Robotic Inspection of Complex Welds

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of development of advanced non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques leading to the award of an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) degree. It is run by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Innovation in NDE (FIND CDT) and sponsored by BAE Systems

RCNDE (www.rcnde.ac.uk) industrial members have identified the need for high accuracy, automated inspection of large, complex-shaped components. Automated NDE has the potential to meet these requirements, but is currently limited by the need for a high degree of manual intervention, a lack of general-purpose inspection solutions, and unsophisticated brute-force data acquisition with little to no data interpretation/feedback. This EngD will work towards developing universal automated deployment tools that will eliminate these barriers. Notably it will consider the automated inspection of complex welds using a small, agile robotic vehicle with an ultrasonic payload.

The student will be based at the Centre for Ultrasonic Engineering before relocating to the BAE offices in Barrow-in-Furness. The post is supported by a bursary and fees (UK/EU student rate) provided by EPSRC, together with a generous top-up by the sponsor company. This results in a tax-free stipend of just over £20,000pa.

CDT Overview

The studentship is offered through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Innovation in NDE (FIND CDT) which is a partnership between a select group of universities and companies offering a 4-year Engineering doctorate designed to launch outstanding graduates into an engineering career. With close links to the related RCNDE, students are part of a vibrant community of more than 200 researchers and have access to a range of technical training courses delivered by world leading experts.

Candidates should fulfil the eligibility criteria for the award. Please check your suitability at https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/