Master Thesis, 30 hp: Development of a Self-Sustaining Sustainable Power and Propulsion System for Autonomous Surface Vehicle

Are you a student eager to apply your theoretical knowledge and fresh perspectives to real-world challenges? At Saab, we believe that innovation thrives on new ideas, and your master thesis project could be the spark that ignites our next technological breakthrough.

Your role

We recognize the immense value that students bring to our company. Your academic rigor, combined with your enthusiasm for cutting-edge technology, allows you to approach problems with a unique and insightful lens. At Saab, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with experienced engineers and specialists, gaining invaluable practical experience while making a tangible contribution to our growth and development.

Background
Autonomous systems are becoming increasingly important for extending human capabilities at sea by allowing unmanned vehicles to operate for long periods with limited human intervention. Autonomy can increase reach, persistence and situational awareness while enabling people to focus on tasks where human expertise and judgement are most valuable.

Autonomy is not only a sensor and coding challenge. For vehicles, the ability to supply and manage energy and propulsion is fundamental for endurance and range capabilities and to meet operational conditions. The power and propulsion system therefore plays a critical role in enabling autonomous operation.

Moreover, power and propulsion offer opportunities to combine increased endurance with Saab’s sustainability ambitions. Energy efficiency, renewable energy and new technologies can contribute to both self-sustaining operation and significantly reduced climate impact.

Description of the Thesis Project

The project aims to develop a sustainable and self-sustaining power and propulsion system for an autonomous surface vehicle. You will analyze and define power source, propulsion and power generation solutions including their types, interfaces and sizing. The design will consider the vehicle's operational profile, endurance and environmental conditions as well as constraints such as weight and available space.  Documentation and evaluation of alternative concepts and which trade-offs these would entail will also be included in the thesis.

The thesis will be carried out together within the Power and Propulsion Systems section, Surface Ships at SAAB Naval in Karlskrona.

Your profile

The project is suitable for two students with an interest in mechatronics, systems engineering and electrical propulsion. You are in the final stage of your Master of Science in Engineering studies, for example in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering or a related field and are about to begin your 30 hp master thesis.

You are curious and analytical, with an interest in multidisciplinary engineering and exploring technical concepts from a system perspective. You enjoy working with others and take responsibility for your contribution.

We provide the support and guidance you need to translate your theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. Join us and become a driving force behind Saab's technological advancements!

This position requires that you pass a security vetting based on the current regulations around/of security protection. For positions requiring security clearance additional obligations on citizenship may apply.

Kindly observe that this is an ongoing recruitment process and that the position might be filled before the closing date of the advertisement.

Contact information

Martin Kroon, Manager

073-434 1502

[email protected]

Oliver Larsson, Master Thesis Supervisor

070-800 3310

[email protected]

What you will be a part of

Explore a wealth of possibilities. Take on challenges, create smart inventions, and grow beyond. This is a place for curious minds, brave pioneers, and everyone in between. Together, we achieve the extraordinary, each bringing our unique perspectives. Your part matters.

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world.

Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defense capability of several nations. Read more about us here.