As stated in this SBIR solicitation, The Navy's Program Executive Office for Ships is leveraging the National Research Program (NSRP) to effect change across surface shipbuildingto adapt and implement
Benefit: The anticipated direct benefits of this project will be improved process capability, reduction of distortion and reduced number of parts to be handling in the ship assembly bay. This will result in lower cost, shortened cycle time, reduced rework, and higher quality in ship structure. Structure in all categories of boats and ships, from small work and patrol boats, to the largest US Navy combat and support ships will be potential commercial applications
Keywords: Structure, Structure, cellular manufacturing, ship manufacturing process, Robot, welding, Lean Manufacturing