Rivelin Robotics Leading Funded Project for Automated Finishing of Metal Additively Manufactured Parts

Rivelin Robotics Leading Project to Revolutionize Automated Finishing of Metal AM Parts

Rivelin Robotics, a UK-based robotics software company, is taking the lead on a funded project that aims to deliver automated finishing of flight parts, orthopedic implants, and gas turbine components produced using metal additive manufacturing processes. The project, known as Project CAMPFIRE (Certified Additive Manufactured Parts Finished with Intelligent Robotics Engine), is part of the UK Research and Innovation’s MSI Challenge and is being delivered by Innovate UK, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, and the Economic and Social Research Council.

The project, with a total funding of £3.7 million, is one of 11 grants awarded to late-stage robotics and automation projects that focus on improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience within factory production areas. Rivelin Robotics is collaborating with partners such as GKN Aerospace, Materials Solutions, Attenborough Medical, Yaskawa EU, and Saint-Gobain to develop advanced automated metal post-processing solutions for AM parts.

The post-processing of metal AM parts has long been known to be a bottleneck in the production of end-use parts, particularly at scale. Rivelin’s Netshape Robots, which utilize 3D vision and force control algorithms, have already proven their effectiveness in industrial settings. The CAMPFIRE project aims to demonstrate the capabilities of these robots and potentially revolutionize industries such as aerospace, medical, energy, civil aerospace, defense, and automotive.

Robert Bush, CEO of Rivelin Robotics, commented on the support from Innovate UK, stating that it has been pivotal in accelerating the company’s journey. The funding not only accelerates the development of their innovative platform but also allows them to tackle complex challenges in additive manufacturing.

Over the 15-month run time of the project, the goal is to automate the manual, time-intensive metal support removal process. This automation would significantly improve the competitiveness of AM components, as well as ensure they meet the required specifications and regulatory standards.

Overall, this project is set to have a significant impact on the advancement of automated finishing processes for metal AM parts, and could potentially reshape the landscape of advanced manufacturing in the UK. Rivelin Robotics is at the forefront of this innovation, and their work is poised to revolutionize the industry.