UKMMN Aviation Launch Event Report

The UK Metamaterials Network (UKMMN) is supported by four challenge themes: Space & Aviation, Sustainability, Health, and Manufacturing. The challenge themes are a cornerstone of the UKMMN that prioritise the conversion of metamaterial invention into innovation. They provide the necessary networking and idea incubation prior to larger collaborative projects between academics, SMEs and industrial end users.

In this context, the UKMMN is pleased to announce the launch event of the aviation challenge as part of the broader Space & Aviation challenge theme.

Metamaterials have the potential to improve the performance of airborne systems in many ways, and perhaps even disrupt incumbent technologies. These include airframe design and construction, propulsion, safety systems, signature control, communications, situational awareness and positioning, navigation and timing (PNT). The UKMMN will support stakeholders in identifying potential application areas and ensure that resulting metamaterial solutions overcome the barriers for use. As well as supporting existing stakeholders in the aviation sector, metamaterials focused solutions provide opportunities for new stakeholder entry into the sector.

As part of this kick-off event, we will hear from a range of keynote speakers from governmental funders of novel R&D relating to the aviation domain, traditional and new aviation technology stakeholders and leading metamaterial researchers. This will set the scene for the following roundtable discussions, which will help define the domain challenge statements that to be addressed with metamaterial innovation. These will help inform follow on UKMMN sandpit events in 2025.

The event is open to representatives from academia, RTOs, SMEs and industrial end users.

Agenda

0930 – Arrive at venue (teas & coffees)

1000 – Introduction

1030 – Key notes

1230 – Lunch & museum visit

1345 – Post lunch energiser

1400 – Round tables to prime 1^st sandpit

1530 – Feedback and summary

1600 – Close

1630 – Museum close

Travel and accommodation costs cannot be covered except in exceptional circumstances. If the cost of travel would prevent you attending, please contact info@metamaterials.network for information on how to apply to our access fund. All applications to the Access Fund must be made prior to the event.