In pursuit of a digital and sustainable future, Additive Automations exists to automate the additive manufacture of polymer, metal and composite products.

Automating AM at scale.

Real-time Digital Twin

In order to facilitate a seamless transition between manufacturing and post-processing we have created an accurate digital representation of our automation cell. The relationship between a digital environment and physical cell is paramount to the accuracy and repeatability of the process.

We ensure that the initial digital representation of the cell is accurately calibrated to the physical world through the use of laser tracking technology. In addition, the use of a vision system ensures that the cell not only retains our initial sub-millimeter accuracy but also improves over time.

Through the implementation of our digital twin we capture an incredible amount of data which is used to guarantee and certify our processes. This means that when a part is processed using our cell, it leaves with a digital passport of conformance which lives with the part through its lifecycle.

Cartesian Impedance Control

A key technology stream that is being utilised at Additive Automations is cartesian impedance control, this robotic control method facilitates robotic finishing of AM parts as it allows the disadvantages of robots, compared with traditional machining centres, to be overcome.

The fundamental philosophy of impedance control, is that the end-effector control system is designed not to track a motion trajectory alone, but rather to include motion tracking and mechanical impedance regulation to gain a holistic view of the process so as to employ an accurate and suitable control technique.

Within our automation cell we deploy the principle of impedance control to ensure that all engineering surfaces are finished to the required specifications. This is achieved by monitoring key metrics and inferring the correct control corrections.

Bespoke End-Effector Design

We leverage next-generation design techniques to develop bespoke robotic end-effectors. Our workflow for creating robotic end-effectors utilises Generative Design technology from Autodesk in conjunction with Additive Manufacturing technology from Renishaw.

Robotic end-effectors are core to our business, and we have developed advanced workflows for mechanical and electrical design all the way through to advance AI control.

Currently we are developing our robotic end-effectors and optimising them for low mass, low volume and high stiffness. This means that our end-effectors are suitable for high accuracy robotic applications.