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The European Portable Metrology Conference (EPMC) 2026) is one of Europe’s leading specialist conferences dedicated to portable metrology, dimensional measurement, industrial inspection and 3D scanning technologies. Scheduled for 23-24 September 2026 at The International Centre, Telford, the event brings together equipment manufacturers, quality engineers, researchers, production leaders and technology innovators from across the United Kingdom and Europe. Portable metrology has become a critical capability for modern manufacturing. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, rail, electronics and advanced engineering increasingly rely on high-accuracy portable measurement systems to reduce defects, shorten inspection cycles and improve process control. EPMC 2026 is designed to address these challenges through a combination of technical presentations, case studies, live demonstrations and professional networking opportunities. The conference provides a practical environment where attendees can compare technologies, discuss implementation strategies and learn directly from organizations that are using portable metrology in real production environments. Why EPMC 2026 Matters Manufacturing is undergoing rapid digital transformation. Smart factories, Industry 4.0 initiatives and data-driven quality management all depend on accurate measurement. EPMC focuses specifically on the technologies that enable measurement beyond the traditional laboratory environment. Attendees will gain insights into: Portable coordinate measuring systems Laser trackers Structured-light and laser scanning Photogrammetry Automated inspection workflows Real-time dimensional verification Digital twin integration Measurement data management These technologies help manufacturers detect deviations earlier, reduce scrap, improve traceability and maintain compliance with increasingly stringent quality standards. Conference Program EPMC 2026 is expected to feature a two-day technical program combining keynote sessions, expert presentations and application-focused discussions. Keynote Presentations Industry leaders and technology experts will present the latest developments in: Large-volume measurement High-accuracy alignment Portable CMM innovation AI-assisted inspection Measurement automation Digital manufacturing integration These sessions are intended to provide strategic insight into where portable metrology is heading over the next decade. Technical Sessions The technical program will focus on real-world implementation and measurable business outcomes. Topics are expected to include: Aerospace assembly verification Automotive body measurement Turbine and energy-sector inspection Reverse engineering workflows GD&T validation Calibration and uncertainty management Inline and near-line inspection Metrology software interoperability Presentations will typically include case studies, accuracy data, workflow comparisons and lessons learned from industrial deployments. Live Technology Demonstrations One of the strongest features of EPMC is the opportunity to see equipment operating in person. Expected demonstration areas include: Laser tracking systems Handheld 3D scanners Portable articulated arms Optical measurement systems Alignment and leveling equipment Surface analysis tools Inspection software platforms Live demonstrations allow attendees to evaluate ease of use, measurement speed, setup requirements and integration capabilities before making investment decisions. Exhibition Area Alongside the conference sessions, EPMC includes a dedicated exhibition showcasing the latest metrology hardware and software solutions. Exhibitors are expected to represent: Measurement equipment manufacturers Calibration providers Industrial software companies Automation and robotics specialists Quality assurance solution providers Research institutions and technical partners The exhibition enables direct conversations with suppliers, product specialists and application engineers. Who Should Attend EPMC is designed for professionals involved in measurement, quality and advanced manufacturing. Recommended attendees Metrology engineers Quality managers Manufacturing engineers Production managers Process improvement specialists R&D engineers Automation engineers Calibration professionals Academic researchers Technical consultants Whether an organization is evaluating its first portable measurement system or expanding a mature digital inspection program, the conference provides relevant technical and commercial insight. Benefits for Manufacturing Organizations Improve Inspection Efficiency Portable systems can significantly reduce the time required to measure large or complex components, enabling faster production feedback. Reduce Rework and Scrap Early detection of dimensional deviations helps prevent costly downstream defects. Support Industry 4.0 Modern metrology platforms generate digital data that can feed manufacturing execution systems, statistical process control and digital twin environments. Enhance Traceability Accurate measurement records support customer requirements, regulatory compliance and audit readiness. Accelerate Problem Solving Engineers can perform measurements directly on the shop floor, reducing delays associated with moving components to a dedicated inspection laboratory. Networking Opportunities EPMC is also a major networking event for the metrology community. Attendees can connect with: Equipment manufacturers Quality leaders Research organizations Systems integrators Automation providers Industrial end users Academic experts Technical consultants Structured breaks, exhibition sessions and informal discussions provide opportunities to exchange ideas, benchmark practices and build long-term professional relationships. Research and Innovation A significant portion of the conference is expected to focus on emerging research and next-generation measurement techniques. Areas of growing interest include: AI-driven defect detection Automated point-cloud analysis Robotic scanning systems Real-time process compensation Cloud-based metrology workflows Predictive quality analytics Hybrid optical/contact measurement High-speed inline inspection These developments are increasingly important as manufacturers seek to combine precision measurement with automation and data intelligence. Venue Advantages – The International Centre, Telford The International Centre is one of the UK’s established conference and exhibition venues for industrial and engineering events. Advantages Large exhibition halls Modern conference facilities On-site catering Easy motorway access Rail connectivity via Telford Central Accommodation options nearby Space for live equipment demonstrations Its location in the West Midlands makes it accessible for attendees traveling from major UK manufacturing regions including the Midlands, North West, South Wales and the South East. Travel Information By Rail Telford Central station is located close to the venue and offers connections to Birmingham and other major UK rail routes. By Road The venue is easily accessible from the M54 motorway, with convenient access for visitors traveling by car. By Air International visitors can reach Telford via Birmingham Airport, followed by rail or road transfer. Registration Information EPMC 2026 is listed as a paid conference. Registration is expected to provide access to: Conference sessions Keynote presentations Technical papers Exhibition area Networking activities Refreshments during scheduled breaks Prospective attendees should use the official EPMC website for registration, pricing and participation updates. Official website: www.epmc.events Why Attend EPMC 2026? Organizations attending EPMC 2026 can expect: Exposure to the latest portable metrology technologies Practical implementation guidance Direct access to suppliers and experts Benchmarking against industry best practices Insight into future measurement trends Opportunities for collaboration and partnership For companies focused on precision manufacturing, quality assurance and digital industrial transformation, EPMC 2026 represents a valuable opportunity to evaluate technologies, strengthen professional networks and gain actionable knowledge that can be applied directly to production and inspection operations.

