent Automatic Tuning of the MT-4Z Varactor Filter

Luke’s (electrical engineering) fourth co-op term was with Codan Communications as a software developer. He was part of a team working on the MT-4Z receiver, a Mountain Top Repeater which is a critical part of BC’s emergency radio network. Specifically, a varactor filter is used as a front-end bandpass filter. Auto Tune was modified to find the strongest signal to account for the inherent variance in data readings. Additional research was recommended.

This report was well written and of high value to the employer, Codan Communications. Luke’s report is an excellent balance of clarity, high value to the company and their end user clients, and technical difficulty. Specific auto-tune optimization strategy was developed to address weaknesses in the automatic tuning process for the front-end varactor bandpass filters. This is part of an ongoing research programs that will lead to enhanced performance over various frequency bands. This was a technically demanding project that was well executed.

With: Specific Mechanical Systems Ltd

Topic: Analysis of Lifting Lugs For Lifting of Bio-Filter Exhaust Stack

Alper (mechanical engineering) has undertook a clear mechanical analysis challenge in the design of lifting lugs. Appropriate research was completed to undertake the stress analysis which was implemented in a spreadsheet to support the actual design. The design was verified during in-field use and recommendations made on how to expand this analysis method in future. The scope of the work was clearly defined, and the analysis method was described effectively for a general technical reader with good diagrams to explain the analysis and design. The analysis method will be available for future design calculations at the company.

With: Aecon Group Inc

Topic: Fate of a Mix-Shield Tunnel Boring Machine

Brandon (civil engineering) undertook a business and technical analysis of removing the mix-shield from the tunnel which is part of the Second Narrows Water Supply project. The shield is larger in diameter that the excavation tunnel and either needed to be buried in-situ or dismantled and removed piecemeal from the Burnaby shaft. A weighted objectives chart was developed to indicate the better of two methods taking into account materials, labour and environmental impact. A specific recommendation to remove-and scrap the shield was presented which could save up to $275,000.

With: AGO Environmental Electronics, Ltd.

Topic: Performance Characterization of Affordable Electric Propulsion Systems for Boats

Kelsey (mechanical engineering) undertook a project to solve a longstanding problem for AGO Environmental. The report described a thorough initial analysis of motor conversion performance and gives recommendation to extend the analysis to include other significant factors that could affect design choices. These mechanical factors mainly deal with the drive train performance and potential for optimization. The report provided a detailed analysis of approaches, complete with tables and diagrams, as to how to best do the electric motor conversions. The analysis was a mix of mathematical and practical analysis methods. Given that this is a small company, the value of this analysis could be significant to their business.

With: City of Langford

Topic: Comparative Analysis of Hot and Cold Pour Crack Sealing

Jarod (civil engineering) completed a comparative study for the City of Langford on the methods of crack sealing (hot or cold). This involved a combined business and technical analysis. Factors considered included cost, safety, traffic impact and environment. The report presented an integrated analysis of costs and benefits of the two methods but did not discuss the impact of the selection on the lifetime of the pavement, or the frequency of crack repair if different between the two methods. There remained a number of factors that were not covered, such as why a change was contemplated, which might have been discovered in consultation with the contractors.

With: Entrepreneurial Work Term

Topic: Harvest Electrical Services Industry's Barrier to Entry

Tenzin (electrical engineering) presented a business analysis for the start-up of a fully integrated electrical service company. He used a decision matrix to determine the preferred course which concluded he should start small. It is important that UVic encourage entrepreneurial skills in difficult times hopefully coupled with very critical thinking. There was evidence that the program could provide more tools for students to work through the challenges of starting and building an engineering company.

With: Redlen Group

Topic: Determining the Best 3D Printer Filament Replacement For Use in a High Voltage Environment

Richard (electrical engineering) worked with the Test Engineering Department at Redlen Technologies on a project to optimize their 3D printing by determining the best filament material for fused deposit modeling. 11 examples were compared and given the company's use of high voltage environments the ideal material would have a high dielectric strength. Price and compatibility were also important factors fed into a decision matrix that yielded a recommendation for the use of PETG and ASA.
This report was well written focusing on an interesting problem which required a good analysis of multiple criteria including business factors. The summary and recommendations were clear and supported by the report.

With: Fibics Inc

Topic: Modern Replacement Options for the Electronic Computer-Aided Design (ECAD) Software used by Fibics Incorporated

Ethan (electrical engineering) worked for Fibics which undertakes research with focussed ion-beam microscopy for advanced material applications. As 90% of their work is focussed on commercial problems, they are highly targeted on getting results. Ethan undertook an analysis of their electrical computer design tools to improve reliability and efficiency. Two options were compared with a weighted objectives chart and a recommendation was made to update and upgrade the current software.
This report demonstrated a solid analysis of software options which took into account practical parameters; features, ease of adoption and cost. The cost factor is of course quantitative, but the others are based on ranking when creating a weighted objective chart. The recommendations will be of good value to Fibics and deserving of the CAMP 23 Award.

