One way that researchers at the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI) collaborate and seek input from their Georgia Tech colleagues is by holding focused workshops. One such workshop was held on May 2 at GTMI and was an opportunity for indepth discussion about the next generation of additive manufacturing.

The purpose of workshop was to bring together selected experts in manufacturing, materials, energy, design and data sciences. The workshop included brainstorming and charting strategies for formulating and pursuing new research initiatives in next-generation additive manufacturing.

Through presentations and discussion, the group was able to identify key disciplines that will be integrated into next-generation additive manufacturing initiatives. They also prioritized key industry sectors from which to seek partnerships. All agreed that Georgia Tech's multidisciplinary strengths sets it apart from other universities.

Hosting the workshop was Suman Das, director of the Direct Digital Manufacturing Laboratory, and the Morris M. Bryan, Jr. Chair in Mechanical Engineering for Advanced Manufacturing Systems at Georgia Tech. Das said, "We will summarize information from the workshop for the GTMI External Advisory Board and discuss which key disciplines offer the best opportunities for funding or grants and to forward our work."

For additional information on the workshop or next generation additive manufacturing at Georgia Tech, contact Suman Das at suman.das@me.gatech.edu or 404-385-6027.