Manufacturing
Articles tagged with Manufacturing
Profit alone is a poor measure of success, study shows companies can look efficient while harming the planet
A new study from the University of Surrey shows that firms celebrated for strong financial performance may actually be inefficient when environmental impact is included. The research developed a new way to measure sustainable corporate efficiency, combining traditional financial metrics with environmental data.
Policies intended to protect trade secrets may limit late-career wages
A study by Penn State researchers found that trade secret policies restrict labor mobility, leading to early-career workers receiving higher starting wages but stunted wage growth later. Firms instead shifted toward greater use of capital, replacing human labor with automation equipment.
How AI can help us count the ‘good’ viruses used in biopharmaceuticals
Researchers developed an AI-powered methodology to identify and count target viruses more efficiently than previous techniques. The new approach uses electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and machine learning to separate signals from noise, enabling quick and accurate readings across a wide range of titers.
Nuclear construction breakthrough earns ORNL 2026 SME Award
A team from Oak Ridge National Laboratory used large-format additive manufacturing to create high-precision molds for advanced nuclear reactors, lowering costs and speeding deployment of new plants. The project demonstrates the potential of digital manufacturing to cut weeks off the schedule while meeting strict nuclear standards.
MIT faculty examine how to expand the US economy in new book, “Priority Technologies”
The book highlights the importance of sustaining innovation in sectors such as semiconductors, biotechnology, and critical minerals to drive economic growth and national security. By rebuilding domestic manufacturing and leveraging new technologies, the US can regain leadership in these areas and capture a $4 trillion market.
Industrial electrification is now a security imperative, finds Oxford analysis
New Oxford analysis finds that up to 90% of industrial energy demand could be electrified with existing technologies, but policy failures and technology risks hold back deployment. Electrification offers a pathway to stable and resilient energy costs, reducing exposure to geopolitical disruption and price volatility.
Achieving wafer-scale growth of 2D magnetic materials
Researchers at Indian Institute of Science have devised a method to grow high-quality 2D magnetic materials over centimetre-scale wafers, paving the way for their integration into next-generation electronics. The technique uses Physical Vapour Transport Deposition and enables scalable fabrication with minimal surface roughness.
Don't build the engine, grow it: biohybrid miniature robots using living organisms
Researchers create living biohybrid miniature robots that solve traditional engineering trade-offs between structural rigidity and environmental adaptability. These biological engines utilize embodied intelligence to navigate complex terrains and achieve performance metrics rivaling state-of-the-art synthetics.
How to teach the same skill to different robots
Researchers develop Kinematic Intelligence framework to transfer skills between robots with different mechanical structures, enabling safe and predictable behavior. The approach reduces time and expertise needed to deploy robots in real-world settings.
Adaptive edge-cloud collaboration optimizes intelligent machine tool task processing
Researchers developed an adaptive hybrid edge-cloud collaborative offloading method to address large-scale computational tasks in intelligent machine tools. The proposed AH-ECO mechanism achieved significant reductions in task processing time and energy consumption while maintaining superior security performance.
Five University of Tennessee faculty teams receive Chancellor’s Innovation Fund Awards
The Chancellor’s Innovation Fund Awards support cutting-edge research and development projects across various fields. Faculty recipients will use the funding to refine their technologies, build prototypes, and assess market opportunities. The awards aim to bridge publicly funded academic research with private financing, fostering entre...
Machine learning designs cheaper and rust-proof steel for 3D printing
A new class of ultra-high strength and ductility steel has been created using machine learning, achieving a rare balance of extreme strength and ductility. The resulting metal resists corrosion and degrades slowly in salt-water tests.
HEAPGrasp: A faster, smarter way for robots to handle tricky objects using only RGB camera
HeapGrasp uses RGB images to analyze object silhouettes and estimate its 3D shape, reducing the need for depth information. The approach achieves high accuracy while minimizing camera movement and execution time.
Laser-etched ‘synthetic skin’ defies -50°c and weak sunlight to eliminate extreme ice
Researchers have created a dark, rubbery film that combines physical textures with light-absorbing nanotubes to keep surfaces ice-free at -50 °C. The film operates using a two-tier defense mechanism, providing both passive and active anti-de-icing capabilities.
