Bsc/Msc: Mechanical Engineering/Systems and Control

Are you a WO student who is ready for their next challenge? Are you interested in advanced control techniques? We are looking for you!

Assignment Overview

In large format graphics printing, a lot of roll to roll printing is performed for various applications. One challenge that needs to be tackled is media steering, to ensure proper print quality and winding of the output roll. Currently, this is often done by keeping tension on the media and using its in-plane stiffness. Yet proper controlling of the desired tension during stepping is challenging due to the direct interaction with the belt movement.

The current control design relies on Iterative Learning Control with basis functions of the desired setpoint. This control technique is used to learn the required torque based on repeating step profiles. However, for smaller radii rolls we encounter a problematic interaction between the rolls and the belt, resulting in inaccurate stepping performance. Hence, we are interested in exploring alternative solutions, such as Repetitive Learning Control without the use of basis functions.

Currently, we have developed the control architecture for Repetitive Learning Control, yet its performance on our hardware is not at the desired level compared to its performance in simulation. You will learn the working principle of the current implementation and the proposed alternative. Both can be assisted by simulations and tests on our hardware. Your goal is to integrate and/or adapt the proposed Repetitive Control architecture on our hardware to make a fair comparison between both Iterative Learning Control and Repetitive Learning Control for controlling the tension on the media.

Your Profile

• You are currently studying a Master in Mechanical Engineering or Systems and Control.
• You should have experience with advanced control techniques.
• You are suitable for a full-time internship of 4~5 months.
• You are able to work on our premises in Venlo R&D for at least 3 days a week.
• You master Matlab/Simulink programming.
• You are fluent in English or Dutch.

What’s in it for you?

• A challenging assignment with skilled coaching
• Internship/Graduation compensation of €500,- per month
• Travel cost compensation if you don’t have an ‘OV-weekcard’
• The possibility to network with professionals inside and outside your field of expertise, thanks to our diversity of disciplines which you will work with

What do we stand for?

We develop and manufacture high-tech printing products and workflow software for the commercial printing market as part of Canon, a global leader in imaging technologies. With around 3,300 employees across three continents and our headquarters in Venlo, the Netherlands, we innovate to create high-quality solutions that add color to the world. Guided by the philosophy of Kyosei—living and working together for the common good—our culture is built on openness, collegiality, trust and stability. We empower our people to grow, take initiative, and make an impact.

With our company values collaboration, innovation and ownership, we strive to bring out the best in each other, expand boundaries and feel empowered to take ownership of our work.