Full-time study

4 years

prof. RNDr. Vladimír Aubrecht, CSc.

Chairman :
prof. RNDr. Vladimír Aubrecht, CSc.
Councillor internal :
doc. Ing. Petr Mastný, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Jiří Drápela, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Pavel Vorel, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Ondřej Vítek, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Petr Toman, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
prof. Ing. Radomír Goňo, Ph.D.
Ing. Petr Modlitba, CSc.
prof. Ing. Aleš Richter, CSc.
Ing. Zdeněk Wolf

The doctor study programme is devoted to the preparation of the high quality scientific and research specialists in various branches of power electronics, control technology, design of electrical machines, electric power generation and distribution, and electric power utilization.
The aim is to provide the doctor education in all these particular branches to students educated in university magister study, to make deeper their theoretical knowledge, to give them also requisite special knowledge and practical skills and to teach them methods of scientific work.

The goal of the postgradual doctoral (PhD) study of the program "Power Systems and Power Electronics" is the education for scientific work in the area of power electrical engineering and power systems. Graduates of PhD find occupation either as scientific or research workers including industrial development, either as university teachers and in higher manager functions as well.

The graduate of the doctor study program "Power Systems and Power Electronics" obtains broad knowledge of subject of high power engineering. The knowledge is built mainly on theoretical background of the subject. Moreover, the graduate will obtain deep special knowledge aimed in direction of his/her thesis. The graduate will be able to perform scientific and/or applied research based on up to date theoretical knowledge. The graduate will be able to organize and lead a team of researchers in the studied subject.

Doctoral studies are carried out according to the individual study plan, which is prepared by the supervisor in the beginning of the study in cooperation with the doctoral student. The individual curriculum specifies all the duties determined in accordance with the BUT Study and Examination Rules, which the doctoral student must fulfill to successfully finish his studies. These responsibilities are time-bound throughout the study period, they are scored and fixed at fixed deadlines.
Students will write and pass tests of obligatory subject Exam in English before the state doctoral examination, compulsory elective courses in view of the focus of his dissertation, whereas at least two are selected from: Mathematical Modelling of Electrical Power Systems, New Trends and Technologies in Power System Generation, Selected problems from power electronics and electrical drives, Topical Issues of Electrical Machines and Apparatus), and at least two optional subjects (English for PhD students; Quoting in Scientific Practice; Resolving Innovation Assignments; Scientific Publishing from A to Z).
The student may enroll for the state doctoral exam only after all the tests prescribed by his / her individual study plan have been completed. Before the state doctoral exam, the student draws up a dissertation thesis describing in detail the aims of the thesis, a thorough evaluation of the state of knowledge in the area of the dissertation solved, or the characteristics of the methods it intends to apply in the solution.
The defense of the controversy that is opposed is part of the state doctoral exam. In the next part of the exam, the student must demonstrate deep theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of electrical engineering, electronics, electrical machines, and electrical apparatus. The state doctoral examination is in oral form and, in addition to the discussion on the dissertation thesis, it also consists of thematic areas related to compulsory and compulsory elective subjects.
To defend the dissertation, the student reports after the state doctoral examination and after fulfilling conditions for termination, such as participation in teaching, scientific and professional activity (creative activity) and at least a monthly study or work placement at a foreign institution or participation in an international creative project.

