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Facility for Intelligent Fabrication

Capability

The FIF has 225m² of dedicated lab space of industrial automation and associated equipment for industry engagement and research purposes.

Reducing risk

Reducing technical risk is the focus of our work with industry, the project scope is designed to reduce technical risk. Our non-production environment allows for a more scientific approach, our equipment available reduces capital expenditure.

Robots

The FIF has six industrial robots for research purposes located in the dedicated FIF lab facility. This consists of three dedicated welding robots with associated positioners. One positioner can hold parts up to 1 tonne and can be synchronized with the robot motions for optimal welding positions. A further three robots are located in a general-purpose work cell and can be used for a wide variety of tasks including welding, material handling, machining processes and collaborative work.

Metrology

A laser tracker is available for high accuracy positional requirements.

Point Cloud Scanner

A point cloud scanner is available to generate a 3D point cloud in minutes for an object or for an entire space up to 200m radius.

Prototype Workshop

The FIF has access to a state-of-the-art workshop facility at UOW, which is able to manufacture bespoke and custom parts on site, avoiding the costly and often time-consuming task of outsourcing to an external fabrication company.

Robotics Software

Robotic software is available for use to generate simulated solutions and to interact with the robots. RobotStudio and MotoSim. Access to AOLP software is also available.

Welding Equipment

High quality welding equipment is available for testing and commissioning custom parts for feasibility studies and welding trials. High level MIG and TIG equipment include Fronius CMT and Lincoln Power Wave S500. A Fronius tandem-welding unit provides state-of-the-art welding procedures.

Materials Characterisation

A team of material science experts compliment the FIF automation research experts. Extensive and specialised equipment include high-resolution microscopes, polishing, notching, Instrom and Gleeble.

Sensing Technology

Off-the-shelf sensing technology is used to provide feedback information to the robot. Laser scanners, proximity sensors, force sensors are part of the line up of technology available.

VR / AR Equipment

Microsoft Hololens, HTC Vive/Vive Pro and a high resolution ZEDm stereovision camera make up the AR and VR equipment.