Artificial intelligence in additive manufacturing: use of deep-learning in dimensional accuracy of stereolithography 3D printing

This project offers a chance to work on a truly disruptive and innovative research project in the high-tech and high-value manufacturing, with very high potential impact in aerospace and energy sectors. This project runs under a consortium between Loughborough University and a British innovative industrial partner, Photocentric Ltd.

Industrial partner of this project, Photocentric Ltd, is a patent holder in visible light curing technologies, specialising in photopolymerisation and inventors of LCD based 3D printing. Photocentric is an award-winning specialist 3D resin and LCD printer manufacturer based in Cambridgeshire, UK and Arizona, USA. https://photocentricgroup.com/3d

This project positions in the between two very innovative and got topic research area of machine-learning and additive manufacturing, and aims for developing deep-learning algorithms to predict and thus improve dimensional accuracy and stability of 3d-printed products.

This research intends to focus on a novel LCD-based stereolithography 3D printing with high print resolution needed for highly accurate applications. However, to minimise deformation during print and post-print operations, a deep-learning model will be developed and trained to predict shrinkage, deformations, and shrinkages to enable the designers to better design the parts and 3D print processes.

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in computer science, mathematics, polymer science, mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or other relevant backgrounds with high credentials. Applications must have significant knowledge of AI, programming and modelling, but knowledge of additive manufacturing is only desirable, as the students will be fully trained on additive manufacturing techniques needed for this project, as part of their first year of their PhDs. As part of the application process, candidates are required to write a research proposal.

This project has some industrial clients who may be able to contribute to the cost of experiments/tests, but applicants must be able to fund their study (tuition fee and living expenses).

English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the international website: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/apply/english-language-requirements/

How to apply
All applications should be made online: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/research-applications/

Under school/department name, select 'Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering'. Please quote reference ES1-UF-2020.

The deadline for applications is 25 September 2021.

Start date: January 2021, April 2021, July 2021

Duration: Full-time (3 years)

Fee band: Band RA (UK/EU: TBC; international: £17,200), Band RB (UK/EU: TBC; international: £22,350)