The IDC Machining Science Conference 2017, organised by the Industrial Doctorate Centre (IDC) and hosted by the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in Rotherham, took place on 4 May 2017. The conference provided a platform for PhD and EngD students from different backgrounds such as machining, manufacturing and materials science, to present their research in a friendly and relaxed environment. The event also aimed to serve as an opportunity for attendees to share their interests and expertise, and exchange their ideas and experience with other researchers by giving a talk or presenting a poster. The conference was well-attended by several students working in the fields of composite machining, robotic machining & automated assembly, machining dynamics & condition monitoring, non-conventional machining, materials science and metrology.
After a brief introduction to machining science, the first keynote speaker, Professor Keith Worden, gave an interesting presentation on structural health monitoring. The talk was followed by several engaging student presentations, based on their active projects, an interactive poster session and an ice-breaking activity, testing people’s creativity and engineering skills.
During lunch, there was an opportunity to visit the AMRC MANTRA (the MANufacturing TRAnsporter), an interactive hands-on HGV trailer containing simulations, technology exhibits and assembly robotics.
After lunch, the second keynote speaker, Mark Chapman from Bloodhound SSC, delivered an impressive presentation about their unique, high-technology project to design and build a car that will break the 1,000mph barrier and set a new world land speed record. His talk was followed by further interesting student presentations, networking and coffee.
After some closing comments from the IDC, an optional tour was available, guided by the IDC, to visit the Factory of the Future, Knowledge Transfer Centre and Nuclear AMRC. The conference was a highly successful event, giving its attendees an excellent opportunity to establish valuable connections, share their work and discuss it in a friendly and relaxed environment.
The IDC would like to thank again everyone who helped with the organisation of this conference and all who attended, especially those who contributed to the professional success of the event with either a talk or a poster. We hope your time with us was useful and pleasant, we are looking forward to having you again next year!