Manufacturing Robotics and Controls

Manufacturing Robotics & Controls

Much of today’s manufacturing processes rely heavily on human labor, especially in the final assembly process for many goods. This reliance is a driving factor in the offshoring of production, where companies can often hire and pay foreign-based workers less than US-based employees. A key approach to revitalize domestic manufacturing, bring domestic jobs back, realize clean energy goals, and increase productivity is automation that helps improve worker conditions and productivity while also providing improved process and part quality. 

The Manufacturing Robotics & Controls group at ORNL focuses on the development of automated manufacturing systems leveraging data analytics, sensing, and control systems technology to ensure a highly efficient U.S. manufacturing ecosystem.