Helen Lockett

The Open University, Cranfield University

Papers

Total Citations

305

H-Index

About

Helen Lockett is a prominent researcher specialising in additive manufacturing, with a particular focus on Wire and Arc Additive Manufacture (WAAM) — an innovative technology that produces near net-shape metal components layer by layer using robotic or CNC-controlled welding systems. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of how engineers should approach design specifically for WAAM processes, addressing critical challenges such as design rules and build orientation selection. Lockett's research trajectory is well evidenced through her sustained contributions to the field: her 2011 paper laid early foundational principles for design in wire and arc additive layer manufacture, followed by a 2014 design study that attracted 116 citations, and culminating in her highly influential 2017 paper — now cited 148 times — which established practical design guidelines widely adopted by researchers and industry practitioners alike. Collectively, her publications have amassed over 300 citations, reflecting substantial influence across aerospace, engineering, and manufacturing communities. Her work is particularly valued for bridging the gap between manufacturing capability and design methodology, empowering engineers to fully exploit WAAM's potential for producing large, custom, structurally sound metal components with high efficiency. Students exploring advanced manufacturing design will find her research an essential and highly accessible reference point.