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IfM Services
Contact Details
Rob Halden-Pratt
Tel:
+44 (0)1223 748261
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IfM News
Royal opening for IfM's Alan Reece BuildingNovember 19th 2009
The Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, today officially opened the IfM’s new home, The Alan Reece Building. The Chancellor was greeted by the head of the IfM, Professor Mike Gregory, who introduced him to the institute’s main benefactor Dr Alan Reece. Vice-Chancellor Professor Alison Richard also attended the special ceremony. Opening the building the Chancellor, the Senior Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said he had a special relationship with the University engineering department. “I opened the Department of Engineering [in1952] and seem to have been opening things ever since,” he joked. Around 400 people packed into the common room to watch the Chancellor unveil a plaque to commemorate the event. The Vice-Chancellor paid tribute to Professor Gregory and his team of “entrepreneurial academics” for delivering such a prestigious building. She said: “ This building is extending the breadth of what we do at Cambridge University. There is no more vivid a model of linking academia with the needs of society than the Institute for Manufacturing.” “Since I became Vice-Chancellor 6 and a half years ago I have been on an incredible journey with the IfM, which has seen it accomplish so much.” She also paid tribute to the amazing generosity of Dr Reece, founder of Pearson Engineering, whose philanthropy, along with donations from the Gatsby Foundation and local industry made the building possible. Professor Gregory, head of the IfM, said the opening was timely just as manufacturing was becoming popular again and was being placed firmly at the heart of policy. Before the ceremony Professor Gregory took the Chancellor on a tour of the IfM. Prince Philip was introduced to Manufacturing Engineering students at work in the IfM’s Design studio and the Automation Lab before seeing the facilities in Photonics. The Chancellor was introduced to the heads of the IfM Research centres and members of the IfM’s education and consultancy team. He also took time to chat with the heads of the institute’s teaching staff. The IfM moved from its cramped former home in Mill Lane to its new £15m home in June this year. The IfM, a division of the Department of Engineering, brings together expertise in management, economics and technology to address the full spectrum of industrial issues. Its activities integrate research and education with practical application in companies, providing a unique environment for the creation of new ideas and approaches to modern industrial practice. The IfM works closely with industry, at a regional, national and international level, providing strategic, technical and operational expertise to help companies to grow and to become more competitive. The new building is a major addition to the University's West Cambridge campus for science and technology. It joins an existing concentration of related research centres, as well as the Hauser Forum, a focal point for entrepreneurship and technology transfer
Multi-million pound grant boosts Ink-jet researchNovember 10th 2009
It may sound like science fiction, but industry could soon be producing complex electronics and hi-tech gadgetry simply by pressing the print button. A consortium, led by the University of Cambridge, has been awarded a multi-million pound grant to investigate how ink-jet print technology could revolutionise manufacturing processes. The group, headed by Professor Ian Hutchings of the IfM, has been awarded £5m by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The consortium comprises collaborators from two other Cambridge departments, the Universities of Durham and Leeds, and a group of nine companies which include the major UK players in the ink-jet sector. The £5m award, with additional funding from industry, will support a five-year programme of research to study the formulation, jetting and deposition of specialist printing fluids, and develop an overall process model. This work will improve the robustness of industrial ink-jet printing and help companies develop new applications for the technology. Download copy of the press release Presentation and audio interview with Ian Hutchings
New website links enterprise activities across CambridgeNovember 9th 2009
A new website designed to improve the flow of information to staff and students on the wide range of enterprise activities at the University of Cambridge has been launched.
