IMT 30-20 Bachelor or Master Thesis: Thermomagnetic energy harvesting using magnetic shape memory alloys

New concepts are currently being developed that use magnetic film actuation to convert waste heat into electrical energy. Promising candidates are freely movable film cantilevers showing a large temperature-dependent change of magnetization. By putting them in contact to a heat source, the cantilevers start to self-oscillate allowing to convert mechanical into electrical energy. Thus, small temperature differences in the environment can be used to power, e.g., wireless sensor networks for the “Internet of Things“.

This interdisciplinary work focuses on energy generation on a miniature scale covering different fields of materials science, mechanical and electronic engineering. The focus of the work can be adjusted to the interests and competences of the applicant in a direct interview.

Tasks

• Characterization of material properties (structure, mechanical, thermal, magnetic)
• Modelling, design and simulation (FEM Multi-physics, Lumped Element Modelling)
• Rapid prototyping (Optical lithography, 3D Printing, Laser technology)
• Characterization of demonstrator variants (thermo-mechanical, electrical properties)
• Simulation-based design optimization

To carry out the work, the IMT has extensive state-of-the-art equipment (600 m² clean room, rapid prototyping processes such as 3D printing and laser cutting, assembly and joining technology laboratories, various metrological laboratories). Intensive support ensures that the work can be carried out within the desired time frame.

Further information on the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT): www.imt.kit.edu

Persönliche Qualifikation

We are looking for ambitious, creative and self-motivated people who enjoy working in a multidisciplinary and international team.

Field of study: Mechanical engineering, Physics, and related disciplines

Organisationseinheit

Contract Duration

4-6 months according to study regulations

Contact person in line-management

M.Sc. Joel Joseph, IMT,
+49 721 608-22767 (e-mail: joel.joseph@kit.edu)