In June 2024, a specialized one-week Erasmus+ internship program was successfully
conducted for a group of PhD. Students – Šimon Berta, Matej Hanzalík, Andrej Ürge and
Michal Uličný – from the Slovak University of Technology (STU) by University of Twente
(UT). The program was designed to provide a comprehensive and practical understanding of
modern systems engineering, advanced battery technologies, and power electronics,
integrating both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. The curriculum was led by
a team of distinguished experts and researchers, offering students invaluable insights into
current industry trends and innovative research.
The internship kicked off with a round of introductions, setting the stage for a collaborative
and engaging environment. The initial focus was on systems engineering, with a Systems
Engineering Awareness workshop. The students were introduced to fundamental concepts
like systems thinking and design tools, which provide the framework for complex engineering
projects. This was followed by a practical case study, Applying a Systems Engineering
Approach to the Development of a BPEA Battery Pack. Students from STU also participated
in a Self-Reflection system Engineering part, connecting their academic knowledge to real-
world applications.
The program then delved into the specifics of charging systems and power electronics. An
Intro to Power Electronics group + Charging Systems in Power Electronics was provided.
The principles of Wireless Power Transfer and Introduction to Battery Systems were
covered. The integration of battery services and electric vehicles (EVs) into the grid was
discussed in the lecture on Energy storage and EV grid integration. A tour of the Power
Electronics group lab provided students with a firsthand look at the sophisticated equipment
and ongoing research. Students from STU also had the opportunity to present their own PhD
projects, fostering a valuable exchange of research interests and ideas. The day continued
with presentations on Microgrid Design & Battery Sizing in Hybrid Optimization of Multiple
Energy Resources (HOMER) Software, Converter-Induced EMI issues in Battery Systems:
Approaches to Minimize Common Mode and Leakage Currents, and Triangular Current
Mode Modulation for AC/DC Converter System.
The final phase of the program concentrated on advanced diagnostics, prognostics, and
battery management systems. A lecture on Advanced Diagnostics and Prognostics in
Batteries was given, while a discussion on Machine Learning Methods for Battery Aging
Assessment Based on EIS took place. The students then engaged in practical, hands-on
activities, including Battery Module Testing and BMS Measurements with Wiring Harness.
This practical session was a highlight, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in a
laboratory setting. The internship concluded with the students Presentation and discussion of
results, solidifying their understanding of the concepts covered throughout the week.
The week-long internship was a significant success, providing a rich blend of theoretical
lectures, expert-led workshops, and hands-on lab sessions. The program not only broadened
the students understanding of key engineering disciplines but also provided them with
practical experience crucial for their future careers. The diverse range of topics and the
opportunity to engage with leading experts made this an invaluable learning experience. The
students active participation and thoughtful presentations demonstrated their commitment
and high level of academic preparation. Erasmus+ program serves as a strong model for
future collaborations between academia institutions.
