Internship | Propagation modelling for mission planning

Wireless technology is essential on the modern battlefield. A wide variety of electromagnetic (EM) waves propagate across the battlefield. Waves associated with communication links with the base, with nearby units or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), as well as active jamming of potential improvised electronic devices (IEDs), just to name a few. To ensure the successful completion of a mission, it is essential to be able to get insight in and make predictions regarding propagation. The most accurate results can be obtained using full wave simulation software. However, due to time and computational constraints, this is not an option. Many different analytical or ray-tracing based propagation models exist. These require a much shorter execution time, and have much less stringent hardware requirements. However, these models are inherently limited in their applicability. This graduation project is about using analytical and/or ray tracing models to make sufficiently accurate predictions about propagations during missions.

The aim of this student project is to use analytical and/or ray tracing models to make sufficiently accurate predictions about propagations during missions. As we expect the challenge to be too big to solve in just one graduation project, we will define the exact boundaries of each graduation project in consultation with the student, based on preferences and priorities. Remaining parts will be solved by others. Available topics include:

• Updating the recent study on available propagation models, recent developments, and applications. You will also identify the applicability of the models (for example frequency range, transmitter/receiver height, distance, surrounding terrain, etc.).
• Defining which models are applicable in which real-life scenarios. You also define gaps, i.e. cases that are not yet properly covered by any of the available models.
• Performing a sensitivity study on the influence of external factors, such as weather, surface roughness, surface material, vegetation, as well as an uncertainty analysis. This study is based on literature, but can also be based on full-wave simulations, or even experiments.
• Investigate if and how external factors can be incorporated into the existing models.
• Investigate how well these models are suitable to predict jammer effectiveness.
• Investigating to what extent validation of models, as well as influence of external factors, can be done through the use of full-wave simulations.
• Performing a series of propagation experiments. The goal of these experiments is to validate – and potentially even expand – the chosen analytical models, by modelling and measuring the propagation in several realistic scenarios.
• Improving the measurement setup to allow for automated measurements in various environments – such as urban or forest. Both the Tx and Rx should be mobile.
• Frequency allocation, network planning, are all influenced by propagation conditions. Uncertainty of path loss influences cell size and/or limits frequency re-use. We could separate the transmission path into long distance part (influenced mostly by atmospheric conditions) and a short distance part (more related to high clutter urban conditions). How can the uncertainties of both parts be quantified, and combined to improve frequency management?

We are looking for a student who is enthusiastic and wants to contribute to a safe and secure society. We expect you to be eager and willing to learn new things, and to be willing to guide your own research. Good proficiency in the English and/or Dutch language is required.

As a (graduate) student pursuing a Master’s degree, preferably in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, you should possess the following qualifications:

• Background in electromagnetics (EM), specifically propagation;
• Programming experience: Proficiency in either MATLAB or Python (or both) is essential;
• At least a bit of experience with measurement of EM propagation is appreciated;
• Experience with 3D EM modelling software, such as CST, is appreciated.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.