Novel optical imaging sensors for robotic manufacturing

Application Deadline: Ongoing until filled
Start Date: Start date flexible, possible intakes February, May and October 2017

Sponsored by EPSRC, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £14,296p.a. (tax free) plus fees* for three years.

A fully funded PhD studentship is available in the Centre for Engineering, to investigate the development of novel optical instrumentation using laser speckle sensing for applications in the next generation of flexible and autonomous manufacturing robotics. The project will investigate the application of speckle sensing in more representative engineering problems and investigate novel sensor concepts made possible by combination with new imaging technologies and techniques. The instrumentation will be trialled on robotic manufacturing systems within the Welding centre at Cranfield.

A fully funded PhD studentship is available in the Centre for Engineering, to investigate the development of novel optical instrumentation, using laser speckle sensing, for applications in the next generation of flexible and autonomous manufacturing robotics. Laser speckle sensing is a powerful, potentially low-cost, and robust position and orientation sensing technique using the speckled interference pattern, formed when an optically rough surface is illuminated with a spatially coherent source such as a laser.
As part of a wider program of ongoing research at Cranfield into the practical application of laser speckle sensing in manufacturing robotics, this project will investigate the application of speckle sensing to more representative engineering problems such as shaped/curved or structured surfaces and complex robot motions.

This project will investigate novel sensor concepts applying prior knowledge of surface shape, and/or new imaging technologies (such as range imaging via time-of-flight sensors - as used in Microsoft’s Kinect sensor) and techniques (such as shape/range imaging via multi-wavelength illumination) to provide complementary information and improve the laser-speckle sensor accuracy. To achieve this, the project aims to develop a flexible model of the laser speckle behaviour capable of simulating a variety of conditions (e.g. structured or shaped surfaces, and multiple or modulated illumination wavelength) and signal processing schemes used in range/volumetric imaging techniques, in addition to the practical implementation and testing of sensor concepts.

The project would suit candidates with a background in the physical sciences / engineering, who want to apply their skills in real world measurement applications and will offer the opportunity to gain experience in a mix of computer simulation and practical experimentation. Experience in photonics would be an advantage, but an ability to learn and to apply that learning are considered equally important, as training will be given in the specific technology. Many of our students complete a PhD following a period (or even a career) in industry and we welcome the additional experience that this brings. Full training will be provided in photonics techniques and all students are encouraged to complete a programme of additional courses in transferrable skills, making them highly sought after by employers. Our students go on to successful careers in the fields of their choice, often in research or development roles in industry, government funded establishments and universities.

Engineering Photonics provides a stimulating research environment, a purpose built suite of first class well-equipped laboratories, close links with industry and researchers from other disciplines and opportunities for students to present their work at international conferences.

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline, such as engineering, or the physical sciences and / or an MSc in a relevant subject. The ideal candidate should have some understanding in the area of simulation and numerical modelling. Many of our students complete a PhD following a period (or even a career) in industry and we welcome the additional experience that this brings

How to apply:
For informal enquiries, further information and to apply please contact:
For further information please contact:
Dr Tom Charrett, E: [Email Address Removed], T: (0) 1234 758205
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form.
For further information contact us today:
School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing