Student paper

Code meets Plant Engineering: Control of a Three-Component Dosing System

Call for Application: Bachelor’s Thesis or Master’s Thesis

Programming and validation of a control system for the three-component dosing unit for dispensing resin, hardener, and catalyst

Topic of the work:

Thanks to their unique ability to combine high mechanical properties with low weight, fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) have become indispensable, especially in the transport sector. Resin transfer molding (RTM) is a frequently used process for manufacturing such components. In this process, a semi-finished fiber product is impregnated with a resin system consisting of resin, hardener and catalyst in a closed tool cavity.

Stuwi-Steuerung eines Drei-Komponenten-Dosiersystems© IKV
Illustration of the dosing unit setup

The Thesis is related to this Research Project:

The “VarMischung” research project is investigating the variable catalysis of FRP components. The amount of catalyst should be varied during the dosing process so that a faster and homogeneous curing is achieved. This can reduce the cycle time and increase production efficiency for RTM processes. A dosing system was set up to convey three components.

Objective:

The objective of the work is the development and implementation of control software for a three-component dosing unit that efficiently conveys resin, hardener and catalyst. The software should be programmed in such a way that it enables precise dosing and reacts flexibly to different process requirements.

Your Tasks:

Familiarization with the topic of the RTM process Familiarization with the topic
Selection of suitable software and components for the control system Selection of suitable software and components for the control system
Programming the control system checking the functionality of the control system in dosing tests

Your Profile:

  • Technical or scientific studies at RWTH or FH (e.g. mechanical engineering, computer science, CES, …)
  • Motivated, careful and independent way of working
  • Affinity for technology, creativity and willingness to learn