# Advances in Multi-Process Hybrid Production Cells for Rapid Individualised Laser-Based Production
## 1 Introduction
The HyProCell project ([[http://www.hyprocell-project.eu/](http://www.hyprocell-project.eu/)]([http://www.hyprocell-project.eu/](http://www.hyprocell-project.eu/)) (accessed on 16 January 2021)) proposes the combination of available cutting-edge LBAM machines and information and communication technology (ICT) innovations within an integrated multi-process production cell, which includes LBAM--specifically, selective laser melting (SLM) [8] and laser metal deposition (LMD) [9] additive processes--as well as automatic powder removal and subtractive machines, in order to ensure a fully finished product from incoming raw materials. The general objective of HyProCell is to implement and validate this concept in real manufacturing settings, manufacturing real parts and measuring the benefits and impact on production. A conceptual overview of HyProCell (Figure 1) shows how raw materials may be processed to manufacture products. Part geometry, toolpaths and laser scanning patterns are generated by CAx tools. Autonomous and cost-effective system operation is achieved by connecting the various machines performing the manufacturing processes over a communications network that runs a manufacturing execution system (MES). The MES both triggers and controls the various manufacturing processes. Manufactured parts are transferred between machines by robotic systems using specialised clamping systems, and quality inspection is carried out across the different manufacturing phases. The concept has been validated in industrial pilot facilities by manufacturing parts to meet precise end-user requirements. Initially, manufactured parts address the aerospace, energy, and industrial equipment sectors. Within the project, several key results were obtained:  
1. Development of software and toolboxes to generate modelling and manufacturing data for hybrid AM workflow
2. Development of a modular architecture with unified adapters (OPC-UA) for the machines
3. Development of middleware components for modularity and interrelation between machines and robots
4. Provision of suitable robotic arms and design of robust pallets and fixturing systems capable of storing and handling large and heavy parts in an inert chamber
5. Addition of external controls to the ADIRA AC AddCreator ([[https://adira.pt/en/product/additive-manufacturing-2/](https://adira.pt/en/product/additive-manufacturing-2/)]([https://adira.pt/en/product/additive-manufacturing-2/](https://adira.pt/en/product/additive-manufacturing-2/)) (accessed on 16 January 2021)) machine to make it operational as a connected module of an integrated production process, notably the addition of the automatic robot access door, new sealing elements and an automatic vacuum powder removal system for the powder remaining in the chamber after manufacturing the part
6. Integration of the remaining powder extraction process (inside the part), incorporating an automatic SOLUKON machine ([[https://www.solukon.de/en/metall/sfm-at800/](https://www.solukon.de/en/metall/sfm-at800/)]([https://www.solukon.de/en/metall/sfm-at800/](https://www.solukon.de/en/metall/sfm-at800/)) (accessed on 16 January 2021)) for powder extraction in the cell
7. Adaptation of the HAMUEL LMD hybrid ([[https://hamuel.de/en/products/5-axis-machining-center-hstm](https://hamuel.de/en/products/5-axis-machining-center-hstm)]([https://hamuel.de/en/products/5-axis-machining-center-hstm](https://hamuel.de/en/products/5-axis-machining-center-hstm)) (accessed on 16 January 2021))machine for use under the HyProCell approach, achieving superior on-line measurement and control capabilities for the manufacturing of nozzle rings (with blades) and turbine Blisks for the turbomachinery sector
8. Development of an integrated manufacturing execution system (MES) that acts as an information dispatcher between the integration layer and other system components
9.