Programmable ‘smart stamp’ transfers microscopic chips to build 3D circuits
Researchers develop programmable system to selectively pick up and place delicate electronic components, enabling mass production of defect-free displays and 3D microchips. The 'smart stamp' technology uses localized heating to control a polymer's stickiness, allowing precise transfer of semiconductor chips and other materials.
Ultralight ‘organ-pipe’ structure absorbs noise with high structural strength
Researchers have created a carbon-fiber composite that swallows sound waves while retaining the strength of industrial load-bearing panels. The design achieves an average sound absorption coefficient of over 0.9 across a frequency range of 1,500 to 5,500 hertz.
How adding a microwave to a 3D printer makes flawless and heat-proof ceramics
Researchers used microwave-based 3D printing to create ceramic components with near-zero porosity and improved strength. The hybrid technique eliminates microscopic holes and traps gas bubbles, allowing for more bending force before breaking.
Vibrating atomic tip sculpts 3D memory channels into fragile semiconductors
Prof. Yanquan Geng's team has devised a way to carve variable-depth, three-dimensional trenches into gallium antimonide using a microscopic tip vibrating thousands of times per second. This process improves the crystal's structural integrity and enables the creation of pristine 3D nanogrooves with controlled depths and widths.
Printing living tissue at human-level cell density
Researchers create living tissue at near-physiological cell density using a new bioprinting strategy called embedded 3D printing in a cell-dense suspension (EPICS). The method enables the precise fabrication of perfusable channels and dense cellular environments, mimicking real organs.
Low-cost easy-to-deform Ni-based superalloys for extreme environments and high-end manufacturing
Researchers developed a new class of cobalt-free Ni-based superalloys with high mechanical performance and good manufacturability. The alloys demonstrate mechanical properties comparable to Haynes 282 while avoiding cobalt, a strategically sensitive element.
New ultra-low-cost technique could slash the price of soft robotics
Researchers at Oxford University developed an ultra-low-cost technique for manufacturing soft robots, using common lab equipment. The new method enables rapid and affordable production of soft robotic actuators, with a material cost of less than $0.10 per unit, and demonstrated strong mechanical performance and durability.
Eye-inspired artificial skin lets robots feel before they touch
The new dynamic shielding layer allows the sensor to focus on specific areas when needed, achieving a 104.56% increase in detection depth. The sensor can also detect approaching objects from over 90mm away, providing a vital split-second for robots to avoid collisions.
Shrinking the carbon footprint of chemical manufacturing with lasers, solar radiation
Researchers at University of Illinois have developed a new method using solar energy to power a key chemical reaction in the textile, plastic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. This method can significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint by eliminating harsh oxidizing byproducts and minimizing carbon emissions.
Vote3D-AD: a novel framework for unsupervised point cloud anomaly localization
A novel framework Vote3D-AD achieves remarkable performance in unsupervised point cloud anomaly localization, combining varied defect synthesis and differentiable vote clustering. It demonstrates stronger localization than prior works and exhibits practical speed for real inspection pipelines.
MambaAlign fusion framework for detecting defects missed by inspection systems
Researchers developed an efficient system to detect subtle defects missed by existing inspection systems. The MambaAlign framework captures long-range and orientation-aware context using state-space refinement, achieving improved localization and detection accuracy without excessive computational overhead.
Novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device for safer logistics
A novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device has been developed to monitor deformation and detect damage to transported goods. The self-folded origami honeycomb device, integrated with passive wireless sensors, can provide real-time information on load conditions and impact.
Kumar named to ACMA Emerging Leaders Program for 2026
Vipin Kumar, a composites manufacturing researcher at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been selected for the ACMA Emerging Leaders Program. The program develops future leaders in the composites industry through professional development and advocacy training.
3D-printing platform from MIT researchers rapidly produces complex electric machines
MIT researchers create a 3D-printing platform that can produce complex electric machines in minutes, overcoming challenges of multiple functional materials. The platform enables the fabrication of customized electronic components with less waste, revolutionizing manufacturing and opening doors to new applications.
Distinguished researcher elected to National Academy of Engineering
Dr. Bruce Gnade, professor emeritus at the University of Texas at Dallas, has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering for his contributions to advancing electronic materials and semiconductor device technologies. He is also recognized for his leadership in education and workforce development.
