PhD student - Performance demonstrability of Computer Vision functions for use in Large Passenger Aircraft operational concepts

Description de l'offre

Airbus Defence and Space (ex Cassidian)

Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2017, it generated revenues of € 67 billion and employed a workforce of around 130,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners from 100 to more than 600 seats. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as Europe’s number one space enterprise and the world’s second largest space business. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.

Our people work with passion and determination to make the world a more connected, safer and smarter place. Taking pride in our work, we draw on each other's expertise and experience to achieve excellence. Our diversity and teamwork culture propel us to accomplish the extraordinary – on the ground, in the sky and in space.

Description of the job

An opportunity for an PhD student has just opened within Airbus Civil Aircraft entity in Toulouse. The thesis subject is the following : “Performance demonstrability of Computer Vision functions for use in Large Passenger Aircraft operational concepts” .

Indeed in a context of Air Traffic increase and subsequent complexity, Airbus strategy aims at reducing crew workload and increasing safety through new function: Computer Vision (real time process that includes acquiring digital 2D/3D images, analyzing content and extracting relevant information for a dedicated function) is a technology that we believe will allow us to achieve these goals

You will be working within design office department dedicated to Communication and Surveillance systems and more specifically in a group focusing on Video and Surveillance functions such as Anticollision, Terrain Awareness and Weather Radar.

Why joining us ?

Autonomy in civil aviation systems and aircraft becomes a key objective in Airbus strategy.
Surveillance and Vision functions have a true role to play.
-Short term strategy aims at reducing crew workload and increasing safety through situation awareness improvement and/or threat alerting
-Long term strategy is to develop autonomous operation.

In line with these strategies, computer vision will contribute to achieve these goals by supporting the following tasks ( non exhaustive) :

·  Detect and avoid obstacles during roll-out

·  Localise A/C on the taxiway and more generally on the airfield

·  Identify airports signs (airfield signs, lighting and marking)

·  Localise A/C with reference to runway centerline at take-off and landing

·  Identify airport and runway during approach

·  Detect obstacles on runway during approach

These functions will be supported by sensors and real-time algorithm that remains to be proven in aeronautics to make sure they suits to aircraft operations and constraints.

Tasks & accountabilities

The thesis project aims at studying state of the art solutions for computer vision in terms of performance demonstrability to be assess in the frame of aeronautics certification and at studying means /methods to achieve this demonstrability. Demonstrability is key in our aeronautical world in order to get Airworthiness Authorities (EASA and FAA) approval. It is also key for AIRBUS, in order to ensure maturity when in service.

He/she will be in charge of:
1)Study state of the art of computer vision in non-aeronuatics domains (e.g. robotic , automotive, spatial…) for both sensors and algorithm
2)Identify a list of technical solutions for the A/C functions considered
3)Study the performance demonstrability of the selected algorithm
4)In depth study of one A/C function based on computer vision including selection of sensor /algorithm, verification and validation, and integration within a functional sub assembly. Use case and corresponding results could be presented to Airworthiness Authorities or their representatives
Above tasks will have to be compiled in a report

To cope with the above tasks here
·  above the job holder, on top of technical skills (image processing, sensors, algorithms programming, ..) will have to be a collaborative team player able to adapt to a changing and challenging environment.

The field of surveillance/vision systems is very open to the outside (US suppliers and standardization activities done in international groups). This is also a technical field with a lot of opportunities where a lot of innovations are emerging.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Required skills

·  Computer Vision or image processing experience

·  Programming skills

·  Open minded & agile

·  Collaborative mind set

·  Innovation oriented and Business driven

·  English negotiation level