Thesis worker - Exploring the Use of Large Language Models in Digital Human Modeling Tools - A Proof
Göteborg, SE, 417 15
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Background
The Volvo Performance System is built on the principle of continuous improvement, aiming to enhance both the effectiveness and efficiency of production processes. As part of the ongoing fifth industrial revolution, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is actively advancing automation, virtual manufacturing, and digitalization. To maintain its world-leading position, Volvo CE continuously explores advanced and emerging technologies that can strengthen productivity, flexibility, and sustainability.
Thesis description
Digital Human Modeling (DHM) tools play an important role in making human factors visible early in the design of new production systems. By simulating human motion and ergonomics through digital manikins, DHM tools help engineers evaluate solutions that meet a wide range of requirements, such as efficiency, accessibility, and ergonomics. This reduces the need for large design iterations and physical rebuilds, thereby lowering costs, lead times, and environmental impact.
Despite their benefits, DHM tools are often not used to their full potential. One reason is that it can be challenging for non-expert users to set up and execute simulations, especially for those who use the tools infrequently and have limited time to perform analyses.
This thesis aims to investigate how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to reduce the level of detailed knowledge required to create DHM simulations, thereby making the technology more accessible to non-expert users and allowing expert users to work more efficiently. Specifically, the study will explore whether a Large Language Model (LLM) can be combined with a DHM tool to allow users to instruct digital manikins through natural language commands.
The work will be delimited to two main focus areas:
- Investigating how AI-based interaction can support DHM users from a usability perspective.
- Exploring and implementing how an LLM can be used to adjust manikin postures and motions in simulations.
A typical use case is when a user wishes to fine-tune motions based on domain knowledge of how assembly tasks are normally performed. Today, this requires familiarity with the DHM tool and its underlying models, making the process time-consuming and complex for occasional users. A potential solution is to integrate an LLM that enables natural language adjustments to simulations, thereby simplifying the workflow.
In this thesis, IPS-IMMA will be used as the DHM platform. The manikins in IPS-IMMA can automatically calculate collision-free and ergonomically sound motions using a high-level instruction language, making it well suited for integration with LLM-based interaction.
Summary of Thesis Objectives
- Investigate how AI can enhance DHM usability for non-expert users.
- Explore how a Large Language Model can be integrated with the IPS-IMMA module in the IPS software.
- Use an LLM to adjust manikin postures and motions in various simulations.
Demonstrate a proof-of-concept or prototype showing LLM-guided motion adjustment
Suitable Background
Master’s program in: Automation Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Computer Science.
Practical Information
- Thesis level: Master
- Language: Swedish or English
- Start date: January 2026
- Number of students: 2
- Location: Fraunhofer Chalmers Centre, Gothenburg
Last application date: 5 December 2025 and applications will be evaluated from the time of publications of this announcement.
Contact persons:
- Peter Mårdberg (main supervisor), Fraunhofer-Chalmers Research Centre, peter.mardberg@fcc.chalmers.se
- Klas Jareteg, Industrial Path Solutions, klas.jareteg@industrialpathsolutions.com
- Lars Hanson, Factory4Tomorrow, Volvo Construction Equipment, lars.hanson@volvo.com
- Joakim Carlborg, Volvo Construction Equipment, joakim.carlborg@volvo.com
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We are committed to shaping the future landscape of efficient, safe, and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents across the group’s leading brands and entities.
Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, you will be working with some of the sharpest and most creative brains in our field to be able to leave our society in better shape for the next generation. We are passionate about what we do, and we thrive on teamwork. We are almost 100,000 people united around the world by a culture of care, inclusiveness, and empowerment.
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