Smith elected to National Academy of Engineering
Smith's election recognizes his technical leadership in manufacturing, machining, and innovation, with contributions to improving machine tool system performance and manufacturing of thin monolithic structures. His work has generated significant cost savings and productivity improvements for US manufacturers across various industries.
When the softest carbon meets the hardest
Graphene and diamond hybrids show promising performance in electronic devices, sensors, and machining tests. However, major challenges remain, including producing large-area hybrids with consistent quality and understanding fundamental properties.
How ultra-thin metal films learned to follow the curve
Researchers at Harbin Institute of Technology in China report a method to fabricate transparent conductive films on curved surfaces. The technique, using multi-angle co-velocity fitting deposition model, produces smooth and continuous films with high transparency and low electrical resistance.
Overcoming the solubility crisis: a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability
Researchers developed a solvent-free method to enhance drug bioavailability by transitioning from solid to gas phase. The sealed heating (SH) method increases drug solubility without using organic solvents.
MANA scientists enable near-frictionless motion of pico- to nanoliter droplets with liquid-repellent particle coating
Researchers at Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA) propose a novel strategy for controlling tiny droplets on surfaces, reducing friction and enabling precise control. The study demonstrates that particle-coated droplets can move with reduced force, opening new avenues in micro-scale systems and applications.
Should companies replace human workers with robots? New study takes a closer look
A recent study from Binghamton University School of Management reveals that focusing on human-robot collaboration can generate additional economic value and improve a company's ability to capture a greater share of the competitive market. By leveraging robots in collaborative settings, organizations can foster a positive sense of commi...
Global firms can counter geopolitical turmoil through sustainable local investment
Multinationals can counter geopolitical turmoil by investing in sustainable production technologies and supporting local innovation. This approach strengthens global value chains while benefiting developing countries and driving meaningful improvements for communities.
Hydrogel cilia set new standard in microrobotics
Scientists created biologically realistic artificial cilia using hydrogel, enabling precise control over their motion. The tiny structures can be powered by low-voltage electrical signals and have shown remarkable durability and versatility.
Hong Kong researchers break the single-field barrier with dual-field assisted diamond cutting
Researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University create a new machining method that combines laser and magnetic fields to machine advanced materials like high-entropy alloys. The dual-field approach produces smoother surfaces, reduced damage, and improved material removal rates.
Wearable hydrogel that tracks your body anywhere and anytime
Researchers created an ultrathin hydrogel electrode that can track vital signals without interruption, overcoming previous dehydration, freezing, and mechanical fragility issues. The new material forms a flexible layer that can withstand extreme temperatures and retain water content over time.
Seedcoat-inspired metal lets wings change shape on their own
Researchers at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics created an active metal metamaterial that can bend and recover its shape, enabling aircraft wings to morph smoothly in flight. The material is lightweight, strong, and capable of adjusting its shape on demand.
A JBNU–KIMS collaborative study on a cost-effective alloy matches superalloys for power plants and energy infrastructure
Scientists develop corrosion-resistant alumina-forming ferritic alloys that exhibit outstanding mechanical properties and oxidation resistance, potentially transforming energy systems and nuclear reactors. These materials offer economic feasibility while maintaining high reliability and could accelerate adoption in practical applications.
When light teaches materials to self-organize: Writing nature-like 3D nanowrinkles
Scientists create natural surfaces with 3D nanowrinkles that control light, liquids, and living cells. The method uses laser polarization to guide the material's organization, enabling precise control over wrinkle formation and applications in bio-inspired surfaces and sensors.
Pusan National University researchers uncover scalable method for ultrahigh-resolution quantum dot displays
Researchers introduce a universal, nondestructive direct photolithography method for QD patterning, enabling precise control over fragile surface chemistry. The study demonstrates high-resolution patterns exceeding 10,000 pixels per inch and boosts device efficiency.
A researcher’s long quest leads to a smart composite breakthrough
Researchers have developed a strong, defect-free composite material that can phase-shift under stress to dissipate energy. The material, created using additive friction stir deposition, has potential applications in defense, infrastructure, aerospace, and sporting equipment.
A multi-material microrobot that can grasp, carry and release a cell
A team of researchers developed a multi-material, multi-module microrobot that can grab, carry and release microscopic objects. The microrobot features two parts: one reacts to pH changes to grip an object, while the other responds to magnetic fields for movement.
