NAMRC Is Where Ideas Are Born for Manufacturing

I’ve always been fascinated with manufacturing methods that improve efficiency. Whether it’s faster development times, reduced waste levels, or an enhanced product design, the benefits of improved processes are key to any manufacturing organization. When it comes to innovation within manufacturing, the goal is to develop sustainable processes to create something unique that adds value. It’s out-of-the-box thinking and creativity that drives results within manufacturing.

This type of big thinking and innovation is on full display at the North American Manufacturing Research Conference (NAMRC), which is where ideas are born. Manufacturing processes and concepts are presented here, discussed, and unpacked, then over time progress into something greater. An annual event since 1973, NAMRC advances the scientific foundation of discrete-parts manufacturing leading to next-generation applications of emerging and innovative technology in material removal, forming and additive manufacturing processes and machines, and cyber-physical systems.   

Dr. Joe Beaman, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of Texas at Austin, worked with the late Carl Deckard to develop Selective Laser Sintering. In 1987, Beaman presented his paper on SLS at NAMRC 15 at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. During that time, functional production of parts in as fast as one day seemed very ambitious. What started as an idea in the laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin, turned into an idea presented at NAMRC 15, and eventually developed into an additive manufacturing technology that’s been adopted by manufacturing companies worldwide. This is just one example of how community-driven conference events like NAMRC play a pivotal role in the convening of industry thought leaders and facilitation of meaningful discussion and collaboration among colleagues leading to groundbreaking innovations. 

Rob Ivester, Deputy Director, Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership at NIST sums up the NAMRC conference experience perfectly, “Coming to NAMRC is an opportunity to create new opportunities moving forward and translate innovative thinking into actual products and technologies. There is also a chance to get ahead of the curve and see where manufacturing has the potential to go in the next 3, 5, or 10 years. So much comes out of ideas exchanged at NAMRC.”

Pioneering Breakthroughs at NAMRC 50

I had the privilege to attend the 50th Anniversary of this event back in June and see the pioneering breakthroughs in manufacturing firsthand. The manufacturing research spanned concepts from refining traditional manufacturing technologies, next-generation additive manufacturing technologies, as well as smart manufacturing that integrates modeling, simulation, monitoring, and controls. The research presented at NAMRC sets the groundwork for important manufacturing developments in the years to come.

It's wonderful to have a space where like-minded individuals can network, share ideas, and help change the world together. Livan Fratini, PhD, 2022-23 NAMRI | SME president expressed the importance of NAMRC 50 so eloquently, “Advances in manufacturing technology and processes are critical to helping the industry remain competitive in North America and around the world. We accelerate this by convening the brightest thought and technology leaders who present their scientific research.” Innovative thinkers drive results. It’s the relentless imagination of the next generation of makers that will advance manufacturing.

Join Me at NAMRC 51

I hope you will join me at the next NAMRC 51 event hosted by Rutgers University June 12-16, 2023, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where we will again convene academicians, government and industry researchers, engineers and students in manufacturing from around the globe. NAMRC51 will feature peer-reviewed papers, keynotes, special opportunities for networking and collaboration, and recognition of research implementation, service, and achievements.