Master thesis – Machine learning in the aluminium industry based on real-time production data

In “CondOR-EEE”, which is a national funded project, the in-situ measurement of electrical conductivity during the thermomechanical processing of wrought aluminium alloys will be tested on a laboratory scale and on an industrial scale. The conductivity needs to be measured, for example, during homogenization, heating for extrusion or rolling, and during heat aging, to be able to make predictions about the end product quality using machine learning or physical models. The electrical conductivity curve during heat treatments implicitly contains a complete fingerprint of the material. However, this fingerprint is difficult to interpret due to temperature influences on the measurement and due to the complexity of the metallurgical processes. Machine learning can be used to filter out systematic errors such as the influence of temperature. In addition to other process parameters (e.g. temperatures, extrusion speed, taping plan during rolling) end product properties can be predicted.

 

PROFACTOR is an applied research center located in Steyr. We conduct research in the field of industrial assistive systems and additive micro/nano manufacturing. Our team consists of around 100 employees from 15 different academic fields. We work across disciplines to find solutions for the manufacturing industry and set standards in robotics, machine vision, simulation, 3D printing, functional surfaces and nanostructures.

 

Your tasks

The goals of this master thesis are:

• to analyse, preprocess and interpret data from aluminum extrusion processes
• to train, test and evaluate machine learning methods based on this data
• to benchmark different machine learning approaches
• to optimize model parameters

 

We are looking for

Motivated students with a hands-on mentality in the field of software development and/or mechatronics.

 

We offer

• the possibility to work in cutting edge R&D projects with renowned industrial partners
• flexible working hours
• the chance to be part of a young, interdisciplinary and cooperative team

 

Benefits

Start/Duration

Starting as soon as possible – Duration of 6 months (extendable depending on performance)

 

Our Mission

PROFACTOR’s research improves the competiveness of European Industry. We are pioneers of the thinking production. We bring production back home.

 

We offer for master thesis a compensation of min. 515 EUR per month.

 

We are looking forward to your application – please apply at www.profactor.at or
send your application to personal@nullprofactor.at

 

Questions? Please contact:  DI Daniela Kirchberger, daniela.kirchberger@nullprofactor.at , +43 7252 885 319