Data Loading...
IET MWC Newsletter Jan2021 Edition Flipbook PDF
This is the January 2021 Institution of Engineering and Technology Mersey and Western Cheshire Events Newsletter coverin
125 Views
78 Downloads
FLIP PDF 1.54MB
In Partnership with Bilfinger UK
Events Newsletter
Mersey and Western Cheshire Network including the Isle of Man January 2021 – September 2021 All our events are free to attend for IET members and non-members alike, pages 10–13
Regional Apprentice of the Year Award
Young Professionals in Focus
Mersey and Western Cheshire Network
Friends of the Network The Mersey and Western Cheshire Local Network is run by volunteers, who each year arrange free-to-attend lectures, technical visits, workshops, and annual dinners. These activities would not be possible without the support of our Friends of the Network. These organisations support the Local Network in many different ways, from sponsorship of the local network, taking advertisements in the two events newsletters that are published each year, taking tables
at our Annual Dinners, funding places at our Annual Dinners for young engineers, providing speakers for lectures and allowing technical visits to their factories, engineering offices and academic institutions. Without their help and support, it would not be possible to run the high-quality events that we strive to deliver. We are grateful for the support given both in the past and going forward into the future by our Friends of the Network. Robert McDonald
Thank You for Your Support!
Chair’s Message Welcome to the January 2021 edition of our Events Newsletter. I hope you enjoy reading it and learning about the past and upcoming activities of the Local Network. I would like to wish you all a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year for 2021. The year 2020 has been dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic, including the activities of the Local Network. From September onwards, the Local Network volunteers successfully ran six webinars on a range of topics. The recordings of the webinars are available on the IET Mersey and Western Cheshire newly-created YouTube Channel. Please have a look at what has been produced; I think it is a credit to those involved in this new venture for us. The work our Education Team does with face-to-face visits to schools and colleges has been stopped, but they
have continued to support them in a variety of ways, including making a number of Student Excellence Awards which you can read about on page 4. Our Deputy Education Officer, Alan Dixon, has recently become a Governor at Middlewich High School with responsibility for developing STEM and Careers. I congratulate him on this, and I am sure the IET Education Resources Team will provide him with great support. Our Young Professionals Group has gone from strength to strength over the last number of years. They bring up-todate knowledge, skills, and energy to the Local Network. I am sure our Deputy Chair, Godfrey Evans, will enjoy acting as their mentor as I have done so over a number of years. Our programme of free-to-attend events for the first half of 2021 are a mixture of webinars and hopefully face-to-face events. Hopefully, by April, the new Covid-19 vaccines will have brought the pandemic under control and we can return to face-to-face events and meetings. Rob McDonald
Deputy Chair`s Message “In at the deep end”! I was persuaded earlier this year that I should join the Executive Committee for the Network and was asked if I would take on the Deputy Chairmanship. It was only after I had said yes that I was told that October 2020 ‘should’ be the transition to Chairman! Fortunately, being the gentleman that he is, Rob McDonald agreed to stay on for a further 12 months in order to aid my succession. I have been a Member of the Institution for more than 30 years and a part of this Network for more than 10 years. Until very recently I have enjoyed a relaxed approach and have attended various events – arranged, coordinated and delivered by others – and returned home. In the last few years, I have given two presentations to the Manufacturing & Management Group and experienced both the ‘pressure’ to deliver and the amount of organisation
that each event entails. For those of you who (like me previously) attend any of our Network events, whether real or virtual, please spare a thought and offer your appreciation for all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. Again, since becoming Deputy Chairman, I have been involved with the “Young Professionals” Group and have been very impressed with the things they do and the willingness to take on new tasks. I only wish that a similar Group existed when I first joined the Institute, but I am very keen to take over as the Group’s Mentor in 2021. I seriously think that they will teach me a few things along the way! The lockdown created by the present pandemic has forced us to take to the airwaves via Skype/Zoom/Teams, and a few others, for meetings, presentations and events. All of these are being delivered and received in a very professional way but, like most, I am really looking forward to being able to meet face-to-face and interact with as many of you as possible over the coming years of my tenure. Until then, stay safe, stay well and look after your loved ones! Godfrey Evans
Contents Friends of the Network Chair’s Message Deputy Chair`s Message As We Move into 2021 the IET Will Be Celebrating Its 150th Anniversary Report on Young Professionals Alex Headspith Wins Regional Apprentice of the Year Award Biomedical Engineering at the School of Engineering, University of Liverpool Introducing the IET Manufacturing Technical Network (TN) Tata Steel Invest in Spheron Asset Management Technology
2 3 3 4 5 5 6 7 7
Digital Technologies Enabling Business Re-imagination 9 Events: January 2021 – September 2021 10 Event Programme January 2021 – September 2021 12 Digital Solutions Offered by Bilfinger UK 15 Visit to the Storyhouse Theatre Chester 16 Latest Developments in Energy from Waste 17 Green Hydrogen Displacing Diesel in Commercial Vehicles 17 The 15th Global Congress on Manufacturing and Management, 20–23 April 2021 18 Key Contacts LN 19
3
Education Officers’ Activities As We Move Into 2021 the IET Will Be Celebrating Its 150th Anniversary The STEM Resources and Education programme from the IET is vast and online learning is now available from 2020– 2021. It covers Programs from Primary through to High School Education; these resources are found at www.theiet.org/education. Our Education Officers, Roger Todd and Alan Dixon have been busy forwarding these resources to Schools within the Local Network. The pandemic has very much curtailed activities but we have been able to make some IET Education Awards. One was made to University of Chester student Megan Johnstone. Megan was given the award for receiving a first class mark for her work on the use of pulsed lasers to modify the inside of pieces of solar quality glass for the purpose of photon management, in other words controlling light to improve solar cells. Chris Cunningham has received an IET Education Award for his high quality work at Liverpool John Moores University. Chris graduated in 2020 with first class honours from the BSc in Video Production and Streaming, with a final year project based on budget telecine conversion of amateur 8 mm footage, to enable families to enjoy again material that had been shot decades ago. Despite having no formal background in electronics or computing, he researched the technical standards and controls required, designed and printed 3D parts for suitable stepper motor mechanisms, created the required optics and sensor from standard cheap parts and controlled it all (while capturing the results) on a Raspberry Pi. Cronton Sixth Form College & Riverside College student Jack Cross has been awarded an IET Education Award for his commitment to the course throughout, including during lockdown, willingness to go that extra mile and become part of the engineering ethos. Alan and Roger are asking Colleges to put forward students who they think need a pat on the back, and some
Chris Cunningham
4
cash in the bank, for their hard work and perseverance in their studies especially at a time like this. It is worth noting that on a slightly different tack, Roger’s son Robin Todd is working in Accra, Ghana advising the government on educational needs and with help from Hedy Fletcher, IET Education Volunteer Coordinator in Stevenage, Roger managed to supply him with 250 LED torch kits. The latest is that they are much appreciated and soon teachers will be using them in local schools, see picture of the team, Robin Todd and two student teachers.
