Master’s Thesis: Finite Element Simulation for Elastic-Plastic Modeling of Solid Body Contact Pressure

The Institute of Machine Elements and Systems Engineering researches the fundamental structural and tribological behavior of machine elements and incorporates this in experimentally validated model descriptions. These model descriptions are used to analyze and design the functional, loss, and noise behavior of overall technical systems with a focus on drive technology. The developed models also serve the research and development of methods for Model Based Systems Engineering as a central element of future industrial product development processes.

As part of the DFG project on the tribological analysis of textured sliding bearing systems, a master’s thesis is being advertised. This project focuses on reducing friction and wear in sliding bearing systems, such as those used in wind turbines and internal combustion engines. Special attention is given to surface texturing, which can contribute to the resource-efficient design of machinery and equipment. However, existing numerical calculation models only consider surface roughness and lead to modeling errors when additional texturing is introduced.

Within the scope of the master’s thesis, a deterministic method is developed based on finite element analysis for modeling the elasticplastic contact pressure between a shaft and a sliding bearing. The aim of this work is to apply this method to bearing systems, especially those with textured shaft surfaces.

Tasks:

• Familiarization with the state of the art in drive technology, sliding bearings, and solid body contact pressure
• Development of a simulation model
• Conducting simulations, as well as analysis and documentation of the results

Prerequisites:

• Independent and reliable work ethic
• Interest in drive technology and interdisciplinary issues
• Previous knowledge of Abaqus or FEM is advantageous, but not mandatory

We offer:

• Currently relevant and future-oriented problem statement
• Flexible structuring of work priorities
• Intensive supervision
• Prompt processing and pleasant working atmosphere
• Immediate start or by arrangement

Interested but still undecided? We can discuss any questions in a personal
conversation!

Auf deine aussagekräftige Bewerbung per E-Mail freut sich:

Benjamin Klinghart, M. Sc.
Institut für Maschinenelemente und Systementwicklung

Schinkelstraße 10, 52062 Aachen
Benjamin.Klinghart@imse.rwth-aachen.de