Master's Thesis: CAN and CAN FD Cable Network Signal Integrity

Master's Thesis: CAN and CAN FD Cable Network Signal Integrity

Introduction and Background
At Scania, thesis work is an opportunity to apply academic knowledge to real engineering challenges and contribute to the development of future transport solutions. This project focuses on the reliability of CAN and CAN FD communication in vehicle cable networks, where cable layout and connected equipment can affect signal quality. 

In Scania’s S-order projects, cable harnesses are developed for trucks with varying configurations. Electronic control units may connect to a CAN network through a main line and branches, or stubs. In practice, long stubs and other network characteristics can contribute to communication disturbances, particularly in CAN FD networks. 

The effects depend on several factors, including data rate, signal edge rate, cable properties, topology, termination and transceiver characteristics. This thesis will investigate these effects under defined conditions and develop a practical method for evaluating CAN cabling.

The thesis assignment
You will combine theoretical analysis with modelling and practical measurements. The work will examine how selected cable and network parameters affect signal integrity, and how measurement results relate to communication performance. 

The assignment is expected to include: 

• Review relevant literature and standards on CAN/CAN FD physical layers, transmission lines and reflections.
• Develop an analysis or simulation model for selected cable network configurations.
• Design or document a measurement setup for investigating reflections and signal waveforms in CAN cabling.
• Verify that the method produces repeatable and interpretable results.
• Measure representative configurations, such as different stub lengths, termination arrangements or cable lengths.
• Compare theoretical, simulated and measured results.
• Present practical recommendations for assessing CAN/CAN FD cabling in S-order projects.
• The final scope and test configurations will be agreed with the student and academic examiner so that the work is feasible within the thesis period. 

Who are you?
We are looking for a motivated student who enjoys investigating technical problems and combining theory with practical engineering work. You are analytical, structured and able to explain your methods and results clearly. 

You are currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Mechatronics, Engineering Physics or a related field. An interest in communication systems, signal integrity, measurement technology or vehicle electronics is important. Experience with oscilloscope measurements, transmission-line theory, CAN/CAN FD, simulation or data analysis is an advantage. 

What you will gain
You will work on a practical engineering challenge connected to heavy-duty vehicles and collaborate with engineers at Scania. The project will give you the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of CAN/CAN FD cabling, signal integrity and measurement methods, while producing results that can support future cable design work. 

Practical information 

• Number of students: 1 or 2
• Credits: 30 ECTS
• Estimated duration: Approximately 20 weeks, full time
• Start date: January 2027 / February 2027
• Location: Södertälje, Sweden

Contact

• Johan Linder, Group manager, [email protected]
• Petter Orwin Åhlin, Supervisor, [email protected] 

Application
Your application must include a CV, personal letter, and transcript of grades. A background check might be conducted for this position.
We are conducting interviews continuously and may close the recruitment earlier than the date specified.  

Application deadline: 22nd November 2026

We look forward to your application!