Research and development of 3D printed implants for local articular cartilage replacement
Výzkum a vývoj 3D tištěných implantátů pro lokální náhrady kloubní chrupavky
Aim of thesis:
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Vrbka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Matúš Ranuša, Ph.D.
Biotribology of artificial tears for the treatment of dry eye syndrome
Biotribologie umělých slz pro léčbu syndromu suchého oka
Aim of thesis:
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Vrbka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: doc. Ing. David Nečas, Ph.D.
Prediction of wear of dental filling materials during tooth cleaning
Predikce opotřebení dentálních výplňových materiálů při čištění zubů
Aim of thesis:
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Vrbka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Pavel Čípek, Ph.D.
Tribology of polymers for shoe sole application
Tribologie polymerních materiálů pro výrobu podešví
Aim of thesis:
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Vrbka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. David Rebenda, Ph.D.
Additivelly manufactured structures with shape memorry effect
Aditivně vyráběné struktury s tvarovou pamětí
Aim of thesis:
Participation in the international project BAANG . Half-year internship at the Technical University Vienna.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Daniel Koutný, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Ondřej Červinek
Research of thin hydrostatic films considering the combined effects of key influencing factors
Výzkum tenkých hydrostatických filmů zohledňující komplexní vliv klíčových faktorů
Aim of thesis: The aim is to develop experimentally validated numerical model describing the flow and performance parameters in thin gaps of large-scale hydrostatic bearings, considering the influential factors of elastic deformation, geometrical errors, asymmetrical loading, thermal effects, and flow control.
Involvement in the solution of the GAČR LA international project
The possibility of an internship with the co-investigator of the project - Gdansk University of Technology
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Petr Svoboda, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Michal Michalec
Aim of thesis: The aim is manufacturing and power optimization of the pocket and recess geometry of a large-scale hydrostatic bearing using CFD simulation with experimental verification. This is an experimental research work leading to the reduction of the loss factor and energy efficiency of hydrostatic bearings.
Involvement in project solutions.
Internship at a foreign university.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Petr Svoboda, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Michal Michalec
Influence of non-stationary electric field on behavior of ionic liquids
Vliv nestacionárního elektrického pole na chování iontových kapalin
Aim of thesis: The aim is to clarify the mechanism of forming a lubricating film in highly loaded contacts lubricated by ionic liquids under the influence of an unsteady electric field. This is an experimental work based on the use of colorimetric interferometry, which includes the development of an experimental simulator for measuring the friction, thickness and temperature of the lubricant.
Internship at a foreign university.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Petr Svoboda, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Petr Šperka, Ph.D.
Lubrication of single-used components in space applications
Mazání jednorázově používaných součástí ve vesmírných aplikacích
Aim of thesis: The aim of the work is to experimentally investigate the lubrication of components in space applications that perform only one or a low number of cycles. These may be, for example, pins of pyrotechnic actuators, springs for unwinding solar panels, screws, etc. These components usually only have to complete one duty cycle, but with high reliability. The work will focus on describing the lubrication options for these parts and explaining the nature of the function of each lubricant depending on the method of application and in combination with the materials of the parts.
Contributing to the development of technologies for space mechanisms; cooperation with a leading Czech manufacturer in the aerospace sector; experience in testing equipment in a vacuum thermal chamber
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. David Košťál, Ph.D.
Research and development of magnetorheological fluids
Výzkum a vývoj magnetoreologických kapalin
Aim of thesis: The main aim is the research and development of a new generation of magnetorheological fluid with high sedimentation stability, suitable rheological properties, short response time, excellent tribological properties and durability. The topic is also focused on understanding the behavior of this MR fluid in non-uniform magnetic fields.
Participation in the international project GAČR "Rheology of magnetorheological fluids in non-uniform magnetic fields",
cooperation with foreign universities AGH University of Science and Technology (Poland), Cracow University of Technology (Poland) či TU Dresden (Germany), the possibility of internships at these universities.
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D.
