The purpose of the Next Generation Manufacturing Technology Initiative (NGMTI) is to accelerate the development and implementation of advanced breakthrough manufacturing technologies in support of the warfighter, and the global economic competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing.

NGMTI launches collaborative project teams consisting of subject matter experts from industry, government, academia, and associations in support of its purpose.

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NGMTI program -- Technology Development Flow Process

Projects

NGMTI selects projects that address technology requirements identified in the Strategic Investment Plans that have clear initial business cases for technology investment. NGMTI will share results and lessons learned with other Initiative participants. 

For further information on current or potential projects, or to join a project team, please contact the Technology Transition Program Manager

Emerging Process Technologies
Defense fuel cell Manufacturing
Digital Direct Manufacturing
Digital Radiography
Friction Stir Joining

Model Based Enterprise
Product Modeling
Process Modeling
Information Modeling
Digital Manufacturing  

Propulsion & Power
(Power Sources)
Primary Batteries
Secondary Batteries
Reserve Batteries
Fuel Cells
Hybrid Solutions  

Mission Electronics & Optics
(Radio Frequency Modules)
Materials
Components
Packaging and Assembly
Systems and Applications
Vacuum Electronic Devices

Orthotics and Prosthetics
Product Life-Cycle Management
Advanced Materials Applications
Electronics and Processing

Thrust Areas

Emerging Process Technologies addresses areas where new technologies – or new applications of existing technologies – can deliver breakthrough improvements in manufacturing capability. NGMTI addresses nine broad areas including machine-based manufacturing, polymer-based products, chemical processing, wheeled transportation, nanotechnology, aerospace, sea vessels, electronics, and warfighter outfitting. Examples of potential disruptive success are numerous. Nanotechnology is pursuing solutions such as coatings for cancer drugs with materials that allow the body to eliminate them after they have done their work (a huge barrier in cancer treatment). Additive and other net-shape manufacturing processes are moving to maturity, providing the capability to create complex parts in a fraction of current time and cost, while eliminating waste and environmental impact.

Model-Based Enterprise advances the digital revolution in product and process development, intelligent control, and enterprise management. By using product and process models to define and manage all manufacturing enterprise processes, and by applying science-based analytical tools to make optimal decisions at every step of the product life-cycle, it is possible to radically reduce the time and cost of product development, manufacture, and support. For example, the ability to simulate all but the most safety-critical product testing offers the potential to cut development times by up to 50%. The ability to “download” integrated product/process instructions directly to the factory floor will eliminate the current gaps between development and production and enable 100% quality product with the very first unit.

Propulsion and Power develops a view of the future with regard to the military’s need for the many types of power sources needed. Tomorrow’s Warfighter, whether a soldier, marine, sailor, or aviator, will rely heavily on these sources to drive a broad variety of tools ranging from communication radios to submarine propulsion.  The DoD looks forward to this thrust area’s help in developing a strategic plan to significantly streamline the use and development of future power sources.

Mission Electronics and Optics will develop strategic investment plans for the development and application of devices used for reliable communication between the Warfighter, his chain of command, and advanced tools such as unmanned vehicles.  This area will encompass such technologies as radio telecommunication, laser based weaponry, and gathering RF intelligence.

Orthotics and Prosthetics addresses the application of technology and manufacturing techniques to the issue of supplying our returning Warfighters suffering from weakened or missing limbs with an appropriate device that will return them to the fully active lifestyle they desire.  Technical issues include providing comfortable fit for every unique application, real time adaptation of the fit to varying requirements, hygiene, functional performance, replacing “hand crafting” with science based manufacturing, and cost reduction.

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