| Abstract Scope |
Kinematic digital twins are providing the framework for developing, validating, and adapting industrial robots for additive manufacturing. AM processes need adaptive controls and process-informed predictions, which is a challenge for traditional hard-coded robot programming. The offline environment offers many practical advantages for production, and a transition point for innovative technologies. As a research and development organization, EWI has applied a range of digital twin software, robots, cobots, and advanced sensor technologies to processes such as Arc-DED, Laser-DED, Thermal Spray, and Cold Spray for commercial and government applications. These processes are relevant to industries where component repair, remanufacturing, and low-volume production require flexible robotics, including aerospace, defense, energy, and heavy industries. EWI will present representative kinematic digital twins incorporating industrial robots used in multiple additive manufacturing modalities. Digital twins have been paired with sensing technologies for improved accuracy and verification aided by extensive convergent workflow development across multiple additive processes. Simulation validation will be demonstrated - showing the difference between simulated and actual robot motion, predicted and measured deposition, success in collision avoidance, and reach verification for process feasibility before production. Together, these results demonstrate how validated kinematic digital twins can reduce uncertainty in robotic additive processes while supporting progression in sensor-informed additive manufacturing. |