Light weighting
If cost of material is a problem then the users should be able to highlight the problems and the costs of the processes, and canvas for appropriate research, which could result in increased profitability or increased market share. If the cost of manufacture is a problem then improved methods of manufacturing (processes) will be desirable.
Manufacturing processes for light-weighting are often expensive and not scaleable; and, either include fine detail and/or are difficult (if not impossible) to make into large parts. For example machining >95% of the mass away is always an expensive option, in terms of fabrication and materials utilisation. Both Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems have used super-plastic forming (SPF) and diffusion bonding (DB) to make a range of light-weight parts (such as the RR Advanced Wide Chord Fan Blade - AWCFB). Boeing, uses these processes too. The structures are hollow and inflated to from low density structured or cellular materials. This may lead to a need to develop these processes to become more affordable lower cost processes?
Bonding of materials is also a manufacturing issue for light-weight products and often requires expensive cleaning, preparation and handling; which is often restrictive and expensive. We would like to know what industry feels about this?
We believe there are opportunities for improved design, such as improved computational modelling of materials, and the development of design methods such as design optimisation techniques using advanced simulation to reduce the need for expensive laboratory testing and prototype development costs.
Resource usage, the usage of energy and sustainability are also important issues which will have to be addressed.
Therefore, this conference will be a vehicle for the enunciation and realisation of both the problems and the needs of manufacturing industries and the design and cost opportunities there may be for improvement. Hopefully, during the day will also be an excellent networking opportunity with learning opportunities for all; and, industry and academia will be able to evolve plans for future research and development, to ensure competitiveness is maintained in this highly demanding marketplace.
We would also like to know what problems (and research opportunities) we have missed and what we need to address.
