Michael Maher of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) will deliver a keynote speech on the potential of flexible manufacturing for aerospace at the 2015 AeroDef Manufacturing Conference + Exposition, the aerospace manufacturing industry event produced by SME.
The concept of flexible manufacturing is gaining interest among aerospace manufacturers who are seeking ways to maximize capacity when demand is low, as it is now in the defense sector, and drive down production costs when demand is high, as it is now in the commercial sector.
DARPA, the research arm of the Department of Defense, is credited for development of many technology breakthroughs, including the Internet and global positioning satellite (GPS) technology. Maher is in the Defense Sciences Office where he is exploring lightweight, multifunctional material systems. Maher's presentation will be followed by a panel discussion with industry experts on the topic.
AeroDef is developed in partnership with the largest original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including Bell Helicopter, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and SME, an organization dedicated to supporting manufacturing through training, events, media and membership.
Registration is now open for AeroDef 2015, which will be held April 20-23 at the Hilton Anatole, Dallas, TX, with exhibits open April 21-22. The new location was selected for its proximity to the thousands of aerospace and defense companies throughout the Southwest. "Given the surge in demand for aircraft, AeroDef is increasingly important for those making capital investments for their enterprise," said a spokesperson.
"Anyone with an interest in aerospace will have something to gain from attending AeroDef, whether they are looking for new knowledge and technologies to increase production and delivery times, or to meet the people who influence the industry's future," according to George N. Bullen, President/CEO, Smart Blades Inc.
The OEMs support AeroDef as a way to collaborate with suppliers across the extended manufacturing enterprise and to find integrated solutions necessary for long-term competitiveness. The exhibits, speakers, panel discussions and technical conference will focus on issues and technologies critical to the industry, including the digital tapestry in manufacturing, additive manufacturing and the use of advanced materials in aircraft.
The exposition floor is arranged by technology zones:
- Composites, metals and advanced materials
- Contract manufacturing services
- Precision machining and tooling
- Finishing and coatings
- Quality, measurement and inspection
- Integrated assembly and robotics
- Digital and additive manufacturing/3D printing.
Technical conference tracks are:
- Composites manufacturing and advanced materials
- Additive manufacturing/3D printing
- Integrated assembly and robotics
- Precision machining and tooling.
For more information contact:
AeroDef Manufacturing
800-733-3976
www.aerodefevent.com