Purdue Northwest lab part of national manufacturing institute

The U.S. Department of Energy if providing $70 million for the initiative, with manufacturers and coalition members providing a matching amount.

The goal is to reduce by 50 percent the cost of technologies like advanced sensors, data analytics, and controls. That will help make U.S. manufacturers more competitive in world markets. Manufacturers of all sizes will gain access to cutting-edge smart technology that should make their operations more productive and energy-efficient.

“Through such facilities as our Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation, our Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center and others, Purdue University Northwest is poised to play a huge role enhancing advanced manufacturing and economic development across our region and nation,” Purdue Northwest Chancellor Thomas L. Keon said.

CIVS, which is based at PNW’s Calumet campus, will contribute to the broader initiative by using its 3D virtual reality simulation lab to train workers.

“This is outstanding recognition for our university and CIVS,” Purdue Northwest Professor and CIVS Director Chenn Zhou said. “It demonstrates that CIVS application-driven approach for integrating simulation and visualization technologies can help provide practical, efficient and innovative solutions to maintain the competitiveness of American industries.”

Zhou said CIVS could work on projects in workforce development, visualization and fluid dynamics as part of the initiative.