The doctoral studies of a student follow the Individual Study Plan (ISP), which is defined by the supervisor and the student at the beginning of the study period. The ISP is obligatory for the student, and specifies all duties being consistent with the Study and Examination Rules of BUT, which the student must successfully fulfill by the end of the study period. The duties are distributed throughout the whole study period, scored by credits/points and checked in defined dates. The current point evaluation of all activities of the student is summarized in the “Total point rating of doctoral student” document and is part of the ISP. At the beginning of the next study year the supervisor highlights eventual changes in ISP. By October, 15 of each study year the student submits the printed and signed ISP to Science Department of the faculty to check and archive.
Within the first four semesters the student passes the exams of compulsory, optional-specialized and/or optional-general courses to fulfill the score limit in Study area, and concurrently the student significantly deals with the study and analysis of the knowledge specific for the field defined by the dissertation thesis theme and also continuously deals with publishing these observations and own results. In the follow-up semesters the student focuses already more to the research and development that is linked to the dissertation thesis topic and to publishing the reached results and compilation of the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the second year of studies the student passes the Doctor State Exam, where the student proves the wide overview and deep knowledge in the field linked to the dissertation thesis topic. The student must apply for this exam by April, 30 in the second year of studies. Before the Doctor State Exam the student must successfully pass the exam from English language course.
In the third and fourth year of studies the student deals with the required research activities, publishes the reached results and compiles the dissertation thesis. As part of the study duties is also completing a study period at an abroad institution or participation on an international research project with results being published or presented in abroad or another form of direct participation of the student on an international cooperation activity, which must be proved by the date of submitting the dissertation thesis.
By the end of the winter term in the fourth year of study the students submit the elaborated dissertation thesis to the supervisor, who scores this elaborate. The final dissertation thesis is expected to be submitted by the student by the end of the fourth year of studies.
In full-time study form, during the study period the student is obliged to pass a pedagogical practice, i.e. participate in the education process. The participation of the student in the pedagogical activities is part of his/her research preparations. By the pedagogical practice the student gains experience in passing the knowledge and improves the presentation skills. The pedagogical practice load (exercises, laboratories, project supervision etc.) of the student is specified by the head of the department based on the agreement with the student’s supervisor. The duty of pedagogical practice does not apply to students-payers and combined study program students. The involvement of the student in the education process within the pedagogical practice is confirmed by the supervisor in the Information System of the university.

1. Active power reserve estimation on unbalanced distribution network for the needs of flexibility

   The theses is focused on the state estimation of the power/current flow in individual phases of unbalanced distribution network for the needs of assessing the available power load in the points of common coupling (PCC). This information is a necessary basis for flexibility concept utilization, or load management concepts using multi-tariff structures or flexible tariffs in PCC. To determine the available load, unbalanced distribution system models and asymmetrically measured data from both distributed measurement and load diagrams determined by the operator will be used. As part of this issue, in addition to state estimation, the prediction of available load for the needs of flexibility will be solved, using long-term measurement information from PCC or distribution transformer stations MV/LV. In this area, an analysis of the time of maximal prediction will be performed, taking into account the variable availability of measurements, the number of monitored parameters and load diagrams. The main challenge of this topic is to find a method that minimizes the need for measurements (number of locations and monitored parameters) in order to reliably estimate the assimmetrical load of the system.

   Tutor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Advanced Technologies for High-Speed Electric Machines

   This research focuses on the electromagnetic design and development of high-speed electric machines for compressors in fuel cell cooling systems. The key challenge is to optimize the electromagnetic circuit to achieve high efficiency, minimal losses, and stability at extreme rotational speeds. The study will investigate novel approaches to reducing eddy current and hysteresis losses, optimizing magnetic circuit geometry, and selecting suitable materials for the rotor and stator. Special attention will be given to the application of advanced manufacturing technologies such as explosive cladding, which enables the creation of highly conductive and mechanically durable multilayer materials, and 3D printing, which allows for innovative structural solutions in active machine components. The research will analyze the impact of these technologies on the electromagnetic performance, mechanical durability, and thermal stability of the machine. The project will involve the development of numerical models for accurately simulating electromagnetic, mechanical, and thermal phenomena in high-speed electric machines. The experimental phase will focus on validating these models and testing prototypes. The outcome of the research will be an optimized electromagnetic system design suitable for real-world applications. A research stay at LUT University in Finland is expected, where the doctoral candidate will collaborate on the development of new high-speed electric machine concepts. Funding is expected through involvement in projects related to the dissertation topic.

   Tutor: Bárta Jan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Decentralized energy communities: Technology and implementation in the Czech Republic

   Community energy is an innovative approach to energy production, distribution and consumption, focused on involving local communities in the energy market. This concept uses decentralized energy sources, such as photovoltaic systems, small wind farms and battery storage, to ensure energy self-sufficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Key challenges are the technological integration of smart grids and demand management systems and the legislative environment. In the Czech context, community energy offers the potential to strengthen the energy independence of municipalities, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and involve citizens in the transition to more sustainable energy systems. The work will focus on the analysis of the concept, the design of technological solutions and the simulation of a pilot project in the context of the Czech Republic. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university (Tampere University is pre-negotiated). Objectives of the work: - Community energy concept analysis. - Analysis of current technologies used in community energy, including decentralized energy sources. - Analyze the possibilities of managing and optimizing energy flows in communities, for example using consumption management systems, IoT and smart grids. - Develop a conceptual design of a model energy community for a specific location in the Czech Republic. - Implement a simulation of the operation of the model community, including optimization of energy flows.

