In the Optidrap project, we are developing automated draping processes for the production of complex fibre composite components – for example, for innovative aircraft structures. At the heart of the technology is a pneumatically driven, fibre-reinforced elastomer actuator that can take on a variety of shapes, enabling the production of complex geometries. Several of these soft robotics-based elements form a continuum actuator, whose shaping is additionally supported by parallel kinematics. In your work, you will further develop the actuators into a modular and scalable system. Important aspects here are the reproducibility of the mechanical properties and the integration of embedded sensor technology for measuring surface pressures during draping.

You will support us with:

• Literature research, design and construction of a modular elastomer actuator
• Prototype implementation of the elastomer actuator in a coordinated manufacturing process (e.g. casting in 3D-printed molds)
• Experimental characterisation of the properties of the actuator

Ideally, you will have:

• Interest in the fields of soft robotics and embedded sensors
• Experience working with CAD systems
• Knowledge of mechanical or electrical engineering or mechatronics

In your work, you will examine an existing state space controller for magnetically levitated cross tables, tune it and optimise it to improve control quality and stability. At the same time, you will implement a new measurement system that records more precise state variables, enabling further optimisation. Your work will include modelling, simulation, validation, commissioning and integration of the measurement technology into the existing system.

You will support us with:

• Optimising state space controllers in simulation and practice
• Implementing capacitive sensors for air gap measurement
• Analysing accuracy and frequency responses after optimisation

Ideally, you will have:

• An interest in control engineering and measurement technology
• Experience in using Matlab and in PLC programming

In the PhoenixD project, we are developing a new concept for the flexible arrangement of different manufacturing processes in a process chain. In order to achieve a high degree of accuracy and high dynamics at the same time, a linear actuator with magnetic bearings is used for the fine positioning of the workpieces. Similar to a magnetic levitation railway, the linear actuator can be precisely aligned in all spatial directions. The aim of this work is to design a controller or sensor system for a linear actuator with magnetic bearings.

Your tasks:

• Commissioning of the actuator and subsystems
• Development of a model-based design of a pilot control
• Setting up the basic structure of the controller
• Recording measurement data and analysing the data

Desirable skills and knowledge:

• enjoy experimental work
• good knowledge of electrical and control engineering
• good knowledge of SIMULINK or TwinCAT