All RDAs across England are closing by March 2012
(see transition and closure section).
With our resources reducing steadily, this page has not been recently updated and the information below may not be current.
If in doubt, please contact us directly.
South West showcases the best of hi-tech research and
manufacturing
03 August 2009
Top Japanese scientists from the country's aerospace and
advanced engineering sector are visiting the region this week to
discover the pioneering work in hi-tech materials taking place in
the South West.
A delegation from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA),
Mitsubishi, Kawasaki, Ishikawa Heavy Industries and the
universities of Tokyo and Tsukuba will attend a workshop on Monday,
August 3 organised by the University of Bristol's Advanced
Composites Centre for Innovation and Science (ACCIS). The event is
being supported by the South West RDA (Regional Development Agency)
and JAXA.
The Japanese visitors will learn how leading research into
composites taking place at South West universities is putting the
region at the forefront of exploration into hi-tech materials.
Composites are light-weight materials being developed for use in
manufacturing aircraft wings, more environmentally-friendly
engines, as well as within the renewable energy industry.
The workshop will include presentations by both Japanese and
South West scientists on subjects ranging from "nanocomposite
coatings for aerospace composite components" to "durability and
damage tolerance of composite structures." There will be plenty of
opportunity for discussion and networking during both the lunchtime
and late afternoon sessions.
On Tuesday, August 4 staff from the South West RDA's
International Business team will accompany the Japanese visitors on
a tour of Airbus and Rolls-Royce at Filton to further their
understanding of composites work taking place within the
industry.
Graham Harrison, director of International Business at the South
West RDA, said: "Both the South West and Japan are carrying out
some really interesting work in the field of composites, so it
makes sense to share one another's expertise. We hope that by
showing Japan what the South West has to offer we can collaborate
in future in terms of research and staff / student exchanges and
build constructive relationships."
Ends
Notes to Editors
1. The South West RDA leads the development of a sustainable
economy, investing to unlock the region's business potential. It is
helping companies respond to the economic crisis and charts a
course for recovery. The RDA is developing or expanding initiatives
which include: establishing a Business Loan Fund; coordinating the
response to large companies in difficulty; preparing for economic
recovery.
2. For more information on some of the research taking place
visit www.bris.ac.uk/composites.
Contact Details
Name: Fiona Clampin
Tel: 01392 229389
Email: news.enquiries@southwestrda.org.uk