MEIRG takes rapid prototyping to school
MEIRG MADE ITS MARK ON REGION'S SCHOOLS
Almost 300 students from across the East Midlands have been given a unique opportunity to see demonstrations of cutting-edge technology used in engineering, plus gain valuable hands-on experience of rapid prototyping thanks to MEIRG.
MEIRG, a Midlands engineering project, aims to inspire young people in the region to consider a career in the sector by letting them try out the latest kit used in 3-D design.
On board ERIC, MEIRG's training vehicle, students can learn how rapid prototyping is used to provide solutions in medicine. Bespoke hearing aids, kneecaps and even parts of a human skull damaged in road traffic accidents are now modelled by an engineer who doesn't even need to see the patient.
The students are shown that by using a haptic arm an engineer can model on-screen 'clay' by using a pen in mid-air. Students taking part are encouraged to try modelling their own clay face using the arm. They are also shown how a mobile phone designer produces a 3-D model from an on screen drawing.
Christine Cleave, physics teacher at Derby High School said: 'Seeing and using state-of-the-art equipment like the haptic arm shows the students the 'clean face' of engineering.
It's a great opportunity for 13 year olds as they are at the age where they're considering their options, which will influence future career choices. They may not understand what it is like to be an engineer but events like these help plan for their future. We even had a number of our year 11s ask to visit ERIC as they're considering engineering as a career.'
Emily Elliott, a pupil at Derby High School added: 'It was an excellent learning experience and it really motivated me to become involved with engineering in the near future. We were able to use high-tech equipment, which helped us to get a more hands on experience.'
Another pupil, Charlotte Phillips, at the school continued: 'MEIRG gave me a real insight into the world of engineering and I particularly liked learning about the manufacture of joint replacements.
Before the visit I didn't really know much about engineering, just that it involves physics but now I understand more about the types of jobs available and what they entail. It certainly made me consider engineering as a possible career.'
Jan Staley, MEIRG project manager added: 'It's crucial we engage with young minds at the time they're considering their career choices. We need to dispel this myth that engineering is dirty and show young people that there are some really exciting opportunities open to them.'