Development of structured magnetic circuits
Vývoj strukturovaných magnetických obvodů
Aim of thesis: The aim of the topic is the research and development of structured magnetic circuits manufactured by 3D metal print. The topic can be focused on several fields, such as :
(i) development of structured rotors of electromotors;
(ii) development of pistons for fast magnetorheological dampers;
(iii) development of fast electromagnetic valves and actuators.
Participation in the projects:
(i) Development of a semiactive damping system for single-floor electrical railway vehicles;
(ii) Transient response of magnetically active polymers;
(iii) Development of electric endure bicycle with electronically controlled dampers,
cooperation with foreign universities Maryland, INHA, Krakow, Tsinghua Beijing
possibility of internships at these universities.
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Zbyněk Strecker, Ph.D.
Design of semiactive suspension systém for mountain bikes
Návrh semiaktivního systému odpružení pro horská kola
Aim of thesis: The aim of the work will be to develop a system of intelligent mountain bike suspension. Current commercially available electrically controlled bike suspension systems do not exploit the potential for fast semi-active control. Current systems only allow automatic control of valves, which used to be set manually on older models. However, due to the quality of the ride, these electrically controlled shock absorbers are not able to provide better driving characteristics compared to the optimally set passive or adaptive shock absorber. Fast semi-active damping with magnetorheological dampers enables a qualitative improvement in the achievable driving comfort and wheel grip on the road. Demonstrators of individual components are currently being developed. However, it will be necessary to integrate these components into the entire functional system and experimentally verify the functionality. The focus of the work will be mainly on finding the limiting properties of real elements of the system (dampers, sensors, etc.) and the subsequent design of optimal system control. An important part of the work will be driving tests.
Cooperation with a commercial partner in the field of mountain bike production and suspension is expected (Kuberg).
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Zbyněk Strecker, Ph.D.
Magnetically active elastomers
Magneticky aktivní elastomery
Aim of thesis: Magnetically active polymers are materials that can change their stiffness, damping or dimensions depending on the applied external magnetic field. The rate of change of these properties is primarily determined by the composition of the elastomer. It turns out that the rate of change of these properties, to a step change of the magnetic field, is an unexplored area. The goal of the topic is the research and development of magnetically active elastomers with a focus on their dynamic behavior. The results of this research can be used to develop a new generation of vibration isolation systems, sensors or actuators. The use in bioapplications also seems promising.
Cooperation with TU Dresden (Germany) and possible internship. Participation in projects:
i) Transition behavior of magnetically active polymers (GAČR in preparation)
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D.
Development of a semi-actively controlled vibration isolation system based on magnetically active elastomers
Vývoj semiaktivně řízeného vibroizolačního systému na bázi magneticky aktivních elastomerů
Aim of thesis: Intensive development and research is currently underway in the field of magnetically active elastomers and their applications. These materials can reversibly change their stiffness depending on the applied external magnetic field. An interesting application of these materials are intelligent vibration isolation systems or silent blocks that can real-time respond to loads. The main goal of the thesis is the development and experimental verification of a vibration isolation system working with a magnetically active elastomer.
Cooperation with TU Dresden (Germany) and possible internship. Participation in projects:
i) Transition response of magnetically active polymers (GAČR in preparation)
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Zbyněk Strecker, Ph.D.
Development of a semi-actively controlled suspension system for electric trainsets
Vývoj semiaktivně řízeného systému odpružení elektrické vlakové soupravy
Aim of thesis: The current development of railway boogie shows considerable potential for improving ride characteristics using semi-actively controlled dampers. However, most of the available information is based on data obtained based on simulations. The main aim of this thesis is to verify the benefit of a semi-actively controlled suspension system experimentally. A significant part of the thesis will be developing a suitable damping element and its tests on a single-floor electric unit. Tests on the InterPanter electric unit on a real track are planned for 2024.
Experimental evaluation of developed suspension system on the InterPanter electric unit on a real track. Cooperation with the VÚKV (formerly the Research Institute of Rail Vehicles), the Jan Perner Faculty of Transport of the University of Pardubice or the Research and Testing Institute in Pilsen.
Supervisor: Ing. Michal Kubík, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Zbyněk Strecker, Ph.D.
