In collaboration with McLaren Automotive and involving an internationally leading supervisory team, this PhD project will focus on the development of the next generation of integrated chassis controllers for high performance passenger cars. The controllers will enhance ride comfort and vehicle dynamics through active suspension control and other actuation systems.
The first year of the PhD programme will set the foundations for the project developments. This includes the creation and experimental validation of a model-in-the-loop development environment consisting of a vehicle model, relevant actuation system models, state estimators, a set of benchmarking controllers provided by the industrial sponsor, and relevant post-processing tools.
The second and third years of the PhD activity will focus on the formulation, implementation and simulation of the novel integrated chassis controllers as well as their experimental assessment on real vehicle prototypes. The chassis controllers will be based on the combination of: a) computationally efficient nonlinear model predictive control technology; b) intelligent control / artificial intelligence for the online update of the controller parameters depending on the current operating conditions of the vehicle; and c) innovative pre-emptive control techniques enabled by vehicle connectivity, using the information on the expected road scenario ahead (e.g., road curvature profile) to enhance control system performance. The potential of the novel controllers will be critically analysed with respect to the available benchmarking controllers.
The research of this PhD project is expected to generate high-quality journal publications, and to have long-term academic and industrial impact in the specific subject area.
We can offer this opportunity for an October 2021 or a January 2022 start, with applications considered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Supervisors: Professor Aldo Sorniotti and Professor Patrick Gruber
Entry requirements
All applicants should have (or expect to obtain) a first-class degree in a relevant engineering discipline (mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, electrical engineering, control systems engineering, mechatronics) or MSc with Distinction (or 70% average) and a strong interest in pursuing research in this field. Additional experience which is relevant to the area of research is also advantageous, especially a demonstrated capability in model-based control system implementation, vehicle dynamics and multi-physics simulation. High motivation, ambition, initiative and enthusiasm are expected, with high quality results to be generated since the first year of the PhD project.
English language requirements: IELTS Academic 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted via the Automotive Engineering PhD programme page on the "Apply" tab. Please clearly state the studentship title and supervisor on your application
Please also contact Professor Aldo Sorniotti ([Email Address Removed]) and include your CV with qualification details (copies of transcripts and certificates). Shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly to arrange a suitable time for an interview.
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