Control of nonlinear systems motivated by linear control theory

Improvements in hardware and software tools has facilitated the probing, understanding and control of complex nonlinear system dynamics. Though the dynamics of several nonlinear systems such as the Duffing Oscillator, microcantilever beams and drill-strings are thoroughly understood; controlling / modifying their dynamics in real-time using control techniques is still an open challenge. Nonlinear control schemes devised to control such dynamics are too complex to be fruitfully implemented – as a result, a majority of such schemes are relegated to being purely theoretical exercises.

Our recent understanding of the linear control techniques have led to devising well-performing linear control schemes that effectively allow desirable control of nonlinear system dynamics [1]. This research project aims to further expand on this strand of research. Impacted systems include (but are not limited to): microcantilever beams, MEMS / NEMS, Soft Robotic Actuators, Drill-strings and potentially a wider range of systems exhibiting nonlinear dynamic behaviour.

Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Mechanical/Electrical/Applied Mathematics/Physics or closely related discipline.

Essential:
Clear grasp of both time- and frequency-domain dynamics of linear systems (nonlinear systems advantageous).

Ability to design, simulate / implement and analyse well-known linear control schemes such as PID, Pole-Placement Method, H2, H etc.

Comfort in coding and simulating system dynamics using MATLAB / SIMULINK both in time- and frequency-domain

Knowledge of:
ODEs and PDEs, programming in MATLAB / C / C++ /

Linear and preferably nonlinear system dynamics and control


APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form

When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:

• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr S Aphale ([Email Address Removed]) with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School ([Email Address Removed])

It is possible to undertake this project entirely by distance learning. Interested parties should contact Dr Aphale to discuss this.