Advanced manufacturing is a mainstream concept that represents some of the latest and most innovative technologies that are available. MSOE is no stranger to this concept. In fact, the university was an early adopter of these technologies and helped advanced manufacturing techniques become the new normal in a variety of fields.
MSOE’s Rapid Prototyping Center (RPC) offers very practical solutions for companies interested in implementing advanced manufacturing techniques, and also innovative technology to improve products and processes. MSOE provides rapid transfer of science and technology from the research table to the manufacturing floor, and into products and processes.
Within the RPC, there is a corresponding consortium. Manufacturing companies in the automotive, defense, water, medical device and health care industries have trusted the RPC for their expertise and services.
The more than 60 consortium members consult with MSOE and each other to develop cutting edge products and solutions. Advanced manufacturing offers lots of possibilities—and potential pitfalls—and MSOE’s experts are there to guide their members. Members appreciate the cost-eff ectiveness of being part of the consortium. The specialized services off ered by the RPC are generally not needed on a regular basis at any company, making it more cost effective and effi cient to access these resources as a consortium member.
For more than 20 years MSOE has been at the forefront of technology and additive manufacturing. The staff has “been there, done that,” and can off er advice. MSOE is also home to the largest and most successful academicbased facility and practice of additive manufacturing of any U.S. university. Consortium members have access to these machines, saving their companies from purchasing millions of dollars worth of equipment.
