Switzerland-based ABB will open a corporate research center (CRC) at its industrial computer control system facility in Wickliffe, OH, in early November. The CRC will concentrate on advanced computer process control and robotics to improve the efficiency and capability of industrial plants and electric utilities.

As part of the move to northeast Ohio, ABB will perform research and development projects with local universities Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland State University. The Wickliffe location was selected based on its proximity to universities pursuing projects relating to ABB product lines (robots, process control systems, industrial process measurement devices and advance monitor and control software systems). The location is also in proximity to ABB assembly sites.

The company has invested $25 million dollars in its North American operations, including Raleigh, NC, and Windsor, CT. University partnerships with institutions in those locations are slated as well.

ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies, enabling utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact.