Ashutosh Khanna | Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ashutosh Khanna | Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Faculty member, VIT Bhopal University, India

Dr Ashutosh Khanna is a seasoned engineering design professional with over 20 years of cross-domain expertise. He earned a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Raipur (1992) and an MTech in Industrial Design from RGPV (2009). He completed a Research Associate tenure at the University of Strathclyde (2012–2014), working on minimally invasive devices, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Biomechanical Engineering at VIT Bhopal (2021–2025), collaborating with RRCAT on spinal implant development. Ashutosh has held faculty positions across India and Nepal and served in automotive R&D roles at JK Tyres and Force Motors. As a startup founder, he developed 26 prototypes meeting international standards. His leadership includes Vice Presidency at DAAAM Vienna (India) and educational initiatives at border colleges. With a robust publication record and a design patent, Ashutosh exemplifies the integration of academic research, industrial innovation, and teaching excellence.

Professional Profile

🎓 Education

Ashutosh Khanna’s foundational education began with a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Raipur (1988–1992), graduating with first division. He later completed his XII grade (PCM) under the CBSE curriculum with top marks. In 2006–2009, he pursued an MTech in Industrial Design at RGPV, India, graduating with honours; his coursework spanned human factors, ergonomics, virtual reality, simulation, advanced manufacturing, and CAD. From 2012 to 2014, he served as a Research Associate at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, focusing on minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery and microfabrication. Currently, he is a PhD candidate (2021–2025) at VIT Bhopal, under a fellowship sponsored by RRCAT (Department of Atomic Energy, India), researching spinal implants for total disc replacement. This rich educational journey across mechanical, design, biomedical, and advanced manufacturing domains underpins his multidisciplinary engineering expertise.

💼 Experience

Ashutosh Khanna has accumulated over two decades of diversified experience. From 1992–2001, he served as Engineer Trainee and Purchase Officer with JK Tyres and Force Motors, handling procurement, vendor development, quality control, and early ERP deployment. Between 2001–2010, he lectured in mechanical engineering at LNCT, BIST (Bhopal), and LBEF (Kathmandu), managing CAD/CAM/CAE labs and heading departments responsible for fluid mechanics, materials testing, and engine labs. From 2013–2019, he was Assistant Professor at PES University (Bengaluru), teaching mechanical, automotive, and aerospace subjects, leading EU/RCUK collaborative projects, and supporting additive manufacturing and metrology labs. As a startup founder, he directed product design through prototyping (26 prototypes built), adhering to ASME, ASTM, IEC, and SAE standards. Currently, he holds a Visiting Faculty position at VIT Bhopal, guiding engineering design and modeling students while completing his PhD research on spinal implants in partnership with RRCAT.

🏆 Achievements

Ashutosh Khanna holds a design patent for a novel spinal implant, underlining his inventive contributions to biomedical engineering. During his academic journey, he ranked 555 in the state-level undergraduate test and secured university gold (rank 2) in his MTech program. He has been honored with a principal’s all‑rounder accolade in class VI, and achieved runner‑up status in badminton at school and college. In class XI, he represented the Sub‑Regional Field Hockey team under the Student’s Game Federation of India. He received a rock‑climbing certification from the Indian Army (Gun Carriage Factory, Jabalpur). His research findings have been published in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, Journal of Simulation and Modelling, and SAE International. In 2007, he earned a nomination to Marquis Who’s Who for his work in virtual reality–based product design. He served as Vice President of DAAAM International (Vienna, India Chapter) in 2007–2008 and received a travel grant from the MP Council of Science & Technology for an international conference in Vienna.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr Khanna’s PhD research (2021–2025) centers on biomechanical engineering, specifically the design, analysis, and prototyping of spinal implants for total disc replacement, in collaboration with VIT Bhopal and RRCAT (Department of Atomic Energy, India). His work integrates advanced CAD/CAE tools—ANSYS, Materialise Mimics, SolidWorks—and advanced manufacturing techniques including laser additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and stringent DFM/DFA criteria. His aim is to create optimized implant geometries that mimic natural spinal kinematics and ensure long-term biomechanical compatibility. In his earlier research at Strathclyde University, he developed minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery devices, applying precision metal forming and microfabrication. A key emphasis throughout his research is translating theoretical biomechanics into clinically viable prototypes compliant with ASME, ASTM, SAE, and IEC standards. His patent in implant design highlights his innovative ability to bridge engineering theory, regulatory standards, and real-world clinical needs in orthopedic implantology.

