Master Thesis - Development of a Camera System for Defects in Additive Production

The Fraunhofer Research Institution for Additive Manufacturing Technologies in Hamburg Bergedorf is one of the leading institutions for the industrialization of additive manufacturing. We focus primarily on socially relevant sectors such as life sciences, energy, mobility and security. Our research ranges from component design and processes to factory planning and digitalization: we look at the entire production route. Numerous spin-offs and patent applications underline the value of our innovations.

Additive manufacturing is increasingly becoming a widely used industrial technology and continues to revolutionize the way we design and manufacture complex parts with unprecedented geometric freedom. A key challenge is ensuring consistently high quality and reliability. In-situ monitoring systems help to overcome this challenge, but are usually equipment and therefore manufacturer specific. 

The aim of this project is the design, development and economic evaluation of a self-contained functional prototype of a camera-based system for real-time monitoring of a selected additive process. For this we are looking for you as a motivated student to write your Master Thesis from March 2025 or by arrangement.

What you will do

• Identification of suitable components including a scientific and technical justification of the selection, e.g. using utility analysis or FMEA of the process
• Analysis of the existing process 
• Design of a functional prototype and full integration of all components
• Experimental application of the system with existing trained AI models or custom applications
• Evaluation of the experiments and determination of the total costs for implementing the system 
• Suggestions for system optimization

What you bring to the table

• Ongoing scientific university studies (Master) in the fields of engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering or a related field of study
• Sound knowledge of Python, as well as practical experience with single board computers (Raspberry Pi or Nvidia Jetson) and Linux
• Skills in computer-aided design
• Basic knowledge of additive manufacturing
• Creativity and affinity for design thinking
• Analytical skills for economic evaluation and benefit analysis
• Very good written and spoken German and English (language level C)
• Ideally experience in the integration of AI models on edge devices 

What you can expect

• Preparation of an industrially and scientifically relevant thesis at the interface between research and industry
• Opportunity to publish selected work results scientifically at relevant conferences 
• Scope to implement innovative ideas
• State-of-the-art and extensive equipment
• Personal supervision from experienced employees and support in completing tasks
• Flexible working hours with practical work on site in Hamburg Bergedorf and the option to work remotely

No renumeration is paid by the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position, please contact
Johannes Helmholz
+49 40 484010 -756

Fraunhofer Research Institution for Additive Manufacturing Technologies IAPT

Requisition Number: 77691                Application Deadline: