Sheffield was the location for the latest instalment of the Forum series, with a focus on Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and how we should consider them in the context of our manufacturing research. Forum members Martin Baumers and Nan Yu gave presentations on the activities in their labs (on additive manufacturing operations and precision plasma processing respectively) and where they see themselves on the TRL scale. We were fortunate also to hear from Professor Geraint Jewell who gave us an excellent insight into his work leading the Future Electrical Machines Manufacturing hub , particularly in engaging with industrial partners and working across TRLs. In particular there was valuable advice in providing an attractive value proposition to drive industry engagement. There was also a tour of the Robotics lab in the Engineering Department, and a real highlight was a visit to the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in Rotherham, where we were treated to a staggering array of different robots and a glimpse into higher TRL research. Many thanks to James Law and Hussam Muhamedsalih for organising a great meeting.
EPSRC Early Career Forum in Manufacturing Research 