PhD Research Studentship - Application of CMM verification methodologies to a multi-axis coherence scanning interferometer

Applications are invited from first class graduates for a fully funded PhD studentship within the Manufacturing Metrology Group. The Faculty is ranked in the top 5 out of 85 engineering departments in the UK in the last Research Assessment Exercise (RAE 2008), with most of its research output classified as world leading or internationally excellent in quality. This studentship is an excellent opportunity to become involved at the forefront of research in a rapidly developing area.

The PhD Challenge
Optical instruments for measuring surface topography are increasingly being used as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) to allow them to measure complex three-dimensional components. The student will investigate the use of one such instruments based on the principle of multi-axis coherence scanning interferometry (CSI). The fundamental limitations of the techniques acting as a CMM will be determined and quantified. Specification standards that are applied in the CMM field (e.g. ISO 10360) will be applied, where possible, to multi-axis CSI and, where not possible, new procedures will be developed. Methods for calculating uncertainties with the instrument will be investigated, including the principle of a virtual CMM applying a Monte Carlo technique. A number of case study components will be measured to showcase the methods developed. The project is sponsored by a world-leading instrument manufacturer who will provide state-of-the-art instrumentation for the project.

The student will join the team of a larger project to develop new methods of measurement to be used, in many cases inline, in advanced manufacturing. Several research fellows and students will form the project team and there is scope to apply both experimental and theoretical skills, depending on the student’s first degree topics.

The Studentship

The student must have a high-grade qualification; at least the equivalent of a UK 1st class degree in an engineering (mechanical/materials), science (physics) or a related discipline. The student must be proficient in both written and spoken English, and possess excellent presentation and communication skills. The student will be expected to publish their results in leading journals and to present them at international conferences.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof. Richard Leach, tel: 07467 085 482 or Email: [Email Address Removed].