Bridging The Valley Of Death Gap From Manufacturing Research To Production
The Manufacturing USA Institutes are not known by many Americans, but the role they play in advancing American Know-How is undeniable.
Aaron’s Thoughts On The Week
“The country that gets new products to market faster and at less cost, they’ll win the race for the good jobs of tomorrow.” - President Obama
I was recently in Pittsburgh for the Annual Membership meetings at the ARM Institute. While heading back to the airport to return home, Vice President Harris’ motorcade was heading into the city for her to present her plans for US Manufacturing if elected. Her opponent in the race, former President Trump, presented his plan a few days earlier in Georgia.
While VP Harris gave her speech at the Economic Club of Pittsburgh on the campus of Carnegie Mellon University made sense. It may have made more sense to have given it before the ARM Institute members because that is just one of the groups helping to advance US Manufacturing in real ways. I will grant the VP’s team that during a campaign, you go where you can and you can’t always align schedules and security requirements, however, it was a bit of a “come on man” amongst the attendees when we all learned she would be just up the road from us (even though we would be wrapping up at the time of her talk).
So let’s talk about something that is really working for US Manufacturing and hopefully will continue under either of the candidates regardless of who wins in November. That is not only the ARM Institute, but the larger network that ARM is just one part of and that is the Manufacturing USA network.
Manufacturing USA, established in 2014 during the Obama administration, is a nationwide network of cutting-edge manufacturing institutes. These institutes are committed to fostering innovation, developing the workforce, and bolstering the U.S. industry. The primary goal is to advance state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence, and additive manufacturing, to ensure the competitiveness of American manufacturing globally. This initiative builds upon previous endeavors such as the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), which was launched in 2012 to promote partnerships between the public and private sectors and enhance U.S. manufacturing.
Today, the Manufacturing USA Institutes play a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic research and private sector production by promoting collaboration among industry, academia, and government. Their focus is on scaling up promising technologies, transitioning them from early-stage research to market-ready solutions. These institutes offer access to cutting-edge equipment, expertise, and real-world applications, thus expediting the process from innovation to commercialization. By aligning research and development efforts with industry requirements, they are able to lower the risks and costs that often impede private sector investment in new technologies, effectively transforming academic breakthroughs into scalable, market-oriented manufacturing solutions.
The Origin Story
In June 2011, the U.S. President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) recommended launching an advanced manufacturing initiative through public-private partnerships. This initiative would support academia and industry in applied research on new technologies and design methods. PCAST proposed allocating $500 million annually to the Departments of Defense, Commerce, and Energy, eventually increasing to $1 billion over four years.
The National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI) was introduced in the President’s fiscal year 2013 budget and formally launched in March 2012. The proposal called for collaboration among the Departments of Defense, Energy, Commerce, and the National Science Foundation to create a network of 15 regional institutes. This $1 billion initiative aimed to be carried out over 10 years. To kickstart the effort, $45 million was reprogrammed from existing resources through executive action to fund a pilot institute.
In May 2012, the Department of Defense invited proposals from nonprofit organizations and universities to establish an additive manufacturing research institute as a prototype facility. By August, the government announced the winning proposal—the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute (NAMII), later known as America Makes. Led by the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining and based in Youngstown, Ohio, the consortium included 40 companies, nine universities, five community colleges, and 11 nonprofits. America Makes launched with $30 million in federal funding and an additional $40 million contributed by consortium members, with the goal of becoming financially self-sustaining.
The Expansions
Upon seeing the early success at America Makes, Congress established the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation in 2014, later rebranded as Manufacturing USA in 2016. This program was designed to foster innovation and collaboration across industry, academia, and government to address the nation's most pressing manufacturing challenges. Manufacturing USA now includes 17 institutes, each with a specialized focus, such as biomanufacturing, lightweight materials, and advanced robotics. These institutes act as hubs for technological advancement, providing resources that individual companies would struggle to develop on their own.
Key Institutes and Focus Areas
Some of the prominent Manufacturing USA institutes include:
ARM Institute: Focused on advancing U.S. manufacturing through the development and integration of robotics technologies.
MxD (Manufacturing times Digital): Specializing in digital manufacturing and cybersecurity.
NextFlex: Pioneering flexible hybrid electronics.
BioFabUSA: Leading advancements in tissue engineering and biomanufacturing.
More Institutes Coming
In 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced the creation of an 18th institute focused on artificial intelligence (AI). This new institute is expected to enhance manufacturing resilience by integrating AI to improve supply chains, boost productivity, and mitigate risks from unexpected disruptions. NIST plans to invest up to $70 million over five years, with additional funding from non-federal sources. This initiative will further strengthen the U.S. manufacturing sector, continuing the government’s commitment to innovation in key industries.
Don’t Forget About The Workforce!
The Manufacturing USA institutes also play a crucial role in workforce development, particularly as automation and technology revolutionize the manufacturing landscape, because technology that no one knows how to use is useless. These institutes are not just centers for innovation; they are also dedicated to bridging the skills gap by offering programs and certifications tailored to modern manufacturing needs. This focus ensures that American workers, from entry-level positions to seasoned professionals, are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the evolving industrial environment. By upskilling workers in areas like robotics, AI, biomanufacturing, and advanced materials, the institutes help to maintain a competitive edge in global manufacturing.
