PhD: Using Causal Inference for Sustainable Digital Twin-based Testing of Smart Manufacturing Processes

The manufacturing industry has traditionally relied on manual checks to ensure production quality, which can be costly and wasteful. With the rise of "smart manufacturing," there's a push to improve efficiency and sustainability by using digital tools. One of these tools, the Digital Twin (DT), creates a virtual replica of real-world manufacturing processes. This allows manufacturers to experiment and optimise processes digitally, reducing waste and the need for physical adjustments.

Research Goals:

1. Process Optimisation: The project will explore if there’s a reliable, easy-to-use method to answer "what-if" questions about DTs, like predicting how changes in materials or methods could affect production.
2. Efficient Testing of DTs: Since DTs adapt over time, we’ll investigate how to reuse previous test data and generate new tests for parts of the system impacted by changes. This will make testing faster and reduce resource use.

Approach:

The project will use Causal Inference (CI), a statistical approach that helps identify cause-and-effect relationships. Unlike traditional methods, CI allows us to make predictions about scenarios we haven’t seen before by using a combination of real data and expert knowledge. By developing a CI framework, we can answer key questions about the DTs, making it easier to identify improvements and adapt to new situations.

This research will help make manufacturing more efficient by:

• Reducing Costs and Downtime: DTs allow for testing in a virtual environment, which minimises production delays and cuts down on rework.
• Supporting Sustainable Manufacturing: By optimising resource use and reducing waste, the project aligns with broader goals for sustainable industry practices.

Through collaboration with Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), this work will tackle real-world manufacturing challenges, advancing digital manufacturing and contributing to the development of new technologies that promote efficiency and sustainability.

Benefits

• Earn While You Learn: Get a fully funded four-year postgraduate research degree (EngD or PhD) with an annual tax-free stipend of £28,000 (that’s equivalent to a £34,000 salary!). We’ve got your back so you can focus on your research.
• Serious Funding: You’ll have access to a £35,000 research training support grant over four years. Whether it’s for experimental work, conference travel, or the latest computing gear, we’ll make sure you have the resources to succeed.
• Work with the Best: Team up with industry giants like Rolls-Royce, Boeing and GKN Aerospace. You’ll work on real-world projects that make a difference, gaining experience that sets you apart.
• Launch Your Career: Our graduates have landed senior roles in top industries, thanks to the hands-on experience and industry connections you’ll build here.
• World-Class Facilities: You’ll be working at the cutting edge, alongside experts in machining, assembly, and digital engineering. The tools and knowledge you’ll gain are second to none.
• Tailored Training: Benefit from both group-based and personalised training activities. We’ll help you craft an individual training plan that aligns with your career goals.
• Live in Sheffield: Enjoy life in one of the UK’s friendliest cities. With a vibrant social scene and supportive community, Sheffield is the perfect place to live and learn.
• Go Pro: We’ll support you in gaining Chartered Engineer (CEng) status, ensuring you’re recognised for your professional expertise.

Learn More

MADE4Manufacturing CDT: www.sheffield.ac.uk/made4manufacturing 

Interested?

Contact José Miguel Rojas ([Email Address Removed]) for more information, or go to our website to apply: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/made4manufacturing/how-apply