Robotic Control of Manufacturing Operations in the Aerospace Industry

The use of robotic manipulators in critical aerospace manufacturing operations such as drilling and fastening has been common practise for many years. However, their use has been limited to operations with relatively low tolerances and high repeatability. As manufacturing processes become more complex in the shift towards zero defect manufacturing (including robotic machining applications), accurate and precise robotic motion control under varying conditions, such as tool wear and use of composite materials, has become a key performance requirement.

Following on from previous research conducted at the University of Sheffield, this project will seek to implement offline and online control strategies such as CNC interpolation, data-driven methods, adaptive control and process optimisation. The candidate will use variety of integrated robotic modelling (kinematic, dynamic, calibration) and experimental methods to solve the real-world challenges related to manufacturing using 6dof industrial robotic manipulators.

The candidate will work closely with experts at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (the University of Sheffield) and wider industrial engagement to ensure the project is complemented by case study driven industrial challenges in this space.