PhD Studentship: Tyre Friction Modelling and Testing for Vehicle Dynamics

Start date: October 2024

The AAE department at Loughborough University has a rich track record of research in tyre and friction modelling. A significant part of this expertise was developed in collaboration with industry and this project is supported by a prominent industry partner.

Tyre-road friction determines the capability of a tyre to generate forces on any terrain – an attribute particularly important in the context of motorsport. Friction is typically treated empirically, based on an experimentally measured coefficient of friction that may vary with speed, load, and temperature. This approach, however, fails to accurately predict friction when operating conditions deviate from measured conditions. There is therefore a need to develop accurate physics and data-based models for tyre friction.

Recent work at Loughborough has discovered that current state-of-the-art tyre friction modelling approaches provide friction estimates that are highly sensitive to uncertainties in model inputs, such as road surface roughness. This reduces their practical value and motivates the need to advance the current state-of-the-art friction modelling.

This PhD project aims to further develop the theoretical framework for predicting rubber friction in the context of tyre performance, to explain the gaps in current rubber friction theory, and validate these developments using friction testing facilities at Loughborough University. The problem lends itself to the application of a variety of multidisciplinary approaches, including contact mechanics, numerical simulation, signal processing and machine learning.

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Georgios Mavros

Secondary supervisor: James Knowles

Entry requirements

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a related subject. A relevant master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: modelling of dynamic systems, programming (MATLAB, Python, C++ or similar).

Fees and funding

This PhD opportunity is jointly funded by Loughborough University and an industrial partner. The studentship covers the PhD fees and a tax-free stipend of £22,460/year for 3 years for UK students. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.

How to apply

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select AACME/Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering. Please quote the advertised reference number: AAE-GM-2024 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

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