The Lasers4MaaS (Lasers-for-Manufacturing-as-a-Service) project, launched in January 2025 with approximately £6.7 million in EU HORIZON funding, aims to revolutionize high-power laser welding by integrating dynamic beam shaping (DBL) and AI-driven digital platforms. This initiative seeks to provide flexible, scalable, and sustainable manufacturing solutions across sectors like renewable energy, automotive, aerospace, and food packaging.

Key innovations include:

• Dynamic Beam Shaping: Enhances welding precision and adaptability.Laserax
• AI-Driven Manufacturing: Utilizes machine learning and sensor fusion for real-time process optimization and predictive maintenance.
• Digital Manufacturing Platforms: Facilitate on-demand, customized production with high quality and short lead times.

The UK Atomic Energy Authority’s RACE center contributes by applying these technologies to fusion energy, aiming to reduce maintenance costs and weld defects in challenging environments. The project, coordinated by the University of Warwick’s WMG, involves a consortium of European academic and industry partners and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

More info: https://race.ukaea.uk/lasers4maas-takes-off-pioneering-ai-powered-laser-welding-for-renewable-energy-and-beyond/