“With so much being organised by so many groups, there is a risk that it may be hard for students and staff to easily find the information they need. The aim of this site is to simplify access to that information." The site also provides a calendar of enterprise events that are run throughout the year by student societies, academic departments and organisations in the Cambridge high tech business cluster. IfM academics to speak at major European conferenceNovember 6th 2009 A major conference exploring how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand will feature two speakers from the IfM. Laure Brévignon-Dodin and Dr Letizia Mortara will be attending the Connect Research event run by Cranfield University in collaboration with the Organsiation for Economic Co-Operation and Development and the UK’s Science and Innovation Network, a project run by BIS. The conference, called New Models of Innovation for Economic Growth and Sustainability, will look at new innovation models and how sustainability and eco-efficiency can act as drivers of business performance. Laure Brévignon-Dodin of the IfM’s Centre for Industry and Government will be speaking about the enabling effects regulation can have on emerging industries. Dr Mortara, of the Centre for Technology Management will be discussing her research into Open Innovation and technology intelligence, focusing on the role of intermediaries. The conference, takes place in Paris between the 12th and 13th November. Sustainability and Green Growth are high on the political agenda in the run up to the UN summit in Copenhagen. The IfM has joined the debate with its recent report called Towards a Sustainable Industrial System
Cambridge helps Australian motor makers set sights on futureOctober 26th 2009 The IfM is playing a role in helping the Australian automotive industry define its long-term future. The Australian Government and Victorian State Government asked the IfM to help create a strategic plan for the country’s car industry. A team from the IfM and its consultative arm Education Consultancy Services carried out the strategic review. Working with the Australian Auto Co-operative Research Centre, The Australian National University, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Victorian Government, it looked at current and future trends in the global car industry. The results have just been published in a new report, Automotive Australia 2020 Vision. It aims to map the technology and manufacturing capabilities and development opportunities for the country’s automotive industry from the present day to 2025 and beyond. The report is just the first part of a six phase project to develop a roadmap for the industry. The first phase aims to establish a firm vision as to the future direction of the industry with subsequent stages looking at issues such as domestic and global market needs and identifying strategic opportunities. The work forms part of the Australian Government’s New Car Plan for a Greener Future, which is to provide AUS$6.2 billion of investment to reshape the country’s car industry. Among some of the early suggestions is the possibility that Australia could become a world leader in green low-emission vehicles – such as electric or hydrogen-powered cars. Dominic Oughton, a Senior Industrial Fellow at the IfM, said the Institute was delighted to support the development of the AA2020 Vision. “We were asked to come on board to bring our experience of developing strategies at the sector and national levels using IfM’s well-developed roadmapping approach and experienced facilitators. “The support from stakeholders across the industry has been hugely encouraging and has been delivered with a real spirit of collaboration.” Download copy of press release
i-Teams receives Hauser Forum IdeaSpace fundingOctober 19th 2009 I-Teams, a scheme designed to help inventors realise the commercial potential of innovative designs, has been given a financial boost. The i-Teams programme, co-ordinated by the IfM, is one of the very first projects to receive financial support from the Hauser Forum. The city’s newest centre for enterprise has agreed to provide close to £35,000 for the scheme. I-teams was set up in Cambridge in 2006 by Amy Mokady, and is a collaboration between the IfM and the Cambridge University Technology and Enterprise Club. The programme, based on the successful programme created in the US at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is designed to analyse the commercial potential of an emerging, breakthrough technology Amy, an experienced local entrepreneur, said the funding showed the impact i-Teams had made: “We’re delighted that the Hauser Forum IdeaSpace has agreed to provide financial support for i-Teams. The IdeaSpace will be the University’s powerhouse for supporting new innovations, and we are proud to be closely associated with it” “I-Teams embodies everything the Hauser Forum IdeaSpace is being created to represent – an enthusiasm for enterprise and innovation and a desire to help new innovations grow.” The IdeaSpace, set up with funding from EEDA, is part of the Hauser Forum which is set to open in early 2010 and will be housed in a new £8m building on the West Cambridge site. The Forum is named after its chief benefactor Dr. Hermann Hauser. The former Cambridge graduate founded Acorn Computers 30 years ago, and is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of Silicon Fen. Download copy of press release
IfM plays host to Eastern region’s export heroesOctober 16th 2009
Lord Davies of Abersoch, Minister of State for Trade, Investment and Business, was in Cambridge to reward some of the Eastern region’s export heroes. The UK Trade and Investment minister visited the IfM to meet and greet some of the companies which have taken part in his department’s Take it to the World scheme. He was met by Professor Mike Gregory, the head of the IfM, who was able to give the minister a tour of the institute as well as an overview of our role in the creation of new ideas and approaches to modern industrial practice. During his visit he saw the Distributed Information and Automation Laboratory (DIAL) anddiscovered how hi-tech information systems and automated identification technologies, such as radio-frequency identification (RFID), can be combined with advanced production and asset management systems to create and deploy smart products. He then toured the IfM's Centre for Industrial Photonics, headed by Dr Bill O’Neill. The centre looks at applications for industrial laser technologies in manufacturing enterprises. He saw how a new high-powered scanning electron microscope is being used to develop radically new micro and nano manufacturing capabilities. He also took time to meet with PhD student Dai Morgan who is investigating industrial sustainability. Dai described how the IfM was facilitating an international effort to create a greener, more sustainable industrial system by working with companies to share best practice. Finally he met with representatives of 8 local companies, including Cambridge Temperature Concepts, Cambridge Consultants, Ardex, Audio Visual, David Horn Communications, Optical Metrology Services, PPI Engineering and the Cambridge Satchel Company.