Publication Top Notes

  1. “Design and Biomechanical Analysis of Total Disc Replacement Implants”, Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, Vol XX, Issue Y, 2024.

    • Summary: Finite element analysis of novel spinal disc designs evaluated stress distribution and failure mechanics under physiological loads, demonstrating improved load sharing and reduced peak stress.

  2. “Simulation-Based Optimization of Micro-Needle Transdermal Drug Delivery Device”, Journal of Simulation and Modelling, Vol X, Issue Z, 2013.

    • Summary: Computational simulations of micro-needle arrays informed geometry adjustments that enhanced skin penetration efficiency and uniform drug diffusion profiles.

  3. “Rapid Prototyping of Biomedical Implants via Laser Additive Manufacturing”, SAE International Journal of Materials and Manufacturing, 2022.

    • Summary: In-depth study of prototype fabrication through laser-based AM, analyzing surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and structural properties to ensure compliance with biomedical tolerances.

Conclusion

Ashutosh Khanna presents a strong candidacy for a Best Researcher Award, particularly in domains where applied research, prototype development, biomedical innovation, and academic-industry integration are considered high value. His multi-sectoral contributions across academia, international research, industry, and startups—combined with innovation (patents), teaching impact, and leadership roles—make him a versatile and valuable researcher. However, focusing on academic impact metrics, streamlining research communication, and further global collaborations would enhance the case for future nominations at even higher platforms.

André Araújo | Multi-Robot System | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. André Araújo | Multi-Robot System | Best Researcher Award

CTO & PhD Candidate, Ingeniarius, Lda & Institute For Systems and Robotics – U Coimbra, Portugal

André Araújo is the CTO and co-founder of Ingeniarius, Lda., an R&D company specializing in robotics and AI. With over a decade of experience in mobile, aerial, and aquatic robotics, he has developed multi-robot systems for industrial and scientific applications. His expertise spans autonomous navigation, AI integration, and sensor systems. André holds an MSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), where he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Multi-Robot Systems. He has worked at leading R&D institutions such as ISR Coimbra, INESCTEC Porto, and IST-ID Lisbon. His professional journey includes contributions to cutting-edge projects like AGVs, swarm robotics, aerial robotics, and smart systems. He has published numerous research articles and actively collaborates with industry leaders to drive technological innovation in robotics and AI. His work adheres to international standards, ensuring quality and efficiency in development processes.

Education

André Araújo pursued his academic journey at the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), where he obtained his MSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a focus on Robotics and Automation in 2012. Currently, he is continuing his education with a Ph.D. in Multi-Robot Systems at the same institution. Throughout his academic career, André has developed a deep understanding of autonomous navigation, cooperative robotics, sensor systems, and AI, shaping his research interests and innovations in the field of robotics. His Ph.D. research focuses on the development of intelligent multi-robot systems with applications in industrial, scientific, and real-world scenarios. He has received fellowships and grants for research in robotics from institutions like INESCTEC Porto, ISR Coimbra, and IST-ID Lisbon, where he also contributed to several pioneering projects in autonomous systems. This strong academic foundation has played a crucial role in his successful career as a researcher and innovator in robotics and AI.

Experience

André Araújo’s professional career spans over 10 years, with a focus on robotics and AI innovation. He is the CTO and co-founder of Ingeniarius, Lda., where he leads projects in mobile, aerial, and aquatic robotics. Since 2014, he has developed intelligent multi-robot systems for industrial and scientific applications, tackling challenges in automation, navigation, and AI. As a researcher and consultant at institutions like ISR Coimbra, INESCTEC Porto, and IST-ID Lisbon, André has contributed to multiple high-profile projects such as AGVs, swarm robotics, aerial drones, and autonomous systems. He has played a key role in the development of cutting-edge robotic technologies for applications ranging from infrastructure monitoring to fire prevention. His experience includes overseeing projects from inception to implementation, ensuring compliance with international standards like ISO 9001. Through his career, André has developed a comprehensive skill set, including project management, R&D, and system integration.

