The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) has signed a collaboration agreement with IPercept Technology AB to accelerate the development and industrial adoption of advanced CNC process monitoring and predictive maintenance technologies.

The collaboration brings together IPercept’s intelligent machine monitoring solutions with the AMRC’s world-leading research expertise in high-value manufacturing.

As part of the agreement, IPercept will deploy its smart devices and online services on selected CNC machines at the AMRC. The system provides high-resolution insight into machine behaviour and process stability, enabling continuous condition monitoring of critical components such as axes and spindles.

Early detection of mechanical degradation and process anomalies makes it possible to address issues before they impact part quality or cause unplanned downtime.

Professor Pete Crawforth, senior technical fellow at the University of Sheffield AMRC, said: “The integration of IPercept’s intelligent monitoring system into one of our high-performance machining centres allows us to access a much deeper level of insight into machine behaviour and process stability.

"Having reliable, high-resolution, data-driven feedback on mechanical condition and performance is essential for maintaining accuracy, repeatability and uptime in modern machining systems. Working with IPercept enables us to rigorously evaluate predictive maintenance strategies, quantify their impact, and explore new avenues for applying this technology across digital and data-driven manufacturing.” 

A spokesperson at IPercept said: "This collaboration shows how machine health transparency is becoming a new standard in CNC manufacturing. Together with AMRC, we are proving that real-time insights and predictive maintenance are not future concepts - they are practical tools that transform performance today,"

IPercept’s technology is based on motion analysis and offers 1,000 times more accurate component-level insights. This enables manufacturers to transition from time-based and reactive maintenance approaches to condition-based and predictive strategies - improving machine availability, extending asset life and increasing productivity.

Through this collaboration, IPercept and the AMRC aim to demonstrate how intelligent, sensor-based machine monitoring can support more efficient, resilient and sustainable manufacturing operations, while accelerating the industry’s shift towards data-driven and digitally enabled production.