Description

At the Robot Lab we design & build objects from waste wood using industrial robots. As part of an upcoming project with our partners in industry we want to start investigating how we can re-use materials from front doors that come from demolished or renovated buildings. 

 The project focuses on developing a 3D scan-to-robot workflow that combines 3D scanning with robotic fabrication to process the unique, variable, and often damaged geometries of reclaimed doors. As an intern, you will work on digital material capture, geometric analysis, and adaptive toolpath generation to enable precise cutting, milling and handling of timber components. You will also help develop and test automated methods for the removal of glass and metal elements for reuse. 

 At the Robot Lab, we have already developed core technologies for scanning and robotic processing. In this project, you will apply, adapt, and refine these existing tools to address the specific challenges of processing reclaimed doors. 

 For this position we are looking for a student who will: 

• Assist in 3D scanning of reclaimed front doors to records material conditions 
• Develop and test scan-to-robot workflows linking digital models to robotic fabrication 
• Experiment with toolpath generation for cutting and milling varying timber geometry 
• Prototype methods for automated removal of glass panes, metal fittings, and fasteners 
• Support physical prototyping and documentation of fabrication tests 

Note: This position focuses specifically on robotic processing (metal removal, glass removal, sawing, and milling). The design and development of the station for securing and handling the doors will be carried out as part of a parallel project, with which you will closely collaborate

Required Knowledge and Skills

We are looking for HBO-ICT students (intern or graduate) with a strong hands-on profile to help develop a industrial robot setup. The ideal candidate has (not everything is expected): 

• a strong interest in digital fabrication: combining hardware and software 
• is comfortable working with 3D scanning and/or point cloud data (or be eager to learn) 
• Has experience with CAD/CAM workflows and parametric design tools 
• Has coding experience (preferably python)  
• Is motivated to experiment, prototype, and work hands-on in a lab environment 
• is able to work independently as well as collaboratively within a research team 

Experience with industrial robots is a plus, however we will also teach you this part. In addition, you can document and present your research in a clear, and understandable manner.