Master Thesis "Mixed-Integer Optimization for Model Predictive Control Algorithms"

CENTER FOR VISION, AUTOMATION & CONTROL

As Austria's largest research and technology organisation for applied research, AIT is dedicated to making substantial contributions to solving the major challenges of our time, climate change and digitisation.

The research unit Complex Dynamical Systems at the Center for Vision, Automation & Control invites applications for a master thesis. The unit focuses on modelling, simulation, analysis and optimization, as well as on the control of complex and dynamical industrial systems and processes.

In many industrial applications and control systems, decisions containing both continuous and nonlinear decision variables have to be made. This means that mixed-integer optimization problems must be solved. This work considers a processing line for continuous heat treatment of steel strips that operates in two modes: heating and cooling.

This work aims at formulating an optimal control problem for strip temperature tracking in the considered processing line and at developing, implementing, and assessing a numerical solution method. An efficient, real-time-capable solution of this problem forms the basis for the successful implementation of a model predictive strip temperature control, MPC.

Your tasks

• Literature review: A comprehensive review of known solution methods and available solvers for such problems shall be conducted.
• Solution algorithms: Incorporating an existing state-space model of the considered processing line, an optimal control problem involving continuous and discrete control inputs shall be defined and an algorithm for its solution shall be chosen or developed.
• Based on reasonable performance metrics, the algorithm is to be evaluated.
• Use-case: The solution algorithm considered is to be practically tested. The test should involve closed-loop simulations of an MPC tracking control strategy for the strip temperature.
• The implementation may be realized using Matlab.
• You will be trained in scientific work and will have the opportunity to discuss your experiences with scientific interdisciplinary experts from mathematics, informatics, physics, control and mechanical engineering.

Your qualifications as an Ingenious Partner

• Ongoing master's studies in the field of automation and control, technical mathematics, technical informatics or a comparable technical field.
• Excellent knowledge in the field of optimization.
• Excellent knowledge of Matlab and Python.
• Excellent technical understanding and analytical capabilities.
• Enjoyment of application-oriented questions of industry.
• High level of commitment and team spirit.
• Good knowledge of German and/or English in word and writing.

What to expect

• Duration of the master’s thesis project: about 6 months
• EUR 603 gross per month for 12 hours per week based on the collective agreement.
• Additional company benefits.
• As a research institution, AIT is familiar with the supervision and execution of master theses and supports students accordingly.

At AIT, an inclusive and family-friendly working environment promotes equal opportunities and strengthens diversity across the workforce and in leadership positions. Applications from female applicants are particularly welcome.

Please submit complete application documents online, consisting of CV, cover letter, relevant certificates and documents, transcript of records, as well as proof of identity.