In collaboration with universities, community colleges, and industry partners, the Manufacturing USA institutes design educational programs that provide students with hands-on experience using cutting-edge technologies. For example, the ARM Institute works with academic institutions to develop both an accreditation program to highlight top training programs and a website, RoboticsCareer.org, to help get students into those programs and then on into careers. Similarly, institutes like NextFlex offer flexible hybrid electronics programs aimed at building a specialized workforce that can leverage these innovative technologies.
Programs are often tailored to specific regional and industrial needs, ensuring that educational offerings align closely with the demands of local manufacturers. Institutes like MxD are key players in this ecosystem, focusing on digital manufacturing and cybersecurity training, while BioFabUSA enhances biomanufacturing expertise by partnering with schools to offer internships and apprenticeships.
Having A Real Impact On US Manufacturing
The collaborative model of the Manufacturing USA network has delivered tangible results across multiple institutes, each contributing to technological advancement and industry transformation. America Makes and several other institutes like the ARM Institute, MxD, and LIFT are accelerating innovation in various sectors.
America Makes
This initiative has been a key driver in the adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies across various sectors. For instance, in industries like aerospace and healthcare, America Makes has facilitated the use of 3D printing to streamline production processes, reduce material waste, and cut costs. Notably, General Electric developed a 3D-printed fuel nozzle for aircraft engines, resulting in a 30% cost reduction and a 25% weight decrease, while also improving durability.
The impact of America Makes extends beyond individual companies; it plays a central role in building a resilient manufacturing ecosystem. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization helped coordinate the production of essential personal protective equipment (PPE) through its vast network of 3D-printing enthusiasts and industry partners. This effort not only provided critical supplies when traditional supply chains were strained but also demonstrated the potential for localized, on-demand manufacturing.
ARM Institute
The ARM (Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing) Institute focuses on enhancing industrial robotics capabilities to increase the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing. By working with industry partners, ARM has developed collaborative robotics solutions that are crucial in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These robotics applications improve productivity by automating complex and hazardous tasks, allowing workers to focus on higher-value activities. For example, ARM worked with a consortium to develop robotic systems for the manufacturing of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, improving production speed and safety. ARM also focuses on workforce development, training thousands of people annually in robotics and automation technologies.
MxD
MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) is another Manufacturing USA institute that has made significant strides in digital manufacturing and cybersecurity. It helps U.S. manufacturers adopt digital tools that enable them to improve operations, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency. One of MxD’s notable achievements includes developing digital twin technologies, which allow manufacturers to create virtual replicas of physical systems, improving their ability to predict system failures and optimize production. MxD has also been instrumental in bolstering cybersecurity for manufacturers by establishing industry standards and providing training to mitigate cyber threats.
LIFT
LIFT (Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow) focuses on materials innovation, particularly the development of lightweight metals and advanced manufacturing techniques that reduce the energy consumption of vehicles and aircraft. In partnership with the Department of Defense, LIFT has pioneered methods to accelerate the adoption of lightweight materials, benefiting industries such as automotive and aerospace. By integrating these materials, manufacturers can produce lighter, more fuel-efficient products without compromising safety.
The On Going Goal: Transferring Innovation to Industry Partners
One of the key strengths of the Manufacturing USA network is its ability to transfer technological advancements from the research phase to real-world applications. This collaborative model ensures that cutting-edge innovations don’t stay confined within the institutes but are implemented by industry partners. For instance, America Makes’ developments in additive manufacturing have resulted in faster, more efficient production methods across sectors like healthcare and aerospace. Similarly, ARM and MxD have successfully transitioned their innovations into the hands of industry partners, ensuring that robotics, digital tools, and cybersecurity advancements benefit manufacturers nationwide.
By leveraging partnerships with government, academia, and private industry, these institutes are not only fostering technological breakthroughs but also creating pathways for workforce development. This ensures that the U.S. manufacturing workforce remains equipped with the skills needed to handle next-generation technologies.
As the manufacturing sector faces ongoing challenges, including supply chain disruptions and the demand for sustainable practices, the role of Manufacturing USA will continue to grow. New initiatives will focus on green manufacturing, advancing digitalization, and strengthening U.S. leadership in emerging technologies.
The Manufacturing USA institutes are not just a network of research hubs but a vital part of the country's innovation ecosystem, ensuring that the U.S. manufacturing industry can meet the challenges of the future.
Regardless of who enters the White House in 2025, Manufacturing USA is poised to further evolve, expanding its reach and ensuring that American manufacturing remains synonymous with innovation, resilience, and global leadership. I highly recommend if you company or organization fells it can contribute to the work of any of the Manufacturing USA Institutes that you get involved immediately to join the growing efforts.
Robot News Of The Week
Worldwide Robot Implementation Hits New Record of 4 Million
The 2023 World Robotics report highlights a significant rise in automation, with 541,302 new industrial robots installed globally, bringing the total operational robots to over 4.28 million. This marks the third consecutive year of over half a million installations.
