Research Case Studies

Scoping study on semi-autonomous shearing

CAS researcher preparing robotic arms with 3d printed sheep

Fouad Sukkar preparing Shauna the life-sized 3d printed Sheep for a demo for semi-robotic shearing

This project was a scoping study headed by FEIT's Centre for Autonomous Systems with Australian Wool Innovation to gain a comprehensive understanding of how current robotic technology could be utilised in the shearing process, within the Australian Wool industry. 

ProtoSpace helped our researchers prepare a life-sized 3d printed sheep to demonstrate the prototype.

Sydney Water mains pipe inspection robot

Close up of pipe inspection robot for Sydney Water

In collaboration with Sydney Water, UTS Centre for Autonomous Systems developed a pipe inspection robot for critical water mains. The 3d printed housing (in blue) is a key element to this system and mechanisms and the use of 3D printing has been fundamental to its development.

ProtoSpace facilities greatly reduced manufacturing lead time and cost for the project. The housing would not have been possible to manufacture using traditional techniques due to the complexity and intricacy of the design, and the speed and versatility of AM has proved opportunity to experiment with multiple materials, allowing for optimisation for strength and weight.

Multiple other 3d printed parts include sensors housings, various electronics enclosures, and mechanical members.

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.