AI for Manufacturing
The CMI is committed to advancing AI in manufacturing by enabling efficient and robust manufacturing processes, ground-breaking design and production of novel chemicals and materials, and the implementation of accessible AI-driven manufacturing systems.
Our research efforts are fortified by a substantial portfolio of over £260 million in manufacturing grants and strategic collaborations with over 120 industrial partners, among them industry giants such as Boeing, Airbus, and Rolls-Royce.
Researchers are tackling specific research questions including:
How can we leverage digital twins for manufacturing using AI? How can we develop efficient and robust manufacturing processes? How can we address the challenge of the ageing workforce using accessible AI-driven systems? What AI solutions optimize supply chain management? How can AI accelerate the discovery and design of materials for improved performance and sustainability? How can AI algorithms enhance quality control and defect detection for higher product quality?
These are complex questions and challenges that will benefit most from interdisciplinary collaboration. We work to bring researchers with expertise in materials science, energy and supply chain management together with technology experts and AI researchers in STEM subjects.
Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)
The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) is a world-leading research institution dedicated to advancing manufacturing technologies and processes through collaborative research and development with industry partners. The AMRC employs AI technologies to enhance various aspects of manufacturing processes. This includes applications in predictive maintenance, quality control, supply chain optimization, and production efficiency.
The centre's work in AI-driven robotics and automation is particularly noteworthy, showcasing innovations that leverage machine learning and data analytics to improve precision and productivity in manufacturing operations. With a commitment to integrating AI solutions into the manufacturing landscape, the Sheffield AMRC plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of intelligent manufacturing and fostering technological advancements in the field.
Factory 2050
Factory 2050, a flagship facility of the AMRC at the University of Sheffield, stands as a pioneering hub for collaborative research and development. Focused on advanced manufacturing technologies and Industry 4.0, this cutting-edge facility underscores the integration of robotics, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things. By leveraging the collaborative expertise of the University of Sheffield and industry partners, Factory 2050 serves as a dynamic space for innovation, showcasing the future of manufacturing through flexible and forward-thinking technologies.
AI for Manufacturing Research at Sheffield
There are outstanding researchers working on many of these problems in our institutes and research groups, including:
ACSE - The University of Sheffield Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering is seeking to increase resource efficiency, flexibility and competitiveness in UK manufacturing through the development of integrated system modelling, simulation and optimisation tools, advanced process monitoring and automation, reconfigurable systems and smart multifunctional materials.
AREC - The University of Sheffield Advanced Resource Efficiency Centre is working in partnership with industry to address world challenges in supply chain resource sustainability, focussing on the key areas of advanced materials and manufacturing, energy and nuclear; water; and agri-tech and food.
CBE - researchers from the University of Sheffield Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering are tackling crucial issues including green manufacturing, climate change, energy poverty, affordable medicine, and sustainable agriculture.
Sheffield Robotics - researchers are working on a number of manufacturing robotics themes including Cyber Physical & Urban Infrastructures, Health and Social Care, Manufacturing Robotics and Trustworthy Autonomous Systems. Sheffield Robotics works closely with the AMRC and industry partners to successfully transfer technology in machine vision, collaborative robotics, and digital manufacturing to industry.
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering - introducing the first design-for-manufacture digital tools for 3D-printed concrete-based structural composites, researchers aim to establish the University of Sheffield as a world leader in manufacturing know-how and design capability that will serve the emerging global additive manufacturing industry.
Our researchers are also engaged in various national initiatives to address AI in manufacturing, including:
TRIC-DT - the TRIC-DT mission is to carry out fundamental research relating to digital twins offering exciting new possibilities across a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, health, environment, transport, defence, and infrastructure.