Thesis Work – Thermal modelling of battery electrical distribution system
Thesis work at Volvo Cars
Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars (VCC) by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization, you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. All thesis projects are arranged in business-critical areas and therefore you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one!
Background
At Volvo Cars, efficient design solutions for energy storage systems are being explored and designed. In a foreseeable future, Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries is the dominating solution for energy storage within such systems. The Battery Distribution Unit (BDU) is an important part of an EV’s electrical architecture. It houses electrical components crucial for safe and robust usage of the battery. For that purpose, it is vital that the tools used to create these systems are not only able to deliver quality results but also deliver them within reasonable time to facilitate faster product development.
This thesis project aims to investigate and model the thermal behaviour of the BDU, focusing on breaking down it’s different components into a 1-dimensional thermal model, all while maintaining the balance of computational expense vs accuracy of the models. The aim is to be able to utilize the power of lower fidelity models such as 1D compared to 3D for quicker looping of components and to be able to integrate the BDU into full system simulations to consider the effect it has on the rest of the system. The focus of the thesis will be on: (i) Exploring strategies to implement a system model of the BDU and its pros and cons; (ii) Evaluate the impact of the BDU on the entire system (battery pack); (iii) Study and compare models of different fidelity and tests to be able to tune the model, capture and improve on the reliability of the electrical and thermal behaviour of the components within the BDU. The work will build up on state-of-the-art modelling tools available at Volvo Cars and previous work done at the department.
Scope of the work
• Explore various implementations on how to model the BDU within system modelling software
• Study the impact of the BDU on a system level.
• Perform sensitivity analysis to study how it affects the prediction on component temperatures.
• Compare findings to tests and higher fidelity models to improve the overall model behaviour.
You will have the opportunity to cooperate with colleagues within the traction battery ART and other engineers within VCC. You will be part of a team where everyone is included and collaborates well.
Duration
- Start in January 2025
- The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
- 30 points ECTS (academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University
- 1 student
What you´ll bring
We are looking for students pursuing a Master of Science degree in applied mechanics, applied physics, mechanical engineering, sustainable energy or similar. A genuine interest and curiosity in the subject matter and excellent analytical skills are needed. The ideal candidate has a background in computational mechanics and CFD/CHT analysis. Further, you have a big interest in batteries and electric vehicles.
Main part of the work to be done on site at Volvo Cars R&D location in Torslanda, Göteborg, Sweden.
Be part of the change – apply today!
Applications should include your CV and a brief personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. We are continuously screening applications and will fill the position as soon as we find a good match. So do not hesitate to send in your application.
Apply as soon as possible but no later than 2024-10-27
Please note that due to GDPR applications via email will not be accepted.
If you want more information about the project or simply learn a bit more about the team, please reach out to:
Marie-Louise Holmerat marie-louise.holmer@volvocars.com
Volvo Cars - Driving change together
Volvo Cars’ success is the result of a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive working environment. Today, we are one of the most well-known and respected car brands, with around 43,000 employees across the globe. At Volvo Cars, your career is designed around your skills and aspirations, allowing you to reach your fullest potential.