In addition to the torches Roger has been asked to help out with suggestions on writing code. Our Minute Timer project that was run at City of Chester 610 ATC Squadron looks as if it will fill the requirement so data on the project is being supplied along with a couple of working units and a kit of parts. Alan has become a co-opted governor at Middlewich High School to develop STEM/Careers but has all the resources and support of the IET Education Department at hand. So although the COVID Pandemic is affecting all our lives the Education Team seem to be at least overcoming Roger Todd, Alan Dixon some of the obstacles.
Megan Johnstone and Roger Todd
Jack Cross
Young Professionals in Focus Report on Young Professionals Group The IET Mersey and Western Cheshire Network are proud to support and help young engineers to develop in their early career in the sector. The Young Professionals Group aims to develop the careers of young people through networking and promoting skills. The committee consists of a diverse range of young engineers, technicians, students and apprentices from multiple organisations such as the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Sellafield. As COVID-19 has changed the world around us, so has the network’s approach to events. On 6th October 2020 the group ran the highly successful online Women in Engineering Event, Inviting Anne Morris of BAE Systems, Ellie Harkins from Siemens and Rebecca Harding of STFC to talk of their own careers and sparking lively group discussions about all matters related to women in different engineering fields. On 4th November 2020, the group jointly with the Manufacturing and Management-Biomedical Engineering Group ran a Biomedical Engineering Event in collaboration with the University of Liverpool. The webinar presented four interesting projects from experts in their respective fields. Professor Rachel Williams, Professor of Ophthalmic Bioengineering, presented her work on Tissue Engineering in the Eye. Professor Ahmed Elsheikh discussed the developments made in biomedical engineering over the last half century.
Dr Raechelle D’Sa, the Head of the Antimicrobial Biomaterials Group at the University presented her work “Using Nitric Oxide to Treat Infections”. Dr Yalin Zheng discussed the use of Artificial Intelligence in Biomedical Engineering with his talk “Transforming Healthcare with AI: from Diagnosis to Prognosis”. The group was proud to present the annual Christmas Lecture on 26th November 2020, hosted by rocket scientist, Bianca Cefalo, who shared her experiences and journey through an illustrious career in Aerospace Engineering. As well as her work as a space advocate, STEM consultant and equality activist, she worked internationally to deliver multiple missions sponsored by the likes of NASA, ESA and UKSA. On top of this, 2021 is set to be a bumper year with the upcoming life skills events and professional registration workshops to help you get your career on the right path, with more events still to come. If being involved with these exciting events motivates you, and you are between 18–30 years old, then join the Merseyside and West Cheshire Young Professionals Group. The group holds many tools to develop young engineers and drive early stage careers to help them get the edge in the workplace. If you would like to apply, please contact the co-chairs: [email protected] or [email protected]. Alex Headspith, Thomas Kelly
Alex Headspith Wins Regional Apprentice of the Year Award Congratulations to Mechanical Technician Alex Headspith who has been crowned regional Apprentice of the Year (Advanced) in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2020. Organised by the National Apprenticeship Service, the awards champion both employers and apprentices themselves – showcasing the stories of those who go above and beyond during their apprenticeships. Alex joined STFC as an apprentice technician in 2016 and has been based at Daresbury Laboratory since then. As well as getting stuck into projects such as the ESS and CLARA, Alex spent time at CERN during the summer in 2019 working in the Beam Instrument Department. He completed his apprenticeship in September and is now the lead technician on the CARME project and the ZEPTO tuneable magnet project. On top of his training Alex has been a STEM ambassador volunteering at various public engagement events and apprenticeship events. Alex is a member of The Mersey and Western Cheshire Young Professional Group. Jonathan Aghanian, Apprenticeship Coordinator at Daresbury Laboratory is elated at the news: "Alex is now an extremely accomplished technician and we are all delighted to hear the news. I must say his confidence is infectious and
I regularly receive feedback about his inspirational nature when he undertakes his additional work; either at engagement events or when mentoring new apprentices." In previous years there would be a series of regional events, culminating in a glitzy national awards ceremony. However, this year an online event took place on 3rd November. Alex now goes through to the national finals at the end of November 2020 and we wish him all the best! Congratulations Alex, keep up the good work! Phil Atkinson
5
Manufacturing and Management / Biomedical Engineering Biomedical Engineering at the School of Engineering, University of Liverpool The Manufacturing and Management / Biomedical Engineering Group jointly with the Young Professional Group organised an interesting event on biomedical engineering. The event was hosted by Ashkan Eliasy and Andrew Kaldos. This informative event brought together scientists and experts in biomedical engineering research in areas such as artificial intelligence for diagnosis and prognosis, tissue engineering in the eye, advancements in the measurement of corneal biomechanics and alternatives to antibiotics to fight infections. Professor Rachel Williams with expertise in ophthalmic bioengineering talked about eye diseases and treatments such as age-related macular degeneration and corneal endothelial dysfunction. In both diseases, tissue engineering offers solutions for replacing these biological tissues and restoring the eye’s health. These solutions included corneal reconstruction to replace corneal transplant using peptide hydrogels and cells from donor corneas. In addition, subretinal transplant using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePPFE) substrate and Autologous Iris Pigment Epithelial (IPE) cells have shown promising results. Professor William offers novel approaches to optimise the properties of materials for specific applications. Professor Ahmed Elsheikh spoke about the fascinating historical journey in corneal biomechanics and the latest advancements in its in-vivo measurements. Leonardo Da Vinci in the 15th century discussed the musculoskeletal system while biomechanics of the tissue is a relatively new advancement with many applications in the 21st century. The paper with the title “The Corneal is Not a Piece of Plastic “ published in 2000, shows how novel this area of research
6
