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Prof G Aglietti
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About the Project
The Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey is a world leading Centre of Excellence in Space Engineering. Co-sponsored by Surrey Satellite Technologies we are looking for a graduate in Engineering to undertake applied research in a project leading to a PhD.
The main aim of this project is to develop the technology necessary to minimize the microvibration transmission through spacecraft mechanical interfaces.
Microvibrations are low amplitude dynamic disturbances occurring at frequencies up to a few hundred Hertz and produced by the functioning of on board equipment such as reaction wheel assembly, cry coolers etc. These vibrations propagate through the satellite structure, and although they do not pose risks for the spacecraft mechanical integrity, they can seriously reduce the performance of accurately targeted optical payloads, such as high resolution cameras or telescopes. Hence the need to isolate the sources of microvibrations or sensitive payloads. Currently viscoelastic materials are largely utilized to isolate the sources; however it is recognised that semi active or fully active vibration control systems provided of microvibration sensors (e.g. accelerometers) and actuators (for example in the form of electromagnets) can improve significantly the performance of the suspension system. The main objective of this project is therefore to investigate the viability of such system in the context of small satellites.
This project will be developed in close collaboration with the company Surrey Satellite Technology ltd which is a world leader in this sector.
The project will also look at other fundamental issues related to modelling of the sources in a format that can then be integrated in a mathematical model of the platform such as:
• Full characterisation of microvibration sources, including uncertainties and envelops of different units
• Strategies to integrate and combine the effect of different sources acting simultaneously.
The main aim of this project is to develop the technology necessary to minimize the microvibration transmission through spacecraft mechanical interfaces.
Microvibrations are low amplitude dynamic disturbances occurring at frequencies up to a few hundred Hertz and produced by the functioning of on board equipment such as reaction wheel assembly, cry coolers etc. These vibrations propagate through the satellite structure, and although they do not pose risks for the spacecraft mechanical integrity, they can seriously reduce the performance of accurately targeted optical payloads, such as high resolution cameras or telescopes. Hence the need to isolate the sources of microvibrations or sensitive payloads. Currently viscoelastic materials are largely utilized to isolate the sources; however it is recognised that semi active or fully active vibration control systems provided of microvibration sensors (e.g. accelerometers) and actuators (for example in the form of electromagnets) can improve significantly the performance of the suspension system. The main objective of this project is therefore to investigate the viability of such system in the context of small satellites.
This project will be developed in close collaboration with the company Surrey Satellite Technology ltd which is a world leader in this sector.
The project will also look at other fundamental issues related to modelling of the sources in a format that can then be integrated in a mathematical model of the platform such as:
• Full characterisation of microvibration sources, including uncertainties and envelops of different units
• Strategies to integrate and combine the effect of different sources acting simultaneously.
Funding Notes
Seeking a full time PhD student to facilitate the concept development, including design and manufacturing of proofs of concept. We are offering tuition fees + bursary fully funded for two years with conditional extension to the 3rd year.
The successful candidate will have a keen interest in space structures, some experience in finite element analysis, a good understanding of structural dynamics (vibrations) and a strong mathematical background. It is expected that the student will contribute actively to academic life at the University of Surrey, and present the results of his/her research at relevant conferences and in appropriate academic journals.
The successful candidate will have a keen interest in space structures, some experience in finite element analysis, a good understanding of structural dynamics (vibrations) and a strong mathematical background. It is expected that the student will contribute actively to academic life at the University of Surrey, and present the results of his/her research at relevant conferences and in appropriate academic journals.
References
Please apply online using the link below, and in the field labelled “Intended Research Area” enter “Microvibration mitigation tools” - the closing date is 30 June 2013 for all applications:
http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/electronicengineering/electronicengineering-phd/apply/
Please also attach a copy of your CV, a cover letter (including a brief description of your research interests), and copies of any academic transcripts. Alternatively, send all the above to Mrs Karen Collar, Administrator, Surrey Space Centre, BA Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, or by email to k.collar@surrey.ac.uk
For informal inquiries contact: Professor G. Aglietti (G.Aglietti@surrey.ac.uk)
http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/electronicengineering/electronicengineering-phd/apply/
Please also attach a copy of your CV, a cover letter (including a brief description of your research interests), and copies of any academic transcripts. Alternatively, send all the above to Mrs Karen Collar, Administrator, Surrey Space Centre, BA Building, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, or by email to k.collar@surrey.ac.uk
For informal inquiries contact: Professor G. Aglietti (G.Aglietti@surrey.ac.uk)
