IntelliPast - Development of an intelligent and autonomous paste production process
- Contact:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hermann Nirschl, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Fleischer, Simon Otte
- Project Group:
Kevin Raczka (MVM), Simon Otte (wbk)
- Funding:
BMBF
- Partner:
Institute of Mechanical Process Engineering and Mechanics (MVM / KIT), Institute for Particle Technology (iPAT / TU Braunschweig), Institute of Production Science (wbk / KIT)
- Startdate:
01.01.2021
- Enddate:
30.06.2024
Objectives and Results
The IntelliPast project focuses on the further development of the extrusion process into an intelligent, autonomous and continuously operating paste production process by separating the dry mixing and dispersing processes in a multi-chamber system. Based on process studies for autonomous production and the integration of in-situ methods, a model-predictive control system is to be developed that guarantees consistent paste quality while taking uncertainties and limitations into account. For this purpose, a quality parameter must be developed that describes the state of the suspension. This variable must be directly related to indirectly measurable variables such as flow behavior, concentrations and particle size distribution. Machine learning methods can be an alternative to derive relationships that establish a correlation with the important parameters.
Contents and Approach
The research project is divided into several work packages (WP), each of which pursues specific objectives.
In the first work package (WP 1), we are concentrating on adapting the systems for autonomous production. The focus here is on three subtasks: establishing a reference process for extrusion and dispersion, developing a process strategy and designing a cleaning concept for the entire system.
The second work package (WP 2) deals with the integration of measurement technology. This includes the characterization of the extrusion process with in-situ measurements and the integration of these measured variables into digital twins for control purposes.
In WP 3, the focus is on the development of an intelligent process control strategy. This includes the development of control strategies for the extruder as well as their integration into a higher-level control system.
The fourth work package (WP 4) aims to combine process control and automation. Here, the process control strategies are coordinated and integrated, and a scaling methodology for process control is developed.
Finally, the fifth work package (WP 5) focuses on the complete automation, integration and networking of the plant. This includes the commissioning and networking of the plant components with decentralized control and the configuration of a higher-level control station.
Through the structured execution of these work packages, we are aiming for a holistic solution that enables autonomous production in the plant and significantly improves the efficiency and quality of production.
Project Volume
645.268,32 €