Advanced Manufacturing
At the cutting edge of modern manufacturing technologies, our research in advanced manufacturing addresses the evolving demands of industry by integrating innovative digital and physical systems. Spanning key areas such as digital and smart manufacturing, additive manufacturing, nano/micro-manufacturing, and bio-manufacturing, we focus on the design, optimization, and automation of complex production processes.
By leveraging advancements in AI, robotics, material sciences, and cyber-physical systems, our work aims to revolutionize production efficiency, precision, and scalability. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research, we are driving the future of manufacturing toward more intelligent, adaptive, and sustainable solutions.
Below are the core areas where we are making significant contributions:
Digital and Smart Manufacturing
Faculty Contacts: A. Alaeddini, E. Richer, H. Karbasian, N. Jalili, S. Orsborn
Our research focuses on the integration of AI, IoT, Mixed Reality, Digital Twin, and advanced robotics along with human augmentation in manufacturing systems. Key research themes include smart factory design, real-time data analytics, cyber-physical systems, and adaptive control for efficient and flexible manufacturing and production.
By seamlessly blending human and machine capabilities, we aim to create intelligent systems that are not only self-optimizing but also capable of responding to dynamic and unpredictable environments. This approach enables more efficient resource utilization, reduced downtime, and enhanced productivity across various industrial sectors.
Additive Manufacturing Technologies & Systems
Faculty Contacts: D. Willis, W. Tong, A. Alaeddini, J. Webb
Our research in this area covers a wide range of cutting-edge topics, including laser-based materials processing, metal-additive manufacturing, laser cladding, robotics, and 3D printing.
The emphasis of this research is on the simulation of processes, sensing technologies, and the automation of manufacturing systems to improve precision, scalability, and repeatability.
We are also exploring the integration of real-time monitoring and feedback control mechanisms to enhance the quality and reliability of additive manufacturing. By combining advanced material characterization with novel automation techniques, we aim to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in complex, custom, and large-scale manufacturing.
This research ultimately seeks to revolutionize traditional production methods, offering greater design flexibility and reduced material waste.
Nano/Micro-manufacturing
Faculty Contacts: M. Kim, A. Beskok, D. Willis
Research in this area explores the fabrication of materials and devices at the micro and nanoscale, focusing on the intersection of advanced materials science and precision manufacturing.
Key topics include the development of microfluidic devices for applications in biotechnology and healthcare, the synthesis of novel nanomaterials with unique properties, and the implementation of high-precision laser-based manufacturing techniques.
Additionally, our research seeks to address the challenges of scaling these processes for industrial applications, aiming to improve efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and integration into larger manufacturing ecosystems. By advancing techniques at the nano and micro levels, we aim to unlock new possibilities in fields such as medicine, electronics, and energy.
Bio-manufacturing
Faculty Contact: M. Kim
This area centers on manufacturing processes related to biological systems, including tissue engineering, bio-printing, and scalable production of biomedical devices and biomaterials. The emphasis is on combining biology with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies to advance healthcare solutions.
Our research explores the development of bio-compatible materials and customized tissue scaffolds that can support cell growth, aiming to create more effective and personalized medical treatments.
Additionally, we focus on scaling these processes for mass production while maintaining precision, ensuring that the transition from lab-scale to clinical applications is seamless.
By integrating advanced automation and AI-driven design in bio-manufacturing, we are contributing to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine, organ fabrication, and the development of next-generation implants and prosthetics, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