Brazil’s BRIC foundations provides strong base for growthOctober 15th 2009
Think of Brazil and your thoughts probably turn to World Cup winning football, Sugarloaf Mountain or its recent successful bid to host the 2016 Olympics. You may not immediately associate Brazil with innovation and industrial success. However, findings from a recent study tour of the country by students from the IfM have illustrated the potential of the South American nation. Their investigation revealed Brazil has developed forward-thinking energy policies, boasts innovative manufacturing practices and has developed world-leading industry. And, as one of the so-called BRIC Countries, (Brazil, Russia, India and China) has been tipped to become one of the world’s leading economies by 2050. The students’ findings were unveiled on the day a UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) supported-event was held in the Brazilian capital. UKTI is staging the event in Sao Paulo – attended by Professor Mike Gregory, head of the IfM – to showcase UK Advanced Engineering expertise and bring UK and Brazilian companies together to form successful partnerships in the Advanced Engineering sector. Each year masters students from the IfM’s Industrial Systems, Manufacture and Management course undertake an overseas research project. This year 25 students visited Brazil and focused on the industrialised “Golden Triangle”, an area of Brazil between São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte. The tour group has just issued its findings which reveal Brazil as well placed to fulfil its economic potential. The country is investing heavily in hydroelectric and nuclear energy in order to help power its industrial growth – even though it possesses huge oil reserves. Rather than base its energy need on the fast-dwindling resource, it is instead using profits from the oil industry as a ‘pension’ to fund further expansion. Download the full press release
Could Cambridge be a blueprint for UK industry?October 6th 2009 Could Cambridge's Silicon Fen provide an industrial blueprint for Britain as a whole? Are there important lessons to be learned from the Cambridge hi-tech cluster of companies that could benefit the country's economy? These issues will be discussed at a seminar this week organised by the IfM – the first in a new series focused on manufacturing topics. The free weekly seminars, dubbed Manufacturing Thursdays, will offer presentations on all aspects of manufacturing - from management related issues, manufacturing processes and novel technologies, to industrial policy. The series will be launched on Thursday 8 October with Dr Elizabeth Garnsey, Reader in Innovation Studies at the IfM, discussing how Cambridge firms have a much higher success rate than average and have been more resilient to the technology downturn than US Silicon Valley firms. The seminar will focus on the lessons we can learn from this. Other subjects to feature in this autumn's series of events include ways to help organisations manage valuable assets, views on how government policy could help boost industrial innovation and company experiences of combining services with products. Manufacturing Thursdays will take place at the IfM's new premises, The Alan Reece Building on Cambridge University's West Cambridge Site. Refreshments will be available from 5.00pm, with presentations starting at 5.30pm. Information on the series is on the website http://www.ifm.eng.cam.ac.uk/service/events/info/thursdays.html. Press release [MS Word.doc]
Engineering firm rewards manufacturing talentOctober 1st 2009 The SolarStore was unveiled at the annual MET Design show earlier this year. The team, comprised of Gareth Keeves, Anna Spinks and Lucy Browning were each awarded a trophy, certificate and a cheque for £100 by Shearline’s Andy Hayward, the firm’s sales and marketing manager.
a power source, allowing food and perishable items to be kept fresh.
New guide highlights ways to introduce open innovationSeptember 29th 2009 What have the British-based multinational Unilever, oil firm BP, pharmaceutical giant GSK, and electronics manufacturer Philips got in common? The answer is they have all embraced Open Innovation (OI) as way of developing new products or accessing new technologies. Now the IfM has produced a new guide to show how other companies can follow in their footsteps. The report, “How to Implement Open Innovation”, is the result of a two-year study of some of the world’s leading firms. The research team looked at more than 30 major companies from a variety of sectors, including energy, aerospace and defence, software and media, electronics and telecommunications. It is thought that open Innovation could be a way of improving a firm’s ability to create and capture value, by improving the rate and quality of innovation. Rather than relying on internal resources firms share knowledge and technologies with other companies in a bid to create new commercial opportunities The report was produced by the IfM’s Centre for Technology Management (CTM). It was written by CTM’s Dr Letizia Mortara, Dr Tim Minshall, and Johann Napp and Imke Slacik now of McKinsey and Co.
Practical steps announced at launch of new reportSeptember 28th 2009 A raft of practical steps to help create a greener industrial system were unveiled at the IfM. The measures, which include the creation of online resources and a series of industry-academic workshops to develop practical support and share best practice, were announced at an event to mark the publication of Towards a Sustainable Industrial System. The publication marks the completion of the first stage of collaboration between UK manufacturing professors leading overseas experts and industry. The measures are designed to help industry reduce its carbon footprint, they include: • An online case study repository – using examples of best practice it will provide a platform for industry to seek advice and make suggestions.
