Demonstration of a sustainable circular-by-design manufacturing system based on additive manufacturing

ongoing

DIAMETER aims to facilitate the implementation of a circular economy within the metal manufacturing sector through the development of hybrid manufacturing systems based on additive manufacturing. The Consortium will develop a set of digital tools to improve the design, optimise the manufacturing process and ease the implementation of circularity strategies (remanufacturing, refurbishing, repairing and recycling) by the additive manufacturing industry. To support those tools, we will develop a novel AI-assisted algorithm able to calculate both the ecological and economic impacts of a process to assess its sustainability. This AI-assisted algorithm will rely on experimental data, from process monitoring and part characterisations, and process simulation, covering pre-processing machining, additive manufacturing and post-processing machining. We will integrate these tools into a first platform, called DIAgonal, to facilitate the uptake by the industry. The platform will integrate the European Digital Product Passport by enabling the use of supplier data for more accurate ecological impact estimations and allowing the upload of experimental data to enrich product transparency on origin, materials, and recyclability. We will develop a second platform, DIAdemia, to support the upskilling of the workforce through interactive training courses, workshops, and exercises. Overall, DIAMETER will contribute to reducing the manufacturing sector's carbon footprint, enhancing recycling, developing a greener Industry 4.0 and promoting local production.