was only 20 years ago. The measurement of corneal biomechanics in-vivo is a key factor for enabling personalised medicine. Professor Elsheikh introduced and compared the latest advancements, such as the Stress-Strain Index (SSI) use in air-puff tonometry. Dr Raechelle D’Sa researched on treatments of infections for eye, skin and bone and talked about significant problems that can and have occurred due to resistance to antibiotics. She offers new solutions to replace antibiotics. These methods included surface modification and geometrical alteration to fight bacteria and prevent infections. The talk explored learnings from Komodo dragon super blood and certain types of honey that can lead to the development of new drugs. Nitric oxide is one way that our body is able to deal with different types of infections. Dr D’Sa is mimicking how our body does it to find new ways for fighting off infections without using antibiotics. Dr Yalin Zheng talked about the transformation of healthcare using artificial intelligence (AI). He discussed how machines should be enabled to think like humans in many tasks such as reasoning, planning and problemsolving. It covered methodologies and practical techniques to utilise deep learning for achieving these goals. AI is already in clinical practices, and government policies, evaluation of patients eligibility for new treatments and timely disease management are key factors enabling the prediction of future outcomes. There are dangers in predicting the future, but AI can reliably and accurately do this in the near future. Ashkan Eliasy
Manufacturing and Management Introducing the IET Manufacturing Technical Network (TN) The Manufacturing and Management Group works in close cooperation with the IET Manufacturing TN. The purpose of the IET Manufacturing TN is to promote and raise awareness of developments in manufacturing and technology utilising presentations, online events, publication, and social media. This will include: • Raising awareness of challenges and opportunities that our manufacturing sectors face. • influencing and informing individuals, companies, and trade bodies, who have an interest in manufacturing, of current and developing manufacturing methods and technologies. • Promoting and building a positive future for our manufacturing sectors. The Manufacturing TN’s programme for 2021 includes events on the following topics: • Future Manufacturing & Supply Chain Strategies (Post COVID-19). • Sustainable Manufacturing. • Digital Manufacturing. • 5G opportunities.
The first webinar event will be on Future Manufacturing and Supply Chain Strategies on 13th January 2021 starting at 11: 00 a.m. This event will discuss learning in respect of how to shape future manufacturing and supply chain strategies following the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Attendees will hear the thoughts of supply chain experts from a range of manufacturing sectors on what has worked, what has not worked and insights on how to reduce supply chain impact in similar global disruptions. The invited speakers are Professor Jan Godsell (University of Warwick), Andy Williams (Confederation of British Industry) and Charlotte Horobin (Make UK). The TN is always willing to hear ideas and suggestions on topics to cover. We have openings for volunteers to join the TN and help reshape and expand the Executive. These opportunities range from simply attending a committee meeting, to bring new ideas to the table through to the organising, running and promoting of one of the events. For more details please contact our Community Manager, Gemma Hadley, or the TN Chair, Dr Chris Proudfoot: [email protected], [email protected]. Chris Proudfoot
Updates from Industrial Partners Tata Steel Invest in Spheron Asset Management Technology Tata Steel have recently invested in Visual Asset Management SceneWorks technologies from the German developer Spheron-VR AG. As part of Tata’s Industry 4.0 strategy, all its assets at sites located in Shotton and Port Talbot Hot Mill are in the process of being scanned using Spheron’s pioneering HDR camera which is based on specialist high quality 3D photogrammetry. The HDR camera produces an image based “digital twin” which is a digital replica of a site or location. Spheron’s accompanying SceneCenter software allows Tata’s employees to explore any area at its manufacturing facilities from the comfort and safety of their desktop from anywhere around the world. Tata employees are now able to collaborate with customers and clients remotely showing areas on plant which would normally have required on-site visits. Using the software reduces unnecessary travel costs and promotes
time efficiency. During the Covid-19 pandemic this technology has proved essential. Engineers can now use the software to plan, measure and survey areas, for example inside confined spaces and guarded areas. All documentation and internal processes have been integrated within the SceneCenter environment which has helped Tata to optimise the management and visualisation of its assets. Spheron have other tailored solutions for areas such as Police crime scene forensics, security, critical infrastructure and also industrial industries such as Rail, Nuclear, Gas, Utilities, Construction and other visual Asset Management Applications. Steve Smith
7
8
Updates from Industrial and Research Partners Digital Technologies Enabling Business Re-imagination The Covid-19 crisis has caused mass disruption for businesses across all sectors. The last few months have been about survival, but now businesses find themselves facing the next challenge: the new normal. This could mean anything from enabling remote workforces, adapting to changing customer behaviours or even reviewing and changing entire business models. More than ever the answers lie in digital transformation. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic for manufacturers has been particularly severe. The virus has caused disruption to manufacturing operations on a massive scale, stripping demand for some products whilst creating unprecedented spikes for others. This has left manufacturers dealing with ever changing production volumes, an under-pressure and fractious supply chain and fluctuating workforce demands. The pandemic has exposed serious vulnerabilities in traditional manufacturing environments. And those who have suffered the most have been the businesses whose operational models have not allowed them to be agile in their response. Digital transformation was already the route to cutting costs, identifying efficiencies and boosting productivity, but in a post-Covid world it might be the only way for manufacturers to survive the new normal. So, how can businesses embrace digital transformation and use digital technologies to allow them to re-imagine their business processes? For all businesses, returning to operational normality is vital, but the new normal means that they cannot simply return to operating as they did before. However, there are digital planning and communication tools which can expedite that return to normality and future proof the business against any further disruption. Digital twins have long been heralded as one of the most effective ways of unlocking the value in manufacturing data, but in a post-pandemic environment the options for the application of digital twins has never been wider or more important. Manufacturers could create a digital twin or replica of their production environment to support process and people flow planning. This would aid the creation of a socially distanced production environment and allow businesses to map out and test any changes to how a workforce could enter or exit a space. In addition, the creation of this virtual factory would allow manufacturers to test different scenarios, including the introduction of new machinery, without risking real-time interruption to production. There is often an assumption that a lack of access to 3D or CAD models of a production facility puts the digital twin beyond reach, but that is not the case. A number of key technologies can be utilised to provide the data required to create a digital representation of an operational site, Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) scanning, a remote sensing technology and surveying method which uses laser scanners to measure distances and dimensions of landscapes and buildings, is one of these techniques. The data generated
