International Boeing PhD studentship, Multiscale Modelling of Manufactltiscale Modelling of Manufacturing Induced Defects in Large Aerospace Components – ENG – PhD (Funded)

Location:

Streatham Campus, Exeter
Academic Supervisors:
Dr Tim Dodwell, University of Exeter ([Email Address Removed])
Project Description:
Whilst the basic advantages of composite materials are well proven, they are often compromised by high costs, long development time, and poor quality due to manufacturing defects. This is particularly the case for the complex structures found in aerospace applications. Modelling, simulation and optimization have widespread applications to the industry, with the twin objectives of improving product quality and decreasing production time. Analysis of aerospace composites is difficult due to the complex interactions between multiple scales within the structural hierarchy: from the material scale up to the aerospace component. There is a real industry need for the development of efficient models, which can predict part quality and performance and therefore avoid the expensive iterative ‘trial and improvement’ cycle currently employed. Robust mathematical and numerical methods, supported by careful experimental parameter characterization and model verification are required to obtain computationally tractable solutions to such challenging problems.

This PhD, sponsored by Boeing Aerospace (Seattle), will develop bespoke multiscale modelling capabilities to predict the formation of manufacturing defects in large composite parts. The PhD will provide an exciting mix of modelling, scientific computing implementation and experimental validation. The member will become a member of Industrial Engineering Mathematics group under the supervision of Dr Tim Dodwell, they will join a growing cohort of 7 talented postgraduate students and researchers, working at the dynamic interface between engineering, applied mathematics and industry.

The PhD will provide a flexible training budget, which will be allocated to attend training courses, international conferences and the potential research visits to the supporting company Boeing (Seattle) and leading collaborating universities with the group (MIT, Heidelberg, Bristol, Bath).

This award provides annual funding to cover tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit for 3 and half years of full-time study to commence in between January and June 2018.