The U.S. National Science Foundation’s Hybrid Autonomous Manufacturing, Moving from Evolution to Revolution Engineering Research Center (NSF HAMMER-ERC) is a collaboration between five universities to develop agile manufacturing systems that use new tools and advanced controls instead of large machines for advanced fabrication processes. This presentation will give an overview of the Center and its missions in research, workforce development, inclusion, and economic development. The following NSF HAMMER-ERC innovations to improve sustainment and simplify production for the Warfighter will be discussed:
- Robotic Blacksmithing – Robust systems that allow creation of components by numerically controlled deformation instead of machining or additive manufacturing.
- Precision Numerical Plate Bending – Systems to fabricate orthopedic fixation plates that can be used to assist a surgeon in austere or point-of-care environments.
- Advanced Sensors and Control – The promise of “Industry 4.0” that will rely on new system architectures to collect, process, and use data.
- Solid-State Welding – Methods to weld metals without melting by adapting explosive welding methods to join wildly dissimilar metals.