Capacity modelling for responsive planning of various testing scenarios in smart manufacturing

This project is co-sponsored by a local manufacturing company and School of Engineering of the University of Greenwich. The university has previously completed an industry funded project in managing knowledge of test centre planning to support new product development. This project will consider multiple test chambers all capable of testing multiple products. In order to control and optimise the loading of work into the chambers, it is necessary to be able to plan and schedule various testing scenarios by accurately modelling the testing capabilities and capacities which are frequently changing. This PhD project will investigate industrial problems and advanced Industry 4 technologies, and propose new modelling and decision-making methods, considering various factors in the utilisation of test chambers, maintenance and down times, run times of different units, operator working patterns, social and environmental impacts. The PhD student will also supervise students (Bachelor/Master level) working on tasks related to the project.

We are looking for candidates with a background in manufacturing engineering, systems, operations, or related disciplines, with strong knowledge and skills in Information and Communication Technologies particularly in smart manufacturing applications. Candidates should have achieved an undergraduate degree (2:1 or above). Candidates with postgraduate degree and/or practical experience in research or industry are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will benefit from both academic research and collaboration with world-class manufacturing companies.