A framework for novel hybrid prognostics system PhD

This PhD project will focus on developing, evaluating, and demonstrating a framework of novel hybrid prognostics solution for selected system use case (e.g. clogging filter, linear actuator, lithium-ion batteries, rotating machinery, aircraft fuel system, APU, and electrical power generation system). A comprehensive test-bed for in-depth studies will be used for experiments for demonstration and evaluation.

Prognostics is an essential part of condition-based maintenance (CBM), described as predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of a system. It is also a key technology for an integrated vehicle health management (IVHM) system that leads to enhance safety, reliability, maintainability and readiness. Generally, prognostics models can be broadly categorised into experience-based models, data-driven models and physics-based models. More recently, hybrid prognostics approaches have been presented, attempting to leverage the advantages of combining the prognostics models in the aforementioned different categories for a better capability of managing the uncertainty related to system complexity and data availability to achieve more accurate RUL estimations

The student will have the opportunity to work with experts in the prognostics and condition monitoring field, as well as being part of our strong and dynamic research centre at Cranfield University.

Cranfield is an exclusively postgraduate university that is a global leader for transformational research and education in technology and management. Research Excellence Framework 2014 (REF) has recognised 81% of Cranfield’s research as world leading or internationally excellent in its quality. Every year Cranfield graduates the highest number of postgraduates in engineering and technology in the UK (Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency Ltd). Cranfield Manufacturing is one of eight major themes at Cranfield University. The manufacturing capability is world leading and combines a multi-disciplinary approach that integrates design, technology and management expertise. We link fundamental materials research with manufacturing to develop novel technologies and improve the science base of manufacturing research.

The Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) Centre is a major collaborative venture at Cranfield, started in 2008, with funding from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA); a consortium of core industrial partners, (Boeing, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Meggitt, Thales, MOD and Alstom); and from EPSRC. The investment, over the first 5 years of operation, was approaching £10M. We are now in our eighth year of operation and the Centre has grown into other sectors (rail, energy, health and agriculture), and is financially self-sustaining; many of the partners (and others) are funding Applied Research projects and there is a growing revenue from EPSRC, TSB and EU funded work.

• Application deadlineOngoing
• Award type(s)PhD
• Duration of award3 years
• EligibilityEU, Rest of world
• Reference numberCRAN1141

• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area (e.g. aerospace, automotive, mechanical, electrical, chemical, computing, and manufacturing) with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
• the potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a three-year period of study.
• a minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 6.5).

Also, the candidate is expected to:

• Have excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills
• Be self-motivated, independent and team player
• Be genuine enthusiasm for the subject and technology
• Have the willing to publish research findings in international journals

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network.  This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

Before completing the application documentation please contact Dr Zakwan Skaf z.skaf@cranfield.ac.uk for an initial informal discussion about this opportunity. Please include the keyword PhD Studentship-Self Funding in the subject field.

Online application form.

For further information contact us today:
T: +44 (0)1234 758083
E: study@cranfield.ac.uk