In a previous project, TNO has worked on metal detection and removal (see images below), but improvement of these processes are needed if we want to process used wood with robots. The student we are looking for will work on this subject at Robot Studio and assisted by TNO. What are available solutions for metal detection and removal? Can these solutions be applied in robotic processes? Are the tools suitable for mounting onto the robot head? How accurately can metal be detected? Can metal detection be transferred into tooling paths for the robot head?

Further explanation The assignment is part of the “Circular Wood for the Neighborhood” project. In this project, the Amsterdam University of Applied Science (AUAS) investigates, together with two Amsterdam housing corporations, TU Delft, TNO, Metabolic and building industry, how to give new life to used wood that is released during home renovations. In the project, researchers from the Digital Production Research Group use robots to make circular reuse of wood easier and more efficient.

We like the intern or graduation student to research how metal detection and removal in wood could be carried out with robotics. The result should be a practical solution, tested and well-documented for further use in at the Robot Studio. 

The Robot studio is part of the Amsterdam University of Applied Science (Hogeschool van Amsterdam). The Robot Studio explores the connection between sustainable materials (like urban waste streams) en digital production processes. Knowledge is developed in relation to three profiling themes of the Faculty of Technology: Smart Industry, Circular Transition and Designing Future Cities. This translates for example to: computational design methods, digital fabrication processes with industrial robot arms, CNC milling, large scale 3D printing in 6 degrees of freedom and many more.

Knowledge and skills required:

• Software development • Possibly some hardware development is involved, but not required • Experience with ABB robots would be an asset • Basic/intermediate electronic skills 

Time period: Negotiable Start date: February 2021

Remuneration: No (if it’s a graduation) Yes (if it’s internship)

Application: e-mail + CV Cover letter + CV  

Contact information

Mr. Marco Galli Caro

Lecturer and researcher