The project concerns the future of the human-computer interface in engineering design – principally the manner in which engineers generate 3D representations of their designs, both physically and virtually. Within the digital world, 3D forms are developed primarily using a 2D interface, with little tangible feedback on the forms and properties that are created. Within the physical world, modelling and prototyping gives a strong sense of the physicality of a design, but without the speed, flexibility, and repeatability of computer-aided design. This project aims to harmonize these two approaches, and their affordances, through the automatic generation of 3D virtual models based on live-action building of physical models. It is envisaged that a system will be created where instrumented physical brick-like components (digital matter) are used as an interface, translating their connections and overall form into 3D models by communicating orientation and relative placement. As a result, the system would allow direct and physical interface with a virtual and fully editable model. The system would initially create 1:1 representations, before integrating alternative relations such as motion constraints and other common CAD features. The research would therefore involve identifying and evaluating 3D and 2D interface techniques, adaption of sensing approaches and technologies, methods for monitoring and relating physical part location to a virtual 3D space, evaluation of better practice in physical design techniques, and integration of function into existing CAD systems. The project also has broader scope extending into augmented reality technologies, representation technologies, and the future of human-computer interfacing in engineering; and will contribute towards the future and development of cutting edge interface and design in engineering. The successful candidate will join a team of 8 researchers in the Design and Manufacturing Futures Lab.

Please make an online application for this project at http://www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply. Please select Mechanical Engineering on the Programme Choice page and enter details of the studentship when prompted in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form

Candidate requirements: •  Degree subject: Mechanical, Aeronautical, Automotive or Manufacturing Engineering. Design/Design, Engineering or Computer Science. 

Knowledge: computer programming, design/manufacturing processes. Skills: Strong written, presentation and communication skills 

Funding: Home/EU: Full payment of tuition fees and maintenance stipend of £13,863 per annum. Studentship covers full UK/EU (EU applicants who have been resident in the UK for 3 years prior to application) PhD tuition fees and a tax-free stipend at the current RCUK rate (£13,863in 2014/15). EU nationals resident in the EU may also apply and will qualify only for PhD tuition fees

Contacts: Please email Dr Chris Snider Email: chris.snider<στο>bristol.ac.uk