Project Info
*Robotic Blacksmithing
Kester Clarke
kclarke@mines.edu
Robotic Blacksmithing, also known as Metamorphic Manufacturing, is a fundamentally new approach to component manufacturing that leverages knowledge bases of traditional blacksmiths and modern automation and sensing. It enables custom component geometries with the quality and reliability of modern mass production processes - along the lines of additive manufacturing, but utilizing deformation processing to manipulate the geometry of a piece of material rather than building up a geometry. Deformation processing is known to produce materials with microstructures that often outperform other processes, such as casting or additive manufacturing, so taking advantage of the performance bump while also enabling custom geometries and small-batch production has the potential to be transformational in manufacturing.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery
Free download of background study is available here:
https://www.tms.org/metamorphicManufacturing
Primary Contacts:
Prof. Kester Clarke
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Good lab and problem solving skills, and the ability to work steadily toward goal during the school year.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
4-5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Skills will depend on the student and the scope of work, but may include materials characterization skills, equipment design and manufacturing skills, writing and oral communication skills, and mechanical testing skills.
MENTORING PLAN
The faculty mentor will meet regularly with the student, and in addition, the student will interact with graduate students and faculty in CANFSA on a weekly basis. Realistic goals will be set at the beginning of the project, and they will be continuously updated as needed. The frequent interaction with professors and graduate students will ensure all resources are being provided to ensure the student gets the most out of the project.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Junior
Senior