Master Thesis: Concept Development for Extended Steering and Tilt Range in Sterndrive Systems

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Background

Sterndrive systems provide propulsion and steering through an drive mounted at the stern of a boat.

The steering and tilt ranges of the outdrive are mechanically limited to protect components such as the steering linkage, driveshaft joints, gears, transom assembly, and trim cylinders from interference, excessive loads, or loss of function.

These limits can constrain maneuverability and access in shallow-water or other operating conditions.

Thesis work objective

This thesis aims to develop and assess concepts that enable larger steering and tilt angles while maintaining safe and reliable operation.

The wanted outcome is a set of feasible design concepts, together with an assessment of their benefits, technical risks, and further development needs using criteria including achievable angular range, structural strength, durability, manufacturability, serviceability, and impact on steering and propulsion performance.

Qualifications and Personal Profile

- Mechanical design and CAD: model assemblies, check clearances, and develop alternative concepts.

- Kinematics and mechanisms: understand how the drive moves through steering and tilt ranges, including joint and linkage constraints.

- Engineering mechanics: assess loads, stresses, and potential failure points in components and connections.

- Structured concept development: generate, compare, and justify concepts against requirements such as performance, durability, manufacturability, and serviceability.

Useful additional experience

- Finite-element analysis or other simulation tools.

- Hydraulics and steering systems.

- Marine propulsion, transom assemblies, or corrosion and marine environments.

Ready for the next move?

Contact: Henrik Eldh, Director Driveline, henrik.eldh@volvo.com

Last application date: October 31

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Who we are and what we believe in
We are committed to shaping the future landscape of efficient, safe, and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents across the group’s leading brands and entities.

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group . Every day, you will be working with some of the sharpest and most creative brains in our field to be able to leave our society in better shape for the next generation. ​We are passionate about what we do, and we thrive on teamwork. ​We are almost 100,000 people united around the world by a culture of care, inclusiveness, and empowerment.

Volvo Penta , a world-leading supplier of engines and complete drive systems for marine and industrial applications, you will be part of a global and diverse team of highly skilled professionals who works with passion, trust each other and embraces change to stay ahead. We make our customers win.