MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation announced that three projects have been selected to receive development funding through the WARF Advanced Manufacturing Challenge Grant. From industrial robotics to improved 3-D printing, these technologies have high potential impact.

Researchers representing multiple departments and engineering disciplines applied for funding. The selected projects are led by the following PIs:

  • Paul Milenkovic (Electrical & Computer Engineering) for improved control software for robots used in manufacturing and other industrial settings
  • Sangkee Min (Mechanical Engineering) for real-time detection of manufacturing equipment anomalies and product defects
  • Scott Sanders and Lianyi Chen (Mechanical Engineering) for an on-board sensor to help generate 3-D printed parts with controlled quality

“WARF is thrilled to support UW–Madison researchers envisioning smarter, safer and more sustainable manufacturing in the 21st century,” said Erik Iverson, CEO of WARF. “Over the past year, our Accelerator Challenge Grants have helped innovators across campus pursue proof-of-concept work critical to build momentum behind emerging technologies.”

Projects not selected for funding through the Accelerator Challenge Grant may still be connected to other supportive resources within WARF.

During the ongoing COVID-19 situation, WARF remains open for virtual business and continues to welcome innovation disclosures from all UW–Madison faculty, staff and students.


About WARF

The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) helps steward the cycle of research, discovery, commercialization and investment for the University of Wisconsin–Madison and provides annual support to the university to advance research and innovation. Founded in 1925 as an independent, nonprofit foundation, WARF manages more than 2,000 patents and an investment portfolio as it funds university research, obtains patents for campus discoveries and licenses inventions to industry. For more information, visit warf.org and view WARF’s Cycle of Innovation.

CONTACT:
Jeanan Yasiri Moe
Director of Strategic Communications
jyasirimoe@warf.org | (608) 960-9892