DAM (Design, Analysis, Materials & Manufacturing)

DAM is a large research group that encompasses the entire design process, from conceptual design to manufacturing. Our extensive size allows us to explore and tackle large, interconnected research challenges. We maintain a strong focus through our three dedicated subgroups: Design and Engineering; Materials; Manufacturing. Each subgroup consists of researchers with deep and extensive knowledge in their respective fields. This integrated structure not only helps us understand how each field is interconnected and influences one another, but also fosters a collaborative environment where researchers leverage each other’s expertise for ambitious, cross-disciplinary research projects. An example of the necessity for a cohesive, multidisciplinary approach is additive manufacturing. The design process, material science, and manufacturing process are intimately interconnected, making the study of one area in isolation insufficient for advancing breakthrough research.

Design and Engineering

The Design and Engineering group specialise in the intersection of advanced design, engineering and prototyping of cyber-physical systems. Specifically focused on:

• Rapid prototyping
• Mechatronics
• Fuzzy front end
• Digital twins
• Design for additive manufacturing

Materials

The group works with advanced design of traditional and innovative materials employing emerging technologies and is closely linked to multiple labs at the department. The main research focus of the group is applied materials engineering and advanced surfaces – from materials production to properties and components. 

Specifically focused on:

• Fundamental understanding of materials properties on multi-scale level (from nano to macro), both modelling and experiments.
• Applied nanotechnology and chemistry: developing new materials (ceramic, metallic, cermets, lubricants and additives) and nanostructured surfaces, as well as methodologies for multi-physical characterization of material properties.
• Manufacturing and testing materials, components and structures made of polymers and composites: modelling and utilizing material properties in design, optimization of production methods and processes. Long-term properties, inspection and joints.
• Develop smart solutions for Integrity Management: advanced condition monitoring combined with modelling.

Manufacturing

The focus area of this group is manufacturing processes such as metal forming, in particular aluminium forming. Traditional manufacturing processes such as extrusions and profile and tube bending. In addition to the existing processes, the group works on new innovative technologies such as screw extrusion of aluminium chips and new methods for solid state joining of aluminium. This group is closely linked to NTNU Aluminium Product Innovation Centre (NAPIC) and the Manulab centre. 

Specifically focused on:

• Metal forming
• Additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing and manufacturing metrology
• Joining
• Welding and disassembly