We are pleased to share some of the important work our team has been doing over the past two years looking at human factors and technological innovation in advanced manufacturing in Australia. With support from the Innovative Manufacturing CRC (IMCRC) we have assembled a unique transdisciplinary research capability at the Tonsley Innovation District to drive this work in collaboration with BAE Systems Maritime Australia and its supply chain.

Flinders researchers and students are working alongside BAE staff on an ambitious research program based in fit-for-purpose collaborative research labs and the Pilot Factory of the Future – Line Zero trial and test facility.

Large-scale shipbuilding projects like the Hunter Class Future Frigate program can benefit greatly from accelerated application of advanced digital and manufacturing technologies in tandem with lean manufacturing and high-performance workplace practices. So too, can the supply chains work in support of this national endeavour.

The vision to establish a world class ‘digital shipyard’ is a major driver toward achieving sovereign shipbuilding capability in Australia.

We embarked on this multi-year program using HFE technology research and trials designed to support the successful and timely uptake of advanced manufacturing and digital technologies, in Australian shipbuilding, at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, and it is our pleasure to share the first of our findings.

You and find out more about this project, including the first three research reports here.