PhD Studentship: Computer Vision for Friction and Load-bearing estimation

Application details
Reference number: WM012018
Start date of studentship: 1st April 2019
Closing date of advert: 1st January 2019
Interview date: TBC

Supervisors:
Primary supervisor: Dr Will Midgley
Secondary supervisor: TBC

Introduction
This is a unique chance to undertake a joint research project with Volvo Trucks, Sweden. The project will look at estimating the available surface friction and load-bearing capacity for braking or emergency manoeuvres and vehicle motion planning.

Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014). In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Doctoral College, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career.
Find out more: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/supporting-you/research/

Full Project Detail
This project will use computer vision and machine learning to determine the nature of the landscape ahead of a moving vehicle. This information will include the expected friction coefficient and the load-bearing capacity of the surface (i.e. grass or concrete). It will use this information to inform emergency braking strategies, both in terms of expected surface friction and more advanced vehicle motion planning.

Find out more
https://www.volvotrucks.com/en-lb/trucks/volvo-fh-series/features/volvo-dynamic-steering.html
https://arxiv.org/pdf/1804.08872.pdf

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: computer vision; machine learning; vehicle modelling; vehicle motion estimation; sensor fusion.

Contact details
Name: Dr Will Midgley
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: +44 (0) 1509 227 040

How to apply
All applications should be made online at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/. Under programme name, select Mechanical Engineering

Please quote reference number: WM012018