Master thesis - Optimisation of lateral performance of BEVs

Job description

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future? If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match. 

Battery-electric heavy vehicles appear in different axle and actuator configurations. Hence, optimal allocation of actuator usage is essential to reduce power losses for improved efficiency and performance. Distributed powertrain architecture has shown improvement in driving range, vehicle performance features and safety [1] [3]. Such vehicle features supported by the cost neutrality, modularity and flexible design of electric machines allow physical installation on different axles. Installation of electric machines on different axles also facilitates torque vectoring in addition to the regular motion requested. For example, in [1] [2], the concept of steer by propulsion (torque vectoring) for a 4X4 truck, with distributed propulsion was explored and their effects of vehicle performance were analysed.

The aim with Master thesis is to extend on the previous work in [1] of steer by propulsion on a different vehicle configuration 6X4 (Tag axle with steering and propulsion).

The expected goals are:

1. Exemplify the influence of torque vectoring on lateral vehicle performance for low speed and highspeed operations on different road friction conditions.

2. Identify the use cases where torque vectoring can improve and decrease lateral performance for a specific vehicle configuration.

3. Modelling the dynamics and enhancing the MPC algorithm with axle level side slip control constraints, defining stable boundaries for safe operation of the vehicle, non-linear constraints etc. Comparison with the yaw control scheme implemented previously.

4. Analysis the combined influence of power steering and torque vectoring on vehicle lateral performance. Evaluation of the total power consumption would also be beneficial.

5. Proposal of a modular scheme of the algorithm of axle control to aid distributed e-axles concept, which could be extended to other vehicle configurations like 4X4, 6X6, 8X4, 8X8 etc.

The thesis work will include control theory (MPC), vehicle dynamics and real time optimization. Interest in programming of real time systems is seen as a merit. The work will be carried out at Volvo Group Trucks Technology. The thesis is recommended for two students with control system major with good mathematical skills.

Thesis start: Jan 2025.

If you find this proposal interesting, please apply with your CV and grades. We look forward to your application! 

Last application date is the  5th of November. 

Contact persons:
Sachin Janardhanan – Volvo GTT
mail: sachin.janardhanan@volvo.com

Jonas Persson – Volvo GTT
mail: jonas.persson.5@volvo.com

Mats Jonasson - Chalmers
Mail: mats.jonasson@chalmers.se (Academic supervisor)

[1] Persson.J, Åkesson.J, “On torque vectoring to improve steering predictability while minimising power loss in heavy electric vehicles using model predictive control”, Master Thesis, Chalmers University of Technology, June 2023.

[2] Fahlgren. E, Söderberg. D, “Torque vectoring using eaxle configuration for 4WD battery electric truck utilizing control allocation for motion control and steer by propulsion”, Master Thesis, Chalmers University of Technology, June 2022.

[3] Janardhanan S., Laine L., Jonasson M., and Jacobson B., and Alaküla M., “Concept design of electric cruise and startability axles for long haul heavy vehicles to maximise driving range”, Vehicle Propulsion and Power Conference, October 2021.

[4] Janardhanan S, “On power loss minimisation for heavy vehicles with axle-wise and modular electrical propulsion and friction braking”, Licentiate thesis, Feb 2023.

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Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, across the globe, our trucks, buses, engines, construction equipment, financial services, and solutions make modern life possible. We are almost 100,000 people empowered to shape the future landscape of efficient, safe and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents with sharp minds and passion across the group’s leading brands and entities. 

 

Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.

Job Category:  Engineering

Organization:  Group Trucks Technology

Travel Required:  No Travel Required

Requisition ID:  14841