Digital Catapult’s board of directors has appointed Professor Keith Jackson as its new chair. He will succeed Juergen Maier CBE from May 2025. A successful entrepreneur and engineering leader, Jackson brings wide ranging experience from industry and academia to Digital Catapult. He co-founded the successful start-up business Pi Technology, which grew to provide engine control systems used in millions of vehicles around the world. Jackson also designed a £10m industry 4.0 digital manufacturing project for Meggitt, working with IBM and the Innovate UK Catapult Network’s AMRC in Sheffield and MTC in Ansty.  

More information www.digitalcatapult.org.uk

Accu, a Huddersfield-based engineering business that says it supplies 50% of the world’s top manufacturers with precision engineering components, will be inspiring the next generation of engineers at the Makers Central event at the Birmingham NEC on 17-18 May. Visitors can experience live demonstrations of Accu’s ant weight combat robots called AccuBots, made possible with Accu components and 3D printing technology. The stand will also offer visitors the chance to build their own modular combat robot as well as learn from engineers about how precision engineering is shaping manufacturing innovations.

More information www.accu.co.uk

Mclennan, a UK-based motion control specialist, has strengthened its product range via a new partnership with US-based motion control component manufacturer Lin Engineering Inc, a subsidiary of the Moon’s group of motion control component manufacturers. Lin Engineering manufactures rotary stepper motors, linear actuators, brushless DC motors, micro-DC motors and frameless torque motors. Of particular interest for Mclennan, Lin Engineering’s ‘Zero-Tech’ specialist approach encompasses several advanced motion control technologies designed to overcome common engineering challenges in DC motors.

More information www.mclennan.co.uk

Automation expert FANUC UK has doubled down on its commitment to support innovation in manufacturing with the announcement of a dedicated business development manager for the north of England and Scotland. Tony Bentham will be instrumental in helping businesses and academic institutions across the region to embrace robotics that enhance productivity, sustainability and profitability. With more than 36 years of experience at FANUC UK – specialising in robotics and customer service – Bentham brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

More information tony.bentham@fanuc.eu