Regional Highlights:
Asia: 70% of global installations occurred in Asia. China led with 276,288 new robots (51% of global installations), while India saw a 59% increase. Japan remains the second-largest market despite a 9% drop.
Europe: 92,393 robots were installed (17% of the global total), with Germany leading. Spain, Slovakia, and Hungary showed growth, while Italy and France saw declines.
Americas: 10% of installations were recorded in the region, with the U.S. adding 55,389 new robots. Canada’s installations rose 37%, and Mexico added 5,832, mainly in the automotive sector.
Industrial automation is continuing to grow worldwide, driven by increasing demand in various sectors.
US Army awards two contracts to build cargo robot prototypes
The Army has selected American Rheinmetall Vehicles and HDT Expeditionary Systems to build prototypes for its Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) program, known as Increment II. The goal is to improve upon the first version by doubling the payload capacity, increasing power for unmanned systems, and integrating a wireless communication network. The system will also be modular for easy upgrades. A production contract is expected after testing in 2027, with plans to purchase up to 2,195 units. S-MET is designed to reduce soldier fatigue and enhance combat effectiveness.
Kiva Systems founders to enter Logistics Hall of Fame as mobile robot pioneers
In 2003, Mick Mountz, Dr. Peter Wurman, and Prof. Raffaello D’Andrea co-founded Kiva Systems, revolutionizing logistics with their mobile robotic fulfillment system. This system used autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to transport stock between storage and picking stations, enabling same-day delivery. Their innovation has earned them induction into the Logistics Hall of Fame. The trio continues to influence the industry, with Mountz serving on various boards, Wurman as executive director at Sony AI, and D’Andrea leading Verity while also teaching at ETH Zurich.
Robot Research In The News
The Handcrawler can go where arms can't reach—and still grab stuff
The researchers at EPFL and MIT have developed a robotic hand that can detach from its arm and crawl around to grasp objects that would be otherwise out of reach. The hand, called "Handcrawler," has fingers that bend both backwards and forwards, effectively doubling its grasping abilities. It attaches to the wrist using magnets for alignment along with a screw that extends to lock the hand into place. The team has also developed an autonomous version that can run an entire grasping sequence, from detaching and crawling to picking up an object and reattaching itself to the arm. This innovative design was presented at ICRA@40 in Rotterdam.
Robot Motion Diffusion Model: Motion Generation for Robotic Characters
Recent advancements in generative motion models have achieved remarkable results, enabling the synthesis of lifelike human motions from textual descriptions. To address the issue of motions failing to adhere to physical constraints, a novel method has been introduced that integrates kinematic generative models with physics-based character control. The outcome is the Robot Motion Diffusion Model (RobotMDM), a text-conditioned kinematic diffusion model that interfaces with a reinforcement learning-based tracking controller.
Robot Workforce Story Of The Week
Apollo Career Center receives $1.2 million grant for automation, robotics equipment
Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced that Apollo Career Center will receive a $1,175,925 Career Technical Education Equipment Grant to fund the automation and robotics department, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture. The grant will support the purchase of an industrial cell with a robotic arm and components for students to troubleshoot and fix. This funding aligns with the schools' and community's needs and will benefit several schools in the area. The grant program aims to serve 6,330 students and benefit careers such as precision agriculture equipment technicians, additive manufacturing technicians, and robotics engineers, while also boosting the local economy.
Robot Video Of The Week
In this video, Rotograb is introduced, a robotic hand that combines the flexibility of human hands with the strength and efficiency of industrial grippers. Rotograb has a special rotating thumb that helps it handle objects with precision and strong grips, making it very versatile. This robotic hand was created by students in the “Real World Robotics” master’s course at the Soft Robotics Lab at ETH Zurich.
Upcoming Robot Events
Oct. 1-3 International Robot Safety Conference (Cincinnati, OH)
Oct. 7 Humanoid Robot Forum (Memphis, TN)
Oct. 8-10 Autonomous Mobile Robots & Logistics Conference (Memphis, TN)
Oct. 14-18 International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (Abu Dhabi)
Oct. 15-17 Fabtech (Orlando, FL)
Oct. 16-17 RoboBusiness (Santa Clara, CA)
Oct. 21-23 ROSCon (Odense, Denmark)
Oct. 23-26 International Conference on Social Robotics (Odense, Denmark)
Oct. 28-Nov. 1 ASTM Intl. Conference on Advanced Manufacturing (Atlanta, GA)
Nov. 22-24 Humanoids 2024 (Nancy, France)
Jan. 21-24 Intl. Symposium on System Integrations (Munich)
Mar. 4-6 Intl. Conference on Human-Robot Interaction (Melbourne)
Mar. 21-23 Intl. Conference on Robotics and Intelligent Technology (Macau)
May 12-15 Automate (Detroit, MI)
May 17-23 ICRA 2025 (Atlanta, GA)
May 18-21 Intl. Electric Machines and Drives Conference (Houston, TX)
May 20-21 Robotics & Automation Conference (Tel Aviv)
Aug. 18-22 Intl. Conference on Automation Science & Engineering (Anaheim, CA)