can then be converted to create a digital twin (along with operational data), supported by techniques such as discrete event simulation and visualisation. Many employers would have previously claimed that having a partial or full remote workforce would be ‘unworkable’. But as we were urged to social distance and flatten the curve, we witnessed what one CEO described as ‘a historic deployment of remote work and digital access to services across every domain.’ For manufacturers, technologies exist which allow remote access to plant data from mobile devices as well as enabling the use of data to predict maintenance requirements and even perform remote diagnostics. And, as many businesses have found themselves switching to the production of new products or having to rapidly embrace new tools or technologies, digital tools can also be used to support virtual training and upskilling. The Covid-19 pandemic has, for many, necessitated a change in direction to survive. For some the changes required has been obvious and they have been able to capitalise on fast-growing new markets using existing supply chains. Others may find themselves unsure of what direction they need to head in, but digital technologies can also help provide a way forward. Digital expertise and toolsets can enable data acquisition across social media and other external forces to inform businesses about new market opportunities, enable access to new supply chains and allow that all important monitoring of new trends to support diversification. The benefits of a holistic, well executed and dynamic digital strategy, which is not fixed in traditional static planning cycles, should both reap immediate results and future-proof the business against further disruption. And, crucially, digital transformation is not the preserve of big engineering firms. SMEs are generally agile in nature and this characteristic can enable them to adopt new digital tools and techniques much more quickly than larger organisations. A growing number of SMEs have seen the benefit of incorporating smart technologies to generate valuable real-time data and are using this information to help them make better decisions to grow their business. Support within this space is available and easily accessible – digital impact centres such as the University of Liverpool’s Virtual Engineering Centre (VEC) and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) offer a wealth of expertise, unbiased advice and practical support. In partnership with the IET, VEC and STFC are holding an event on the 7th July 2021 – Digital Technologies Enabling Business Re-imagination. On-topic industry issues will be discussed along with examples on how other organisations have embraced digital to enhance profitability, competitiveness and to future-proof against any other crises should they arise. For more information visit virtualengineeringcentre.com Sarah Martin-Tyrrell
9
IET Sectors Built Environment | Design and Manufacturing | Digital | Education and Skills | Energy
DATE
EVENT AND LOCATION
PRESENTER
Wednesday, 3rd February
Internet of Things for Healthcare – Joint event with the University of Liverpool Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Professor Mike McKean and other leading experts
Tuesday, 23rd February
How Do Renewable Energy Technologies Play a Role in Achieving Our Net Zero Goal? Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Sagnik Murthy, Head of Client Relationships UK Power Networks
Wednesday, 10th March
Advances and Applications in Optical 3D Metrology – How GOM Does It Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Stuart Dix, GOM Technical Manager
Monday 15th March
IET Competition – 2021 Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Competitors
Wednesday, 21st April
Technical Visit to Bilfinger UK – Digital Solutions Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Mark Kelly, Head of Digital & Innovation Steve Lang, Director of Automation & Digital Solutions
Tuesday, 27th April
Mersey Tidal Power Project Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Martin Land, Project Director Mersey Tidal Power Project, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Tuesday, 4th May
Aspects of The European Spallation Source YMCA Wirral, 56 Whetstone Lane, Birkenhead, CH41 2JT Subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
Dr Norman Turner, Researcher University of Huddersfield
Practical Implementation of Industry 4.0 at Getrag-Ford Transmissions Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
Phil Boden, Production Manager
Technical Visit – Jodrell Bank TBC Subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
Jodrell Bank Staff
IET MWC Leadership Seminar 2021 Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
3–4 leading industrial speakers
Wednesday, 12th May
Monday 17th May
Wednesday, 23rd June
All our events are free to attend for 10
For more information on how the IET supports CPD If you do not have access to the internet, registration Contact details are shown on
Events: January 2021 – September 2021 Mersey and Western Cheshire Network | Engineering Safety | Healthcare | Transport | Innovation and Emerging Technologies
SECTOR
GROUP
TIME
CONTACT
CPD
Healthcare / Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Manufacturing and Management / Biomedical Engineering
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
Jiafeng Zhou Andrew Kaldos Online registration
2
Energy / Built Environment
Energy and Environment Group
Start 7:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m.
Rob McDonald Online registration
2
Design and Manufacturing / Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Manufacturing and Management
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
Stuart Dix, Andrew Kaldos Online registration
2
All
Start TBC Young Professionals Finish TBC
Ashkan Eliasy, Adam Wilson, Bibek Darjee Online registration
2
Digital / Design and Manufacturing
Manufacturing and Management
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
Mark Kelly, Andrew Kaldos Online registration
2
Energy / Built Environment
Energy and Environment Group
Start 7:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m.
