PhD Scholarship in Integrated Power train Control

Project description

The aim of this project is to develop an integrated energy & emission management strategy, which on-line optimizes the overall vehicle performance under all operating conditions.

With growing concerns about the environment and energy security, the automotive industry faces enormous challenges to find an optimal, cost-efficient balance between drivability and fuel efficiency within the boundaries set by emission legislation. To meet the more and more stringent requirements on pollutants and CO₂ emission simultaneously, it becomes increasingly important to optimize the performance of the entire powertrain. More precisely, the synergy between engine, driveline and aftertreatment system has to be

maximally exploited, during all operating conditions. Due to the dramatic increase in the number of subsystems (e.g., catalysts, soot filters, hybrid drivetrains), sensors and actuators, this is not straightforward. Therefore, a system approach is required: Integrated Powertrain Control (IPC).

We propose a model-based approach for optimal energy and emission management. Based on (virtual) sensor information, the CO₂ emission is minimized in combination with acceptable pollutant emissions. Your role will be to develop a systematic design method for an on-line optimization algorithm of a hybrid-diesel truck with SCR catalyst. This strategy has to deal with GPS and trajectory information and with large transients. Special attention will be paid to the robustness and real-time application of this method. Ultimate goal of the project is to implement the developed IPC strategy on an existing hybrid-diesel demonstrator truck.

Requirements

We are looking for a candidate with an MSc degree, and with a strong background in systems and control or applied mathematics. Experience with automotive applications is an advantage, but not required. The candidate is expected to work on the boundary of several research domains. A good command of the English language is required. We offer the opportunity to do scientifically challenging research in a multi-disciplinary research group. Candidates are goal oriented and team players with good communication skills. The PhD student will also be able to participate in the research school DISC. The appointment will be for four years and as an employee of the university you will receive a competitive salary, as well as excellent secondary benefits. The PhD project is sponsored by TNO Automotive, The Netherlands (www.automotive.tno.nl). This research institute has an international position in Powertrain Control and Integrated Safety. It is located at the High Tech Automotive Campus, close to Eindhoven University of Technology, and exploits unique test facilities.

Appointment and Salary

We offer:

• A challenging job at a dynamic and ambitious University
• An appointment for four years
• Gross monthly salaries are in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (CAO NU), increasing from € 2042 per month initially, to € 2612 in the fourth year.
• An attractive package of fringe benefits (including excellent work facilities, end of the year allowance and sport facilities)

Information

More information can be obtained from:

• http://www.tue.nl/
• http://www.dct.tue.nl/
• Prof.dr.ir. M. Steinbuch, phone: +31 (0)40 - 2475444, e-mail m.steinbuch@tue.nl

If you are interested in this position, send a detailed curriculum vitae, a publication list, your course program and corresponding grades and references.