With: HES PV Limited

Topic: Redesign of the HES Mid Clamp

We would also like to acknowledge the excellent report of Arden Low (mechanical engineering) for the redesign of the FES Mid Clamp which took into account both technical, business and client perspectives. This was a great achievement for a first work term.

Jarod (civil engineering) undertook a design project for Scott Engineering to compare three types of transfer beams; a laminated veneer beam, a steel I-beam and an outside wall girder truss. These structures were analyzed using design software and compared using a weighted objectives chart. Consideration was given both to gravity and seismic loads, cost and architectural appeal. Detail criteria were presented in defining the scope of the problem. Careful consideration was given to both the structural requirements and cost sensitivities. The girder truss was recommended as the best option but practical recommendations were given including the input of the client for a final decision.

For a first work term this report was very well done. There was not a requirement for structural analysis, but the comparative review of beam structures was appropriate to meeting the objectives - good value to the client. Excellent for a WT-1 and is worthy of recognition.

This is a well written report giving good table, careful references, etc. showing a good approach to engineering. The report provides a lot of references re the design approaches being analyzed.   

This report was well done and of benefit to both the employer and the employer’s client, especially as it was Jarod’s first co-op work term.

Kory (mechanical engineering) participated with a team to evaluate innovative coating and corrosion removal technologies which would reduce labour and costs. Three technologies for modalities were compared for coating removal; induction, laser ablation and plasma. Acceptance criteria were established and evaluated qualitatively. Laser ablation was determined to be the best option which will be followed up with and RFP and product demonstration. Kory provided technical background on the systems developing tables of pros and cons as well as a weighted decision matrix. This report would have been useful in supporting the recommendation of the team.

This report was qualitative in natured but addressed the specific objectives of the clients.  It compared three approaches to corrosion removal in naval vessels and concluded the laser ablation coating removal system met the specified criteria.

Report is clear and gives the clear choices described by well defined results and recommendations.

This report was well considered, effectively documented, and beneficial to the employer.

Caitlyn Quach (civil engineering) undertook a traffic study to improve traffic along Six Mile Road at the behest of the Town of View Royal. Two intersections were the focus of the study and three control devices were compared; two-way stop, traffic signal and roundabout. Three main criteria considered were travel times, safety and future increases in traffic.

Blunt & Associates conducted this study beginning with an overview of how a range of traffic control systems worked. The corridor was modelled in Synchro software and Sidra intersection software.  Time, safety and intersection approach operations were compared.  It was concluded that roundabouts were the safest solutions and best suited to handle the expected increase in traffic based on planned development projects. Further research was recommended to explore the implementations costs before making final decisions.

Mikhail Ivanov (mechanical engineering) worked on a design solution for corrosion of the rear position light on the DHC-6 Twin Otter in use by Loganair in Scotland. An analysis was required to determine the cause of the water ingress and potential solutions for repair and prevention. Multiple strategies were investigated including improved environmental sealing, redesign of fairing and wiring duct and location on the aircraft. The process for problem investigation was well described including the necessary documentation for any changes to the aircraft. This customer’s aircraft landed and departed from a beach exposing it to harsh environmental conditions.

Specific options were presented and discussed; sealing improvement, fairing/wire duct redesign and relocation of the rear light. A discussion matrix was developed based on the impact to; A/C configuration, associated documents, weight and balance, cost, production incorporation, effectiveness, and relative weight. It was concluded that positioning the lights on the wing tips would provide a long-term solution but that testing should be done to verify this and a technical bulletin be released for operators wanting to retrofit their aircraft.

Brynna Clarke-Leene (mechanical engineering) worked on a project to evaluate vacuum test jigs used for ingress protection testing at 4iiii Innovations. The test jigs were compared based on test results, materials, size, cost, flexibility, seal opening and connection mechanism. These jigs support the quality control testing of power meters. A good background was provided on the products and their need to be reliably dust and waterproof as defined by IP67 standards. This code defines the testing specifications and the critical aspect of vacuum testing. 

4iiii Innovations has had an increase in production and the need for new test jigs. These were described in detail leading to the definition of constraints for the final jig design. Jigs were quantitatively tested on performance criteria comparing 3 designs in a weighted objective chart. The criteria were described and justification discussed leading to recommendations for an alternative test jig. Specific design details were provided for a new jig.

Bryn Cubberly (mechanical engineering) provided a good comparative analysis of Microsoft and Apple Tablets based on cost, hardware, software and security parameters. The background and goals were clearly described based on a need to reduce the cost and time required to perform manual audits for Engineering Change Notification. 

The hardware systems were described, and costs compared with the existing paper-based approach. The iPad was a clear recommendation as a superior solution for Viking. Good judgement was displayed in the recommendation to begin with pilot testing before a broad scale roll out. This was a clearly written report that demonstrated excellence in communications.

Jacob Anderson (mechanical engineering) worked on the potential layout of a new fabrication building for Titan Boats in Sidney. The company was growing out of multiple buildings on an uneven lot to a custom-built facility to bring all the fabrication under one roof. The report explored the workflow issues with the current system and recommended a new layout to improve efficiency and safety. 

