Creativity, innovation and impact: ACE Showcase 2025
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Published
18 June 2025
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The University of East London’s (UEL) School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering (ACE) recently hosted its flagship annual showcase, celebrating a vibrant mix of technical ingenuity, creative experimentation and interdisciplinary thinking.
The event brought together standout work from students across Architecture & Design, Visual Arts, Computer Science and AI, and Engineering and Built Environment. Visitors explored an inspiring collection of projects, from sustainable architecture and biomedical prototypes to immersive installations and machine learning tools.
In support of the University’s Year of Health - an ambitious initiative to tackle health disparities, rethink health and push the boundaries of healthcare innovation - this year’s showcase featured practical and creative biomedical engineering projects designed to make a tangible difference to people’s lives.
One standout was final year biomedical engineering student Harvey Pangilinan, who presented a working prototype of his 3D-printed exoskeleton knee brace - a lightweight, low-cost device designed to support resistance training for stroke recovery and rehabilitation.
The project was deeply personal. Harvey’s father had suffered a stroke and was largely bed-bound during recovery, requiring physiotherapy that was often difficult to access and physically demanding without professional equipment. This challenge became the starting point for Harvey’s design He said,.
I made a 3D-printed exoskeleton that you wear on your knee, fitted with a standard resistance band - like the ones you’d use in a gym. The idea is to help patients support knee extension and flexion exercises without needing to stand or use large machines. When my dad was recovering, it was hard to help him exercise properly at home. He was mostly bed-bound, and going to the hospital regularly for physiotherapy wasn’t always possible - it’s expensive, tiring, and time-consuming. I wanted to create something simple and affordable that people could use from home.”
The brace is designed to be worn lying down, with the resistance bands providing the force against which muscles work - allowing users to perform essential rehabilitation exercises safely and independently.
“Because it’s 3D-printed, it’s really lightweight and customisable,” he added. “I’d love to see it adapted for wider use in the NHS - with the potential to tailor each brace to an individual patient’s measurements and needs. It’s about making recovery more accessible, especially for people who might not have the resources to get to hospital-based physio.”
Fellow biomedical engineering student Steven Dunkley showcased a series of 3D printed ambidextrous surgical tools, including needle holders and scissors designed for suturing. His work focused on developing a ratchet mechanism that can be released with the thumb - eliminating the need for separate left- or right-handed equipment and creating a universal tool. Inspired by research from the University of Bristol into handedness in surgery, Steven explored how tools and techniques are used around the operating table, where only 15% of surgeons are left handed.
“I wanted to challenge the assumption that surgical tools have to be one hand dominant,” he explained. “This project is about inclusivity, but also functionality - making life easier for all surgeons by designing tools that adapt to them, not the other way around. I worked closely with research coming out of Bristol University and contacted medical suppliers who are now helping me turn the design into a stainless steel prototype for real world testing. It’s exciting to think something I developed as a student could have practical use in clinical settings one day.”
Adding to the diversity of the event, more than 30 PhD and postgraduate researchers also presented poster displays, offering insight into pioneering research and critical thinking across disciplines. These contributions highlighted ACE’s commitment to academic excellence at every level, from undergraduate experimentation to advanced enquiry.
As part of the showcase, cluster-specific award ceremonies were held, overseen by Executive Dean and Vice Provost (Technology) Professor David Tann, where the best student work was recognised by academic leaders and external judges.
One winner was BA (Hons) Fine Art Dean’s Prize runner-up Parker Kenner-Kujath. Her final-year installation, Being Human, Becoming Bruised and Bleeding Life, explored anatomy, identity, and perception through immersive projection, sculpture and layered animation. Originally from Texas, Parker began her degree simply wanting to be a painter. But her creative direction shifted completely thanks to the School’s facilities, the encouragement of her tutors, and exposure to new mediums.
“When I first started this course, I never imagined I’d end up working with projection, video or installation,” she said. “The technicians and tutors each have their own artistic practices - they absolutely changed the way I think about art and making. Working alongside people doing sculpture, outdoor installations and large-scale pieces opened up a whole new world. I’ve been so inspired by what’s possible - I’m really excited about where my practice can go next.”
She added, “I was completely blown away to be named runner-up for the Dean’s Prize. It means so much to have that recognition, especially after taking such a big creative leap. The support from staff gave me the confidence to try something totally new.”
Professor David Tann praised the showcase as a powerful testament to what ACE represents,
I am incredibly proud of both staff and students. Their creativity has no boundaries, and their commitment to excellence is truly inspiring. Events like this remind us why interdisciplinary learning matters - it empowers students to think boldly, experiment bravely, and lead change.”
Following the award ceremonies, a special tour was organised for members of the University Executive Board, Industry Advisory Board, invited partners and guests. They were guided through both the student exhibitions and the PGR poster gallery, where research students shared insights into their work and discussed future possibilities. The tour offered an in-depth view of ACE’s diverse strengths and its commitment to collaboration, creativity and applied research.
The day ended with a Networking Dinner, bringing together students, staff, UEL leadership, corporate supporters and Friends of UEL. It was both a celebration of student success and a chance to acknowledge the ongoing support of external collaborators and industry partners whose input helps shape the future of ACE.