Toxin-to-treasure: Chonnam National University scientists use engineered enzyme to turn formaldehyde pollutant into high-value chemical
Chonnam National University scientists use an engineered enzyme to convert formaldehyde into L-glyceraldehyde, a valuable chiral C3 compound. The novel approach demonstrates how enzyme engineering can turn pollution into useful building blocks for medicine and industry.
Goodbye stereolithography: Scientists develop a faster and finer way to 3d print metal
Researchers create a new method for laser-based powder bed fusion that achieves unprecedented lattice walls and surfaces while reducing memory demand. The approach enables the high-fidelity fabrication of microscale shell lattices with improved strength and toughness.
Battery large model: Ushering in a new era of intelligent battery technology
The Battery Large Model system revolutionizes battery design, manufacturing, operation, and recycling through AI-simulation synergy. It provides a novel technological path for the industry's intelligent upgrade, enabling autonomous design scheme generation, accurate performance prediction, and intelligent defect detection.
Managing many errors at once: toward intelligent accuracy control in machine tools
Researchers explore ways to understand and control multiple errors affecting machine tool accuracy, combining traditional models with data-driven approaches and digital twin technology. This enables more integrated systems that can monitor themselves, predict changes, and adjust behavior automatically.
Swansea University professor wins SEMI Academia Impact Award for European semiconductor leadership
Professor Owen Guy has received the SEMI Academia Impact Award for his outstanding contributions to semiconductor research, innovation, and industry-academia collaboration in Europe. He is Director of Swansea University's Centre for Nanohealth and a member of its Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials.
NCSA receives honors in 2025 HPCwire Readers’ and Editors’ Choice Awards
The National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) has received the 2025 HPCwire Readers' and Editors' Choice Awards for its outstanding research in artificial intelligence and energy systems. NCSA's premier supercomputing systems Delta and DeltaAI were utilized in two different domains, including a novel AI-based approach to m...
Behind the 2025 “shroom boom” hides a bad trip
The article highlights the mismatch between psychedelics and economic drug development principles. Pharmaceutical companies are developing short-acting compounds and neuroplastogens to engineer trips out of the experience altogether. Dr. Sandy Hager's research suggests investors should remain cautious due to weak intellectual property ...
Forced ‘return to office’ initiatives could deepen regional divides across Europe
A new study found that remote work can improve quality of life by providing choice and autonomy, but poor support can lead to feelings of isolation and decreased job satisfaction. The research highlights the importance of access to amenities like green spaces and local services for sustainable remote work.
Efficiency rankings used by governments and businesses may not be accurate, according to new research
Efficiency rankings may misrepresent performance due to sudden disruptions or gradual improvements, according to a new study. The Time Envelopment Analysis (TEA) method developed by researchers combines three tools to track performance over time, showing improved accuracy compared to existing methods.
Chung-Ang University researchers revolutionize non-destructive testing with purpose-built AI technologies
Researchers from Chung-Ang University have developed a novel AI-based approach for producing high-fidelity and defect-aware ultrasonic images, outperforming traditional techniques. This technology has the potential to revolutionize non-destructive testing in industries such as semiconductors, energy, and automotive.
Built to heal, born to vanish: the promise of iron-manganese alloys in bone healing
Researchers have identified iron-manganese alloys as promising candidates for temporary bone fixation. These alloys combine strength, biocompatibility, and degradation properties, allowing them to support bone healing while degrading naturally. However, challenges remain, including controlling the release of manganese, which can pose t...
University of Houston assists in designing robotic hands for use in health, agriculture, manufacturing
The University of Houston is designing robotic hands with dexterity for industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. The team, part of the NSF Convergence Accelerator program, has received $5 million in funding to develop hybrid polymeric materials that can mechanically retract and perform motions like flexion.
Printing with fields: Reprogramming matter at the smallest scales
Researchers explore Field-assisted Additive Manufacturing for micro/nano device fabrication, enabling targeted motion, cell growth, and flexible electronics. The technology holds promise for industries such as biomedical engineering and microrobotics.
3D-printed electrolytes keep zinc batteries stable for 8000 cycles
Researchers at South China University of Technology develop a method to solve unstable anode:electrolyte interfaces using digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing. The resulting batteries retain over 91% capacity after 8,000 cycles and achieve stable cycling over 2,000 hours.