Design, Fabrication, and Implementation of a modern 360-degree bus washing unit at the KSRTC Depot, Kothamangalam, Kerala.

Date: 11^th October, 2025

Final-year students from the Mechanical Engineering Department of MBITS Engineering College, Nellimattom, have initiated on developing an innovative 360-degree Bus Washing System for the Kothamangalam KSRTC Depot as part of their academic project. The system is designed to simplify the cleaning process by allowing water to be sprayed through a rotating boom capable of covering all sides of the bus efficiently.

According to the students, this automated design not only makes bus washing effortless but also significantly reduces water usage. The project will soon be implemented at the Kothamangalam Depot.

The MBITS College Management submitted the necessary documentation to KSRTC and obtained official approval. The project proposal was inaugurated by Hon. Minister Sri K. B. Ganesh Kumar, in the presence of MLA Sri Antony John, KSRTC Managing Director Dr. P. S. Pramoj Shankar, MBITS College Secretary Sri Binoy Mannancheril, Director Dr. Shajan Kuriakose, Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department Prof. Nedheesh Eldho Baby, Asst. Prof. Elson Paul V, Tradesman Mr. Eldhose K. E, final-year S7 Mechanical Engineering students, and KSRTC officials at the KSRTC Depot, Kothamangalam.

Library Assignments

To promote closer interaction, students are seated in a circle with staff members participating, creating a more engaging and open atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions. This approach helps bridge any gaps in achieving course outcomes. Students are encouraged to refer to textbooks listed in the syllabus, available in the library, and each student is instructed to write their own assignment based on these references, avoiding copying from others. This method enhances self-learning skills. Additionally, students are allowed to use the digital library and NPTEL courses for their assignments. A minimum of two such sessions are held for each course every semester.

Tutorial sessions

Tutorial sessions are conducted in two formats. In the first method, tutorial questions and answers are provided in advance, and students are instructed to study and write them in their tutorial books during the designated hour. These are evaluated by the staff and returned to the students the following day. In the second method, tutorials are held immediately after a topic is taught in class. Students are asked to close their notebooks and write down the concept or solve the problem in their tutorial books, based on the lesson just covered. The work is evaluated on the spot, and those who do not complete it correctly are asked to resubmit.

In Module 3 of the Fifth Semester Course MEL 303 Thermal Engineering, the engine testing segment included hands-on experiments to enhance students’ understanding of engine components and their functions. During this session, students conducted various tests, measuring brake power, indicated power, and frictional power, and also prepared a heat balance sheet. This practical session was led by Assistant Professor Saju Haneef from the Mechanical Department at MBITS.

FORMULA KART DESIGN CHALLENGE

The Seventh semester B.Tech  Mechanical Engineering students of MBITS Kothamangalam are participating in FKDC Season 8, set for October 2024 in Coimbatore. Under the guidance of Assistant Professor Mr.Abhilash K.V. and Mr. Binish Joy, they designed a single-seat kart with an open cockpit. It features four nonaligned wheels, with the rear wheels connected by an axle for power transmission, and seamless pipes for the chassis. Safety elements include two kill switches, a protective bumper, and a brake over-travel switch for emergencies. The kart is powered by a 153cc, single-cylinder 4-stroke petrol engine, with proper wiring, a 5-liter fuel tank, and mounted batteries.

Speaker: Mr Flemin Johny ,Operations Control Engineer,Product Planning,Tesla,Germany

“On 30th January 2024, I got an opportunity to conduct a session for B.Tech Mechanical Engineering students at MBITS focusing on leadership training and career opportunities for engineers in Germany. The session aimed to provide insights into the German engineering landscape, known for its innovation and high standards. My discussion was mainly on automotive, renewable energy, and information technology, which are the thriving sectors in Germany. Students were able to learn about the significance of internships and practical experience in enhancing employability. Also, I emphasized the importance of language skills, especially German, for better integration into the workforce in Germany. The interactive Q&A segment allowed students to voice their concerns and seeks advice on navigating the job market. Overall, the session sparked interest and encouraged students to consider international opportunities in their engineering careers.

As an alumnus, I was very much delighted in sharing my experiences through the session at the college, which has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to connect with current students and inspire them on their own journeys.”

Flemin Johny

2018 B.Tech Mechanical Engineering pass out from MBITS

Industrial Visit to Kinfra Exhibition Center

On February 12, 2024, the students of S6 ME at MBITS undertook an industrial visit to the Machinery Expo 2024, hosted at the Kinfra Exhibition Center in Kakkanad, Kerala. This expo, organized by the government of Kerala, featured the participation of more than 200 machinery-producing companies from across India. Accompanying the students during this insightful visit was Assistant Professor Jikku George Kuruvilla from the Mechanical Engineering Department. The students gained valuable insights into numerous innovative advancements throughout the duration of the visit.