Course content

Comprehensive consideration of both basic terms, relations, and the whole of the topic as well as actual research in the application of information and communication technologies (ICT) to generate data-integrated holisms of close-to-manufacturing engineering design, process and operations planning, of manufacturing and quality engineering. Geometric modelling and production engineering optimisation of both products and the corresponding manufacturing processes, defining a new optimisation-based manufacturing systematics.
Mathematical basics for product models, exemplary skills in using advanced CAD/CAM software systems, generating 3D-CAD (volume) models for free-form objects, information transfer from CAD- to quality-assured product models. Corresponding CNC data generation and DNC transfer for 3D-free-form machining. New time-compressing, direct additive manufacturing processes (such as Direct Metal Object Fabrication (DIMOF) with Selective Laser Melting). New ways of production engineering working methodologies like Geometric Reverse Engineering, Concurrent/Simultaneous Engineering, Concept Engineering, Design for Manufacturing, Quality by Design, Closed Quality Loop Manufacturing and Virtual Manufacturing.

Learning outcome

The course Data-Integrated Manufacturing (DIM) offers an introduction at advanced level as well as practical abilities in the application of components and interdisciplinary relations that emerge when modern information and communication technologies (ICT) are utilised for the further industrialisation supported by data-integrated manufacturing of products. Course participants get familiar with selected hardware and software tools to contribute actively in DIM problem solutions. Topics, specially emphasised, are free-form object fabrication, and how to get it done with both modern subtractive chip-cutting and additive Rapid Prototyping, Manufacturing and Tooling processes as for instance Selective Laser Melting for DIMOF realisation. Based on the whole product life cycle, students will be educated to build up effective process chains from geometric modelling phases via product data management to the finished product including close-to-manufacturing quality assurance to realise customer-personalised products in Closed Quality Loop Manufacturing systems.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, selected guest lectures and laboratory work/exercises, mainly with computers. The exercises contain in part a project work that counts 40% of the final grade. The course will be given in English (Norwegian language is also possible if there are Norwegian participants only). In case of make-up examinations, the written exam can be changed to an oral one.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge in systems thinking, mathematics and courses like TPK4105 (Manufacturing Technology) or equivalent knowledge.

Course materials

Wolfgang H. Koch: Data-Integrated Manufacturing. Lecture Notes, Trondheim, 2010.
Exercises materials, supporting references and other leaflets are handed-out during the course.

Credit reductions