Bachelor/Master Thesis: Development of an Iterative Python Workflow for Wear Simulation in Plain Bearing Systems

The Institute for Machine Elements and Systems Engineering researches the fundamental structural and tribological behavior of machine elements and represents this in experimentally validated model descriptions. These model descriptions are used to analyze and design the functional, loss, and noise behavior of entire technical systems with a focus on drive technology. The developed models also serve to research and develop methods of 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 plain bearing systems, a master’s thesis is being offered. This project focuses on reducing friction and wear in plain bearing systems, such as those used in wind turbines and internal combustion engines. Special attention is given to surface texturing, which can contribute to resource-efficient design of machines and plants.

This thesis focuses on the development and implementation of an iterative Python-based workflow for wear simulation of plain bearing systems. The aim of this work is to create an automated framework that enables the integration of wear models (Archard, Fleischer) into AVL Excite and provides precise predictions about the long-term behavior of plain bearings under real operating conditions through iterative geometry updates.

Tasks:

• Development of a Python-based iterative workflow for coupling wear models with AVL Excite
• Implementation of Archard and Fleischer wear models
• Automated geometry updating based on calculated wear rates
• Validation of the workflow using reference data from test bench experiments
• Sensitivity analysis of wear parameters and convergence studies
• Documentation and evaluation of simulation results

Prerequisites:

• Good programming skills in Python
• Interest in interdisciplinary questions between powertrain technology and software engineering

We offer:

• A highly relevant and future-oriented research topic
• Flexibility in defining individual areas of focus
• Intensive supervision by experienced scientists
• Access to state-of-the-art simulation tools
• Immediate start or by arrangement

We look forward to your application by email:

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

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