Canadian researchers to study applications of artificial intelligence in manufacturing 3D printing materials under new innovation program.

As technology continues to advance on all fronts, many experts believe we are on the cusp of the so-called fourth industrial revolution. 3D printing sits alongside other innovative instruments like automation, artificial intelligence, and also robotics as a heir to the throne of future manufacturing.

Now, Canadian researchers are looking to develop 3D printing technologies with “factories of the future” in mind. On Tuesday, the McCain Foundation announced a $1.25-million innovation program at the University of New Brunswick.

With a portion of the funding, one researcher plans to push additive manufacturing to the next level. To do this, mechanical engineer Ed Cyr will integrate other technologies into the process. Specifically, he will study the applications of artificial intelligence in the production of more advanced 3D printed materials.

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Cyr will spend his UNB fellowship of around $50,000 to study the behavior of 3D printed materials. The overall goal of his research is to isolate the special properties and improve traditional manufacturing methods. The researcher will develop new 3D printing methods that are compatible with unique material behaviors not found in conventional materials.

The mechanical engineer is already studying 3D printed aluminum alloy that increases in strength when it undergoes certain types of stress. In an interview with The Star, Cyr explained the benefits of such a material:

“That would be would be useful for something like armour, perhaps, or maybe even building the wall of a ship. For impacts happening at higher speed, like an icebreaker, it would become stronger instead of more brittle.”

Eventually, the ambitious researcher plans to “push the boundaries” of manufacturing by looking into thought-powered 3D printing. With artificial intelligence and machine learning, computers are able to process thousands of designs, seamlessly deciding which are best. The concept is similar to MX3D’s robotic 3D printing arm that is constructing a bridge in Amsterdam using intelligent software.

Mohsen Mohammadi, a supervisor from UNB’s Marine Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence, hopes that Cyr’s research will find value outside of the lab and within a manufacturing plant soon. He adds that by coupling 3D printing technology with conventional machinery, the research will lead to the creation of local pilot “factories of the future” in New Brunswick.

Source: The Star