   Tutor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

4. Design and development of alternative partial discharge meters and indicators for high voltage equipment

   - Carry out an analysis and search of current principles and alternative solution of partial discharge measurement, - find suitable solutions or a combination of sensors on the basis of sensitivity measurement, determination of the nature of the fault, detection of the fault location and complexity of the solution, - implement own design and laboratory verification of functionality and range of parameters in shielded cells, - implement own, especially alternative principles of partial discharges measurement to indicators and fault meters in HV equipment.

   Tutor: Krbal Michal, Ing., Ph.D.

5. Design and Optimization of a System for Distributed Energy Resource Integration and Management in Community Energy Systems Using Mathematical Models and Simulations

   Community energy brings a fundamental shift in the approach to electricity generation, distribution, and consumption. Decentralized energy resources (DER), such as photovoltaic power plants, battery storage, and other renewable sources, are becoming key components of the energy system. Efficient utilization of these resources requires advanced control and optimization methods that consider both the technical and economic aspects of their operation. A critical challenge remains the proper configuration and management of DER connections to the distribution network and community energy systems. The objective of the study and dissertation is to focus on the design and optimization of a system architecture for managing community energy using advanced automation elements, particularly programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and optimization algorithms. An integral part of the research is the development of mathematical models of energy flows within community networks, enabling the simulation of various electricity-sharing scenarios and the prediction of generation and consumption. These simulations will allow testing of control strategies for efficient electricity allocation among participants using static, dynamic, and hybrid allocation keys. The research will also include an analysis of the legislative and technical conditions for connecting DER to community energy systems. It will explore how DER can be effectively integrated into energy communities while complying with applicable regulations and technical requirements of the distribution system. Special attention will be given to the interoperability of control systems, data security, and the cybersecurity resilience of the platform. The expected outcomes of the research include the development of a methodology for DER integration and management and a validated simulation model of energy flows. As part of the study, participation in a research project is anticipated, aiming to develop and experimentally validate a prototype of a control platform for community energy management. The final dissertation is expected to contribute to the development of effective strategies for decentralized electricity generation and consumption management and to support the broader adoption of community energy in line with modern energy trends.

   Tutor: Morávek Jan, Ing., Ph.D.

6. Ensuring the stability of supply and power quality from integrated photovoltaic systems in the EU power system with a focus on the Czech Republic.

   The integration of photovoltaic (PV) sources into the EU power system is a key part of the energy transition towards sustainable and renewable sources. Generation modules (VM) are subject to specific standards and regulations, such as EN 50549 and NC RfG, which define their technical requirements and interaction with the grid. The main challenges in their integration include supply stability and power quality, which are influenced by voltage and frequency fluctuations, harmonic distortion, rapid changes in load and generation, and interactions with battery systems and external protections. The objective of this dissertation is to analyze and optimize the stability of supply and power quality in integrated photovoltaic systems, focusing on VM categories A1, A2, and B1 (up to 1 MW) within the EU power system, with a specific emphasis on the conditions in the Czech Republic. The research will focus on mathematical simulations, laboratory tests, and operational measurements to evaluate the impact of individual components, including external grid protections, battery systems, and control units. A crucial aspect will be the validation of component compliance with standards and regulations and the design of measures to improve supply stability and power quality. The results of this research will provide recommendations for optimizing the integration of PV sources into the distribution network and ensuring their reliable operation. Approach to problem-solving: • Mathematical simulations of PV integration and its impact on the grid. • Experimental measurements in a specialized laboratory facility. • Testing the compliance of VM A1-B1 components. • Validation of external grid protections and control units for PV systems. • Assessing the impact of battery systems on mitigating instabilities and managing power quality. • Comparison of theoretical simulations with practical measurements. • Evaluating the effect of individual components on grid stability. • Optimization of parameters and control algorithms for VM A1-B1. • Identification of critical issues and recommendations for PV source integration. The PhD candidate is expected to participate in research projects in this field (Eco&Store). As part of the doctoral studies, a research internship at a foreign research institution is planned (expected universities: TalTech/Tampere).

