OPTITER

PROJECT

OPTITER

Innovative digital methodologies for the in situ fabrication of sensors based on optimized conductive patterns, obtained through intelligent additive manufacturing processes for key Made in Italy sectors
PROJECT LEAD

Francesco Galliani, COMEC Innovative S.r.l.

CONCEPT

OPTITER aims to develop carbon fiber artifacts with integrated sensors using Aerosol Jet Printing (AJP) and Additive Manufacturing (AM). The project involves fabricating sensor patterns via AJP to monitor the structural deformation of components. These sensors will be characterized and integrated onto the surface of cured composite materials.

The components will be modeled on water-soluble mandrels, produced through innovative AM processes, and cured using an Out of Autoclave approach.

CONTEXT

Digital transformation is radically changing production systems. In industrial automation, machinery is becoming increasingly interconnected, enabling the rise of smart factories.

This shift responds to the market’s demand for flexibility, customization, and repeatable, high-quality processes. OPTITER fits within this scenario, delivering a new method for embedding intelligent sensors directly into components, making production more adaptive and efficient.

Beneficiari

OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS

  1. In-situ fabrication of innovative sensor configurations through intelligent additive manufacturing, using AJP to deposit optimized conductive paths.
  2. Development of a digital workflow covering the entire structural design lifecycle, including 3D modeling, FEM analysis, and 2D drawings. A multi-objective optimization method will identify the best trade-off solutions, reducing reliance on experimental testing.
  3. Integration of high-performance structural monitoring systems, improving accuracy over traditional predictive maintenance.
  4. Enhancement of production efficiency, reduction of costs and environmental impact.
  5. Job creation and consolidation of technical expertise.
  6. Generation of new commercial opportunities through sustainable and innovative products.

KEY FIGURES

12

RESEARCHERS INVOLVED

6522

RESEARCH HOURS

1

NEW HIRES EXPECTED

12

PROJECT DURATION

5

NUMBER OF WORK PACKAGES (WPS)

2

STARTING TRL

4

FINAL TRL