The fully reconfigurable collaborative research facility is dedicated to digital assembly and flexible component manufacturing.
Teams at Factory 2050 are working with manufacturing partners on projects spanning robotics and automation, digitally-assisted assembly and manufacturing informatics.
As part of the visit, the Duke was given a tour of the factory, saw how robots are being used for high-accuracy, flexible machining applications, and had the opportunity to experience the latest mixed reality technologies being used to improve assembly, construction and manufacturing processes.
He also unveiled a plaque to commemorate the opening.
“The AMRC is a very important part of the UK’s industrial landscape. It has developed over the last 15-to-20 years from a gleam in the eye and is now at the forefront of research in a whole range of areas,” he said.
“I would like to congratulate everyone who has done such a lot to build what is a world class establishment doing some fantastic research. I’ve watched the AMRC grow over the years - I’ve even opened one or two of its buildings - so it’s a great pleasure to be officially opening Factory 2050.”
The building features a completely reconfigurable interior, helping manufacturers to rapidly change product designs and switch between making high-value components and one-off parts for customers from a wide range of sectors.
The £43 million development was part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Higher Education Funding Council for England.
Speaking at the opening, the University of Sheffield’s provost and deputy vice chancellor, Professor Shearer West, said: “We are very proud of this new addition to the AMRC's world-class facilities. Factory 2050's landmark building complements the state-of-the-art technology within - which will help to further revolutionise the UK’s manufacturing sector.
"I am delighted to welcome HRH The Duke of York to our facility, which is named The Duke of York Factory 2050 in his honour."
