Modelling and Simulation of multi-axis, robot controlled, direct electrically heated rotational moulding machinery.

The basic principles behind the machines which execute the process of rotational moulding have not changed significantly over the last 60 years. Robotic technologies have the potential to fundamentally change and significantly improve production practices through the introduction of automated processing and digital control benefits but they need to be proven as being technically and commercially viable.
This work will develop a custom simulation solution for rotational moulding using the multiple degrees of rotation made possible by using a robotic arm to execute the process. Simulation outcomes will be used to code the moulding cycles on an actual robotic machine thereby using simulation based outcomes to control the production hardware. The approach proposed here will combine the practical experience of the Polymer processing Research Centre (PPRC) at Queens with the world leading simulation and automation capabilities of the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The work will combine novel, predictive methods in process simulation combining a state of the art robot and the project will take advantage of QUB’s wide expertise in rotational moulding, automation and digital manufacturing for the development of the technologies required for robot assisted, direct electrically heated rotational moulding technologies.
This work will be completed within the I-AMS (Intelligent, automated manufacturing systems) PRP (Pioneer Research Programme) within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Queens. Through the PRP and the industrial partner Total, the appointed student will be given the opportunity to work within a multi-disciplinary team of researchers and industrial practitioners. A combination of academic and industrially based training and experiential opportunities will be offered through the completion of this project. Skill enhancements in addition to the core technical skill sets, will be in: systems thinking and multidisciplinary problem solving, sustainability and entrepreneurial understanding, communication and networking capabilities, team working and leadership. The student will spend regular periods on industrial placement for training and knowledge acquisition purposes. Specific periods of placement will be planned as required over the three years required to complete the work. A travel and bespoke training budget has been agreed with the industrial partner to cover the cost of training activities, software training, attendance at meetings with external suppliers and visits/meetings at company sites in Belgium and Holland and relevant academic conferences.

Application instructions: Applications should be made through the QUB application portal at the following link: https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php