Project Description
There are a variety of advanced engineering applications where precise measurement of axial rotation of components is required with examples including monitoring of component orientation, satellite solar array orientation mechanisms, and remote robotic manipulators. Solutions to this requirement are made more complicated due to strict SWaP (Size, Weight and Power) requirements as well as material compatibility restrictions. Use in many of these situations requires sensors to operate in sealed environments without the possibility of maintenance and therefore designs that have intrinsic longevity and ability to perform self-diagnostic testing is required. Fiber optic sensors have the potential to address all these challenges, but work is required to develop, prototype and demonstrate novel solutions.
This EngD project will support AWEs requirement to develop an in-house capability in this area by:
- Designing novel fiber-based sensor elements including relevant theoretical modelling.
- Developing interrogator instrumentation and user interface software.
- Establishing and transferring to the industry partner and understanding of the technological capabilities and system design rules to balance size with performance needs, beyond those available in current commercial systems.
- Delivering a proof of concept within a restricted space envelope, while still functioning according to NATO environmental standards.
This EngD project will be located at the Heriot-Watt University research laboratories, and the student would be a member of the Applied Optics and Photonics research group (https://aop.site.hw.ac.uk/). This studentship would benefit from support from the academic research group, which includes extensive fibre handling equipment, laser processing technology, and testing facilities, as well as industrial support from AWE.
https://www.awe.co.uk/responsible-business/our-people/equity-diversity-inclusion/
CDT Essential Criteria
A Masters level degree (MEng, MPhys, MSc) at 2.1 or equivalent.
Desire to work collegiately, be involved in outreach, undertake taught and professional skills study.
Project Essential Criteria
A masters level degree, 2.1 or above, in a relevant subject e.g. Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Photonics
Candidate must be of UK Citizenship.
The CDT
The CDT in Applied Photonics provides a supportive, collaborative environment which values inclusivity and is committed to creating and sustaining a positive and supportive environment for all our applicants, students, and staff. For further information, please see our ED&I statement: https://bit.ly/3gXrcwg.
Forming a supportive cohort is an important part of the programme and our students take part in various professional skills workshops, including Responsible Research and Innovation, and attend outreach training.