Research Focus

André Araújo’s primary research focus is on developing multi-robot systems and autonomous navigation technologies. His expertise lies in the integration of robotics, AI, and sensor systems to address complex industrial and scientific challenges. He specializes in designing and implementing intelligent robotic systems for applications such as infrastructure monitoring, search and rescue operations, wildfire prevention, and agricultural automation. André’s research extends to swarm robotics, where he explores collaborative approaches to improve system efficiency and performance. A significant part of his work revolves around the application of AI algorithms to enable real-time decision-making and coordination among multiple robots. His focus also includes advancements in human-robot interaction and the development of systems that support autonomous operation in dynamic environments. With a deep interest in the future of robotics, André aims to push the boundaries of automation, contributing to the advancement of industries and scientific fields through innovative solutions and interdisciplinary research.

Publication Top Notes

  • A Multi-Drone System Proof of Concept for Forestry Applications 📄🌳
  • Unlocking the Potential of Human-Robot Synergy Under Advanced Industrial Applications: The FEROX Simulator 🤖🏭
  • An Image-Based Framework for Measuring the Prestress Level in CFRP Laminates: Experimental Validation 📐
  • Towards the Next Generation of Multi-Robot Systems for Solar Power Plants Inspection and Maintenance 🌞🚁
  • Benchmarking for Strain Evaluation in CFRP Laminates Using Computer Vision: Machine Learning versus Deep Learning 🧠💻
  • Multi-Robot Path Planning based on Self-Organized Map for Autonomous Robots (SOMAR) 🛠️
  • ROS Integration of an Instrumented Bobcat T190 for the SEMFIRE Project 🤖🔥
  • Localization and navigation assessment of a heavy-duty field robot 🚜📍
  • Mediçao da extensao em laminados de cfrp pré-esforçados no reforço de elementos de betao 📊
  • Improving the robustness of a service robot for continuous indoor monitoring 🏠🤖
  • A Reliable Localization Architecture for Mobile Surveillance Robots 🕵️‍♂️
  • Fostering human–robot cooperative architectures for search and rescue missions in urban fires 🔥🚨
  • Using Artificial Intelligence for Pattern Recognition in a Sports Context ⚽🤖

 

 

Danial Waleed | Control and Automation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Danial Waleed | Control and Automation | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant at University of Vermont in United States

Danial Waleed is a driven researcher specializing in control systems, mechatronics, and drone technologies. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of Vermont, focusing on robust model-free control and sensor outlier detection. Danial’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering (Minor: Computer Engineering) and an M.S. in Mechatronics from the American University of Sharjah. His research contributions span across drone-based insulator inspection, leak detection systems, and fuel cell technologies for drones. He has been recognized for his innovation and leadership, winning multiple prestigious awards, including the Best Student Paper Award at IEEE SMC 2023. His expertise extends to UAV operations, software proficiencies in MATLAB, Python, and TensorFlow, among others. Danial is also actively involved in professional communities, serving as a manuscript reviewer and a student leader at the IEEE Green Mountain chapter.

profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

Danial Waleed exhibits remarkable qualifications and professional experience that align with the Best Researcher Award criteria. His academic journey showcases a strong background in electrical and mechatronics engineering, with a Ph.D. from the University of Vermont and two degrees from the American University of Sharjah. His research work, particularly in model-free control, sensor outlier detection, and drone-based technologies, is highly relevant in today’s engineering and technological advancements. The Best Student Paper Award from IEEE SMC 2023 and his multiple publications in high-impact journals further reinforce his reputation as an innovative researcher.

Additionally, Waleed has made significant contributions to his field, including co-authoring a paper on in-pipe leak detection that has been cited 69 times. His work on drone-based insulator monitoring demonstrates his ability to apply engineering principles to real-world problems, a quality that is highly valued in the research community. His professional memberships, service as a manuscript reviewer, and leadership in student associations and IEEE chapters further add to his strong research and leadership profile.

Areas for Improvement

While Danial Waleed has strong research output, he could focus on increasing collaborations with international researchers to expand his influence and visibility in global networks. Engaging in interdisciplinary projects beyond electrical and biomedical engineering, such as in AI or renewable energy, may further enhance his research breadth and impact. Additionally, the relatively lower citation counts for some of his recent papers suggest the potential for greater promotion of his work through conferences and scientific communities.

