Georgi Todorov | 3D Design | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Georgi Todorov, TU Sofia, Bulgaria

Prof. Dr. Georgi Todorov, DSc, PhD 🎓, is a renowned professor at the Technical University of Sofia 🇧🇬 and Head of the Center for Virtual Engineering 🧠💻. He founded and leads the CAD/CAM/CAE in Industry Lab 🛠️ and the 3DCLab – Fast Prototyping & 3D Creativity at Sofia Tech Park 🧪🏭. With vast experience in engineering design, virtual prototyping, and additive technologies 🖨️🧬, he has led over 50 international industrial projects 🌍 for major global firms. As Dean (2010–2019) of the Faculty of Industrial Technology, he continues to inspire innovation in engineering education and industry collaboration 🔧📈.

Profile :

🎓Education & Experience :

Prof. Dr. Georgi Todorov 🎓 holds both a PhD and a DSc in Engineering from the Technical University of Sofia, where he currently serves as a professor 🧑‍🏫. From 2010 to 2019, he was the Dean of the Faculty of Industrial Technology 🏛️. He is the Head of the Center for Virtual Engineering 🧪 and the Founder and Head of the CAD/CAM/CAE in Industry Laboratory 🧰. In addition, he leads the 3DCLab – Fast Prototyping and 3D Creativity Lab at Sofia Tech Park 🧠. Prof. Todorov has spearheaded over 50 international industrial projects 🌍 with renowned companies such as Chevron, Renault, VW, and Sensata. His key areas of expertise include 3D technologies, FEM analysis, virtual reality, additive manufacturing, and product/process optimization 📊.

📚 Professional Development :

Prof. Todorov has pursued specialized training worldwide to strengthen his expertise 🌐📘. Between 1986–1987, he trained in robotics and numerical methods 🤖➗. In 1993 and 1994, he specialized in engineering analysis at Staffordshire University, UK 🇬🇧🔍. Later, in 2003, he advanced his knowledge in Rapid Prototyping/Tooling at AOTS in Japan 🇯🇵⚙️. These global experiences helped him build cutting-edge capabilities in digital design, additive manufacturing, and virtual engineering 🧑‍💻🖨️. His international exposure and collaboration with industry giants enable him to lead interdisciplinary innovation and applied research across sectors 🚀🏗️.

🔬 Research Focus :

Prof. Todorov’s research focuses on advanced digital engineering technologies, including 3D modeling, additive manufacturing, and virtual product development 🖨️🔍. His expertise extends to FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis 🧮, Virtual and Augmented Reality for engineering visualization 🥽, and 3D scanning/metrology 📏. He emphasizes New Product Development (NPD), rapid prototyping/tooling, and smart product/process optimization 🔧📈. His work supports both academic excellence and industrial application across automotive, electronics, and mechanical sectors 🚗⚡🔩. He is deeply engaged in managing complex R&D projects, ensuring practical impact and innovation in the engineering ecosystem 🧑‍🔬🌐.

🏆 Awards and Honors :

Prof. Dr. Georgi Todorov has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his distinguished career. In 2019, he was honored with the Dean Emeritus Recognition 🏅 by the Faculty of Industrial Technology at TU-Sofia. He has earned Global Collaboration Honors 🌍 from industrial partners across the USA, France, Germany, Taiwan, and the UK, acknowledging his commitment to international cooperation. His outstanding contributions to applied research and prototyping have been recognized through several Innovation Leadership Awards 🧪. He also received accolades for Best Industrial Project Execution 🛠️ for successful collaborations with Chevron, VW, and Renault. Additionally, Sofia Tech Park awarded him for his pioneering leadership in 3DCLab and advancing technological innovation 🎖️.

Publication Top Notes :

1. Evaluation of the Performance of Optimized Horizontal-Axis Hydrokinetic Turbines

Citation: Iliev, R., Todorov, G. D., Kamberov, K., & Zlatev, B. (2025). Evaluation of the Performance of Optimized Horizontal-Axis Hydrokinetic Turbines. Water, 17(10), 1532.
Summary: This study focuses on the performance assessment of optimized horizontal-axis hydrokinetic turbines. The authors analyze various design parameters and their impact on turbine efficiency, providing insights into the optimization of turbine performance in hydrokinetic energy applications.

2. Failure Modes and Effect Analysis of Turbine Units of Pumped Hydro-Energy Storage Systems

Citation: Todorov, G. D., Kralov, I., Kamberov, K., Sofronov, Y., Zlatev, B., & Zahariev, E. (2025). Failure Modes and Effect Analysis of Turbine Units of Pumped Hydro-Energy Storage Systems. Energies, 18(8), 1885.
Summary: The paper presents a comprehensive failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) of turbine units in pumped hydro-energy storage systems. It identifies potential failure points, assesses their impact, and suggests mitigation strategies to enhance system reliability and performance.

