Dr. Chenn Q. Zhou

Computer simulation, visualization, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are becoming central to the digitalization of advanced manufacturing. Together, these technologies enable cutting-edge physics-based and data-driven tools such as digital twins for real-time decision-making, helping address critical challenges related to energy efficiency, productivity, quality, operational efficiency, maintenance, and beyond.  These state-of-the-art tools can provide both fundamental insight and practical guidance for process design, troubleshooting, optimization, new process development and scale-up, as well as workforce development. Through partnerships with the steel industry and other manufacturing sectors, the Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation (CIVS)  has developed and implemented advanced digital technologies that translate research into industrial impact. This talk will highlight key methodologies and selected project examples.

Biography:

Dr. Chenn Zhou is the NIPSCO Distinguished Professor of Engineering Simulation at Purdue University Northwest (PNW).  She joined PNW in 1994 with three years of industrial experience after she received her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.  Dr. Zhou has over 40 years of experience in many areas including energy, decarbonization, digital transformation, and workforce development.  She is noted for her innovative research in the integration of computer simulation, visualization, and AI, and other digital technologies targeted at solving real-world industrial challenges. She established CIVS in 2009 and SMSVC in 2016, a nation-wide steel consortium which currently includes 15 steel producers and suppliers.  Dr. Zhou has conducted many projects funded by industries and federal agencies in collaboration with more than 200 organizations including national labs, universities, companies, and communities, generating significant positive economic and educational impacts.  Dr. Zhou has co-authored over 500 technical publications and delivered over 180 invited talks.  She has received numerous honors, including 2004 R&D 100 awards, 2005 American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Medal, 2010 J. Keith Brimacombe Memorial Lecture by Association of Iron and Steel Technology (AIST), 2017 AIST Hunt-Kelly Outstanding Paper Award – First Place, and PNW Awards of PNW Outstanding Faculty in Teaching (1999), Research (1999), Sponsored Research (2006), and Engagement (2017).  Dr. Zhou is an ASME Fellow, AIME Honorary Member, as well as AIST Distinguished Member and Fellow.