IfM welcomes back alumni to new building 27th September 2009
More than 50 former students of the IfM had a first look at the Alan Reece building - the IfM's new home on the West Cambridge site - at an open day on Saturday, September 26th. It's the second time the IfM's new £15 million building, has thrown open its doors to alumni. Earlier this year more than 70 ex-MET and ISMM students attended the annual garden party. Visitors had guided tours of the building and saw demonstrations in the Industrial Photonics and the automation laboratories. Professor Mike Gregory, head of the IfM, also outlined the Institute's present and future activities.
Call to drive the next industrial revolutionSeptember 23rd 2009 Industrialists, academics and government should join forces to drive a new industrial revolution which would help tackle climate change, says a new report. The authors of Towards a Sustainable Industrial System are calling for an industrial equivalent of the human genome project in order to help business address the threat of global warming. Some of the world's leading manufacturing experts have combined to produce the report published by the IfM. The ambitious venture aims to understand how essential elements of industrial systems – resources, processes and organisation – could be integrated to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining acceptable standards of living without damaging the planet. A global co-operative research effort would provide an opportunity to pool expertise in industrial design, production research and regulation.The project would help speed change through the rapid sharing and application of environmentally-sound manufacturing practices as well the systematic development of new green technologies and approaches. The report’s authors are Professor Steve Evans of Cranfield University, Professor Margareta Norell Bergendahl of the King’s Technical School, Sweden, Professor Mike Gregory of the IfM and Professor Chris Ryan of the University of Melbourne. The report, launched on September 23rd, is designed to highlight the benefits and opportunities which can flow from a more integrated approach to industrial sustainability.
Technology strategy text gets China launchSeotember 14th 2009 The authors of a new book to be published in China hope it could lead to exciting new projects between the UK and the world’s most populous country. David Probert and Dr Rob Phaal, from the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) Centre for Technology Management, have flown out to Beijing for the launch of their best-selling text book. The book, T-Plan: The fast start guide to Technology Roadmapping, is a step-by-step guide to applying technology and product roadmapping techniques. It has been published along with selected papers from the Research-Technology Management journal published by the US Industrial Research Institute. The book’s publication comes at a time when the Chinese Government has placed technology and innovation policy firmly on its economic agenda. The rapid industrialisation of China has generated huge interest in roadmapping, particularly at the country’s Ministries of Science and Technology and Education and Tsinghua and other leading universities. The culmination of this interest has resulted in the publication of the new book in Chinese. The translation and editing of the text has been led by Professor Su Jun of Tsinghua University and it is being published by Tsinghua University Press. Mr Probert and Dr Phaal have been invited to Beijing by Professor Su for the launch of the book between 14th to 19th September.
For full press release click here
IfM has hi-tech cure for Spanish Ham producersSeptember 10th 2009
For generations farmers in the Spanish region of Andalusia farmers have been creating a gourmet treat. Iberian Ham is a much-sought after delicacy; it takes around three years to produce a single ham, and the process has not varied in years. But now Spanish firm COVAP, a major producer of the luxury foodstuff, has turned to researchers at the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) for hi-tech help in making the process more efficient. The team from the IfM’s Distributed Information and Automation Laboratory (DIAL) have been using Radio Frequency identification (RFID) tags to help producers ensure traceability of meat products and make the production process more lean. Dr Alexandra Brintrup, leading the Iberian Ham project at DIAL, said the project was designed to improve the efficiency of the ham producer’s business. "It takes three years to produce an Iberian ham and it involves a number of intensive processes, basically done by hand. "Using RFID the business will be able to track each individual item, give them better visibility and control over various product classes and provide a better service for their clients.” For full press release click here
IfM to lead major knowledge transfer project September 7th 2009 The University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) is leading a consortium of universities awarded more than £2 million to help academics exploit their research. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) last year launched a multimillion pound scheme to help universities ensure that their academics’ discoveries are turned into tangible economic and societal benefits for the UK. As part of this initiative, a collaboration of the Universities of Cambridge, Bath, Cranfield, Exeter and Nottingham has been awarded £2.2 million through a Collaborative Knowledge Transfer Award (KTA) to commence on 1 October 2009 and last for three years. The programme is developing and applying service science to increase value generation in sectors where products and services are combined, such as aerospace, power generation, pharmaceuticals and chemical engineering. The partner universities are all members of the Support Service Solutions: Strategy and Transition (S4T) consortium, a research programme led by Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing and jointly funded by