Information for Sponsors
Introduction:
The Final Year Project programme in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Canterbury was the first of its kind in New Zealand. It provides our graduates with a capstone engineering experience and introduction to professional engineering practice.
Projects:
The "Better than No. 8 Wire" team and their academic supervisor, sponsored by South Fence Machinery.The bulk of the projects come from industry. One or two of our projects arise from our staff innovations or research, and are often sponsored by an industry partner looking for new products. We run at least one project for the benefit of the community or a charitable organization. Projects for the good of humanity are run free of charge, but expenses can be supported by another organisation.
Overview:
- The sponsor makes a donation of $8000 to the Canterbury Foundation.
- The sponsor is entitled to full ownership of all IP generated during the project.
- Confidentiality is designed into the programme and students sign a non-disclosure agreement.
- The sponsor supplies specialist equipment or materials required.
- Sponsor authorization for expenses is gained prior to expenditure.
Project value is normally equivalent to a $40,000-$100,000 development effort and involves:
- 1000 hours of student work (usually more)
- 30 hours of academic staff supervision
- 80 hours of technician time
- use of software, fabrication, measurement, testing facilities, and specialist equipment, such as the wind tunnel.
Timetable:
Early February: Project proposals finalized by sponsors and Director.
Early March: Teams announced and students sign confidentiality agreements.
Late March: Students present project proposals to sponsors for approval.
Late July: Mid-year progress reports sent to sponsors.
Mid-October (end of academic year): Students make final reports and presentations to sponsors.
Our final year student teams are enthusiastic, creative and eager to take on the projects that the company engineers may not have the time to pursue. Examples of recent projects and sponsor feedback are available here.
If you would like to discuss a project idea for consideration contact Dr Dirk Pons, Director Final Year Projects.