This report was based on subjective observations but provided a useful starting point for the owners. Although the costing and detailed design considerations were outside of the scope of this report the work flow changes for Titan would have the most immediate benefit. A capital investment of this scale for a small company would be critical for its future and the study provided a good foundation for more detailed design.

Sean McAuliffe (mechanical engineering) completed a very well written report following a well thought-out approach to identifying the root cause and analysis of a failure in electrical bonding across connector junctions.

Instrumentation was employed in determining the cause and potential solutions compared with a decision matrix. The client was provided with clear conclusions and recommendations for a way forward. The report was well presented with good problem-solving/logic and of importance to the employer.

Juliana Bartemucci (mechanical engineering) worked for Defence Construction Canada. She undertook a comparative design review of two approaches to upgrading a jetty cold-water system to accommodate a new fire protection system and access to potable water. A clear recommendation was provided at the end of the analysis.

Juliana's report provided a clear write-up to address the near term and future requirements of the client. The illustrations and layout were clear and well documented. Technically, the selection of appropriate piping was supported by referenced material and engineering analysis.

Collin Macleod (mechanical engineering) spent a work term with Viking Air Ltd. He undertook a study to determine the best location for an air-data boom on a DHC-6 to support the analysis of increasing the maximum take-off weight by up to 10%. The analysis was undertaken by creating a design space to model the performance of the air-boom in 3 different locations. In addition, a “best-in-class” comparison was undertaken based on qualitative measures. 

Collin demonstrated a good analysis of the issues, needs, and trade-offs was made as well as recognizing “solution constraints”. The report was well presented, and the conclusions were substantiated and reasonable. The report was of clear value to the client.

Michael Gingras (mechanical engineering) worked for Babcock Canada Inc. His project undertook an engineering analysis of software for use in heating and cooling by a weighted objective matrix. Specific recommendations were made to proceed with FLoMASTER. The exercise demonstrated expertise in flow analysis, software assessment and cost benefits.

Michael's report demonstrated excellence in engineering. The safety related issues were complex and required an understanding of both software and hardware factors. This was a good example of a VIES Award.

Austin Smith (software engineering) was selected by IEEE Victoria for his work term report about his work term with the Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental and Test Ranges (CFMETR) in Nanoose Bay.

Austin prepared a well written report that demonstrated both professional analysis and communication skills. His conclusions and recommendations for strategies to upgrade the real-time GPS demodulation LabVIEW application will be of tangible benefit to the Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental and test Ranges Acoustics Section.

Rhye Rolls-DeWolfe (mechanical engineering) was selected by Iron Ring Camp 23 for his work term report about his time working with Ocean Networks Canada in Victoria, BC.

Kian Gorgichuk (software engineering) was selected by IEEE Victoria for his work term report about his work term with Latitude Geographics.

Kian's work term report was very well written, concise, clear and easy to follow.  The logical workplan led to well thought out recommendations including business considerations.  Not only was there excellence in communication but also significant impact for the client

Brett Nagy (civil engineering) was selected by Iron Ring Camp 23 for his work term report about his time working with the City of Prince George.

Ryan Chan (biomedical engineering) was selected by IEEE Victoria for his work term report about his Entrepreneurial Co-op.

Ryan undertook a demanding project in human factors assessment, a field that he had no previous direct training in. His report was written methodically so that the results could be reproduced and practical recommendations were provided a client and a manufacturer. Ryan's report was a strong example of the communications skills encouraged by the IEEE award.

Matt Dyck (mechanical engineering) was selected by Iron Ring Camp 23 for his work term report about his time working with Vice Design Inc.

Carly Stokes (mechanical engineering) was selected by IEEE Victoria for her work term report written while working for Barkley Sound Holdings Ltd.

The report was called "Feasibility of Low Embodied Energy Softwood Lumber Drying Systems on the West Coast of British Columbia".

"Receiving the IEEE co-op work term award has benefited me in a multitude of ways. Not only has it helped instil and confirm a deeper sense of confidence in my communication skills, but also it has encouraged me to continue to develop and foster this skill. It is a great feeling to have someone recognize and acknowledge the dedication and time that you put into a project, but to be able to use that acknowledgment as motivation to improve my skills and also have it contribute monetarily to education fills me with appreciation and gratitude for both the Vancouver Island Engineering Society, IEEE, and all the sponsors who help to provide the funding for these programs and awards."

Sema-May Hamidi (mechanical engineering) was selected by Iron Ring Camp 23 for her work term report written while working for CFB Esquimalt - Base Construction Engineering (BCE).

The report was called "Construction of New Building vs Renovating Existing Facilities for Canadian Navy Enhanced Navy Boarding Party & Boat Troop".

"It’s always nice to be rewarded for hard work. The co-op report award was a great opportunity to be recognized for work during my co-op term, and is a valuable addition to my resume in applying for future work."

• Undergraduate co-op application form - computer science (pdf)
• Graduate co-op application form (pdf)
• Terms and Conditions form (pdf)
  

• Co-op Jobs Access Form

• Work term challenge application form (pdf)
• Work term transfer application form (pdf)