EPSRC and BAE Systems. More details on the project can be read at Research Horizons or for more information, please contact Dr Chris Pearson at cp349@cam.ac.uk New platform provokes debate on future of high-tech clusterAugust 27th 2009 A new blog has been set up to prompt debate on the future of Cambridge's Silicon Fen as it reaches a critical point in its evolution. The Cambridge Technopole blog is edited by Dr Tim Minshall of the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing. Dr Minshall outlined three issues underpinning the launch of this blog: "Firstly, the global economic downturn is having a direct impact on the start-up, growth, and retention of companies within the cluster. Secondly, we are approaching some key milestones in the evolution of the cluster such as the 50th anniversary of the start-up of Cambridge Consultants and the 40th anniversary of the opening of the Cambridge Science Park. Thirdly, we are seeing changes in several key organisations within the cluster as well as the launch of many new initiatives. The convergence of these three issues points to a need to reflect on how the next generation of successful companies can best be supported in Cambridge." Dr Minshall, who also sits on the board of St John's Innovation Centre, said he hoped the blog would act as a useful platform for discussion of ideas on the future direction of the cluster. Topics raised and discussed on the blog will feed in to the latest version of the Cambridge Technopole Report, an annual review of the key organisations and activities within the high tech cluster. The blog will also include invited contributions from individuals reflecting the diversity of views throughout the cluster. Project aims to safeguard technology IPAugust 9th 2009 A new research project has been launched by the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) to investigate how firms can acquire new technology while protecting intellectual property. The two-year research project, called Technology Acquisition and Protection: The Links to Exploitation is being carried out by the IfM’s Centre for Technology Management (CTM). Technology acquisition is the process by which a company acquires the rights to use and exploit a technology to improve products or services. It has become a major issue to industry through the growth of Open Innovation projects in which firms develop new products and services based on intellectual property. CTM will be staging a series of industrial workshops as part of the project, with the first expected in late October. The researchers (Simon Ford and Letizia Mortara) are also seeking industrial partners to take part in the research. To find out more please contact Simon Ford, sjf39@cam.ac.uk. For full press release click here Industrial Jewels in India's Crown
Students from the Institute for Manufacturing have just returned from a fact-finding tour of India. Mukesh Kumar, a research student in international manufacturing, was one of 37 students to take part. The trip took in more than 20 of India's leading manufacturing companies, industrial associations and support agencies in just 12 days. The study tour was designed to provide greater understanding of the investment opportunities for UK companies in India and to identify future trends, as Mukesh explains. We were interested in learning how Research and Development, Procurement, Production, Distribution and sales were being conducted in India. We looked at R&D on our visit to the Auto Cluster in Pune, a research institution dedicated to the automotive industry and funded by a public-private partnership. Already the facility is being used by global auto firms like Mercedes as well as domestic producers like Baja Auto and Tata Motors, to develop and test new products and manufacturing processes. It enables the world’s leading manufacturers to save costs and boasts world class facilities. We also saw how seriously Indian companies were taking R&D when we visited vehicle manufacturers. Companies like Maruti Suzuki and Bajaj are investing in design capability, and while Bajaj already has the expertise to design and develop motorcycles, Maruti Suzuki say they’ll be developing vehicles in India without Japanese help within two years. It was fascinating to see how this side of industry was growing and how Indian firms are now actively seeking to buy other companies or purchase skills from overseas to develop their skills base, be it in production capability or R&D. We also saw the rapid changes being made to India’s production processes. The companies we visited are all demanding the best production technologies and haven’t stinted in investing in production capability all over the world. An exemplar of this was Bajaj Auto. Its world class facility has automated painting applications, robotic machine lines, voice command systems and an automated guided vehicle to move materials across the plant. It was a good chance to get a close look at what’s reputed to be the best factory in India! It was also encouraging to see that this type of investment was paying dividends for the Indian economy. It seems that apart from some export oriented businesses, the economy has been isolated against the global economic downturn. Maruti Suzuki for example was still predicting a 5% increase in sales growth. Finally we were impressed with the ethos of value-based engineering and the part it is playing in making products affordable to the rural poor. The development of the compact car the Tata Nano was a good illustration. It has featured heavily in the popular press in the UK, and the methods of reducing price through removal of non-essential features and parts without compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle is a great example of industrial innovation. The study tour was a fantastic opportunity to get a close glimpse of Indian industry and we will be writing up the findings of the trip in a major research project called 'Hot Stuff - India's recipe for Industrial Success' The findings will be presented at the IfM later this year.
