Research & Labs
Connected Systems Institute (CSI) provides an environment in which teams of researchers from industry and academia can work together to explore concepts related to the application of research in integrated business and manufacturing processes.
The Institute features a fully functional manufacturing cell that utilizes advanced systems, including:
- Lot size of 1
- Full track-and-trace per item
- Use of AI for quality and performance tracking
- Use of AI for raw materials tracking
- Robotics and mechatronics programming
- OT cybersecurity
- High and low order modeling
- Digital twin simulation, both locally and remotely
- Remote access to data generated in the lab
This research environment is designed to nurture an understanding of IIoT manufacturing principles. It also integrates the disciplines of engineering, physics, and business with software, hardware, and firmware solutions. The goal is to provide a place in which creative ideas can be tested and proven – inspiring new functionality and scalability in real-world business applications.
UWM’s world-class faculty contributes expertise in combination with some of the world’s most respected talent from diverse fields. This includes experts in everything from advanced manufacturing systems to the social and business impacts of technology.
Research at CSI is focused on a wide range of advanced technologies, including:






Learn more about our facilities
Visit our facilities page to learn more about CSI’s manufacturing test bed, digital twin lab, and OT cybersecurity lab or view the videos below to learn more.
CSI Specialization:
CSI focuses on research across the business spectrum, including:
- Factory Systems Integration
- Integrated Motion Control
- Fluid Flow Management
- IOT Connectivity
- Integration of Robotics
- Digital thread/twins
CSI Affiliated Research Centers
Partnerships are an important part of the CSI ecosystem. Among the Institute’s partners are:
- Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute
- SAP University Competence Center
- Industrial Assessment Center
- Center for Sustainable Electric Systems
- Center for GRid-connected Advanced Power Electronic Systems
- Center for Technology Innovation
- Supply Chain Management Institute
- Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
- NSF Center on Water Equipment and Policy