Simulation of an Autonomous Electric Wheel Loader

Master Thesis Title
Simulation of an Autonomous Electric Wheel Loader
Introduction
Volvo Construction Equipment is a company with a purpose; to build the world we want to live in! One of the actions to achieve this is to commit to the science-based targets. This means reducing the carbon footprint of our machines. A step towards the goal is the ambition to reduce CO2 emissions by 30% by the year 2030. Electrification is the key to achieve this ambition.
Mechanical and Simulation Engineering is a department in Volvo Construction Equipment Wheel Loader organization in Eskilstuna. The group focuses on different areas within simulation and mechanical engineering.
Description
Volvo’s futuristic wheel loaders are both electric and autonomous and have shown potential to be better in terms of energy consumption and productivity. The main task of the thesis work is to create the driver model for one of these concept machines to make the machine take decisions on how to act when approaching a gravel pile and to follow a set path when performing a task. When a driver model is in place a comparison of the potential improvement will be made with a conventional machine.
The objectives of work are:
Build the driver model in Matlab Stateflow.
Test run the model in short and load & carry cycles.
Compare performance to a conventional machine.

Qualifications
The student/students should have a background in Engineering with a programming mindset. An interest in calculation or simulation is essential. Experience with Matlab Stateflow is meritorious.

Tutor: Shehr Bano Fatima shehr.bano.fatima@volvo.com +46 162019125
Manager: Lars Serander lars.serander@volvo.com +46 16541 5982