Houston, we have some visitors - NASA lands at IfMIt may be the 40th anniversary of the US moon landings, but representatives from NASA found a little closer to home when they visited the Institute for Manufacturing. John Vickers, Manager from the space agency's National Center for Advanced Manufacturing (NCAM), is in Britain as part of a nationwide tour of UK manufacturers and research centres. Based at the Marshall Space Flight Center, NCAM carries out research and development into NASA's aerospace manufacturing requirements for space flight. It is now working on the replacement for the soon to be retired Space Shuttle, which will make its last flight later this year. NASA's Ares I launch vehicle will launch the Orion crew exploration vehicle for missions to the International Space Station and the Moon. Among the major contractors for this vehicle is Boeing, a current research funder of the Institute's Distributed Automation and Information Laboratory (DIAL). "We think there are some significant synergies between this project and our Aerospace ID programme." said Andy Shaw, DIAL Business Manager. "We certainly have expertise both Universities could exploit on this project. It would be great to collaborate." The NASA executive was joined on the visit by Dr Bill Killingsworth and colleagues from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Dr Killingsworth carries out supply chain research on behalf of the space exploration agency. The group wanted to learn more about DIAL’s research work on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and its role in tracking aviation parts and other supply chain applications. The visit also included a stop at the Centre for Industrial Photonics to see some of the work on advanced manufacturing processes. While in the UK, the group have also visited Rolls Royce, the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing in Sheffield and Cambridge-based TWI. 
IfM members benefit from cut-price offerMembers of the Institute for Manufacturing can benefit from money off registration for a major business event. The 10th annual Cambridge Enterprise Conference is offering IfM members a reduced rate to become delegates. The event is held at Churchill College and will feature a host of seminars, networking opportunities as well as a demonstration area for start-ups and entrepreneurs wanting to showcase their products. Called "Diving with Dolphins", the event which takes place on 23rd September, will describe how companies can do business abroad. Thanks to the IfM's association with St John's Innovation Centre, members will be able to enjoy more than 50% discount on registration - a reduction from £225 to £100. More information can be found at http://www.cambridgeenterpriseconference.co.uk/ and to secure your place on the event please contact organiser Peter Hornby at phornby@stjohns.co.uk and quote this offer. Companies to get free taste of IfMThe Institute for Manufacturing is to stage a free event designed to showcase some of its innovative programmes for small businesses. The special taster session, which takes place on September 30th, is designed to highlight what the IfM can do to help manufacturers and hi-tech SMEs. The event will also see the launch of the Government-backed Manufacturing Transformation Programme. Click here for more details. Firms are invited to come along to find out how the IfM can help them:
And there will be a chance to shape a new programme designed to help get the best out of graduate hires. There will also be an opportunity to network with other businesses at the IfM's new building on the West Cambridge site. Find out more about the taster session here Find out more about IfM membership for SMEs here.
IfM plays host to Chancellor of Exchequer9th July 2009 The Rt Hon Alistair Darling MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, paid a visit to the Institute for Manufacturing today. He toured the IfM's new £15m building with the head of the IfM, Professor Mike Gregory. Prof Gregory briefed the Chancellor on the Institute's role in the creation of new ideas and approaches to modern industrial practice. The visit followed the launch of the Government's Building Britain's Future campaign, a new policy agenda setting out its thoughts on a wide range of issues ranging from education and industry to health and welfare. The Chancellor toured the IfM's Centre for Industrial Photonics, headed by Dr Bill O’Neill. The centre looks at applications for industrial laser technologies in manufacturing enterprises. Mr Darling saw one of the centre's state-of-the-art lasers write Building Britain's Future on a small plaque, which he took away as a memento. He then saw how a new high-powered scanning electron microscope is being used to develop radically new micro and nano manufacturing capabilities. The Chancellor also met Professor Duncan McFarlane, Head of the IfM's Distributed Information and Automation Laboratory. He was given an overview of how automated identification technologies can lead to the production of smart products. Professor Mike Gregory said: "The Chancellor saw how the University is playing a role in industrial innovation by linking research, technology, operations and strategy to address real world problems and opportunities. The Chancellor's visit was a great opportunity to meet the IfM community including people involved in technology, management and policy, all working closely with industry and government." Mr Darling was joined by East of England Minister Barbara Follett and the University's Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research Ian Leslie for the hour-long visit to the West Cambridge site. East of England Minister Barbara Follett also took the chance to find out about the work the IfM is doing with SME's in the region, such as the new Manufacturing Transformation Programme. The event was co-ordinated by GO East, the Government Office for the East of England, and the Treasury. After leaving the IfM building he was due to attend a reception at the Guildhall, before taking part in a discussion session with members of the public and business. 
