CyManII: Pioneering Cybersecurity in U.S. Manufacturing
In an era where cyber threats loom large over industries, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) established the Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII) in 2020. This national research institute was created with a dual mission: to combat cyberattacks in manufacturing and to foster innovation and research in industrial security. By leading a consortium that includes industry partners, DOE National Laboratories, and universities across the nation, CyManII is at the forefront of enhancing the security and resilience of the U.S. manufacturing ecosystem.
A Commitment to Operational Security
As a proud member of Manufacturing USA and a key player within the University of Texas at San Antonio’s (UTSA) National Security Collaboration Center, CyManII is dedicated to addressing the operational security needs of U.S. manufacturers. The institute focuses on developing and deploying secure, defensible architectures that not only protect manufacturing processes but also advance the overall security posture of the industry. To date, CyManII has trained over 40,000 professionals in cybersecure manufacturing, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard their operations.
Addressing Vulnerabilities in Advanced Manufacturing
The vulnerabilities inherent in advanced manufacturing are a growing concern, and CyManII recognizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts to tackle these challenges. During a recent event, CyManII’s leadership emphasized the importance of working with a diverse network of partners to address the increasingly complex landscape of cyber threats. This collaborative approach is essential for developing effective solutions that can be implemented in real-world manufacturing environments.
Technology Transfer and Industry Collaboration
One of the standout features of CyManII’s approach is its emphasis on technology transfer and collaboration with industry partners. Paris Stringfellow, CyManII’s director of growth and sustainability, highlighted the significance of these partnerships. “CyManII is working with exceptional industry partners on use cases,” he stated. “In these partnerships, we provide the developing technology, and our partners implement it in real manufacturing environments. Our partners provide us with invaluable feedback, which we use to fine-tune the technology to better meet their needs.” This iterative process is designed to significantly shorten the time between initial research and the commercial viability of new technologies.
Case Study: Humtown and 3-D Printing Security
One notable partnership is with Humtown, a manufacturing company led by CEO Mark Lamoncha, which specializes in producing sand cores through both 3-D printing and traditional processes. Sand cores are essential for creating metal parts, such as engine blocks and other automotive components. CyManII has collaborated with Humtown to enhance the security and efficiency of its 3-D printers by integrating energy sensors on their ExOne S Max 3-D printers.
Lamoncha explained, “The goal is to see energy fluctuations that may indicate an outside source is manipulating the production of sand cores.” This collaboration not only strengthens Humtown’s operational security but also allows CyManII researchers to make rapid advancements in sensor technology.
Analyzing Energy Usage for Security Threats
Gabriela Ciocarlie, an associate professor in the UTSA Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and CyManII’s vice president for securing automation and secure manufacturing architecture, elaborated on the project’s significance. “By analyzing energy usage, we can determine if machines operate as expected with respect to their profiles,” she explained. This approach enables the identification of potential malfunctions or security threats, providing manufacturers with critical insights into their operations.
Ciocarlie emphasized the importance of real-world applications in refining technology. “A lot of the times when you test your research, you try it on different test beds that do not have real-world processes and complexities,” she noted. “Our partners represent real industry; they have real schedules, real environments, and real needs.” This hands-on experience allows CyManII to tailor its technology to meet the specific demands of the manufacturing sector.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Commercialization
The challenge of transitioning from research to commercialization, often referred to as the “valley of death,” is a significant hurdle for many emerging technologies. Ciocarlie believes that CyManII’s approach is critical to overcoming this barrier. “By conducting trials in diverse settings, we’re ensuring the reliability and applicability of our technology for a wider range of industries,” she stated. These pilot projects serve as models for similar companies that may adopt the technology in the future.
Collaborative Innovations in Deep-Tech Solutions
Andre Wegner, CEO of Authentise and another industry partner of CyManII, echoed the importance of collaboration in advancing technology. “Our partnership with CyManII, along with companies like i3DMFG and Addiguru, exemplifies how applied research can bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and industrial-scale deployment,” he remarked. Through projects like the cyber-physical passport, these collaborations are rapidly advancing deep-tech solutions that strengthen the U.S. industrial base.
Conclusion
CyManII stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration in the realm of cybersecurity for manufacturing. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders and focusing on real-world applications, the institute is not only enhancing the security of U.S. manufacturing but also paving the way for the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies. As the manufacturing landscape continues to evolve, CyManII’s commitment to operational security and technological advancement will be crucial in safeguarding the future of the industry.