Internship (m/f/d) Electromechanical Energy harvesting

At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to:

Research Department Manager - Control Technologies & Automation Components

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Key responsibilities

The work model for the role is: #LI-Hybrid

You will be mainly accountable for:

• Piezoelectric Cantilever Design & Optimization:
  Design and optimize piezoelectric cantilever configurations for maximum energy harvesting efficiency.
  Determine optimal material selection, geometry, and electrical configuration.
  Develop design specifications for prototype fabrication.
• Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) Design & Development:
  Design and develop triboelectric nanogenerator configurations based on contact-separation or sliding modes.
  Select appropriate triboelectric material pairs for enhanced charge generation.
  Optimize electrode design and layout for maximum power output.
  Develop design specifications for TENG prototype fabrication.
• Theoretical Modeling & Simulation:
  Develop comprehensive mathematical models for both piezoelectric and triboelectric energy harvesting systems.
  Conduct finite element analysis (FEA) to predict piezoelectric response and energy conversion efficiency.
  Model electromechanical coupling effects for both technologies.
• Experimental Validation & Testing:
  Design and conduct experiments to validate simulation predictions for both technologies.
  Perform mechanical testing to measure output voltage and electrical power.
  Measure electrical parameters (impedance, capacitance, power output).
  Implement data acquisition systems to capture and analyze experimental results.
  Compare experimental and simulation results.

Qualifications for the role

• Currently enrolled in a Master's program in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related field.
• Strong understanding of piezoelectric materials and energy transduction mechanisms.
• Hands-on experience with finite element analysis tools (ANSYS or equivalent).
• Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA, SolidWorks, etc.).
• Experience with mechanical testing and data acquisition systems.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python or similar tools.
• Knowledge of electrical circuits and power measurement.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to present technical results clearly in both written and spoken English.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional and interdisciplinary teams.
• Adaptability to new environments, technologies and working methodologies.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Preferred additional qualifications:
  Prior experience with piezoelectric devices or actuators.
  Experience with dynamic signal analysis and frequency response characterization.
  Hands-on prototyping and laboratory experience.
  Understanding of vibration and cantilever beam mechanics.

Interested in joining our team? We are looking forward to receiving your complete application (CV, Cover letter, Transcript of records) through our online tool. In the case of equal suitability, people with severe disabilities and their equals are given preference.

ABB AG

+49 (0) 621 381 3500

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