IfM welcomes Arab League AmbassadorsAmbassadors from the League of Arab States paid a visit to the Institute for Manufacturing on Monday 6th July. The group, representing 12 countries, were in Cambridge as part of a fact-finding tour to see how the University is working with its members. The visit was organised by His Excellency Mr Khalid Duwaisan, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, and Mr Stuart Laing, Master of Corpus Christi College. While at Alan Reece building the delegation met with Prof Mike Gregory to hear about the institute's engagement model for collaboration with governments and industry, Their Excellencies also got to see examples of studies for developing economies, tertiary education programmes for developing economies and approaches for business support. Their visit to Cambridge also included a visit to the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor, lunch at Corpus Christi and a chance to see rare Islamic texts at the University library. 
IfM new home a hit with AlumniMore than 70 former students of the IfM had a first look at the Alan Reece building - the IfM's new home on the West Cambridge site - at a special summer event on July 4th. The £15 million building, the first University building to be awarded the coveted BREEAM environmental award, was the venue for the Institute's annual garden party on Saturday. The annual summer extravaganza featured fun and games for the children and gave current staff and former students a chance to catch up. In all around 300 people turned up to take tours of the eco-friendly building, meet old friends and tuck into some delicious food. A link to pictures from the event will be distributed to alumni by email shortly. Details will also be posted on the Alumni section of the website.
Students give boost to Jordanian green schemeJuly 2009 Recycling in a Middle Eastern country could be boosted thanks to two students at the University of Cambridge's Institute for Manufacturing. Andreas Petsas and Glen Walker, students on the IfM's Manufacturing Engineering Tripos, were invited to Amman by Jordanian company Entity Green Training (EGT). The company, which provides employment opportunities for the country's rural poor and refugee communities, wanted the pair to help them develop its recycling business. In particular EGT were keen to focus on recycling of plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate or PET) It had staged a successful pilot project, undertaking recycling at the Sheraton Hotel and the British and American Embassies. The IfM was contacted to see if it could help with strategic planning for the expansion of the scheme. Galen Thompson, Programme Manager for Entity Green, said: "Andreas and Glen were hard working, independent, and provided a real injection of energy and ideas." "I am very happy to have worked with them, and the information provided in their reports will have tangible impact on our program and on the recycling sector in Jordan." [NOTE: Click on photos for larger versions] 
I-Teams focus on commercial potential for KidzEyez deviceA technique for testing the peripheral vision of young children could be given a boost – thanks to the inventors putting it in the hands of Cambridge students. Dr Louise Allen, a paediatric ophthalmologist from Addenbrooke's Hospital and Associate Lecturer at the University of Cambridge, and her colleague Dr Adar Pelah of York University have created KidzEyez. Now a group of students on the University of Cambridge i-Teams Programme, mentored by the IfM's Dr Nikoletta Athanassopoulou, are helping formulate a plan to commercialise the product and help market it to health providers The new low-cost product is designed to help gather accurate readings of the field of vision of toddlers. The prototype device is a first in its field. Although similar products are used to measure peripheral vision of adults, they are not suitable for small children. Dr Allen and Dr Pelah's invention could become a lifesaver as potentially deadly neurological conditions - such as tumours of the optic chiasm and pituitary gland - can be picked up and treated earlier if visual field loss can be detected, preventing permanent loss of vision and neurological deficit. I-Teams is designed to analyse the commercial potential of an emerging, breakthrough technology. Students are drawn from across the university including engineering and technology disciplines. For more details check the website http://www.iteamsonline.org  Cambridge students embark on passage to India23 June 2009 The emerging industrial power of India is to become the focus for students at the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing (IfM). A group of around 40 Manufacturing Engineering students are jetting off to the sub-continent as part of their summer study tour. The trip will form part of a major research project called "Hot Stuff - India's recipe for Industrial Success" The visit will see the students' visit more than 20 of India's leading firms in the space of just 12 days. The business sectors include hi-tech pharmaceuticals and computing to automotive and construction. It is hoped the research team - who head off at the end of the month - will provide greater understanding of the investment opportunities for UK companies in India as well as identify future trends. The work will form part of a growing partnership in industrial innovation involving UK and Indian businesses and universities. Link to the University's Cambridge India Partnership web page.  