Embroidered ground plane for wearable electronics

Reference: JFUF2018
Programme name (to be included on the application form): Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering
School: Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
Location: Loughborough
UK/EU Fee band: Research Band 2 Laboratory Based (£TBC)
International Fee band: Research Band 2 Laboratory Based (£20,500)
Full Time Duration: 3 Years
Part Time Duration: 6 Years

Achieving a good quality conducting ground plane to be used in textile antennas and electronic devices is not easy as it involves introducing conductive materials into the fabric. Usually these are metallic elements which do not corrode easily in the form of threads or plated/printed conductors. A very convenient manufacturing process is to use computerised machine embroidery to introduce conductive threads into the base textile. Current methods for machine embroidery focus on filling the areas with threads to achieve optical coverage and for aesthetics, however electromagnetic requirements for machine filling with conductors differ. The project will carry out studies into optimal fill patterns for conductive threads, focusing on the requirements for high frequency antennas. Computer electromagnetic simulation, algorithm development and physical measurements will be made to validate the work.

Links to find out more: For more information about funding your PhD, please refer to the following link; http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/fees-funding/research-degree-funding/

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Electronic/Electrical Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing Engineering (with a background in textile manufacture) or a related subject. The project will require the study of electromagnetics and antennas so the successful applicant will either have this knowledge at the start or will be willing to develop this.

A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: Electronic/Electrical or Manufacturing Engineering. All students must also meet the minimum English Language requirements (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

How to apply
All applications are made online, please select the school/department name under the programme name section and include the quote reference number: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/research-applications/

Reference: JFUF2018
Programme name (to be included on the application form): Electronic, Electrical and Systems Engineering