Rob McDonald, Online registration
2
Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Electronics and e-Systems
Brian Clark, Start 6:30 p.m. Registration essential and Refreshments and Networking 6:00 p.m. requested by email or Finish 8:30 p.m. telephone
Design and Manufacturing
Manufacturing and Management
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
Innovation and Emerging Technologies Design and Manufacturing / Management
2
Phil Boden Andrew Kaldos Online registration
2
Start 12:00 noon Young Professionals Finish 4:00 p.m.
Adam Wilson, Bibek Darjee, Georgia Edwardson Online registration
3
Manufacturing and Management
Jerry Hopkins Michael Gilbert Online registration
3
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
IET members and non-members alike please visit http://www.theiet.org/membership/career.cpd can be done via e-mail or telephone to the contact listed event synopses on pages 12–14
11
DATE
EVENT AND LOCATION
Thursday, 1st July
Wednesday, 7th July
PRESENTER
Advances in Electronically Active Textiles YMCA Wirral, 56 Whetstone Lane, Birkenhead, CH41 2JT Subject to COVID-19 restrictions.
Professor Tilak Dias, Nottingham Trent University
Digital Technologies Enabling Business Re-imagination Webinar, Zoom joining link will be provided near the event.
David Bogg, Chief Development Engineer and leading scientists
Event Programme January 2021 – September 2021 February
March
Internet of Things for Healthcare – Joint event with the University of Liverpool Date: Wednesday, 3rd February Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speakers: Professor Mike McKean and other leading experts For the NHS, the IoT could present big benefits for patient care by enabling hospitals to track and monitor patients from the moment they arrive at hospital – or even in the home before that – with real-time data from sensors being automatically added to patient records without the need for nurses to take readings or update charts. The presentation will cover the most recent developments in the IoT in Healthcare applications. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contact: Jiafeng Zhou, [email protected] Andrew Kaldos, [email protected]
Advances and Applications in Optical 3D Metrology – How GOM Does It Date: Wednesday, 10th March Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speaker: Stuart Dix, GOM Technical manager The presentations will cover the newly developed noncontact measuring solutions to tackle any application and budget, including manual and fully automated systems. GOM offers machines and systems for manual and automated 3D digitising, evaluation software, training and professional support in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy and consumer goods. Parts ranging from several millimetres in size through to complete aircraft can be inspected with high accuracy and relative ease. Industrial case studies and Q/A session will close the event. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contacts: Stuart Dix, [email protected] Andrew Kaldos, [email protected]
How Do Renewable Energy Technologies Play a Role in Achieving Our Net Zero Goal? Date: Tuesday, 23rd February Time: Start 7:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speaker: Sagnik Murthy, Head of Client Relationships UK Power Networks The Road to Net Zero: With the government’s 10-point plan aimed to start a green industrial revolution, this talk will provide an overview of how distributed energy sources are helping to decarbonise the electricity, transport and heat sectors. A holistic energy infrastructure strategy needs to be adopted to enable decarbonisation in the years to come. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contact: Rob McDonald, [email protected]
IET Competition – 2021 Date: Wednesday, 15th March Time: Start TBC Finish TBC Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speakers: Competitors Usually the IET holds PATW (Present Around the World), this year they are hosting a new competition. More details to be released by the IET. This competition is likely to be held online but if government guidelines allow it, the competition will be held at the University of Liverpool or the Engine Rooms at Birchwood Park as a backup location. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contacts: Ashkan Eliasy, [email protected] Adam Wilson, [email protected] Bibek Darjee, [email protected]
FREE EVENTS OPEN TO ALL: Register online at www.theiet.org/events 12
SECTOR
GROUP
TIME
CONTACT
Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Electronics and e-Systems
Brian Clark Start 6:30 p.m. Registration essential and Refreshments and Networking 6:00 p.m. requested by email or Finish 8:30 p.m. telephone
Digital / Design and Manufacturing
Manufacturing and Management
Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m.
David Bogg, Andrew Kaldos Online registration
CPD 2
2
Event Programme January 2021 – September 2021 April Technical Visit to Bilfinger UK – Digital Solutions Date: Wednesday, 21st April Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speakers: Mark Kelly, Head of Digital & Innovation Steve Lang, Director of Automation & Digital Solutions A journey into the world of Digitalisation and Automation demonstrating how Bilfinger UK are making the tools and systems mean something to our industries, our clients and ourselves including demos of some of the key technologies. We will explain our journey so far, how we narrow down the huge selection of digital tools and platforms adopting more of a ground up approach finding solutions that work in dayto-day operations and in people’s hands in the field. Virtual site tour and Q/A session. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contacts: Mark Kelly, [email protected] Andrew Kaldos, [email protected] Mersey Tidal Power Project Date: Tuesday, 27th April Time: Start 7:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speaker: Martin Land, Project Director Mersey Tidal Power Project, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority The presentation will introduce the Mersey Tidal Power Project, which can deliver predictable, long term, low carbon energy to the North West as part of UK Net Zero. The project is in early stage development with a considered timeline for achieving operations in 2030. At a scale of at least 1 GW, it offers a new generating asset that can be realistically deployed to harness the abundant marine power in the Liverpool City Region. The opportunity to build a First of a Kind project, that is a publicly-led intervention that has the scale to kick start, add pace and ‘lock-in’ Net-Zero deployments. It is time for tidal. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs
Contact: Rob McDonald, [email protected]
