The main project that you will be working on is: “Improving an automated tether wear inspection system”. The primary focus of this project is the advancement of an automated tether wear inspection system. Building upon prior research that utilizes convolutional neural network (CNN)-based image classification, the goal is to further refine and implement a system capable of automating inspections. These inspections are crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of the overall system, and the aim is to perform them either after each flight or, ideally, in real-time during a flight.

There are several key areas identified for potential improvement and development within this project:

• Machine Learning Optimization: A significant part of the project will involve enhancing existing CNN-based models. This could entail experimenting with different network architectures, optimizing training parameters, exploring advanced machine learning techniques (e.g., transfer learning, few-shot learning), or developing more robust feature extraction methods. The aim is to improve the accuracy, speed, and generalization capabilities of the wear detection algorithms.

• Hardware Integration: This aspect focuses on seamlessly integrating the improved machine learning models and refined system design with the physical hardware components. This might involve selecting and integrating appropriate cameras, lighting systems, embedded processing units, and communication interfaces. The challenge will be to ensure reliable data capture and processing in a real-world operational environment, considering factors like power consumption, weight, and environmental resilience.

• Performance Validation: A critical phase of the project will be the testing and validation of the developed system. This will involve designing and conducting comprehensive experiments to evaluate the system’s accuracy, precision, recall, and overall effectiveness in detecting various types and degrees of tether wear. 

Next to that we can use your help for:

• Identify and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical and mechatronic issues in the current designs to improve system performance and reliability.
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of mechatronic and electronic components to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Aid in the assembly, benchmarking and integrating new or existing system components to ensure flight readiness.