THESIS: Exploring AI Integration in Mechanical Design Workflows

High-Level Description This master’s thesis explores how AI can be integrated into the mechanical design process to enhance productivity, support concept evaluation, and improve engineering decision-making for CAD-based product development.

Project Description The project will investigate how AI can be applied throughout different stages of mechanical design work, from concept development to optimization and validation. The work will be broad in scope and exploratory in nature, including:

• Mapping current design workflows used by mechanical engineers in CAD-based development
• Exploring and testing AI-driven tools relevant to mechanical design (e.g., generative design, AI-driven modelling and simulation, LLM-assisted)
• Evaluating how AI can support tasks such as concept generation, weight reduction, material selection, manufacturability constraints, and design iteration
• Conducting a comparative study of productivity and solution quality with and without AI involvement
• Proposing a structured process or methodology for AI-assisted design work
• Analyzing how AI may influence the role of the mechanical designer in the future
• Providing recommendations for how Knightec Group can apply AI in real engineering projects
• Optionally, developing a proof-of-concept or case example showcasing AI-driven improvement of a mechanical design

Who are we looking for? Genuine curiosity about using AI as an advanced engineering assistant, beyond casual AI tools, with a strong interest in applying artificial intelligence to solve real mechanical design and engineering challenges. Motivated by problem-solving and innovation, with a focus on leveraging AI to optimize design processes, improve efficiency, and support data-driven decision-making. Particularly interested in exploring these applications within the context of thesis or research projects, where AI can assist in complex analysis, simulation, and creative design development.

• Master’s students in Mechanical Engineering
• OR Master’s students in Computer Science, Data Science, or AI with an interest in engineering applications
• Ideally, two students combining mechanical design and AI/algorithmic perspectives (but individual applications are also welcome)
• Graduation in Spring/Summer 2026
• Fluency in Swedish and English, both written and spoken

Purpose The purpose of this thesis is to explore, evaluate, and define how AI can be integrated into mechanical design workflows. This will result in a practical methodology that increases design efficiency and improves engineering outcomes. The outcome should provide Knightec Group with insights and recommendations for scaling AI adoption in future mechanical engineering projects.

What you gain

By conducting your thesis with Knightec Group, you will:

• Explore one of the most future-critical intersections in engineering – where AI meets mechanical design
• Gain hands-on experience evaluating AI tools in real CAD-based workflows
• Collaborate with experienced mechanical design engineers and AI researchers.
• Shape how tomorrow’s engineers will work with AI during concept generation, optimization, and validation
• Contribute to a methodology that may be adopted in future client projects across Knightec Group
• Potentially build a proof-of-concept that demonstrates measurable improvements in time, weight, material usage, or manufacturability
• Present your work to key engineering stakeholders internally, positioning yourself at the forefront of AI-driven product development
• Build a strong portfolio case that bridges design engineering, AI application, and technical problem-solving

An Exciting Journey with Knightec Group Semcon and Knightec have joined forces as Knightec Group. Together, we are Northern Europe’s leading strategic partner in product and digital service development. With a unique combination of cross-functional expertise and a holistic business understanding, we help our clients realize their strategies – from idea to complete solution. Practical Information This is a thesis position, located at our office in Ångbåtsbron 1B, Malmö. Start date January, 2026. Please submit your application as soon as possible, but no later than 2025-11-30. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact Anderea Danell Zavoianu. Note that due to GDPR, we only accept applications through our careers page.