Nonlinear Optimization of Vehicle Safety Structures

Jesper Christensen is a Senior Research Fellow at Coventry University, and holds a PhD in Structural Optimisation, an MSc in Design of Mechanical Systems as well as a BSc in Industrial Engineering. Prior to his engineering degrees Jesper completed an apprenticeship as an engine fitter working with large marine propulsion systems. His entire academic career has predominately focused on structural optimisation; with a particular emphasis on topology optimisation. Jesper joined Coventry University in 2010; working on the £29m Low Carbon Vehicle Technology Project (LCVTP), developing topology optimisation algorithms for lightweight vehicle structures. Following the LCVTP his focus turned to the continued development of the Mechanical Engineering MSc course at Coventry University; taking over the course leadership. In this context he primarily focused on aspects such as FE theory and application, strain gauging, metal fatigue and optimisation principles. Jesper's research activities has continued through a number of PhD students as well as a number of successful project grants, including a £780k Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (ESPSRC) research grant focusing on multiphysics simulation and optimisation, as well as a £1.6m grant for industrial based research and development project focusing on development, implementation and optimisation of a Flywheel Energy Storage System (FESS) for commercial bus applications.