Manufacturing Robotics

Automated Assembly

The research within the Automated Assembly encompasses a variety of themes aimed at advancing automation and sustainable manufacturing processes. Key areas of focus include designing for automated assembly and disassembly (design for X), collaborative and industrial robot programming, discrete 3D process simulation, and mobile robotics. Emphasis is placed on sustainable manufacturing through virtual commissioning and generative reconfigurable fixture design. Primary capabilities include multi-platform 3D CAD design, physics modelling, proof-of-concept simulation, build commissioning, and testing. The theme specialises in the mechanical design of bespoke assets such as end-of-arm tools (EoAT) and assembly jigs/fixtures. Furthermore, our expertise extends to mobile robotics, encompassing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and mobile manipulators, alongside conducting sustainability assessments and reporting for manufacturing processes.

Automation

The research focuses on various aspects of automation, encompassing precise robotics such as robot machining, advanced metrology techniques, industrial control systems, industrial machine vision, and collaborative automation, particularly tailored for SMEs. Capabilities include secondary encoder robots and a range of metrology equipment like the Hexagon ROMER ARM and Leica Absolute Trackers, along with InSphere's IONA and line scanners. The integration of National Instruments data acquisition tools, vibration sensors, robot machining centres, and expertise in control panel construction are key strengths. The theme also specialises in collaborative robots (Cobots), robot controller systems integration, and PLC programming.

Novel Robotics

The Novel Robotics theme focuses on advancing academic research towards industry in areas like collaborative workspaces, intuitive human-robot interfaces, and the application of machine learning to robotics. It explores open-source robotics frameworks, lower-level research in manipulation and control theory, and extends into space exploration with multi-robot systems and mobile robotics, including drones. Capabilities include deploying AGVs and robots from KUKA, ABB, and UR, utilising ROS for flexibility, and integrating Beckhoff PLCs for control systems within the Sheffield Robotics Network. Robotic simulation and machine vision capabilities complement the innovative approach to robotics development.

Assoicated Labs 

• AMRC
• Robotics & Autonomous Manufacturing Systems Lab: The RAMs Lab provides a hands-on inclusive research environment in robotics and autonomous manufacturing systems to students at the University of Sheffield. The lab is committed to supporting low TRL challenge-driven industrial research aligned with the goals of SoEEE, the AMRC and Sheffield Robotics, with a specific focus on advancing the Autonomous Tool Room grand innovation challenge. Through fostering an inclusive and supportive research environment, the lab aims to support current PhD students, UG and MSc projects and provide a pathway to PhD studies through an undergraduate research assistant programme, ensuring a seamless transition for aspiring researchers. The lab employs a grassroots philosophy and values diversity in skills and strengths, and promotes shared learning.
• Digital Manufacturing Lab

 

Theme Leads

Gianmarco is a Control Engineer at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC). He was awarded an MEng (Hons) in mechatronic and robotic engineering at the University of Sheffield. 

His thesis proposed a novel methodology to control collaborative robots using natural language interfaces. He has previously conducted research on intuitive interfaces for human-robot interaction applications. He worked alongside audio-visual artist Mark Fell to develop an interactive robotics art installation for the Festival of the Mind 2018. He has also collaborated with Sheffield Robotics to develop choreographic performances with robotic swarms for public events.

Dr Rob Ward holds a joint academic position between the department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering (ACSE) and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC). As an Industrial Research Fellow, he develops, leads and supervises research programmes in self-optimising autonomous manufacturing. Rob is a Chartered Engineer and he brings a wealth of project and operational management experience to support the undergraduate teaching and postgraduate supervision in the dept.

Rob has an MEng(Hons) degree in Avionics and Aerospace Systems from the University of Manchester and a Engineering Doctorate in Machining Science and Control Engineering from the University of Sheffield. Prior to joining the University of Sheffield and the AMRC in 2017, Rob served as an Engineering Officer in the UK Military.