Bachelor and Master Theses

In industry there are many possibilities to optimize process load with respect to electricity cost.

This thesis work will focus on one such application, viz. mine dewatering.

Generally, some kind of buffer is need to act as “energy storage”.

The objective here is to validate possible savings for a longer period based on a realistic scenario (buffer sizes, electricity cost,…).

Goals:

A previous MSc thesis at ABB Corporate Research has studied  optimization of mine dewatering. A large underground mine typically has multiple pumping stations, with a water reservoir at each level (see figure). The water reservoirs can be utilized to re-schedule pumping to time intervals when electricity prices is lower, and thus reduce the cost of electricity.

The previously developed methods need to be improved and tested using real data and actual electricity prices for longer time period (> 6 months).

We are also working on connecting in real-time such optmizations with the game engine Unity 3D for visualization.

The work will address the following points: 

Academic Background

1. Desired background in control engineering, embedded systems, computer science, or a related field  

2. A solid understanding of digital systems engineering principles.

3. Knowledge on mathematical modelling and optimization

4. Experience with programming in MATLAB/Simulink is required.

5. Basic knowledge of machine learning - prior coursework on embedded systems, machine learning / AI.

6. General good skills in programming

7. Proficiency in English, both spoken and written.