Design Engineering PhD Scholarship 9

Optimum morphological features of bio inspired hoofs for efficient and stable locomotion on slopes and sand

Abstract
Recent collaborative experiments with NASA JPL and the EU funded Natural Intelligence project show that multiple physical features in the Camel and Mountain goat inspired hoofs can improve stability on sand and slopes of more than 40 degrees angle. We have identified kinematic features such as edge shapes, contact surface shape/area, and compliance in certain joints to be key best performance. This project will aim to optimize not only these kinematic features but also find best materials and mechanical structure solutions not only for best performance in lab and outdoor experiments but also for durability and robustness.

How to Apply 
Please contact Prof. Thrishantha Nanayakkara if you are interested in applying for this project. 

For more information on submitting a PhD application, please consult our application pages here. When you submit your application, please cite this project title in the 'how you are planning to fund your PhD' section.