Digital Twin of Composites Manufacturing & Repair Processes for Aerospace and Space Applications

This program aims to enhance Boeing’s processes by introducing Industry 4.0 frameworks, focusing on the development digital twin workflows for composite components which includes design, manufacturing, service, and MRO. These digital twin workflows will primarily be utilised for a case study focused on the repair of composite components to eliminate both engineering and laborious processes leading to more efficient MRO of future spacecraft and aircraft fleets.

This program will also work on the identification of filament winding pathway developments, particularly for complex components that cannot easily be supported by existing software systems.

Within this program, there is the following PhD opportunities available:

Topic: Manufacturing process optimisation and quality assurance of composite repair processes and efficiency

This topic will explore the utilisation of various composite repair technologies, evaluate the appropriateness of the digital twin solution for the composite patch in practice, and the development of quality assurance processes for qualification. The parent composite materials for repair could include thermoset and/or thermoplastic carbon fibre reinforced polymers.

Stipend of AUD $46,653 per annum
Maximum period of tenure of an award is 3.5 years. Periods of study already undertaken towards the degree will be deducted from the period of tenure.
Opportunity for domestic travel between UniSQ Toowoomba Campus and Boeing & MEMKO facilities in Melbourne
Opportunity for international travel for relevant conferences to present research achievements

To be eligible applicants must:

have completed an Honours Degree with First Class or Second Class A (2A), or equivalent level, or a Masters’ degree with a significant research component;
have completed a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science or materials engineering;
not be receiving equivalent support providing a benefit greater than 75% of the student’s stipend rate;
be prepared to commence their studies prior to the 30th of August 2024.

Applicants will be assessed on:

Alignment with the research topic area – Space/Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Material Engineering/Science.
Show evidence of experience using numerical analysis tools and techniques will be looked upon favourably (CAD, FEA, CFD, etc.)
Provide evidence of prior experience in composites materials research, with experimental techniques looked upon favourably.
Demonstrate previous coursework and/or research-based studies on composite materials; this is not essential, but highly desired
Display an ability to work collaboratively within a research team

If you wish to apply, please directly contact Dr Tristan Shelley by emailing tristan.shelley@unisq.edu.au. Please provide a statement outlining your eligibility against the Selection Criteria.

Please ensure you also provide digital copies of the below information:

Curriculum vitae;
Education qualifications (testamur and academic transcripts for all undergraduate and postgraduate awards);
List of any research presentations and/or publications
After which you have provided the above information, you will be advised of the next steps in the application process.

After you have provided the above information, you will be advised of the next steps in the application process.

30 June 2024

Further information about this scholarship can be obtained from Prof. Xuesen Zeng or Dr Tristan Shelley.