PhD Studentship: Clamping Force Estimation and Nonlinear Optimal Robust Control for Electromechanical Braking of Electric Vehicles

One of the current challenges in electric vehicle (EV) technology is the development of electromechanical braking (EMB) systems to replace conventional hydraulic brakes and to integrate them with primary regenerative braking. EMBs are highly sensitive to EV harsh operating conditions. This project addresses this challenge by developing AI-based EMB clamping force estimators and robust control algorithms, validated in real-time simulations and experimentally in collaboration with industry.

The project:  

This project looks at the development of electromechanical friction wheel braking (EMB) systems to replace existing hydraulic brakes. This reduces weight, maintenance costs and environmental pollution. Critically important, this enables the development of faster friction (secondary) braking systems that meet Level 5 EV automation requirements.

The EMB consists of an electric motor, a power electronic converter, a gear and a motion conversion mechanism to press the brake pads against the wheel disc and to generate the clamping force (CF) to be controlled. Onboard CF direct measurement is impossible. CF tracking control includes three stages: clearance elimination, clamping and release. In industry, it is implemented via three-loop CF cascaded control.

The project aims to develop:
• Robust and fault-tolerant CF estimator overperforming Level 5 EV automation expectations under EMB parameters variations and sensors malfunctions.
• Robust and efficient CF control with Level 5 EV automation tracking accuracy under harsh operating conditions, and automated identification algorithms for self-commissioning.

The project will be done in collaboration with an international automotive manufacturer which has its R&D Centre located in the UK. There will be two industrial supervisors. They will ensure that the estimation and control algorithms comply with automotive standards and are compatible with automotive protocols. They will lead EMB test bench development and provide the necessary training to the PhD student. The HiL simulations will also be conducted on the dSpace platform and the company’s electronic control unit.

Scholarship:

The award will cover the UK tuition fee level, plus a tax-free stipend, currently £21,805, paid at the prevailing UKRI rate for 3.5 years of full-time study. This award also includes a £5,000 research training support grant.

Eligibility:

This studentship is available to home students only.

Home students are eligible to apply. The candidate should have a 2.1 or 1st Bachelors or Masters degree in: Electrical or Electromechanical or Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, Control, Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics or other related Engineering disciplines/ Physics.

How to apply:

Candidates should submit an expression of interest by sending a CV and supporting statement outlining their skills and interests in this research area via the 'Apply' button above  If this initial application is successful, we will invite you to submit a formal application.

Candidates must fulfil the University of Warwick entry criteria and obtain an unconditional offer before commencing enrolment.

Should your application for admission be accepted, you should be aware that notification of acceptance for the PhD does not constitute an offer of financial support. Successful scholarship candidates will receive an official communication from the School of Engineering to confirm their award.