ICMR and i2e2 established as Industry-led initiatives to pilot a new type of research model in Ireland: independent, applied-research centres, to act as a bridge between academia and Industry. A consortium of industry partners established the centres in partnership with the state’s enterprise agencies. ICMR focused on delivering manufacturing productivity solutions and i2e2 on Industrial Energy Efficiency.
Following hugely successful pilots in ICMR and i2e2, IMR was established in 2014. Initial funding of €15M was approved and the first staff were hired. Collaborative R&D program ramped up launching projects in IoT, Data Analytics, Chilled Water Optimisation, Knowledge Management and Schedule Optimisation.
Following hugely successful pilots in ICMR and i2e2, IMR was established in 2014 as a fully-fledged RTO (Research and Technology Organisation). Initial funding of €15M was approved and in mid-2015, IMR moved into its Innovation Lab in the Aerodrome Business Park, Dublin. The work program ramped up launching projects in IoT, Data Analytics, Chilled Water Optimisation, Knowledge Management and Schedule Optimisation.
To support the expansion of the research roadmap into areas including Additive Manufacturing, Machining and Robotics, with their much larger equipment footprint, IMR successfully developed a new industrial R&D lab in the old tobacco factory in Mullingar. In partnership with a cluster of Irish SMEs, we created a unique national facility supporting high-TRL industry focused research in a ‘factory’ environment.
In 2019, IMR celebrates its 5th year in partnership with a large and expanding Industry network, over 60 experienced staff and a portfolio of highly impactful research for Industry. IMR has grown strong linkages to Europe and won multiple EU funded programs. We are delighted to be making a difference for Irish-based manufacturers and we hope to be able to help many more on their Industry 4.0 journey.