Research and development of hydrogel-based artificial cartilage
Výzkum a vývoj umělé kloubní chrupavky na bázi hydrogelu
Aim of thesis: The main goal of the topic is in research, development and complex description of the hydrogel-based material, which may be potentially used to replace joint cartilage. The research is based on experimental investigation using biotribological simulators and the evaluation of mechanical and viscoelastic properties. The outcome of the thesis will be represented by the material, which can be used for partial or complete cartilage replacement without the need for the application of total joint replacement.
Cooperation with CEITEC BUT, Kyushu University in Japan, internship abroad.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. David Nečas, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. David Rebenda, Ph.D.
Application of coatings for the development of new-generation joint implants
Využití povlaků při vývoji nové generace kloubních implantátů
Aim of thesis: The goal is to provide a complex tribological description of joint replacements with applied coating. The research is based on the experimental investigation of friction, lubrication and wear with the use of biotribological simulators. Cooperation with both the academic and private sectors is expected, while the outcome of the thesis is in a new-generation implant which will be biocompatible and suitable for clinical testing.
Cooperation with FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany, Cidetec company in Spain, internship abroad.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. David Nečas, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Matúš Ranuša, Ph.D.
Optimization of surface texturing towards extended service life of joint replacements
Optimalizace textury povrchu pro prodloužení životnosti kloubních náhrad
Aim of thesis: The goal is to optimise the parameters of artificial texture applied to the surface of replacements of large joints. The effort is to improve lubrication conditions and minimise friction and wear, thus extending the service life of the replacement. Cooperation with both the academic and private sectors is expected, while the outcome of the topic is represented by the prototype of a modern implant suitable for clinical testing.
Cooperation with Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Chile, Meijo University in Japan, internship abroad.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. David Nečas, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Vrbka, Ph.D.
3D printing of flexible metal structures
3D tisk flexibilních kovových struktur
Aim of thesis: The aim is to study the behavior of thin-walled 2D structures with different types of cells and different dimensional parameters of the cells and to describe their deformation characteristics under different types of loading (bending, torsion, pressure...). The work includes both experimental studies of 3D printed structures and computational modelling of their behavior using FEM. The global goal is to achieve a description of the behavior of different types of structures so that simple single-component flexible mechanisms can be designed by their appropriate combination.
6 months internship at TU Wien
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Daniel Koutný, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Ondřej Červinek
Multi-material 3D printing for space applications
Multi-materiálový 3D tisk pro vesmírné aplikace
Aim of thesis: The aim is to investigate the influence of process parameters on the multi-material interface of two metallic materials created using the additive process of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Part of the job is finding a suitable material combination. The first possible focus is thermally stressed components of the rocket motor body type, where the interface of a copper-based alloy and a nickel superalloy needs to be processed. The second option is to focus on the titanium-aluminum alloy interface, which aims at structural parts of the satellite requiring good strength and at the same time good local thermal conductivity.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Daniel Koutný, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Martin Malý
Design of a fast semi-active damper with electromagnetic valve for rail vehicles
Návrh rychlého semiaktivního tlumiče s elektromagnetickým ventilem pro kolejová vozidla
Aim of thesis: The current development of rolling stock chassis shows considerable potential for improving the ride characteristics by using semi-actively controlled dampers. The benefits of fast magnetorheological dampers have been verified in simulations currently, but such dampers are expensive and too progressive for conservative rail vehicle development community. These problems could be eliminated if conventional hydraulic semi-active dampers with solenoid valve control capability were available on the market. However, the response of damping force to the control signal in available dampers of this type is too slow. Therefore, the aim of this work is to develop and experimentally verify a semi-active damper with a solenoid valve with fast time response.
Cooperation with industrial partner - shock-absorber manufacturer Strojírna Oslavany (STOS).
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Milan Klapka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: doc. Ing. Ivan Mazůrek, CSc.
