Whilst solar and wind energies have become dominant options in the renewable energy sector, wave energy is yet to become truly competitive. For wave energy to attract renewable energy marks and becomes truly competitive, new designs and concepts of wave energy converters that are cost-effective and energy-efficient are essential. Recent advances in multifunctional polymeric composites over the past couple of decades have led to the exploration of alternative designs for wave energy converters (WECs) that involve flexible structures or a combination of rigid and flexible structures for wave energy harvesting.
The challenges in simulating flexible WECs are multifold: (i) interaction of thin flexible lightweight structures with wave currents, (ii) large structural deformations, (iii) coupled viscoelasticity at finite strains, (iv) multiphase flows and (v) large-scale models. Towards addressing challenges in simulating wave-structure interaction problems with flexible lightweight structures, this project will develop advanced simulation platforms with the capabilities to conduct computationally efficient high-fidelity coupled simulations of flexible WECs. This project includes collaborations with other universities in the UK.
The project consists of the following major activities:
- Couple FE framework for flexible solids with CFD solvers.
- Validate the simulation framework.
- Explore different designs for flexible WECs.
- Disseminate research outputs in journals and at conferences.
Academic qualifications
A first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, or equivalent achievements ideally in Mechanical/Civil/Aerospace/Ocean Engineering or Mathematics or related fields with a good fundamental knowledge of solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, finite element method, numerical methods and computer programming.
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.
Application process
Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor Dr Chennakesava Kadapa at [Email Address Removed]. to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application.
The application must include:
Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded) with the details about:
- Background and motivation of the project. The motivation must be supported by relevant literature. You can discuss also the applications you expect for the project results.
- Research questions or objectives.
- Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods
- List of references
Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
Recent and complete curriculum vitae.
Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), the form can be downloaded here.
Documents proving your qualifications and your skills.
Applications can be submitted here. To be considered, the application must use:
- “SCEBE0523” as project code.
- the advertised title as project title
All applications must be received by 21st May 2023 and include the required documents. Applicants who have not been contacted by 1 month later should assume that they have been unsuccessful.
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