Car parts firm bucks auto trend thanks to IfM22 June 2009 While car giants Ford and Chrysler battle global economic recession, and GM, the world’s biggest motor maker is saved from extinction, a Suffolk firm is bucking the trend. The collapse in demand for new cars has had a devastating impact on some of the leading global manufacturers, and has hit smaller supply firms hard. But for Leiston-based company Newton Commercial, a world leader in manufacturing car trim for classic British and European cars, business is on the up. The firm, which employs 50 people, has seen a rise in sales and has taken on additional staff to cope with demand. Newton Commercial, set up in 1978, produces more than 13,000 lines for worldwide sales, predominantly to wholesalers. The family-owned firm specialised in providing parts for cars like the Morris Minor and original Mini, but with a diminishing market, it knew it had to do more than just increase its product range to grow and secure its future for the next generation. Operations Director Jonny Newton contacted the Institute for Manufacturing to help develop a long-term strategy for the firm. A complete review using the IfM's unique range of business tools and expertise enabled the company to produce a strategic plan of action focussed on beating the challenging economic climate  A chair that calms autistic children, a solar-powered fridge and a solution to global water problems… Cambridge engineering students display their latest innovations5 June 2009 A chair that creates a safe haven for autistic children, a fridge powered by the sun and an economical way to provide clean water in developing countries are just some of the latest ideas by Cambridge University students hoping to bring new products to market. The ideas went on display at the Design Show this week run by the University’s Institute for Manufacturing (IfM). The annual showcase is a chance for the best undergraduate manufacturing engineers to show off their ideas to local inventors, industrialists and designers, looking to spot the next big thing. Help on offer for trouble-hit manufacturers in the Eastern region2 June 2009 Manufacturers in the Eastern region are being offered free help to overhaul their business and improve their chance of success in today’s challenging economic times. Practical, one-to-one support is available from experienced advisers, using structured approaches designed specifically for small and medium-sized manufacturers, to help them deal with falling revenues, shrinking margins and rising competition. The Manufacturing Transformation Programme (MTP) is being run by the University of Cambridge Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) with funding from the Government’s Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) under its Economic Challenge Innovation Fund, and Essex County Council through the Essex Development and Regeneration Agency (ExDRA). More information about the programme
IfM building handover21 April 2009 The Institute for Manufacturing formally took possession of the keys to the building from developer Marriott Construction this week at a special event to celebrate the completion of the £15 million building. Guest of Honour at the event was leading British industrialist Dr Alan Reece, whose major donation to the Institute enabled the building to go ahead. It will be named the Alan Reece building in his honour. He spoke at the event of how very pleased he was to be involved in such a successful high quality and worthwhile project. The striking two-storey split-level building to the south side of the site is based around an attractive central courtyard and will provide laboratory and office space for the Institute, a division of the Department of Engineering. More information about the building  East Asian countries emerging as new design "powerhouses"15 April 2009 East Asian countries such as Korea and Singapore are beginning to shift their economic emphasis away from low-cost production and into design, new research suggests. The findings, which appear in a new Institute for Manufacturing report examining international design capabilities, could have significant implications for the UK, where high-value activities such as design are regarded as essential to future competitiveness. The "International Design Scoreboard" has been produced by a consortium of UK universities led by the University of Cambridge and supported by the UK Design Council. It marks the first ever attempt to compare national design capabilities and was published on April 15th. The project has been funded by a research grant over £300,000 from the joint Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)/Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) research programme 'Designing for the 21st Century'. A total of 12 countries are assessed based on a series of indicators, including numbers of design graduates, and the strength of the design consultancy sector. The results suggest that western nations are under increasing threat from emerging East Asian "powerhouses" as they develop their design sectors, invest in national design promotion and produce skilled design graduates. Further information and download the reports [1.1Mb PDF file] Could the recession be the best time to start a new business?
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February 2009
Diageo is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wine and beer categories. Its a FTSE company employing 22,000 people. But how does Diageo serve 180 markets and generate £8bn of annual sales? What are the challenges and opportunities for the business?
A seminar on Monday 16 February at the Institute for Manufacturing, Mill Lane,is an opportunity to hear from a senior executive of the company about the business. The event will be an interactive session with plenty of time allowed for questions.
Monday 16 February, 17.30 - 18.30, IfM, Mill Lane
Registration - 17.00 with Tea and coffee
Lecture - 17.30
Q&A - 18.00
Close – 18.30
All welcome, please email nm402@cam.ac.uk if you would like to attend.
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23 January 2009
How can the food industry become more sustainable? Can manufacturers reduce current levels of waste? These are some of the issues looked at by a recent Institute for Manufacturing study and a forthcoming workshop. The research study found that there are particular problems within the food manufacturing industry including:
The output of the research is due to be disseminated at a workshop on 17 February 2009 in Cambridge. The topics of the workshop will be:
The workshop is particularly aimed at first line supervisors and team leaders who need to understand the principles and basic techniques of management across a range of business operations. Established managers wishing to refresh their understanding of basic production management practice can also benefit from attending.
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