U.S. Representative Frank J. Mrvan learns latest PNW Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation research impacts
U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, left, speaks with PNW student researchers who are working on initiatives in the PNW Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation (CIVS).
Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation (CIVS) hosted U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan on July 17 to share updates on key initiatives spearheaded by the center.
PNW CIVS researchers, through their distinct, state-of-the-art digital technologies (including multi-physics modeling, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and 3D Digital Twins) showcased how several federally funded projects have driven innovation in industrial processes, energy efficiency, workplace safety and more.
CIVS’ research with multiple industrial partners, including the industry-driven Steel Manufacturing Simulation and Visualization Consortium (SMSVC), investigates common challenges that strengthen workforce development, enhance competitiveness for area partners and helps keep the Northwest Indiana region on the cutting edge of technological innovations. Generous federal funding has also helped support thousands of student research positions through PNW CIVS, providing unique opportunities for PNW students to grow through applied research.
Kyle Toth, left, PNW CIVS Senior Research Engineer, demonstrates several virtual and augmented reality visualizations in industrial settings for U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan. PNW CIVS researchers’ technologies allow for insightful information gathering that would otherwise be difficult to physically access in industrial areas without interrupting operations.
During his visit, Rep. Mrvan also had the opportunity to try out virtual training and integrated virtual industrial processes simulators in the PNW CIVS labs and to speak with student researchers about their contributions and goals.
“Thank you to Chancellor Holford and Dr. Chenn Zhou for the opportunity to receive an update on the outstanding work being done at the CIVS Lab,” Rep. Mrvan said. “I enjoyed meeting with students, learning more about the innovative public-private partnerships being fostered at Purdue University Northwest and seeing firsthand the cutting-edge technology that is helping shape the future of American manufacturing.
I enjoyed meeting with students, learning more about the innovative public-private partnerships being fostered at Purdue University Northwest and seeing firsthand the cutting-edge technology that is helping shape the future of American manufacturing.
“I am grateful for your continued leadership and your successful efforts to ensure that Purdue University Northwest remains a national model for collaboration between institutions of higher education and industry.
“As Vice Chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus and a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue working to support partnerships like these that strengthen domestic manufacturing, advance innovation, and create opportunities for our highly skilled organized workforce.”
Chenn Zhou, far right, NIPSCO Distinguished Professor of Engineering Simulation and director of the PNW Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation (CIVS), updates U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan (center right) on recorded impacts for several federally funded CIVS-led initiatives and partnerships. Photo provided by the Office of Congressman Frank Mrvan.