Master theses / Diploma theses / Compulsory internship

Smart flow following sensor particles are used for acquisition of spatially distributed process parameters in industrial processes, such as biogas digesters, waste water treatment basins or bioreactors. The aim of the work is the development of a software-based reconstruction of the motion trajectory of the sensor particles based on the measured signals of the inertial sensors (acceleration, rate of rotation and magnetic field) as well as a sensor for pressure / immersion depth. For this purpose, available inertial sensors with electronics (to be also developed) are to be characterized and appropriate algorithms for position tracking, preferably from the field of inertial navigation (submersible robot, μAUV, multicopter), to be implemented. The developed concepts have to be validated experimentally.
We cordially invite you to an on-site conversation to introduce the topic and to agree on further details. Do not hesitate to contact us, because the way is worth it for you.

What can you expect:

In our department, we offer you an attractive work environment to expand your personal and professional skills. The insight into the diverse R&D projects of the department in the areas of sensor and measuring technology as well as energy and process engineering (among others) and the excellent technical equipment of the laboratories offer optimal conditions for this. The possibility of close contact with competent experienced colleagues plays a central role. As part of student work, we have pursued the approach of structured supervision and associated constructive feedback. This includes regular meetings with your supervisor and intermediate presentations in the form of informal "workshop reports" in the extended audience of interested individuals of the department in order to optimally support you in the successful completion of your project. Furthermore, we are open to support outstanding candidates in their continuing academic qualification, such as in doctoral scholarships or in current or upcoming R&D projects.

Subject-related task spectrum:

• Establishment of the scientific and technical fundamentals for the characterization of inertial sensors and position tracking algorithms
• Setting up the sensor specification for use with flow following devices in the process industry
• Selection, procurement and comparison of relevant inertial measurement units
• Implementation and testing of appropriate position tracking algorithms based on data from an inertial measurement unit
• Concept and design of electronics with microcontroller for the operation and characterization of inertial measurement units
• Development and implementation of firmware for the microcontroller
• Conception and realization of suitable test scenarios for the characterization of inertial measuring units
• Characterization and comparison of relevant inertial measuring units with regard to the measurement uncertainties of the position tracking of sensor particles

• Studies in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and similar engineering courses
• Experience in board design for embedded systems
• Experience in programming microcontrollers for embedded systems (e.g. STM32)
• Fundamentals of Digital Signal Processing, Bayesian Filters, Kalman Filters, Rigid Body Motion, Measurement Uncertainties
• Experimental skills
• Data analysis optionally in Matlab, Octave or C / C ++
• Independent, self-responsible working method