Development of a magnetorheological shock attenuation system for military applications
Vývoj magnetoreologického systému tlumení rázových dějů pro armádní aplikace
Aim of thesis: In military applications, effective shock attenuation is an important requirement. This may include damping of gun recoil, damping of seats in the event of a vehicle explosion or fall, and more. Current scientific contributions reveals that the combination of a magnetorheological (MR) suspension system together with semi-active control can be a significant advance in this area. Typically, piston velocities are in the units of m/s and high damping forces are achieved. These are therefore quite extreme operating conditions for dampers. The main focus of this work will be study of the behaviour of MR fluid at high velocities and the subsequent application of this knowledge to the design of a magnetorheological damper. The design of sensors and damper control will be important as well. The main focus of the work will be the development and experimental verification of MR suspension systems operating at high piston velocities.
Current issues researched in cooperation with the industrial partner Excalibur arms and within the European Defence Agency research project.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Milan Klapka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Zbyněk Strecker, Ph.D.
Research on noise generation and propagation in rail transport
Výzkum vzniku a šíření hluku v kolejové dopravě
Aim of thesis: Noise generated by the operation of rolling stock is an ongoing social problem. One of the main sources of strong noise is wheel-rail contact. In the case of abnormal operating conditions, excessive lateral vibration of the wheel can occur, leading to the emission of a strong acoustic signal. Although some hypothetical mechanisms of wheel-rail contact noise behaviour have been described, a number of phenomena have still not been satisfactorily investigated. Especially in the context of the modern approach of adhesion management on risky track sections through the application of liquid or solid substances to the surface or sides of the rail. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the influence of operating conditions in modified contact on the occurrence of unwanted noise and its propagation to the surroundings.
Current issues researched in cooperation with the Brno city public transport company.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Milan Klapka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Radovan Galas, Ph.D.
Advanced bearing diagnostics for wind farms
Pokročilá diagnostika ložisek pro větrné elektrárny
Aim of thesis: Wind power (WPP) is one of the world's most widespread alternative sources of electricity. The desire to maximize the efficiency of the plant leads to high demands on the mechaniocal design and high reliability of all structural components. Critical components include the driveline bearings. Due to the time-varying loads, it is difficult to reliably determine their service life. At the same time their failure during operation must be prevented, as the entire turbine can be heavily damaged and high reapair cost will be required. The aim of this work is to develop an advanced predictive diagnostic method for monitoring the technical condition of the wind turbine bearings using non-destructive testing methods.
Cooperation with an industrial partner - manufacturer of non-destructive testing equipment DAKEL.
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Milan Klapka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. František Vlašic, Ph.D.
Solid Stick Friction Management
Tuhé materiály pro modifikaci tření v kolejové dopravě
Aim of thesis: The aim of the thesis is to propose a suitable composition of solid friction modifiers (solid sticks) for application to the flange and tread of the wheels of rolling stock. Compositions must meet the requirements in terms of friction, product consumption, and squeal noise reduction.
Cooperation with Ceitec and industrial partners
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Radovan Galas, Ph.D.
Digital twin of wheel-rail contact
Digitální dvojče rozhraní kolo-kolejnice
Aim of thesis: The aim of the work is to use experimental methods to develop a model that will describe the frictional behavior of the wheel-rail contact in the presence of lubricants. The model will use real-track data to predict contact friction, allowing the lubrication system to recognize when re-application of lubricant is necessary. The result of the work will have an effect on a more efficient process of lubrication of the contact between the wheel and the rail. Lubricant consumption will be optimized while the wear of contact bodies is reduced.
Cooperation on a project, which will use the developed model for the control of contact lubrication on a real railway line.
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Hartl, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Daniel Kvarda
Analysis of rough bodies lubrication by machine-based learning
Analýza mechanismů mazání nehladkých těles pomocí strojového učení
Aim of thesis: The aim is to apply algorithms of machine-based learning for experimental data analysis of lubricated point contacts. The theme deals with relation of friction and film thickness for real rough surfaces. Developed algorithms will find out new empirical dependencies by automatic analysis of large set of measured data.
Cooperation and internships at foreign partners
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Petr Šperka, Ph.D.
