This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the University of Bath URSA competition. Please see the URSA webpage for more information.
Project
Piezopumps provide an attractive alternative to traditional valve-controlled circuits for driving small actuators i.e. less than 100W. They provide the ability to distribute power electrically rather than hydraulically, which can bring both weight and efficiency savings, and improve reliability due to the lower number of moving components and the use of a solid-state drive element in the piezostack. In contrast to most hydraulic pumps, piezopumps can operate above 1kHz. This means the pump is capable of being the control member as well as the power source in high frequency control systems. This meets requirements in developing sectors, such as robotics and electric aircraft. It also offers potential cost savings by further reducing component count and, also, potential energy savings as only the flow required is generated. A standard valve system relies on generating excess power and then throttling down to the required level. A standard pump-controlled system can often fail to provide a sufficient dynamic response for good control behaviour. Piezopumps provide a best of both worlds with high bandwidth and reduced power.
This project will develop upon a piezopump designed and built at the University of Bath. This will include further modelling of the high frequency reed valve, alongside investigations into expected improvements from the phasing of multiple pumping elements and novel methods of pre-loading the piezo stack. The performance of the pump will then be demonstrated in closed-loop control on a robotic arm.
The Centre for Power Transmission and Motion Control (CPTMC) at the University of Bath is a diverse and inter-disciplinary centre which co-hosts one of the top international conferences on Fluid Power. The CPTMC is based on the Claverton Down campus, overlooking the city of Bath, a world-heritage city, rich in culture.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second Class Honours degree (or the equivalent). A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous. An interest in, and experience with, mechatronic systems, fluid power and control systems would be of benefit.
Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.
Enquiries and Applications
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Nathan Sell - [Email Address Removed]
Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering
When completing the form, please identify your application as being for the URSA studentship competition in Section 3 Finance (question 2) and quote the project title and lead supervisor’s name in the ‘Your research interests’ section.
More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.
Funding Eligibility
To be eligible for funding, you must qualify as a Home student. The eligibility criteria for Home fee status are detailed and too complex to be summarised here in full; however, as a general guide, the following applicants will normally qualify subject to meeting residency requirements: UK nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), Irish nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), those with Indefinite Leave to Remain and EU nationals with pre-settled or settled status in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme). This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Additional information may be found on our fee status guidance webpage, on the GOV.UK website and on the UKCISA website.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.
Keywords
Control Systems; Fluid Mechanics; Integrated Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mechatronics; Robotics
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