NIU Showcases Cutting-Edge Research in AI and Manufacturing

Northern Illinois University (NIU) recently hosted its annual Innovation Showcase, highlighting significant advancements in technology and engineering. The event, themed “The Road to 2035: Engineering Breakthroughs Today,” featured presentations from six faculty members and two industry professionals, focusing on research set to shape various sectors in the coming decade.

The showcase included a panel discussion on advanced manufacturing, with contributions from Professors Venu Korampally, Mahdi Vaezi, and Vinay Budhraja, alongside a representative from Dukane, an international leader in plastic welding. This segment emphasized innovative approaches to product design and material construction. Professor Korampally’s research in nanomanufacturing is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to develop advanced sensors and diagnostic devices for healthcare and environmental monitoring.

Professor Vaezi directs NIU’s Bioplastics Lab, which transforms agricultural waste—such as hemp, soy, and wheat straw—into biodegradable plastics. This initiative not only helps mitigate landfill waste but also enhances farmers’ income while addressing the environmental challenges posed by traditional plastics. Meanwhile, Assistant Professor Budhraja’s work focuses on creating flexible, low-cost sensors through 3D printing technology. These wearable devices leverage artificial intelligence to monitor health indicators in both plants and humans, tracking factors such as stress, nutrients, and disease biomarkers.

AI Innovations and Hall of Fame Induction

The afternoon segment of the showcase concentrated on artificial intelligence (AI), featuring presentations by Professors Lichuan Liu, Christine Nguyen, and Sachit Butail, in collaboration with Art Holzknecht, an engineering manager at Hiwin, a global machine parts manufacturer. Professor Liu, who leads NIU’s biomedical engineering program, applies AI to detect health issues early in children by analyzing sounds and signals from the body, including breathing patterns and speech. His research is aimed at monitoring adult heart conditions as well.

Professor Nguyen’s work utilizes AI and data analytics to improve practical applications, such as producing cleaner laser-cut metal components and enhancing brake pad design. Associate Professor Butail employs mathematical models and algorithms to study behaviors within groups, like flocks of birds or human crowds. His research has significant implications, including applications in monitoring ecosystem stability and tracking the spread of COVID-19.

In addition to showcasing research, the event also celebrated the induction of the first four members into the college’s Hall of Fame. Founding Dean Romualdas Kasuba, retired Dean Promod Vohra, and alumni Joe Sener and Divya Behl were honored for their contributions to the field.

The Innovation Showcase at NIU not only highlighted groundbreaking research but also underscored the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing pressing global challenges through the power of engineering and technology.