May Aspects of The European Spallation Source Date: Tuesday, 4th May Time: Start 6:30 p.m. Refreshments and Networking 6:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m. Venue: YMCA Wirral, 56 Whetstone Lane, Birkenhead, CH41 2JT Subject to COVID-19 restrictions. Speaker: Dr Norman Turner, Researcher, University of Huddersfield The European Spallation Source is being built at Lund in Sweden at an estimated cost in excess of 1.6 billion Euros. It will use a linear accelerator to accelerate protons into a tungsten target to create the most powerful spallation neutron source in the world. The U.K. is making several "in kind" contributions. One such contribution is the RF distribution system for the superconducting cavities. The talk will describe some high-level design decisions in the design of the accelerator and then focus on two detailed design issues in relation to the RF system. Registration essential and requested by email or telephone / CPD 2 hrs Contact: Brian Clark, [email protected] Practical Implementation of Industry 4.0 at Getrag-Ford Transmissions Date: Wednesday, 12th May Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speaker: Phil Boden, Production Manager The need for Industry 4.0 will be addressed to drive lean culture and improve all aspects of the business and its sustainability. The event will describe the steps of developing lean culture in a manufacturing environment through creating a vision, plan and implementation. Based on experience, benefits and pitfalls for Industry 4.0 will be highlighted. The lecture will explore the benefits often quoted as soft savings as the systems implemented are not 13
Event Programme January 2021 – September 2021 entirely tangible. The presentation will be supported with video clips and followed by a Q/A session. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contacts: Phil Boden, [email protected] Andrew Kaldos, [email protected] Technical Visit – Jodrell Bank Date: Monday 17th May Time: Minibus departs University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill: 10:30 a.m. Start 12:00 noon Finish 4:00 p.m. Venue: TBC Subject to COVID-19 restrictions. Speakers: Jodrell Bank Staff For over 70 years, Jodrell Bank Observatory has been a world-leading science research institute, continuously pushing back the boundaries of our knowledge and understanding of the universe. While the scientists at Jodrell Bank continue to work at the cutting edge of modern astrophysics, there is a new awareness of the importance of those early developments that took place here. On-line registration / CPD 3 hrs Contacts: Adam Wilson, [email protected] Bibek Darjee, [email protected] Georgia Edwardson, [email protected]
June IET MWC Leadership Seminar 2021 Date: Wednesday, 23rd June Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speakers: 3-4 leading industrial speakers This event gives a chance to hear experienced industry leaders talk on what leadership means to them and to put questions to the speakers’ panel. Three experienced North West based business leaders will be sharing their thoughts on what it takes to be a great leader with around 100 delegates at Sci-Tech Daresbury, the STFC site at the heart of the North West. This really is a unique chance to assess whether leadership is for you and pick up some great tips on how to be effective in leading teams and businesses. On-line registration / CPD 3 hrs Contact: Jerry Hopkins, [email protected] Michael Gilbert, [email protected]
July Advances in Electronically Active Textiles Date: Thursday, 1st July Time: Start 6:30 p.m. Refreshments and Networking 6:00 p.m. Finish 8:30 p.m. Venue: YMCA Wirral, 56 Whetstone Lane, Birkenhead, CH41 2JT Subject to COVID-19 restrictions. Speaker: Professor Tilak Dias, Nottingham Trent University Today, the demand for wearable electronic devices, e.g. to monitor blood pressure or body temperature, is growing. Textiles have a major role to play in this strategically important area and offer many advantages over traditional materials such as support for technologically advanced products, flexibility, softness and high strength-to-weight ratios. This presentation investigates how modern textile technologies can be used to create such wearable textiles and explains ways by which this is being achieved and yet maintains the required fashion sense expected of clothing in these modern times. Registration essential and requested by email or telephone / CPD 2 hrs Contact: Brian Clark, [email protected] Digital Technologies Enabling Business Re-imagination Date: Wednesday, 7th July Time: Start 6:00 p.m. Finish 7:30 p.m. Venue: IET hosted Zoom webinar Speakers: David Bogg, Chief Development Engineer and leading scientists The VEC and STFC will provide an overview of how implementation of digital technologies helps to improve an organisation's ability to predict problems, make more effective decisions and more rapidly adapt operational responses. On-line registration / CPD 2 hrs Contacts: David Bogg, [email protected] Andrew Kaldos, [email protected]
Autumn Events Programme Please See in Events Newsletter September Edition
FREE EVENTS OPEN TO ALL Register online at www.theiet.org/events 14
Updates from Industrial and Research Partners Digital Solutions Offered by Bilfinger UK Industry 4.0 and digital transformation are providing the opportunity for unprecedented levels of connectivity between systems at all levels of our operations. For anyone who relies heavily on industrial processes – chemical plants and manufacturing facilities, for example – industry 4.0 can facilitate improvements to drive efficiencies, making predictive decisions based on real-time data and give a deeper understanding of the relationship between all process parameters. The underlying technologies that enable this will be familiar to most of us. Instrumentation, control systems and associated technologies that we use in Automation systems have been around for a long time. Industry 4.0 brings new technologies into this field allowing us to enhance, modify and create new solutions more easily than ever before. Bilfinger Make Industry 4.0 Work The key to success with Industry 4.0 and digital transformation lies completely in understanding the value that we are trying to achieve. Currently the market is flooded with digital technologies, smart solutions, cloud technology, machine learning… the list goes on, but this is not where the journey should begin. Yes, we need to understand these technologies and what we can achieve with them, but then step back and look at our challenges around the process. We must ensure that these challenges and the operational requirements are used to define the requirement of the solution and not let it be defined by the capability of the software. Many people fall into the trap of choosing a solution and then using this to drive an improvement process, making digital transformation difficult and in some cases impossible. At Bilfinger our focus is on the process and the operations. We understand and can deliver the capability of Industry 4.0 solutions but we also understand, crucially, how to apply
