700213The Intelligent Work System (IWS)ClosedGRD Proof of MarketInnovate UKA key limiting factor to the UK’s current strategy of expanding its high value manufacturing sector is the supply of ably skilled workers. Highly skilled engineers and technicians are becoming harder to find and this will be exacerbated in the future by the high number retiring over the next ten years (baby boom of the late 1940-50’s). Advanced Aerospace Assembly Ltd. (A3) has realised through innovative research that the integration of two technologies with the addition of intelligent tools and sensors will create a new product that enables engineering staff to carry out complex part assembly operations with a reduced number of errors. Optical and laser projection systems both display manufacturing information directly onto the part. The optical system can show a great deal of information across a vast area, with different colours and the laser system can highlight edges on the part very accurately. The new product will directly guide an unskilled worker through a complex manufacturing task, utilising digital sensors to ensure that the probability of a mistake is at a minimum. The technician will be able to work in an environment where the necessary manufacturing information is clearly projected directly onto the part or workstation. Critical process measurement data such as torque values and flushness etc will be automatically recorded and logged by the integration of intelligent tools into the system. This would assist manufacturing companies in reducing errors and enable new workers to quickly gain the required skills. The key objective of this proof of market is to assess the commercial viability of the Intelligent Work System (IWS), to establish the full extent of the UK, EU and global markets and to gain a thorough understanding of the real needs and requirements of key stakeholders, potential partners and customers. The early mapping of the market opportunities will significantly accelerate the development and realisation of the product.