Top researchers in the field of composites will be in Columbia for the sixth annual International Symposium on Automated Composites Manufacturing (ACM6) from March 4-8. The event will be held at the University of South Carolina’s McNair Center for Aerospace Innovation and Research, in partnership with the College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) and the USC Office of Economic Engagement.

“I firmly believe that the key to innovation, in all domains such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and beyond, lies within the realm of composites, where forthcoming structures will enjoy unprecedented advantages as automation in manufacturing reaches new heights,” says Ramy Harik, ACM6 general chair and CEC professor of mechanical engineering. “The automation benefits are poised to unfold as expertise and knowledge continue to proliferate, propelling this dynamic field forward on both hardware and software fronts.” 

The event will feature several keynote addresses, special talks, panels, and sessions. The opening keynote, “Composites and the Next Decade” will be delivered by Sean Black, senior vice president at Spirit AeroSystems on Tuesday, March 5. Special talks will include presentations on generative AI in engineering, and development of xenon flashlamp heating of composite materials. Sessions throughout the symposium will feature professionals and academia speaking on a variety of topics, including thermoplastics, composite manufacturing and automated fiber placement. Industries participating in the symposium include Boeing, Toray Advanced Composites, Airbus and GE Aerospace.

”What sets this event apart is the harmonious blend of industry and academia among our attendees, spanning both sides of the Atlantic. From the outset, our aim was to create an intimate gathering for composites manufacturing, and the program reflects that commitment,” Harik says. 

The International Symposium on Automated Composites Manufacturing is sponsored by Siemens and neXt Future Factories.