MUSP - Open platform for advanced technological services in the machine-tool manufacturing sector

The good practice is hinged on the provision of advanced technological services ranging from analysis of technological needs to development of innovative solutions for the production of machine tools (e.g. use of advanced materials techniques or energy-efficient processes) with Technology Readiness Levels 4-7. Services provided are addressed to members of the Consortium and to third parties. The business model is based on discounted access to service for members and full cost for non-members. Current frontier technology services include collaborative projects on metal foam, ultra-light material with high potential in the manufacturing sector but with still high cost of production; and cryogenic processing, a low temperature metalworking process that stabilizes the material and cuts the consumption of cutting fluids.
MUSP embodies very well 2 key features of Research&Innovation Infrastructures, offering: advanced development services coupled with use of advanced equipment; an open technology platform (for members and non-members) for traditional manufacturing, thereby greatly increasing the opportunities of tech-based innovation.
MUSP has the goal to support the business development of companies of the Mechanics sector through applied research and technological innovation. It can be considered a good practice because its activity is based on firms’ needs and is a consortium based on public and private actors (including big companies/SMEs) open to third parties access.