An Innovation Central Perth Update
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ICP at Yagan Square
Throughout January, ICP was periodically displayed on Yagan Square’s famous digital tower!
Last year, ICP were recognised as finalists for last years Premier’s Science Awards, where we were nominated for our contribution to WA’s thriving innovation ecosystem. Alongside multiple other initiatives – many within Curtin University – we are excited to be showcased on such a public platform to celebrate our achievements.
If you’d like to see the displayed content, check out the nomination video here!
Welcome, Adil!
We’re excited to welcome our newest ICP team member, Adil Khokhar! Working as a Project Coordinator, Adil will be furthering ICP’s commitment to the university trailblazer program.
In addition to his qualifications in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Adil has also had previous experience within ICP as the intern team leader. Through the program, he worked on engineering projects for a variety of high-profile clients, delivering incredible outcomes. It’s so great to have him back, and it’s exciting to continue to see the team grow!
Events
The HIVE Tour and Workshop Day
Now that our interns are in the final month of their summer projects, ICP were excited to host a HIVE Tour and Workshop day – offering an opportunity for our students to explore one of Curtin University‘s most prestigious facilities and enhance their professional development skills.
Starting at the Curtin HIVE, ICP were treated to an hour-long tour of the incredible space. The tour provided a guided exploration of many 3D displays – ranging from the history of Perth to a topographical showcase of Mars – as well as the opportunity to utilise a range of different VR and AR capabilities.
Afterwards, the students were invited back to ICP for some afternoon tea – before participating in our two insightful workshops. The first workshop – hosted by Tania McKiernan – explored the important skills required for a successful job interview.
The second workshop was hosted by Dr. Luke Butcher from the school of Management & Marketing, exploring presentation skills that will support students for their (rapidly) approaching end-of-project presentations!
We appreciate all the positive feedback provided by the students, and hopefully ICP has provided useful career guidance for the next steps in their careers.
Next up – our first annual awards night!
Project Highlights
Water Leak Detection
Last year, we initiated an exciting new project with RAC WA, aiming to develop a prototype that can detect waterpipe leaks. The detection prototype will help preserve water while helping minimise insurance claims. Small leaks often go undetected and can cause considerable property damage. The sensor will help homeowners recognise the loss of water early!
Our two talented interns, Harrison Booker and Jai Coutinho (Bachelors of Mechatronic Engineering and Computer Science), were introduced to the project through ICP and have since spent over a year working with RAC. With the support of Curtin University staff and facilities, they continuously deliver on project outcomes and have successfully developed a working prototype. Still, their innovative work carries on as they explore options for an interactive dashboard.
The interns have since explored commercialisation opportunities through Curtin-lead initiatives, including the ignition program and the annual Curtin Innovation awards. Congrats to all involved – we can’t wait to see the outcome of this fascinating project.
Recreational Vessel Detection
ICP have been working on an incredible project with Pilbara Ports Authority to develop an object detection system that can automatically detect recreational vessel usage and behaviours. The detection system could one day be deployed within the Spoilbank Marina, to support management of vessel interaction risks along the main shipping channel to the port of Port Hedland.
For the project, ICP engaged Dre Siwela, who is currently in his third year of a Bachelors Degree in Mechatronic Engineering. With support from three of our academic experts – Siavash Khaksar, Yifei Ren and Qian Li – Dre has been developing an algorithm that uses stereo vision and GPS capabilities to detect abnormal behaviours, all recorded through the use of Cisco Meraki Cameras.
By the end of our program, the project is on track to successfully alert operators of unconventional port behaviour via SMS notification – while providing real-time dashboard data to track separate vessel behaviours and usage.
Upcoming Events
ICP in the Goldfields
Make sure to keep an eye out for invitations to our upcoming events in The Goldfields!
Over the year, ICP are excited to collaborate further with the Curtin team at the WA School of Mines (WASM), and a variety of collaborators within corresponding areas of the Goldfields. We’ll be participating in a variety of relevant and insightful events for both students and industry, and we can’t wait to be able to meet many interesting collaborators at the Kalgoorlie campus!
In the meantime, ICP are excited to support Andrew Bell – director since 2020 – for his nomination at the upcoming 40under40 awards. Andrew has been deservedly recognised for his dedication to growth and innovation in WA – and ICP has benefited greatly from his leadership!
As a testament to ICP’s growth, we’re excited to expand our offering to regional WA, and we’re looking forward to furthering the prospect of Innovation Central Goldfields!
If you’d like to cast your vote for the people’s choice award, click here!