Innovate UK, in its Materials and Manufacturing Vision 2050 is championing the topic of ‘Smart Design’. Smart Design encompasses effective design methods, design for resource efficiency and maximum through-life value, with a digital thread over the lifecycle of products being at the heart of UK manufacturing. It also recognises that UK strengths in high-value design, complex systems with through-life engineering, digital technologies and information management can set us apart from global competition.

A key aspect of this vision is the ability to optimise the regulatory/certification activities that are required before a product can enter into service and therefore a programme of work titled ‘Towards Product Certification by Analysis’ was delivered by the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, on behalf of Innovate UK.

This webinar summarises the investigations, research outcomes and recommendations to support UK businesses and regulators in advancing the state-of-the-art for product certification utilising the latest in digital technologies, information and process standards, risk management and foresighting of future workforce needs. We will also introduce the concept of a Smart Design Network and Certification by Analysis working group to further advance this topic, with the support of academia, RTOs, industry and regulatory bodies.

Graeme completed his Master's degree in Product Design Engineering from the University of Strathclyde in 2004 and went onto work in a range of industries including construction, oil and gas, power and water treatment for over 16 years before joining NMIS in 2020.

Throughout Graeme’s career he has developed new products from concept through to validation and qualification to ensure compliance. Graeme has co-ordinated, planned, written and witnessed qualification programmes for a broad range of product types.

Graeme’s current role within NMIS is co-ordinating the market acceptance activities within the design engineering team aiding companies and organisations understand the legal and commercial requirements applicable to ensure that new products are approved and suitable for use.

Graeme is chair of the assurance special purpose group within the High Value Manufacturing Catapult (HVMC) as well as a lead representative for the HVMC within the Smart Design Network’s ‘Certification by Analysis’ working group.

Following completion of a Masters degree in Automotive Engineering from the University of Bath in 2006, Andrew has worked with Atkins Aerospace (2006-2014) and with the National Composites Centre (2014 to today).

Andrew’s background was predominantly in simulation and design, for aerospace structures and propulsion systems (both civil and defence) prior to joining the NCC, however the last 10 years of Research Engineering has exposed him to a much wider range of sectors and product applications including Automotive, Construction & Infrastructure, Defence, Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy Systems and Space.

He is currently Head of Concept Engineering at the NCC with a department comprised of systems, design, analysis, materials, process and sustainability engineers in support of design feasibility and product development activities.

He has extensive experience with linear and non-linear Finite Element analysis of metallic and composite structures, aerospace structures test and certification activities, methods and tool development, including VB scripting and design optimisation, as well as material and process selection to support manufacturability assessments and concept feasibility studies.

He has also contributed to large collaborative R&D programmes and supported strategy development and technology roadmaps, including external appointments with NAFEMS and the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). He is currently a lead representative from the High Value Manufacturing Catapult on the Smart Design Network’s ‘Certification by Analysis’ working group.