Register now After registration you will be able to apply for this opportunity online.
This opportunity is not published. No applications will be accepted.
Fabrication and optimization of functional lattice elements for ultra-lightweight active structures
Integrated sensors and actuators in sandwich panels serve dual functions of adaptation as well as reinforcement, thereby leading to ultra-lightweight active structures. Additive manufacturing serves as the best tool in fabricating functional, at the same time load-bearing sandwich panels.
Shape adaptable sandwich structures demand integrated sensors and actuators leading adding weight to the highly sought after ultra-lightweight aerospace or automotive structures. Consequently, their placement leads to additional processing and manufacturing steps. Thus, integration of these functional elements directly into the cores of the sandwich structures would not only resolve the problem of weight, but depending on the materials used, they could in turn serve as reinforcements. Also, presently the core lattice elements are attached to the shell panels via bonding or welding which is labour intensive. Automating this process will make it scalable and error free. This is where, additive manufacturing comes into picture. Shape memory alloy (SMA) wires simultaneously incorporated into structural polymers can form three-dimensional freeform architectured lattices to actuate shape morphing sandwich structures. On the other hand, resistive sensors in the form of carbon fiber based lattice structures concurrently serve as high strength reinforcements. Sheathing the conductive fibers further insulates them from the surrounding materials.
Shape adaptable sandwich structures demand integrated sensors and actuators leading adding weight to the highly sought after ultra-lightweight aerospace or automotive structures. Consequently, their placement leads to additional processing and manufacturing steps. Thus, integration of these functional elements directly into the cores of the sandwich structures would not only resolve the problem of weight, but depending on the materials used, they could in turn serve as reinforcements. Also, presently the core lattice elements are attached to the shell panels via bonding or welding which is labour intensive. Automating this process will make it scalable and error free. This is where, additive manufacturing comes into picture. Shape memory alloy (SMA) wires simultaneously incorporated into structural polymers can form three-dimensional freeform architectured lattices to actuate shape morphing sandwich structures. On the other hand, resistive sensors in the form of carbon fiber based lattice structures concurrently serve as high strength reinforcements. Sheathing the conductive fibers further insulates them from the surrounding materials.
The thesis would build on the existing techniques at CMAS of freeform building of composite lattice structures. The aim is to fabricate 3D lattices with polymer coated/sheathed SMA wires and C-fiber strands. You will contribute to the design, integration and implementation of a system to print in-plane as well as out-of-plane active core elements for sandwiched panels along with optimizing the process parameters. Your profile: Interested in engineering and a zeal to build things. Experience with open source micro-controller programming and slicing software.
The thesis would build on the existing techniques at CMAS of freeform building of composite lattice structures. The aim is to fabricate 3D lattices with polymer coated/sheathed SMA wires and C-fiber strands. You will contribute to the design, integration and implementation of a system to print in-plane as well as out-of-plane active core elements for sandwiched panels along with optimizing the process parameters. Your profile: Interested in engineering and a zeal to build things. Experience with open source micro-controller programming and slicing software.
Dr. Sampada Bodkhe
LEE O 224
Leonhardstrasse 21
8092 Zürich
Phone: +41 44 632 262 4
bodkhes@ethz.ch
Dr. Sampada Bodkhe LEE O 224 Leonhardstrasse 21 8092 Zürich Phone: +41 44 632 262 4 bodkhes@ethz.ch