Boeing and Georgia Institute of Technology have opened an advanced development research center to address technical challenges in manufacturing process.

Called Boeing Manufacturing Development Center (BMDC), it will enable Boeing researchers and Georgia Institute of Technology's engineering students to work on automation in industrial applications.

This centre is located in the new 19,000ft² Delta Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility at the insititute.

“Our relationship is an exemplar for industry-university engagement as we meet jointly shared aspirations for the future of education and the advancement of technology.”

Boeing chief technology officer and senior vice-president of engineering, test and technology Greg Hyslop said: “This advanced centre will let Georgia Tech students collaborate with Boeing engineers to help drive the development of innovative factory automation solutions in aerospace.”

Georgia Institute of Technology executive vice-president for research Steve Cross said: “Georgia Tech’s long and productive relationship with Boeing includes immersive educational support for our students, collaborative research, and development of aerospace innovations.

“Our relationship is an exemplar for industry-university engagement as we meet jointly shared aspirations for the future of education and the advancement of technology.”

The first research project at the BMDC will focus on use of industrial robotics for machining and fabrication applications, which can be utilised in Boeing's manufacturing processes.

Boeing has been supporting manufacturing research activities at Georgia Institute of Technology for the last 25 years. These activities include on development of control systems on cranes and mobile platforms, as well as active flow control for aircraft wing tips.

Georgia Institute of Technology is one of ten secondary schools that Boeing partners with for research. The other schools include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford, Cambridge and California Institute of Technology.