Numerically controlled machine tools are the norm in the manufacturing industry. However, these devices have features and components that need to be studied and improved. Data collection and analysis are part of smart manufacturing and automation systems, and artificial intelligence solutions are increasingly being used to analyse this data. Artificial intelligence has become an important tool in modern engineering, enabling systems to operate with greater intelligence, adaptability and accuracy throughout the product life cycle. Studies of material cutting processes and models based on them analyse cutting forces, tool wear, surface quality and energy consumption, which allows optimizing machining strategies and extending tool life. It is important to know how a numerically controlled system converts the input signal into movements, resulting in a real machine part, and it is important to determine and analyse deviations. Each error has its own description, possible causes, corrective actions for the part and the yield. It is important to understand what shape the part can take, the material of the part and the cutting parameters according to the change in cutting forces.
The research group is working on transforming traditional industrial production into an efficient, adaptive and data-driven system. It combines manufacturing engineering, digital technologies and automation to create the next generation of intelligent manufacturing. We focus on the application of robotics and artificial intelligence in industry, as well as on increasing the efficiency of numerically controlled manufacturing equipment and researching material cutting. Quality control, industrial metrology, product development and mechanical engineering play an important role.
Members of the work group:
- Senior Lecturer of Digital Production Engineering Tõnu Leemetlink opens in new page
- Senior Lecturer of Materials and Processing Engineering Kaarel Sootslink opens in new page
- Teacher in Materials Science Lemmik Käislink opens in new page
- Specialist in Engineering and technology Indrek Virrolink opens in new page
- Senior Lecturer of Electronics and Embedded Systems Heino Pihlaplink opens in new page
- Appointed Lecturer in Bioenergetics Heiki Lilllink opens in new page
- Specialist in Mechanical Engineering Vivo Pender
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Innovation Martin Rebanelink opens in new page
- Junior Research Janek Lumilink opens in new page
- Junior Research Fellow Eve Plakk
- Junior Research Fellow Mailis Zimmermannlink opens in new page
- Teaching assistant in Engineering Olari Peetsmann
Head of the work Assistant Professor of Manufacturing Engineering Marten Madissoolink opens in new page
Cutting tool analysis and CNC machining Dynamics
The research group is engaged in testing cutting tools and evaluating the dynamic behaviour of CNC machining systems to improve tool performance, process stability, and machining efficiency.
Cutting tool testing is performed on CNC milling machines and lathes, investigating the effects of cutting tool geometry, coatings, materials, and cutting parameters on tool wear and durability.
Comparative evaluation of cutting tools and optimization of cutting parameters are carried out to improve surface quality, extend tool life, and reduce production costs.
Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering activities focus on sustainable engineering solutions. Applied research and product development are carried out in collaboration with companies. Collaboration allows the development of machine prototypes and the improvement of existing industrial equipment. Design and analysis of control systems, machine kinematics and automation solutions. Incorporate the principles of sustainability, reusability and material efficiency into mechanical engineering. Including the development of sustainable engineering solutions, including the reuse of materials and machine parts.
The research group has the ability to implement various 3D printing solutions that can support both rapid prototyping and the creation of durable components. Several 3D printing technologies and materials are used. The equipment allows the production of functional parts, tools, lightweight structures, and thermally or chemically resistant components suitable for demanding applications. In addition to printing, mechanical testing of materials is performed. With the ability to test the hardness of materials, analyse microstructure, test and evaluate yield strength and tensile strength. Surface quality measurements and dimensional analysis of parts are performed.
Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) for high-precision dimensional inspection.
Optical and camera-based measurement systems for non-contact evaluation.
Surface roughness and profile measurement for quality assessment of machined parts.
Measurement, automation and data analysis work together to ensure accuracy, efficiency and reliability.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics AIRE
Estonian University of Life Sciences is one of the implementing partners of the AIRE Centre. The smart manufacturing and automation systems research group is the coordinator of AIRE activities in the Estonian University of Life Sciences. AIRE is the European Digital Innovation Hub in Estonia (EDIH), dedicated to promoting innovation in the field of artificial intelligence and robotics. The activities of the Centre include the development of artificial intelligence and robotics solutions to create self-optimizing, data-driven production systems. The main components are artificial intelligence, digital twins, industrial automation and testing of robotics solutions in industrial enterprises.
For more information, visit the website of the Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Center AIRE https://aire-edih.eu/link opens in new page