these in a way that creates value for the operation. This is about continual learning and transformation, building a solution based around a value case that allows us to continually improve processes and realise this value. The Steps to Industry 4.0 Success 1. Define the Value: Understand what you are trying to achieve and capture this. Is it a specific process problem? Is it a cost-driven issue? Is there something new we are looking to know? 2. Evaluate Existing Systems: Do not underestimate the power of what you already have, we only need to take a quick look around the world to see the value of data in all aspects. Operational facilities have been collating data, in many instances, for some time and we can help you to apply these existing systems to start the journey. 3. Fill The Gaps, the right technology for the right application: Inevitably, there will be gaps and this is where the technology behind Industry 4.0 is applied. Whether it is wireless sensors for ease of data capture, data interfaces or reporting & analytical systems, this is the stage that we implement the technology to augment our existing infrastructure. Digital transformation can be a revolution but it does not have to be, the technology gives us just as much opportunity to evolve our systems, as we require. 4. Realise the Value and Continuously Improve: The key aim with all of this is continual improvement of operational efficiencies and a reduction in the associated costs. There are many telltale signs that can indicate a piece of process equipment needs maintenance, which include changing levels of throughput, vibration, and noise or power consumption among others. In the steps to implement Industry 4.0 & Digitalisation we create the base to build upon with further improvements across all of our assets. We make it possible to build algorithms that can identify and understand sub-optimal behaviours in the system, flagging problems early and enabling preventative actions. The predictive approach this allows can minimise downtime and avoid unexpected failures that can have costly implications for the business commercially and operationally, and even have dangerous knock-on effects on the rest of the process. How Can We Help Our aim at Bilfinger UK is to help you to implement these technologies in the most meaningful way for your process, and realise the potential that Industry 4.0 can bring. We can work with you right through the transformation journey helping to highlight the value opportunities, define the solution and implement the technologies. Whether at the process and operational level or through to management systems or analytics platforms we can support you at every level. Mark Kelly
15
Electronics and e-Systems Visit to the Storyhouse Theatre Chester On the 5th March 2020, Andy Patterson and Tommy Biglin hosted a visit by the MWC Electronics and e-Systems group to the Storyhouse Theatre Chester. The associated picture of the stage shows, on the right, both Andy and Tommy during their introduction. The visit took the form of an extensive tour of the theatre with particular emphasis on the engineering aspects of the theatre operation. Andy introduced the session with a brief description of the theatre history going back to when it was the Odeon Cinema. The introduction was done from the “Thrust Stage” which is a flexible platform which allows the stage and seating to be transformed to handle different types of performances. Following on was a visit to the Control Room where all the various types of performances are controlled. We were shown how a lighting plan is prepared well in advance of any performance and then input into the appropriate control PC. The theatre uses modern technology for the distribution of sound signals and lighting control. Both systems use TCP/IP networks to carry this information. The lighting system is based on a protocol called NET3 which runs between the dimmers and the house/working lighting system. Further conversion is carried out to the lighting signal when it is distributed to the individual lighting fixture, this protocol is DMX 512. In addition to this the sound protocol is DANTE, this carries uncompressed audio channels between the sound equipment, mixers, amplifiers,
16
sound processors, paging and show relay system. As the building is flood-wired with a CAT6 network, the signals can be sent around the whole of the building. Andy discussed the various types of illumination that are used, varying from “standard” halogen bulbs to “state of the art” LED units. A key benefit is the use of the NET3 and DMX 512 protocols which allows the individual lighting units to be controlled in intensity and direction. The associated sound system was outlined which allows communication between various groups which are setup to individual requirements. The DANTE system is used for audio control and this, along with the lighting control is routed over Ethernet cabling. We were shown the power-intake room which contained the main switchboard for the theatre. The switchboard was fed from a 1000 kVA, 11 kV to 400 V three phase.This is in a self-contained room just down the corridor from the intake room. Of particular interest was the “Spiralift” which uses two intertwined stainless-steel bands to form a strong and stable column. This amazing device allows for the lifting and lowering of the complete theatre orchestra pit some 4.5 m. When lowered the lifting mechanism is compacted into the base with minimum footprint! All in all, it was a very interesting visit with some amazing technology employed throughout. Karl Formstone
Energy and Environment Latest Developments in Energy from Waste On Tuesday 22nd September, Mr Tom Woods CEng, IET Member and Technical Manager – Engineering at SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK Ltd gave an excellent webinar presentation on the production of electricity from the combustion of municipal waste. The process used significantly reduces the amount of waste (around 10 million tonnes per year) that would otherwise go to landfill and in the process generates over 650 000 MWh/year of electricity. Tom described the energy from waste process. This included the typical composition of municipal waste received for processing, processing of the incoming waste, the
combustion of waste to raise steam and the generation of electricity via steam turbines. Tom covered in detail how the residual waste streams are processed to ensure compliance with the required environmental standards. There are five SUEZ energy from waste plants in England and one in our Local Network area on the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man installation handles 50 kte/year of waste generating 25 000 MWh of electricity, providing 10% of the island’s power requirements. Tom also discussed the requirement for food waste to be collected separately by 2023 and the use of anaerobic digestion of food waste to create biogas fuel. Another technology discussed for recovering energy from food waste was gasification, where the resulting biogas can again be used as a fuel. The final technology discussed was pyrolysis. In this process, waste is thermally broken down in an inert atmosphere to produce fuel or feedstock for plastics manufacture. The webinar is available for viewing on the IET Mersey and Western Cheshire YouTube channel. Rob McDonald