   Tutor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Integrated Glare Metric for Various Lighting Applications

   Glare is a negative state of human vision that causes not only unpleasant feeling but also have negative influence on the performance of human vision system. For the glare evaluation there are many equations that are always used for specific application. For interior lighting systems it is used metric UGR. For glare evaluation caused by daylight from windows it is used metric DGP, DGI etc. However, there are disadvantages of these metrics. They are adapted for specific type of lighting system (e.g. offices, sport grounds, street lighting etc.) and specified for typical luminaires (e.g. luminaires with fluorescent lamps and opal diffusor, daylight windows etc.) However, they are all based on empirical data and therefore not on the physiological and psychological model. From this reason it is not possible to use these metrics to new aplications. This problem occurs especially in the current situation, where LED technologies started to dominate the market. The LEDs radiate from the very small surface and with the specific spectrum. The task of this thesis is to partially find answer to question: “What is the physiological and psychological mechanism that is responsible for unpleasant feelings caused by higher luminance”. On the basis of this mechanism the model of discomfort glare caused by high contrasts should be carried out. This model should be generalized and used in lighting systems. This topic is highly supported by international commission for illumination CIE and it is classed within the 10 strategic research goals in lighting technology.

   Tutor: Škoda Jan, Ing., Ph.D.

8. Integration of storage systems into the concept of electricity system support

   With the change in the energy mix concept and the increase in the share of stochastic sources (wind and photovoltaic plants), the concept of stability of the supply of electricity and its quality is closely connected. The topic is focused on the possibilities of accumulating electrical energy produced from renewable sources using modern technologies, with a focus on chemical accumulation and the use of pumped water power plants. The output of the work will be a proposal for measures in the energy system, which will solve the time disproportion between the supply and withdrawal of electricity from renewable sources and a proposal for a conceptual-technical solution for a selected part of the system in the Czech Republic. The solution is combined with modeling on a PC and experimental measurement on a functional model. The issue will be resolved in cooperation with the relevant CEZ division. It is assumed that the doctoral student will be involved in solving research projects in this area (Eco&Store). Part of the doctoral studies will be an internship at a foreign research institution (the TalTech university is pre-negotiated).

   Tutor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

9. Lighting systems reflecting non-visual effects of optical radiation

   With the development of technology, we are in a situation where we have enough products that could potentially improve the quality of lighting systems and streamline lighting processes in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Often referred to are biodynamic lighting, human centric lighting, adaptive and integrative lighting, or simply smart lighting. These terms are interpreted differently by the majority of the population and also by designers, marketers and implementation companies and often boil down to the mere control of the intensity and chromaticity temperature of light. However, this is only a basic part of the possibilities we have today. The seemingly well-studied area of the physiology of visual perception is now being significantly expanded by discoveries in the field of the effect of light on humans, namely in the area of biological processes. The influence of light has been demonstrated down to the molecular level and this important fact cannot be ignored in future technologies. At the same time, however, there is extreme pressure to save energy and to find ways to reduce the energy consumption of buildings, which does not exclude lighting technology. The topic of the PhD thesis will therefore address these seemingly contradictory requirements and look for ways to meet both requirements at the same time. Lighting technologies will have to respect not only energy, but also material and environmental issues. These aspects will also be addressed in the work. The result of the work should be a new vision of lighting solutions that motivates manufacturers and users to focus more on long-term solutions, more than short-term economic and energy efficient under very simplistic assumptions. For example, savings generated as a secondary effect in terms of improving public health or environmental conditions are difficult to quantify, but have a key impact on social behaviour. Research in this area would be a very useful basis for designers and implementers of lighting systems.

   A study trip abroad is expected to be held at one of the universities that already cooperate with the department in the use of brightness analyzer measurement technology - University of Sheffield, University of London (UCL), Aalto University - Espoo, Helsinki.

   Tutor: Baxant Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

10. Monitoring of Artifical Light at Night

    The topic of the study follows the long-standing activities of the lighting technology research group at UEEN in the field of measuring and evaluating light pollution. The aim is to expand and put into practical use the developed technology for measuring and evaluating artificial light in the night environment. The student will develop the developed prototype, optimize the methodology of use, and will conduct more extensive data collection in the Czech Republic and possibly also outside the Czech Republic as part of study internships and practices. The workplace has cutting-edge measuring technology, which the student will have at his disposal and will cooperate with foreign institutions in the given area. One of the goals is to compare the results of individual systems and select future technology for monitoring artificial light in the night environment with regard to life forms as a whole.

