PhD Study : A multi-functional device for non-contact measurement of tire / surface characteristics

Summary

This project addresses the need for a robotic, intelligent multi-functional device for measurement of tire / surface interface characteristics. The need is based on demand from a range of sectors including roads, runways, race tracks and helidecks. These sectors need in-service data for asset management purposes. However, they are high risk with respect to worker safety. A robotic, intelligent device will reduce measurement risk. Multi-functional allows a wide range of contact and non-contact measurements to be made. The range of measurements relate to research at Ulster University now finding applicable across these sectors.

The project will aim to develop a prototype device based on previous research at Ulster University. The following objectives form the basis of the proposed research:

· Review recent research at Ulster University relating to tire / surface characteristics.

· Select a range of measurement techniques.

· Design a robotic, intelligent device.

· Prototype the device and evaluate in a range of environments including roads, runways, race circuits and helidecks.

· Consider how to make data suitable for asset management.

The University highways laboratory has considerable experience in the measurement and prediction of tire / surface characteristics. The supervisory team will include external assistance from Dr Martin Perry of Microsoft (data management) and Dr Campbell Waddell (access to test environments). Additional help is available from a range of interested parties including National Highway Authorities, Aviation Authorities, 4 wheel and 2 wheel Motorsport bodies.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Clearly defined research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living