1 PhD position in Structural Optimisation of Spatial Compliant Mechanisms in Netherlands | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

The objective of this project is to develop a design tool for the new class of shell mechanisms that move due to large deflections of compliant shells, typically out of composite materials, to create non-linear force-displacement behaviour. They are characterised by a high degree of function integration and enable the creation of hollow, thin-walled mechanisms that are extremely slender, lightweight and robust. This makes them suitable for applications where conventional mechanisms fail. A typical example is an exoskeleton, where shell mechanisms will yield a thin-walled, flexible shell that fits underneath clothing and supports body mass and potentially also other loads. Other applications include medical microinstruments and precision mechanisms for the high-tech industry, for instance, in vacuum conditions. The objective is to develop generic methods for the synthesis as well as the analysis of shell mechanisms, where both complex spatial shapes and anisotropic material properties will be considered. Shape optimisation will be based on Isogeometric Analysis (IGA) techniques that will be extended to incorporate elastic potential energy storage and large deflections, while the classical laminate theory (CLT) will be extended towards optimisation for high energy storage at large deflections. Graphical methods will be developed to aid the designer in conceiving suitable architectures and material configurations in a systematic yet intuitive fashion. Project results will include a theoretical foundation, a synthesis framework and a sequence of physical demonstrators. One of these will be formed by an exoskeleton that is wearable underneath clothing and will support the back and arm weight of caregivers and patients with muscular weakness.

Requirements

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with an MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field, with outstanding results. Key qualifications include:

• Strong background in mechanics and engineering design
• Creativity and ability to invent novel mechanisms and design methods
• Affinity for mechanism design and application, computational mechanics and software development
• Comfortable with working in a team with another PhD student on the same project and company involvement in developing the demonstrators
• Excellent writing and presentation skills in English.

Conditions of employment

TU Delft offers an attractive benefits package, including a flexible work week and the option of assembling a customised compensation and benefits package (the 'IKA'). Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

Department

Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (3mE)

The research within the Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME) Department is focused on developing the knowledge and technology for the realisation of small devices and systems, including microsystems and microelectronics. This is a domain that has strong international industrial players in the Netherlands. The systems and products advancement in terms of miniaturisation and function density improves precision, speed, and reliability. We believe that microsytems and their integration with larger-scale systems play an essential role in this performance-driven domain. The Mechatronic Systems Design (MSD) section within the PME Department focuses on precision mechatronics; the relevant subsystems like compliant (micro)mechanisms, measurement and actuation; and their controlled operation. A strong link is maintained to the high-tech industry in the Netherlands and abroad, which guarantees ample possibilities for valorisation of the research achievements.