PhD-student Fiber optics and predictable physical models towards better thermal characterization of electric motors

 

Position: PhD-student Fiber optics and predictable physical models towards better thermal characterization of electric motors

Ghent University is a top 100 university worldwide and one of the major universities in Belgium, with more than 44,000 students and 15,000 staff members. At the department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering (ESME), the multiphysics modeling of mechatronic systems where physical models are combined with measured data is an important research topic.

Within ESME, the mechatronics research team is looking for a qualified and motivated candidate to perform academic research on fiber optics and predictable physical models towards better thermal characterization of electric motors, targeting a PhD. In this research, the accuracy of (mainly) thermal models of electric motors will be improved using measured data on prototypes. For these measurements, fibre bragg gratings will be integrated in the different parts of the electric motors. Since these sensors are relatively new, many effort will be spent to gain insights in the mounting and calibration in order to obtain reliable and repeatable measurements. Using inverse thermal modelling techniques, the uncertainty on the parameters and states of (finite element) thermal model will be reduced. To limit the computational burden in the inverse process, suitable (parametric) model order reduction techniques, taking into account the multi-rate aspect of the multiphysics models, will be developed.

You will be challenged to work on several aspects: multiphysics modelling of electrical machines, inverse thermal modelling, parametric model order reduction, implementation of FBGs, thermal measurements on test-samples and full-scale electrical machines.

We offer you the opportunity to do full-time research in a highly international and friendly working environment, with a competitive salary at Ghent University. As a researcher within the mechatronic actuators team, you will publish and present your research results at major international conferences and in scientific journals in order to pursue your PhD degree. One fully funded position as PhD student is available (1 year, which is extended to 4 years after a positive evaluation at the end of the first year).

Job profile

Your Profile

• You need to hold a relevant master’s degree (e.g. Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, Master of Science in Electromechanical Engineering, Master of Science in Mechatronics Engineering, or equivalent) with demonstrated first-class performance (e.g., outstanding grades, thesis result, or publications).
• Your English is fluent, both speaking and writing.
• You can demonstrate mastery of the following core aspects:
• Mathematical (thermal) modelling (using finite element analysis)
• (Parametric) model order reduction techniques
• Inverse modelling techniques
• Implementation of sensors, signal conditioning and acquisition systems
• You are a team player with good networking and reporting skills.

How to apply

Interested?

Great! Applications may be sent by email to Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be. Application deadline is May 31 2022. Please include cover letter, CV, and contact details of 1 to 3 referees. Do not include reference letters, these will be solicited by us. Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview and may get a small assignment. We offer you a flexible starting date, with a preference to start as soon as possible. For more information about the topic of the PhD itself, please contact Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be.