21.11.2006
The university has launched its new £3 million engineering laboratory to research combustion engine technologies. The ribbon was cut by John Lowe, C.Eng., F.I.Mech.E., Chairman of the Automobile Division of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
The laboratories are based in the university's School of Engineering and are operated by the Internal Combustion Engines Group (ICEG). The group is now one of the largest UK research teams dedicated to internal combustion engines and the development of laser based measurement techniques, which are fundamental to modelling and computational simulation.
Located at the back of the university's Moulsecoomb site, the laboratories started as a single test-cell in 1992 and now have some of the most sophisticated facilities in the UK. The group has been involved in automotive research for the last 15 years under the leadership of Professor Morgan Heikal.
The university's undergraduate courses in mechanical engineering and post-graduate automotive engineering programmes also benefit from the work carried out in the engine laboratories. Students are able to investigate the fundamental workings of internal combustion engines using the latest state-of-the art facilities.
Senior engineers from Ricardo contribute to these taught courses and the group regularly attracts overseas exchange students and visiting lecturers on short study placements. For many students the primary benefit of this facility is the opportunity it provides for in-depth study and evaluation of engine technology through individual projects conducted in collaboration with researchers.
The group's international reputation is demonstrated by its breadth of collaboration with over 40 academic institutions and industrial partners across the world. Many of these projects have built upon the university's partnership with Shoreham-based consultancy, Ricardo UK Ltd, a leading provider of technology, innovative engineering solutions and strategic consulting to the world's automotive industries.
Dr Steven Begg said "The new research facility marks the latest development in this long and highly successful collaboration with Ricardo. The group is greatly honoured to have the opportunity to name its new facilities after the illustrious Sir Harry Ricardo, founder of Ricardo and former President of the I.Mech.E."
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
