Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) Company Profile

Background

Overview

Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is a not-for-profit, industry-led Research & Technology Organisation (RTO) established in 2014. With laboratories in Dublin and pilot lines in Mullingar, IMR collaborates with organizations across various sectors to transform complex challenges into actionable solutions, enabling Irish industry to innovate, digitize, and compete globally.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To assist organizations in making informed decisions, building robust capabilities, and achieving sustainable progress through applied research, collaborative pilots, and knowledge transfer.

• Vision: To create a world of practical innovation where organizations can confidently digitize, automate, and scale, with rapid learning across sectors and sites.

Primary Area of Focus

IMR specializes in applied research and technology development, focusing on four thematic pillars:

1. Digitisation: Accelerating the evolution towards Industry 4.0 by leveraging data for optimized factory performance and enabling new business models.

2. Robotics and Automation: Enhancing global competitiveness through significant improvements in productivity and quality via automation and robotics.

3. Design for Manufacturing: Supporting industry in designing and producing using advanced digital tools like 3D printing and advanced machining to create novel products and processes.

4. Sustainable Manufacturing: Assisting industry in adopting low-carbon economy practices through circular economy strategies, resource efficiency, and intelligent energy management.

Industry Significance

IMR plays a pivotal role in strengthening Ireland's manufacturing sector by providing access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise, thereby enhancing competitiveness and fostering innovation. Its collaborative approach ensures that manufacturers, from SMEs to multinationals, can effectively navigate the complexities of modern manufacturing.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Demystify: Provide clear, expert insights into the right technologies and pathways for businesses.

• Derisk: Pilot and validate in a collaborative, low-risk environment before scaling.

• Deliver: Transition from proof-of-concept to production with measurable returns in cost, carbon, and competitiveness.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Digitisation: Implementing IoT, data analytics, and AI to drive data-driven business models.

• Robotics and Automation: Developing automation solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiency and quality.

• Design for Manufacturing: Utilizing advanced digital toolsets for product design and lifecycle management.

• Sustainable Manufacturing: Promoting circular economy practices and energy efficiency in manufacturing processes.

Key Technologies Utilized

• IoT and Data Analytics: For real-time monitoring and optimization of manufacturing processes.

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: To enhance decision-making and predictive maintenance.

• Robotics and Automation Systems: For process automation and quality control.

• Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): For rapid prototyping and complex part production.

• Sustainable Technologies: Including energy management systems and circular economy solutions.

Primary Markets Targeted

IMR serves a diverse range of industries, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing: Enhancing productivity and innovation.

• Aerospace and Transport: Improving manufacturing processes and supply chain resilience.

• Digital and Smart Technologies: Integrating digital solutions into manufacturing.

• Circular Economy and Energy: Promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.

• Consumer Products and Materials: Optimizing production and product design.

• Life Sciences and Healthcare: Advancing manufacturing capabilities in the medical sector.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

IMR has secured substantial funding to support its initiatives:

• Initial Funding (2014): €15 million to establish the organization and commence operations.

• Recent Funding (2025): €1.28 million under the 2025 Capital Equipment Call to advance laser manufacturing capabilities.

Total Funds Raised

As of the latest available data, IMR has raised approximately €16.28 million in funding since its inception.

Notable Investors

IMR's funding has been supported by various stakeholders, including:

• Enterprise Ireland: A government agency supporting the development of Irish enterprises.

• European Commission: Through initiatives like the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) programme.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The capital raised is allocated towards:

• Infrastructure Development: Establishing and upgrading laboratories and pilot lines.

• Research and Development: Conducting applied research in advanced manufacturing technologies.

• Collaborative Projects: Partnering with industry leaders to implement innovative solutions.

• Training and Upskilling: Developing programs to enhance the skills of the manufacturing workforce.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

IMR focuses on several key areas in its development pipeline:

• Advanced Manufacturing Technologies: Including automation, robotics, and additive manufacturing.

• Sustainable Manufacturing Practices: Developing solutions for energy efficiency and circular economy integration.

• Digital Transformation Tools: Implementing IoT, data analytics, and AI in manufacturing processes.

Stages of Development

IMR's projects progress through stages of:

1. Research and Conceptualization: Identifying industry challenges and formulating research objectives.

2. Pilot Implementation: Testing solutions in controlled environments to validate effectiveness.

3. Scaling and Deployment: Implementing successful solutions across broader manufacturing operations.

Target Conditions

IMR addresses various conditions, including:

• Operational Inefficiencies: Streamlining processes to reduce waste and downtime.

• Sustainability Challenges: Implementing practices to minimize environmental impact.

• Technological Gaps: Bridging the divide between emerging technologies and their industrial applications.

Anticipated Milestones

IMR sets clear milestones for each project, such as:

• Prototype Development: Creating initial models for new technologies.

• Pilot Testing Completion: Assessing the viability of solutions in real-world settings.

• Full-Scale Implementation: Deploying successful solutions across multiple manufacturing sites.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

IMR develops and utilizes proprietary technologies in:

• Automation Systems: Custom-designed robotic solutions tailored for various manufacturing processes.

• Digital Twins: Virtual models of manufacturing systems for simulation and optimization.

• Sustainable Manufacturing Tools: Technologies focused on energy management and waste reduction.

Significant Scientific Methods

IMR employs various scientific methodologies, including:

• Data Analytics: Analyzing manufacturing data to identify patterns and optimize processes.

• Machine Learning Algorithms: Developing predictive models for maintenance and quality control.

• Simulation Techniques: Modeling manufacturing systems to test and refine processes.

AI-Driven Capabilities

IMR integrates AI-driven capabilities in:

• Predictive Maintenance: Using AI to forecast equipment failures and schedule maintenance.

• Quality Assurance: Implementing AI systems for real-time quality monitoring and control.

• Supply Chain Optimization: Leveraging AI to enhance logistics and inventory management.