The effect of local surface changes on lubrication of plain bearings
Vliv lokálních změn parametrů povrchů na mazání kluzných kontaktů
Aim of thesis: The aim is to reveal the effects of local geometrical and surface-parameters changes on friction and load carrying capacity of hydrodynamically lubricated plain bearings. It includes measurements of lubricating film on simulators with transparent body for optical insight into the contact. New knowledge will enable to develop performance optimized plain bearings.
cooperation on the project of Czech science foundation
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Petr Šperka, Ph.D.
Friction reduction by nanoparticle containing lubricants
Snižování tření pomocí maziv s nanočásticemi
Aim of thesis: The aim is to achieve regime of ultra-low friction in point contacts by synergy of surface parameters and nanoparticles immersed in fluid lubricant. It contains analysis of friction, wear and film thickness under boundary and mixed lubrication regimes. New technology enables to decrease power losses in tribological interfaces.
Cooperation and internships at foreign partners
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Petr Šperka, Ph.D.
Transient phenomena affecting friction in point contacts
Přechodové jevy ovlivňující tření v bodových kontaktech
Aim of thesis: The aim of the project is to provide experimental evidence of the transient behaviour of point contacts in the presence of water-solids suspension when friction drop occurs and to explain the nature of this phenomenon based on optical observation of the contact. Further emphasis is placed on describing the scope of the problem in terms of contact conditions and rheological parameters of suspension.
Cooperation on a fundamental research project with a research centre in Austria
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Hartl, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Milan Omasta, Ph.D.
Modelling the transient behaviour of suspensions in point body contacts
Modelování přechodového chování suspenzí v bodových kontaktech těles
Aim of thesis: The work is focused on the use of CFD/DEM methods to model the behaviour of water and solids suspension in concentrated contacts. The aim is to provide a theoretical explanation of the transient behaviour associated with drop in friction in these contacts.
Part-time job at a research centre in Austria
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Hartl, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Milan Omasta, Ph.D.
Particle emissions from rail transport
Emise částic z kolejové dopravy
Aim of thesis: The work deals with experimental research on the emission of particulate matter from the wheel-rail interface, especially during the application of lubricants and materials for traction enhancement. The aim is to describe the critical factors influencing their formation and effect on the environment.
Work combining laboratory experiments and real track measurements
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Martin Hartl, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Milan Omasta, Ph.D.
An experimental research on damage mechanism of journal bearings
Experimentální výzkum mechanizmů poškození kluzných ložisek
Aim of thesis: The work is focused on the experimental study of limit states and damage of large plain bearings for wind power plants. The aim is to implement advanced methods (vibrodiagnostics, acoustic emission) for condition monitoring and diagnosis of damage occurrence and propagation into the testing methodology.
Cooperation with industry and use of unique observation techniques
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Ivan Křupka, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. Milan Omasta, Ph.D.
Development of a mixing system for 3D printing of additived cement composite mixtures
Vývoj mísícího systému pro 3Dtisk aditivovaných cemento-kompozitních směsí
Aim of thesis: The goal is to design and verify the components of the mixing device to achieve the homogeneity of the cement-composite mixture suspension during continuous addition of the base mixture. The extrudate will be additive with one or more components with different rheological properties and chemical composition. In order to ensure the correct properties of the mixture, it is necessary to achieve an even distribution (homogeneity) of the individual mixed components within a relatively short time.
Sub-goals:
1. determination of the methodical development process from simulation through device manufacturing ending by device verification
2. definition of the hypothesis about the influence of the selected equipment parameters on the homogeneity of the mixture
3. design, manufacturing and experimental operation of experimental prototypes
4. description of the influence of the geometry of the mixers on the degree of homogeneity of the mixture
5. description of the influence of process parameters of the device (e.g. revolutions) and their influence to material properties and process parameters of 3D printing
6. the result is either 3 impacted publications or 3 registered intellectual property outputs of at least utility model (can be combined)
Cooperation with the spin-off 3Deposition, work on the TA CR project
Supervisor: doc. Ing. Daniel Koutný, Ph.D. Co-supervisor: Ing. David Škaroupka, Ph.D.