Thesis worker - Design of a Combined Endurance and Vibration Test Rig for Embedded Actuator Validati

M.Sc Thesis 30hp – Design of a Combined Endurance and Vibration Test Rig for Embedded Actuator Validation

Introduction and Background:

Scania is part of the TRATON Group and is responsible for developing world-class transport solutions for a sustainable future. As vehicle systems become increasingly electrified and automated, the demand for reliable and robust actuator systems continues to grow.

Embedded electrical actuators used in driveline applications are exposed to both operational loads and environmental vibrations throughout their service life. To ensure reliable operation and long-term durability, future actuator concepts require representative laboratory validation methods that accurately reproduce real vehicle operating conditions.

Within the organization, a need has been identified for a test rig capable of combining endurance testing with vibration excitation representative of a heavy-duty truck engine operating at idle conditions. Existing clutch systems and load interfaces are already available, while the overall rig architecture remains to be defined.

This thesis offers the opportunity to investigate alternative concepts and develop a complete design proposal that could form the basis for future actuator validation activities at Scania and partner brands within the group if needed. In addition, this thesis work provides an opportunity to learn more about Scania & Traton and establish professional connections.

Objective:

The objective of this thesis is to develop and recommend a complete design concept for a combined endurance and vibration test rig for a specific embedded electrical actuator type.

The proposed solution shall enable actuator testing against existing vehicle clutch-generated loads while simultaneously exposing the actuator to vibration levels representative of a range of  heavy-duty diesel engine operating at varying idle speed.

It is essential to propose a design that can be replicated to test multiple samples within the same confined space available at Scania test facility. Current Rig setup is bulky and utilises the whole space to test one sample at a time.

Description:

The project shall be carried out using a combination of literature studies, concept development, engineering analysis, and mechanical design work.

The thesis may include:

• Reviewing existing actuator, gearbox, and clutch interfaces.
• Understanding the vibration environments for heavy-duty truck applications.
• Understanding the existing testing system and requirements for the current rig.
• Developing and comparing alternative rig architectures
• Investigate how mounting arrangements influence vibration transfer and test realism.
• Evaluating suitable shaker technologies and vibration input methods.
• Performing basic strength and dynamic simulations
• Performing packaging studies for installation within limited test area constraints.
• Conducting trade-off studies and concept evaluations.
• Developing CAD-based design proposals and recommendations.

To complete the thesis, a final design proposal shall be presented together with the rationale behind the selected concept. The recommendation should include a proposed rig architecture, mounting strategy, packaging layout, and implementation roadmap for future development.

Education / Program / Focus:

You are a curious and motivated student with a strong interest in mechanical design, testing, product development, and engineering problem solving. You enjoy transforming technical challenges into practical engineering solutions and are motivated by working with real products in an industrial environment.

We're looking for someone who ticks these boxes:

• Ongoing M.Sc. studies in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automotive Engineering, Product Development, or similar.
• Interest in mechanical systems, durability, and vibration engineering.
• Experience with CAD tools and engineering design methods.
• Basic understanding of machine design and structural mechanics.
• Knowledge of vibration analysis, FEM, or simulation tools is considered meritorious.
• Interest in automotive or heavy-duty vehicle applications is considered meritorious.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Start Date:

January 2027 (start date and timeline to be agreed upon between Scania, the candidate, and the academic institution).

Project Duration:

20 weeks (Spring semester 2027)

Location:

Södertälje, Sweden

Contact Persons:

Martin Gregorsson, Development Engineer, TGRPDDP, martin.gregorsson@se.traton.com

Vyshak Mohandas, Development Engineer, TGRPDDP, vyshak.mohandas@se.traton.com

Akshay Gawali , Manager, TGRPDDP, akshay.gawali@se.traton.com

Application: Your application must include a CV, a personal letter, and a transcript of grades. 

A background check might be conducted for this position.

We are conducting interviews continuously and may close the recruitment earlier than the date specified.