Resilient and modular systems for hostile environments

As we increasingly rely on independent electronic systems for data acquisition in a wide range of
environments, designing such systems in a resilient manner is more crucial than ever. Currently, vast quantities of used electronics find their way into landfill despite containing many reusable parts.
Likewise, in the satellite industry, space junk is a growing issue; when satellites fail or become
obsolete, the only options are abandonment or destruction. It is apparent that we must investigate new ways to design complex electromechanical systems with increased modularity to extend both their lifetime and capabilities. This is an unmet need, especially in situations where human maintenance is unsafe or impossible.
This PhD will consider the mechanical, electronic and software design aspects for a system requiring
independently operating parts which can be combined into a more complex system without the need for human interaction. For example, the system could be an Earth-observation satellite with
interchangeable camera modules or an environmental monitoring station in a remote location, which receives additional sensor packages via drone. As such, components to consider include: autonomous mechanical consolidation of modules, information transfer between modules and electronic integration.
The project will require a combination of modelling, design and physical prototyping, being inherently multidisciplinary. The outcomes of the project will be applicable across various future projects within the university, such as air pollution monitoring.