Funded Master by Research project on Design and Simulation of an Active Noise Control System in the Spherical Domain

Project Framework
A funded MSc by Research project is available for an outstanding graduate with specific interest on signal processing, control and acoustic numerical simulations. The project is in close collaboration with the industry partner in Germany to develop and validate a simulation environment for active noise control systems that addresses the immediate need in the automotive industry
to mitigate the harmonic noise in a confined space in extended quite zone. Engineering research at Lancaster University has been rated as world leading in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) and you will join a dedicated team of engineers working on audio signal processing problems.

Project Description
One important trend in automotive industry is the design of more fuel efficient vehicles by reducing their weight. Reducing the weight of the body of vehicle will inevitably increase the level of noise and vibration inside the cars. Vehicle interior noise is a combination of different sources, amongst them, engine noise, road noise, exhaust noise, and aerodynamic noise are the most important. To go beyond the conventional methods using passive techniques, research and development on active methods proved to be promising during
the last decades to achieve an acceptable level of comfort in‐side the driver’s cabin. The focus of most of studies so far have been reduction of noise and vibration at some specific points around the microphone positions.
The aim of this study is to model the sound field in a confined space in the spherical domain as the first step. After validation of the model using the experimental results, it is expected to design a novel active noise control system with the ability to extend the quite zone around the head of passengers. This requires investigating the factors influencing the spatial extent of the quite zone and formulating them in the control system design for compensation.

Application Details
Potential candidate for this position are expected to have the following qualifications
‐ Should have or expect to achieve a first‐class or upper second‐class degree in Engineering at the level of MSc, MEng, BEng or a lower second with a good master thesis (or overseas equivalents) in a relevant subject.
‐ The fund is available for UK/EU students; however, international students could also apply under circumstances.
‐ Sufficient background on signal processing, control or closely related discipline.
‐ Practical experiences on implementation of the single processing and control algorithms on DSP boards or embedded systems.
‐ Computer programming skills such as MATLAB are essential for the position.
‐ You should have excellent interpersonal skills, work effectively in a team and have experience of the preparation of presentations, reports or scientific papers to the highest levels of quality.