Green Hydrogen Displacing Diesel in Commercial Vehicles On Thursday 26th November, Ms Amanda Lyne, Managing Director of Ultra Low Emission Mileage Company Co Ltd (ULEMCo) gave a wonderful webinar presentation on the impact of carbon dioxide emissions from transport in the UK and how hydrogen can be used to displace hydrocarbon fuels. ULEMCo is a Liverpool-based, SME business. The introduction started with a summary of sources of carbon dioxide emissions in the UK. Transport is now the highest source of carbon dioxide emissions ahead of six other major sources of emissions including power generation. The presentation also powerfully illustrated the need for the world to control and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to limit and reduce global warming. The use of hydrogen was discussed including the use of electricity production by the use of fuel cells, including marine, trains, air travel and road transport. Although some hydrogen-powered fuel cell cars are available, their general use is limited by the lack of a suitable hydrogen distribution
network for personal use vehicles. The use of hydrogen as a fuel is especially environmentally attractive if the hydrogen used is generated using renewable sources of electricity to generate hydrogen by electrolysis. Amanda discussed how hydrogen could be used to decarbonise our transport fleet. ULEMCo has developed technology that allows modern compression ignition diesel engines to be blended, fuelled with a mixture of hydrogen and diesel fuel using their H2ICED® technology. At low speed, low torque up to 95% of the energy is provided by hydrogen and at high speed, high torque up to 40% is provided by hydrogen. Nitrous oxides emissions are controlled in the same way as for fully diesel fuel engines regardless of the blend of hydrogen or diesel fuel used. ULEMCo converts commercial vehicles, from small vans, large vans, and large commercial vehicles, for example refuse collection trucks. They ensure the vehicle installations are fully compliant with the required safety standards. Hydrogen is stored on the vehicle at a pressure of 350 bar. Refuelling time is typically five minutes. The hydrogen blended fuel approach works well for commercial vehicle fleet operations where a hydrogen refuelling station can be installed at the depot. The webinar is available for viewing on the IET Mersey and Western Cheshire YouTube channel. Rob McDonald
17
Mersey and Western Cheshire Network
The 15th Global Congress on Manufacturing and Management, 20–23 April 2021 Conference: Tuesday 20 – Thursday 22 April 2021 Social programme: Friday 23 April 2021 Crowne Plaza Hotel, Liverpool City Centre St Nicholas Place, Pier Head Liverpool L3 1QW https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/conferences/gcmm2020 GCMM is a major biennial international conference for widespread dissemination of knowledge in manufacturing, management, engineering, and technology. Recent events held in Australia (2018), China (2016), were highly successful and attracted delegates from over 25 countries. GCMM 2021 is very special for LJMU Liverpool and the UK as this will be the first time this global congress will be held in Europe to share new attainments in research and industrial practice between academic scholars and industry practitioners. GCMM has always attracted high-quality research papers and continues to serve as a central hub where the world’s knowledge on manufacturing research is fused with industry strategy in a globalised market. GCMM will run in 2021 together with ISPEM (International Conference on Intelligent Systems in Production Engineering and Maintenance). GCMM2021 is calling for full paper submissions and seeks the participation of manufacturing industries as exhibitors at a minimum cost or as sponsors in exchange for several benefits. For more information please contact the host, Dr. Andre Batako by email at [email protected] or [email protected].
The IET Mersey and Western Cheshire Network Manufacturing and Management Group is proud to support the GCMM 2021 jointly with the Manufacturing and Management Technical Network and the IET Robotics and Mechatronics Technical Network through an IET Community Collaboration Agreement. Co-ordination is to be carried out by the joint Co-ordinating Group of the IET Mersey and Western Cheshire Local Network, Manufacturing and Management Technical Group in co-operation with the IET Manufacturing Technical Network and the IET Robotics and Mechatronics Technical Network. The main benefits to the IET and the GCMM2021 include: • Through the 2021 Congress, raising the profile of the IET and of the Manufacturing and Engineering profession. • Facilitating the sharing of knowledge within the manufacturing/engineering community and beyond. • Arrangement for joint promotion of the 15th biennial Global Congress on Manufacturing and Management (GCMM2021). Please join us in the 30th Anniversary Celebration of GCMM. Andre Batako
Search "IET Mersey & Western Cheshire" on these social media sites to keep up to date with events and activities! 18
Local Network Key Contacts Rob McDonald Network Chair Energy and Environment Chair 07470 500 286 [email protected]
Karl Formstone Network Secretary 01244 830 800 07860 830 800 [email protected]
Jamie Adams Network Finance Manager 07947 845 743 [email protected]
Godfrey Evans Network Deputy Chair 07808 716 238 [email protected]
Andrew Kaldos Network Immediate Past Chair / Manufacturing & Management – Biomedical Engineering Chair 07707 828 322 [email protected]
Michael Gilbert Deputy Chair Manufacturing & Management 07801 474 888 [email protected]
Darshan Gahle Young Professionals Co-Chair 07948 223 066 [email protected]
Simone Wilson Young Professionals Co-Chair 07397155159 [email protected]
Roger Todd Schools Liaison Officer 07721 340 049 [email protected]
Alan Dixon Schools Liaison Deputy Officer 07811 812 414 [email protected]
Stephen Ascroft Isle of Man Contact 07624 427 376 [email protected]
Matt Walton IET Regional Development Manager 07725 207 931 [email protected]
Brian Clark OBE Electronics and e-Systems Chair 07443 538 954 [email protected]
Gordon Nicholas Electronics and e-Systems Member 07850 725 861 [email protected]
Sandra Lucy Local Network Manager 01438 761 474 07595 400 914 [email protected]
Foothold – IET Benevolent Fund 02073 445 498 [email protected] https://www.myfoothold.org/
Adam Wilson Social Media Manager 07454 729 542 [email protected]
Ashkan Eliasy Deputy Chair Young Professionals 01512 604 068 [email protected]
Alex Headspith Young Professionals Secretary 07484 649 528 [email protected]
FREE EVENTS OPEN TO ALL Register online at www.theiet.org/events
Newsletter Editorial Board: Godfrey Evans, Rob McDonald, Andrew Kaldos
Can’t find the contact you need? You will find contact details for each event in the event synopsis on pages 12–14.
Search "IET Mersey & Western Cheshire" on these social media sites to keep up to date with events and activities!
ADVERTISE YOUR COMPANY’S PRODUCTS OR SERVICES IN OUR NEWSLETTER Contact Rob McDonald [email protected] to express your interest
£ 500 Full A5 Page £ 300 1/2 Page Advert 19
20