    The study's goals include the introduction of small-scale production of functional samples and the deployment of the technology in a wider group of researchers within the Czech Republic, the interconnection of existing database systems, their expansion, and the analysis of large-scale data - ground, aerial and satellite measurements.

    The student will complete an internship at a selected foreign university that also deals with the topic. There are dozens of places to choose from in Europe and hundreds around the world. An example is the Aalto University in Espoo (Helsinki-Finland).

    Tutor: Baxant Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

11. Numerical models of electric arc in switching devices

    The aim of the Ph.D. thesis is to create and experimentally verify numerical model of electric arc in the quenching chambre of the switching device based on magnetohydrodynamic equations. Implementation of not-solved problems into numerical model (behavior of electrode areas, interaction with surrounding materials, …). The candidate is supposed to follow the following steps: - Analysis of existing numerical electric arc models presented in peer-reviewed journals and world conferences. - Preparing a numerical model for a simplified model of the low voltage extinguisher system. - Experimental validation and debugging of the numerical model. - Implementation of own numerical model of electrode arc behavior and verification. - Implementation of arc interaction of the arc with structural materials in the model.

    Tutor: Valenta Jiří, Ing., Ph.D.

12. Probabilistic approach for optimization of distribution system operation

    The dissertation will be focused on research of a new probabilistic approach for evaluation of optimal operation of distribution network based on calculation and evaluation of fatal probability, probability of faults and continuity of supply. The methodology will respect already applied and new approaches optimized not only for national but also for international distribution networks operation conditions. The topic of the dissertation encompasses several areas that are focused on i.e. calculating of the earth fault levels, evaluating of fault duration and frequency, as well as area focused on calculation and analysis of the potential distribution on surface for evaluation of possible levels of touch and step voltages, transferred potential to low-voltage earthing systems and also assessment of the probability of human touch presence, fault ignition and touch/fault coincidence. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university. At present, university of TU Graz (Austria) may be considered relevant, but the specific place will be updated during Ph.D. study period. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university. At present, the TU Graz (Austria) and Aalto University (Finland) may be considered relevant, but the specific place will be updated during Ph.D. study period.

    Tutor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

13. System for distribution network operation optimization

    The Ph.D. thesis is focused on the development of adaptive system for optimization of the low and medium voltage network operation with respect to: voltage level, reactive power flows, voltage unbalance, load flow, etc. The system itself will also ensure fault location inside such networks and automatic reconfiguration. Designed system will be utilizing information from monitoring and control devices that are intended for installation in the distribution system by the operator (smartmetering, reclosers, smart DTS, etc.). To fulfill this task, a solution based on an opensource platform will be used, which will not exclude the integration of the proposed solution into dispatching control and planning systems in the future. The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university. At present, the Aalto University (Finland) may be considered relevant, but the specific place will be updated during Ph.D. study period.

    Tutor: Topolánek David, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

14. The voltage regulation in distribution networks with a high proportion of stochastic sources

    An increasing proportion of stochastic resources in networks affect the voltage stability during the day. Variable power delivery to the grid from these sources causes fluctuations in voltage variations during the daily diagram. Current devices used to the voltage regulation are unable to provide the required voltage level at all points of the network. The aim is to describe new possibilities and means for voltage regulation in distribution system and design concept of this regulation with regard to the current development of the resource base. It is assumed that the doctoral student will be involved in solving research projects in this area (Eco&Store). The condition for successful defense of this work is to complete at least one month long internship at a foreign university (Tampere University is pre-negotiated).

    Tutor: Mastný Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

15. Utilization of real-time simulation for advanced protection systems design

    New technologies of power system behavior research during transient phenomena open the area of advanced analysis focused to large protection systems operation during faults. The main aim of this dissertation is to extend possibilities of real time simulator RTDS about simultaneous tests in real time including real devices – hardware in the loop simulation. An internship at foreign university is included. Topic is include into research project “Control, protection and cost effective operation of distribution and industrial power systems” in frame of National Centre for Energy II.

    Tutor: Toman Petr, prof. Ing., Ph.D.