Advanced Drivetrain Monitoring through use of Machine Learning and Optical Fibre Speckle Patterns (GE Aerospace)

Supervisory Team: Christopher Holmes, Martynas Beresna, Timothy Lee

Project description

Embark on a ground-breaking PhD journey poised to revolutionize the field of large aerial drone condition monitoring.

Through harnessing the power of Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced optical sensing technologies the vision of our team is to usher in a new era of precision and efficiency for aviation.

According to the FAA's projections, by 2030, large drones (with payloads exceeding 90 kg) are expected to outnumber traditional aircraft by a ratio of 3 to 1. Despite this promising trajectory, the primary challenge lies in ensuring safety due to the constraints of limited ground crew.

This PhD considers development of optical speckle patterns analysed by machine learning, to interpret strains and temperature changes along the length of an optical fibre. Strategically integrated into an airframe this would enable real-time condition monitoring in a package that streamlines Size, Weight, Power (SWAP) metrics, considered essential for aviation.

With a focus on elevating sampling frequency of current technology from 10Hz to over 10kHz and developing more innovative AI algorithms, this collaborative project, in partnership with GE Aerospace, aims to reshape the landscape of optical sensing technology for rotorcraft drivetrain monitoring.

Join us at the forefront of innovation and contribute to the future of high-performance condition monitoring.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Chris Holmes,

Email: christopher.holmes@southampton.ac.uk.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date

Applications are accepted throughout the year.

The start date will typically be late September, but other dates are possible.

Funding

For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus £2,000 ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling around £21,000 for 2024/25, rising annually). EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD ORC”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Zepler Institute is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.