Digital manufacturing greatly benefits from the use of data from various points on the factory floor. When aggregated, data can be utilized for a broad range of use cases such as identifying improvement opportunities. Traditionally, these data streams have been sent securely and with high integrity via hardwire in the factory. As the digital transformation advances, the use of sensors and other data sources will be relied upon at an increasing rate. Connecting with data sources via hardwire is no longer resource-effective and new wireless protocols must be adopted. The manufacturing industry needs guidance on wireless solutions that allow flexibility, mobility, and security.

MxD is committed to improving U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and is at the leading edge of emerging digital manufacturing technologies. Through the Emerging Technology program, academic institutions have an opportunity to receive funding to aid in the development of early stage (TRL 3-6), applied research in digital manufacturing and cybersecurity research in manufacturing. Successful “Emerging Technology” projects have the potential to define larger, more specific, MxD research projects in the future. Proposals are strongly encouraged from academic institutions who are non-MxD members and Minority Serving Institutions.