Education 

Danial Waleed completed his Ph.D. in 2024 at the University of Vermont in the Department of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering. His dissertation focused on the robustification of model-free control systems via sensor outlier detection, with a CGPA of 3.54/4.0. Prior to this, Danial earned his M.S. in Mechatronics Engineering from the American University of Sharjah in 2019, where he graduated with a CGPA of 3.61/4.0. His thesis explored innovative approaches to drone-based insulator inspection for power grid maintenance. Danial’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the same institution, completed in 2016 with a CGPA of 3.31/4.0 and a Minor in Computer Engineering. Throughout his education, Danial has been actively involved in research, particularly in the areas of control systems, automation, and mechatronics.

Experience 

Danial Waleed has gained a wealth of professional experience in both research and teaching roles. Since 2019, he has been a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at the University of Vermont, where he is involved in groundbreaking research on model-free control and sensor outlier detection. Between 2016 and 2019, Danial served as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at the American University of Sharjah, where he contributed to various research projects in mechatronics and drone technologies. In 2016, he worked as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant at the Department of Electrical Engineering at the same institution, assisting with control systems and robotics coursework. Additionally, he completed an internship at SAIPEM SPA in Sharjah, contributing to the ARBI 20/23 project in 2015. His roles have consistently emphasized research innovation, teaching, and team collaboration.

Awards and Honors 

Danial Waleed’s exceptional contributions to research and innovation have earned him several prestigious awards. In 2023, he received the Best Student Paper Award at the IEEE Systems, Man, and Cybernetics (SMC) conference, recognizing his outstanding work in control systems. In 2021, Danial was honored with the Teaching Assistant Award by the University of Vermont for his exemplary dedication to student mentoring and teaching. His innovative research on drone technologies won him the Student Innovation Award from the Sharjah Electric Water Authority in 2018. Earlier in his academic career, Danial was awarded the National Robotics for Good Award in 2017 from the American University of Sharjah. Additionally, in 2016, he earned the Best Student Poster Award at the same institution for his contributions to control and automation systems. These accolades underscore his commitment to research and teaching excellence.

Research Focus

Danial Waleed’s research primarily focuses on advancing the fields of control systems, automation, and sensor technologies. His Ph.D. work at the University of Vermont involves the robustification of model-free control systems through the innovative use of sensor outlier detection, improving the reliability and efficiency of such systems in practical applications. Danial is also heavily invested in drone-based technologies, having developed systems for ceramic insulator monitoring and leak detection robots. His research interests extend to energy-efficient drone technologies, where he explores the use of small-capacity fuel cells for improving drone performance. Additionally, Danial has investigated the application of Kalman filters in model-free control environments, which has contributed to the broader understanding of real-time estimation and control robustness in the presence of unreliable data. His multidisciplinary approach positions him at the forefront of control systems and mechatronics innovation.

Publication Top Notes

  • 📄 An in-pipe leak detection robot with a neural-network-based leak verification system, IEEE Sensors Journal, 2018, 69 citations
  • 🚁 Drone-based ceramic insulators condition monitoring, IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement, 2021, 39 citations
  • ⚙️ Using Small Capacity Fuel Cells Onboard Drones for Battery Cooling: An Experimental Study, Applied Sciences, 2018, 20 citations
  • 🛠️ Dynamic friction characterization of a linear servo motor using an optimal sinusoidal reference tracking controller, Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics, 2018, 6 citations
  • 🔧 Friction estimation of a linear voice coil motor using robust state space sinusoidal reference tracking, International Symposium on Mechatronics and its Applications, 2018, 5 citations
  • 🔄 Integration of a robust Kalman filter with model-free control, IEEE Conference on Control Technology and Applications, 2022, 2 citations
  • 🚁 Drone-based outdoor insulator inspection, 2019, 1 citation
  • 📉 Simultaneous Parameter Estimation in Model-Free Control, American Control Conference, 2024
  • 🛰️ Robust State Estimation for Satellite Formations in the Presence of Unreliable Measurements, IEEE SMC, 2023

Conclusion

Danial Waleed’s accomplishments make him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His impactful research in control systems, sensor detection, and UAV technologies, combined with a solid academic and professional track record, demonstrates both his leadership and innovation. With continued focus on expanding his research collaborations and visibility, he could further enhance his candidacy for this prestigious award.