Quantum topology optimisation for aerospace design – University of Southampton

Supervisory Team: Prof Ali Elham

Project description: This project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Topology optimisation is one of the most powerful engineering design technologies. It is superior to shape and size optimisation as it can theoretically create an optimum object from scratch. There is an ever-growing interest in using topology optimisation in industries for different design problems. An ultimate example is aircraft configuration design. After more than a century of aviation, we still do not know what the optimum configuration for a flying vehicle is. In other words, if we want to transport a given amount of payload over a given distance using state-of-the-art technologies, how should the flying vehicle shape to e.g., minimise energy consumption and in-flight emissions? A topology optimisation technology might be able to answer this question. We have developed a technology for creating flying vehicle configurations using topology optimisation. However, it is still in very early development stages, i.e., it works for the aerodynamic design of micro-air vehicles at very low speeds. However, we need a few million design variables coupled with high-fidelity aerodynamic analysis for such a basic design. Extension of this technology towards more realistic design problems means the need for a few billion design variables coupled with multi-physics (e.g. fluid-structure interaction) solvers. The computational costs of the state-of-the-art technologies for multi-physics topology optimisation are prohibitive for such applications.

Quantum optimisation algorithms are in the early development stages; however, they showed promising potential for accelerating complex optimisation problems. This project aims to investigate the development and application of dedicated quantum optimisation algorithms to solve topology optimisation problems relevant to aerospace design.

If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Ali Elham a.elham@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online: HERE Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Quantum Tech Eng”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.