Farewell Celebration for Visiting WPI Engineering Interns

Date: December 11, 2025

Over the four weeks leading up to December 11, 2025, the Electrical Machines and Drive Systems (EMDS) Laboratory at Kyoto University of Advanced Science hosted three visiting engineering interns from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), United States. The internship program was designed to provide hands-on research experience in applied engineering, allowing the students to work closely with faculty members and graduate researchers on practical, interdisciplinary projects. During their stay, the interns were actively involved in ongoing laboratory activities and contributed to projects that combined mechanical systems, control engineering, and software development. Through regular technical discussions, design reviews, and experimental validation, the interns gained exposure to the research culture of the EMDS Laboratory and the collaborative working environment within a Japanese university setting.

Two of the interns, Jack Denney and Peter Liehr, collaborated on the development of an Automatic Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS). Their project focused on the design and implementation of a compact, automated material-handling system aimed at improving efficiency in warehouse and logistics operations. The work involved integrating robotic motion mechanisms, control algorithms, and system-level software to ensure reliable and accurate operation. Particular emphasis was placed on system scalability, operational speed, and positioning accuracy, which are critical factors in modern logistics automation.

In parallel, the third intern, Luke McQuilan, worked on the development of acceleration and deceleration control strategies under slip and non-slip conditions for a laboratory-scale railway simulator. This project addressed challenges related to traction control and motion stability, especially under varying surface conditions. By analyzing system behavior during different operating scenarios, the study contributed to improving control performance and safety in rail transportation systems.

Throughout the internship period, the students participated in regular progress meetings and technical presentations, where they shared their findings and received feedback from laboratory members. These interactions not only strengthened their technical understanding but also fostered cross-cultural exchange and professional communication skills. The collaborative atmosphere enabled knowledge sharing between the visiting interns and EMDS lab students, enriching the learning experience for all participants.

In the final week of the program, the EMDS Laboratory hosted a farewell celebration to acknowledge the interns’ dedication, technical contributions, and enthusiasm throughout their stay. The event provided an opportunity for lab members to reflect on the successful completion of the projects and to express appreciation for the collaborative efforts demonstrated by the visiting students.

The EMDS Laboratory extends its sincere gratitude to Jack Denney, Peter Liehr, and Luke McQuilan for their valuable contributions and wishes them continued success in their future academic and professional endeavors. The laboratory looks forward to further international collaborations and student exchange opportunities with Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the future.

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