Windscreen wiper modelling and simulation

The simulation of complex automotive systems requires methods from different disciplines such as dynamics, fluid mechanics, friction, material science etc. The aim of this project is to explore the limits of fluid-structure interaction in the presence of thin-film lubricated contact and friction. Specifically, the problem of simulating a highly flexible body in contact with a wet surface will be investigated, with applications to engineering areas such as the wet friction of tyres or the wet friction and wiping performance of windscreen wipers.

Initially, research will be carried out into mathematical modelling methods to address the general multi-physics problem as described above. This research will be applied to the industrially-relevant problem of simulating windscreen wiper performance by:
- Identifying and replicating the physics of windscreen wiping in a simulation environment
- Quantifying the relative influence of design parameters such as; curvature of the wiper, stiffness of the wiper blade, angle of attack, pre-tension, curvature of the windscreen and others.
- Creating a predictive simulation tool that can be used to make basic design decisions and assist with optimum specification of windscreen wipers.