Thesis: Preliminary Studies on the Calibration of Linear Measurement Systems

Summer Semester 2027 – fixed term of 3–6 months

Linear measurement systems measure positions and movements along an axis and are used in applications such as industrial automation, mechanical engineering and high-precision positioning. Measurement accuracy depends not only on the underlying measurement principle but also on mechanical tolerances, alignment errors, environmental conditions and temperature variations.

As part of this bachelor’s or master’s thesis, you will develop and investigate new methods to improve the accuracy and robustness of a linear measurement system. Potential areas of focus include developing an alignment concept, investigating temperature compensation methods or building a test setup to systematically characterize the measurement system.

YOUR TASKS:

• Familiarize yourself with how linear position measurement systems work and with the existing sensor technology.
• Analyze relevant influencing factors such as mechanical tolerances, alignment errors and temperature variations.
• Develop a concept for aligning, characterizing or compensating for errors in the measurement system.
• Design and build a suitable test setup.
• Plan and independently conduct systematic test series.
• Acquire and analyze measurement data using Python.
• Evaluate the methods developed based on suitable accuracy and robustness criteria.
• Document your findings and derive recommendations for further system development.

YOUR PROFILE:

• Degree studies in mechatronics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automation engineering, physics or a comparable field
• Interest in sensor technology, measurement systems and mechatronic systems
• Enjoyment of hands-on laboratory work and setting up experiments
• Basic knowledge of measurement data analysis and statistics
• Knowledge of Python
• Experience with CAD, mechanical design or experimental planning is an advantage
• Independent, structured and analytical approach to work
• Strong teamwork and communication skills

Contact: Sarah Disch