Master Thesis, 30 hp: Non-contact Torque Sensor

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

Non-contact torque sensing is an enabling technology for next-generation flight control systems and actuation concepts. Compared to conventional strain-gauge or shaft-mounted torque sensors, non-contact solutions can offer reduced mechanical integration constraints, improved reliability, and the potential for health monitoring and diagnostics without direct mechanical interfaces. At the same time, practical implementations must cope with harsh aerospace environments, strict safety and certification requirements, and tight constraints on mass, volume and cost.

To explore the feasibility and potential benefits of such technology for Saab’s applications, we are looking for students for a master’s thesis project on non-contact torque sensors for flight control and actuation systems.

Description of the Thesis Project

In this thesis, you will investigate non-contact torque sensing principles and technologies, propose a concept suitable for aerospace/defence applications, and evaluate its performance through modelling, simulation and prototyping.

Your work can include, for example:

Conducting a structured literature and patent review of non-contact torque sensors (e.g. magnetic, optical, inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, strain-encoding concepts) and related standards, with emphasis on applicability and technology readiness for flight control and actuation systems.

Developing a clear technical description of one or more promising sensing principles and sketching a possible system-level solution for Saab’s context, including sensor hardware, signal conditioning and integration into an actuator or flight control drivetrain.

Creating analytical and/or simulation models of the chosen concept(s) to evaluate measurable torque range, accuracy and repeatability, sensitivity to rotational speed and identification of key limitations and error sources.

Designing, building and testing a laboratory prototype of a non-contact torque sensor, characterising its performance (e.g. linearity, hysteresis, accuracy, dynamic response, speed dependence, repeatability) and comparing test results with model and simulation predictions.

Summarising the work in a thesis report, including an assessment of suitability for implementation in safety-critical flight control systems and recommendations for next steps and potential application scenarios within Saab.

Your profile

This thesis offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface between advanced research and real industrial practice. You will gain insight into how flight control systems are actually developed, qualified and operated on aircraft, and how new technologies can realistically transition from concept to certified product.

We are looking for master’s students with a strong interest in aerospace, fluid power and control systems, who enjoy combining analytical work with practical insight.

At Saab, you will work closely with experienced engineers in a high-technology environment and have the opportunity to connect your academic work to real-world challenges in flight control systems. We offer qualified supervision, access to relevant documentation and experts, and a supportive environment for both personal and professional development. Join us in exploring the future of hydraulic flight control actuation and help shape the next generation of aerospace systems.”

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.

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.