Dynamic Refinement and Energy Efficiency of Powertrains

Application details
Reference number: WS13
Start date of studentship: 1st October 2019
Closing date of advert: 28th January 2019
Interview date: TBC

Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Nader Dolatabadi
Secondary supervisor: Ramin Rahmani

Loughborough University
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Full Project Detail
The next few decades would witness challenging times for powertrain and propulsion systems in terms of system efficiency and dynamic refinement. Efficiency will be concerned with fuel economy and reduction of harmful emissions. Therefore, some degree of hybridisation would be expected for all forms of powertrain systems, which could also include alternative sources of energy. Analytical predictive methods and multi-disciplinary simulations will be essential for design analysis, rapid scenario building and development.

The methods would be multi-physics and multi-scale in nature, incorporating multi-body dynamics, contact mechanics, thermodynamics and tribology. Therefore, there will be a holistic approach in predictive analysis. The proposed methodology will be applied to powertrain applications such as engines, hybridised technologies, including electric generators, and drivetrain systems. The particular interest is in road vehicle applications in collaboration with leading firms in this area. Other technological developments such as cylinder deactivation and stop-start will also be taken into account. There is also a increasing trend to harvest energy which would otherwise be wasted through vibration or thermal dissipation.

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree (MEng or MSc) and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: Powertrain engineering, multibody dynamics, energy efficiency, hybrid technologies, numerical analysis.

Contact details:
Name: Nader Dolatabadi
Email address: [Email Address Removed]

How to apply
All applications should be made online at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’

Please quote reference number: WS13