Blue Ocean Intelligence Lab (BOIL)
Research Field
Dr. Chun-I Wu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering at National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU), Taiwan. He received his Ph.D. from Michigan State University in the USA. His research focuses on thermoelectric energy conversion, ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC), waste heat recovery, and AI-assisted modeling and optimization of energy systems.
Dr. Wu’s work emphasizes the development of thermoelectric materials and system-level integration strategies for low-temperature-difference environments, particularly in marine and sustainable energy applications. His research combines numerical simulation, heat transfer analysis, and emerging AI techniques to improve system efficiency, reliability, and practical applicability. In addition to energy research, he actively explores innovations in engineering education, including English-Medium Instruction (EMI), flipped classrooms, and technology-enhanced learning.
Dr. Wu has published multiple peer-reviewed journal papers and is actively involved in international research collaboration and student mentorship. He has served as a reviewer and editor for several international journals and has received recognition for teaching excellence. Through his research and educational activities, he aims to advance sustainable energy technologies while cultivating globally competitive engineering talent.
The research laboratory led by Dr. Chun-I Wu focuses on sustainable energy engineering, with particular emphasis on thermoelectric energy conversion, ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC), and waste heat recovery systems. The lab aims to develop practical and scalable solutions for low-temperature-difference energy environments, especially in marine and coastal applications.
The lab integrates numerical simulation, heat transfer analysis, and emerging artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to study both material-level behavior and system-level performance. By combining physics-based modeling with data-driven approaches, the lab seeks to improve energy efficiency, optimize system design, and enhance operational reliability under real-world constraints.
In addition to research, the lab places strong emphasis on student training and interdisciplinary learning. Students are encouraged to develop solid foundations in thermal sciences, computational modeling, and engineering analysis while gaining hands-on experience with simulation tools and collaborative research projects. The lab actively welcomes international students and promotes a research environment that values openness, sustainability, and global engagement.
The lab’s research covers a range of topics related to sustainable energy systems and engineering education, including but not limited to the following areas:
Thermoelectric Energy Conversion and Waste Heat Recovery
This research area focuses on the modeling, optimization, and integration of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) for recovering low-grade waste heat from industrial processes, transportation systems, and marine environments. Emphasis is placed on system-level performance, thermal–electrical coupling, and design strategies for improving efficiency under limited temperature differences.
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Marine Energy Applications
The lab investigates the application of thermoelectric and hybrid energy technologies in ocean thermal energy conversion systems. Research topics include low-temperature-gradient energy harvesting, heat exchanger–channel design, and the challenges associated with marine operating conditions.
AI-Assisted Modeling and Optimization
This research direction explores the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to support numerical simulation, performance prediction, and design optimization of energy systems. AI tools are applied to reduce computational cost, identify performance plateaus, and assist engineers in making informed design decisions.
Dr. Chun-I Wu has received recognition for excellence in teaching and academic service. He was awarded the Excellent Teaching Award from the College of Engineering at National Taiwan Ocean University in recognition of his contributions to innovative teaching and student learning.
In addition to teaching honors, Dr. Wu actively serves the academic community as a reviewer and editor for international journals. His research activities and educational contributions reflect a strong commitment to advancing sustainable engineering and fostering high-quality higher education.
Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, USA
M.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, USA
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan
Dr. Wu’s academic training spans both electrical/computer engineering and mechanical engineering, providing a strong interdisciplinary foundation for his research in thermoelectric energy systems, heat transfer, and AI-assisted energy optimization.