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 a strong and dynamic research centre at Cranfield University.

About the host University/Centre:
Cranfield is an exclusively postgraduate university that is a global leader for transformational research and education in technology and management. 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 Centre has grown into other sectors (rail, energy, health and agriculture) and is financially self-sustaining.

Entry Requirements:
- 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).

The candidate is also expected to:
- Have excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills.
- Be self-motivated, independent and a team player.
- Have genuine enthusiasm for the subject and technology.
- Be willing to publish research findings in international journals.

Funding: Self-funded.

Supervisors: Dr Zakwan Skaf and Prof Ian Jennions.

Doctoral Researchers' Core Development (DRCD) Programme:
An important part of the research journey is developing key skills. As a research student at Cranfield, you will be expected to attend the DRCD programme which comprises four 1-week units covering the key stages of your research journey. Workshops are held face to face, providing the opportunity to network and collaborate with peers.