Yes, in my M.E project, I developed laboratory method to generating inrush current patterns of power transformers. Useful for me for testing new one cycle wave form approach differential relay for transformers protection…..

Girija Ramdas Wa Alaikum Salaam,

Yes, it is certainly possible and common for PhD research to build upon and adapt instruments, frameworks, or data originally developed as part of earlier master's level work. Some important considerations:

- Ensure you have ownership or rights to use the original master's research and any restrictions on publication or adaptation.

- Extensively revise and validate the adapted instrument for the new context of your PhD research through pilot studies and expert input.

- Make significant enhancements to demonstrate doctoral-level rigor - larger sample size, broader demographics, additional variables, more robust validation.

- Avoid self-plagiarism through clearly distinguishing the PhD contributions versus reused/cited prior work in your writing.

- Note in your dissertation the origins of any adapted instruments but focus on how your PhD uniquely advanced the research and framework.

Building incrementally on your prior knowledge can be beneficial for PhD research. But it is crucial to demonstrate substantive new scholarship and contributions at the doctoral level rather than just incremental adjustments. If you lay this solid foundation, then advancing your master's work to a doctorate is very feasible. Please feel free to reach out if any other questions arise!