3. Dynamics of a Self-Excited Vibrating Thermal Energy Harvester with Shape Memory Alloys and PVDF Cantilevers

Citation: Yotov, I., Todorov, G. D., Gieva, E., & Todorov, T. (2025). Dynamics of a Self-Excited Vibrating Thermal Energy Harvester with Shape Memory Alloys and PVDF Cantilevers. Actuators, 14(1), 8.
Summary: This research introduces a novel thermal energy harvester that converts heat into mechanical vibrations using shape memory alloys (SMA) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) cantilevers. The device leverages the thermomechanical properties of SMA to induce vibrations, which are then converted into electrical energy by PVDF elements. Experimental results demonstrate the harvester’s potential for low-power applications.

4. Virtual Prototyping-Based Development of Stepper Motor Design

Citation: Kamberov, K., Todorov, G. D., & Zlatev, B. (2024). Virtual Prototyping-Based Development of Stepper Motor Design. Actuators, 13(12), 512.
Summary: The authors present a methodology combining virtual and physical prototyping for the development of stepper motors. By integrating simulations at various design stages, the approach enhances design accuracy and reduces development time. The study showcases the methodology’s application in designing a stepper motor for hydraulic valve systems.MDPI

5. Investigation and Identification of the Causes of the Unprecedented Accident at the “Chaira” Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage

Citation: Todorov, G. D., Kralov, I., Kamberov, K., Sofronov, Y., Zlatev, B., & Zahariev, E. (2024). Investigation and Identification of the Causes of the Unprecedented Accident at the “Chaira” Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage. Water, 16(23), 3393.
Summary: This paper analyzes a significant failure in the “Chaira” pumped hydroelectric energy storage facility, focusing on the destruction of stay vanes in Hydraulic Unit No. 4. Through virtual prototyping and finite element analysis, the study identifies low-cycle fatigue as the primary cause and recommends measures for rehabilitation and future prevention.

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Georgi Todorov stands out as a visionary researcher whose work has significantly influenced both academic scholarship and industrial advancement. His unique ability to translate theoretical research into impactful industrial applications makes him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His sustained contributions to engineering science, technological innovation, and research leadership embody the spirit of excellence that this award seeks to recognize.

Mrs. Ioana Monica Sas-Boca, Materials Science and Engineering Department/Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania

👩‍🏫 Dr. Ioana Monica Sas-Boca is a dedicated academic and researcher at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, specializing in Materials Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. With over two decades of experience, she has contributed significantly to higher education and research. Dr. Sas-Boca’s research interests include materials engineering, plastic deformation, heat treatment, and recycling, with a strong focus on applied sciences and sustainable technologies. She has published extensively, with 25 scientific papers and two books, and has been involved in national and international projects. Her exceptional communication and leadership skills further enhance her professional profile.

Professional Profile:

Suitability for Best Researcher Award: Dr. Ioana Monica Sas-Boca

Dr. Ioana Monica Sas-Boca is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award due to her outstanding contributions to the field of Materials Engineering, particularly in the areas of plastic deformation, heat treatment, and recycling. With a solid academic background, including a Ph.D. in Materials Processing Engineering, and over two decades of teaching and research experience, Dr. Sas-Boca has made significant strides in applying theoretical concepts to real-world industrial problems. Her research is notable for its focus on sustainability and eco-friendly fg, which aligns with global priorities in materials engineering and manufacturing processes.

🎓Education

Dr. Sas-Boca earned her Ph.D. in Materials Processing Engineering from the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca in 2012, with a dissertation on friction force in compaction processes. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Solid State Physics from the same university (2006-2008) and postgraduate training in “Energy Audit-Construction-Grade I” (2010). Additionally, Dr. Sas-Boca completed a professional certificate as an “Innovation Manager” (2012) and participated in the DIDATEC training program to enhance her skills in modern educational technologies. Her educational background also includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics-Physics from George Coșbuc Năsăud National College.

🏢Experience

Dr. Ioana Monica Sas-Boca has served as a Lecturer at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca since 2016, following 12 years as an Assistant Lecturer at the same institution. She has also worked as a Lecturer-Trainer at SC ProfagSRL, providing professional training in data entry and processing. Her teaching career spans over two decades, and her research contributions have enriched the field of materials engineering. Dr. Sas-Boca has been actively involved in postgraduate and continuing professional development, with a focus on innovative teaching methods and industry-relevant skills.

🏅Awards & Honors

Dr. Sas-Boca has made notable contributions to research and education, with over 100 citations in ISI journals and a prominent role in national and international research projects. She has published two books and over 25 scientific papers, including works in ISI-rated journals and scientific conferences. Her contributions have been recognized with several research grants, including three support grants in 2022 and 2023. Dr. Sas-Boca’s work continues to impact both academia and industry, with projects such as the ROSE teaching project and involvement in scientific collaborations across Europe.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Sas-Boca’s research focuses on Materials Engineering, with particular emphasis on plastic deformation, heat treatment, and recycling processes. Her work aims to improve industrial material applications, sustainability, and product quality. She explores the practical uses of materials in engineering, using 3D modeling and finite element simulation programs to solve complex problems. Dr. Sas-Boca’s multidisciplinary approach seeks to enhance material properties, innovate manufacturing processes, and promote eco-friendly technologies. Her studies on air pollution and mechanics further enrich her contributions to the scientific community.