Thesis Work: Snow modeling to predict surface contamination of cars i Göteborg

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Background
The Contamination and Core CFD section at Volvo Cars, has a long tradition of using CFD as a tool for engineering and design processes. We are currently 16 persons working within the areas; contamination (exterior soiling and water management) & cleaning (windscreen wiper and washer system). We also support our sister sections Thermodynamics and Aerodynamics with analysis and method development know-how.

Volvo Cars is conducting a PhD project together with the Chemical Engineering department at Chalmers with the focus on snow adhesion on radar sensors. The project aim is to maintain the availability of active safety by development of simulation models to predict snow impingement and snow accretion on car sensors. The aim of the master thesis is to support this project by investigating particle simulations methods that captures ice physics (specifically adhesion and snow build up).
 

Scope

• The purpose of this work is to contribute to the development of particle simulation techniques in the Contamination and Core CFD group at Volvo Cars. The aim is to develop numerical techniques that captures physical phenomena’s such as impingement and accumulation of ice particles.
• This will be achieved using particle simulation methods such as DEM (Discrete Element Method) and/or LPT (Lagrangian Particle Tracking).
• The collision dynamics will be modelled based on adhesive contact models such as the JKR model. Depending on how the thesis progresses and the interest of the student(s), the thesis scope may also include coupling methods such as DEM with a turbulent aerodynamic field (CFD).
   

What you'll do
The student will work side by side with the engineers at Contamination and Core CFD section.

If need the student will have the possibility to perform tests at facilities within Research & Development at Volvo Cars such as the climate wind tunnel that can produce snow. If timing allows, it might also be possible for the student to participate in-field snow car testing in northern Sweden. Follow-ups and regular meetings of supervisors and student will be a part of the daily work.

Do you fit the profile?

We are looking for students with a background in Mechanical engineering, Chemical engineering, Engineering Physics or Engineering Mathematics. You should have knowledge in thermodynamics, ice physics, particle technology and fluid mechanics is highly valued. Experience in DEM, LPT or similar numerical methods is a merit also experience or interest in programming is valuable. You should also have good communication skills in English language, both spoken and written. A genuine interest in road vehicles is a plus.
 

Duration

Estimated start date: August/September 2020.

30 or 60 ECTS/HP.

Number of students: One or two 
 
How to learn more and apply
For questions about the thesis please contact Tobias Eidevåg at tobias.eidevag@volvocars.com
To apply, please register your profile and attach your resume and cover letter stating your interests within the given area and credentials. For questions about the recruitment process, please contact Josephine Fagrell, josephine.fagrell@volvocars.com. Please note that applications via email will not be accepted.

We want your application at the latest 2020-06-07.
Use the electronic application-form at

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