The University of Aberdeen is bringing families and young learners together for an engaging and educational activity at its Zoology Museum with the upcoming Family Fun Friday: Zoology Museum event. Scheduled for 24 July 2026 from 11:00 to 14:00, this free event offers children and families an opportunity to combine creativity, museum exploration, and informal science learning in an enjoyable setting. The event is designed as a relaxed drop-in activity, making it easy for families to participate according to their own schedules. Visitors can take part in a creative session focused on making magic clay mini beasts of land and sea. Through hands-on crafting, children can explore the fascinating world of animals and develop a stronger connection with natural history and zoological discovery. Hosted at the Zoology Museum of the University of Aberdeen, the event provides an ideal setting for a family day out during the summer holidays. The museum environment encourages curiosity and discovery, allowing children to learn about animals while participating in an activity that is practical, imaginative, and accessible. A Free Family Activity Designed Around Creativity and Discovery One of the main attractions of the Family Fun Friday event is its free admission. Families can enjoy the activity without the cost barrier often associated with organised workshops or educational attractions. This makes the event particularly suitable for local residents, visiting families, and parents looking for affordable activities during the school holiday period. The creative clay activity gives children the chance to make their own mini beasts inspired by animals that live on land and in the sea. This concept connects artistic expression with zoological learning. Rather than simply viewing museum displays, children are encouraged to participate actively and create something of their own. Hands-on activities can be particularly valuable for younger visitors because they help make learning more memorable. A child who creates a clay creature may become more interested in how real animals move, where they live, how their bodies are adapted, and how different species fit into their environments. The event therefore offers more than a simple craft session. It creates an opportunity for families to begin conversations about biodiversity, habitats, animal behaviour, marine life, and the importance of understanding the natural world. Why the Zoology Museum Provides an Ideal Event Setting The University of Aberdeen's Zoology Museum offers an educational environment that naturally supports the theme of the event. Museums can help transform abstract scientific ideas into visual and interactive experiences. For children, the opportunity to visit a museum alongside a creative activity can make science feel approachable and enjoyable. The museum setting provides context for the clay-making session. Children may be able to connect their creative work with the wider world of animals and zoology. Even a simple clay model can inspire questions about the characteristics of real species and the differences between animals living in different environments. The University of Aberdeen's official event listing describes the activity as a drop-in family session, with no booking required. However, the University notes that visitors may need to wait during particularly busy periods. This flexible format makes the event convenient for families who prefer spontaneous activities or who may be visiting other attractions in Aberdeen on the same day. An Educational Summer Holiday Experience for Young Learners Summer holidays provide children with valuable opportunities to learn outside the classroom. Events such as Family Fun Friday can support informal learning by combining education with entertainment. Children are able to explore a subject without the pressure of formal assessment or classroom routines. The zoology theme is particularly suitable for younger audiences because animals naturally attract curiosity. Children often ask questions about unusual creatures, ocean life, insects, birds, mammals, and other forms of wildlife. A museum-based activity can encourage this curiosity and provide a foundation for further learning. The creative element also helps children express their understanding in their own way. A child may create a realistic animal, an imaginary creature, or a combination of different features. Each approach can lead to discussion about the real characteristics of animals and the differences between imagination and scientific observation. Parents and guardians can also use the event as a starting point for further exploration. After completing the activity, families may choose to discuss favourite animals, visit other museum displays, research different habitats, or explore local wildlife. Combining Art, Science, and Family Participation A key strength of the event is the way it combines several different types of learning. Art encourages creativity, science provides knowledge, and family participation creates a shared experience. The clay activity allows children to use their hands and imagination. They can shape, mould, and design their own mini beasts while thinking about the animals they want to represent. This type of activity can help develop fine motor skills and concentration while also supporting creative confidence. At the same time, the zoological theme creates opportunities for scientific discussion. Parents can ask children questions such as where their creature lives, what it eats, how it moves, and how it protects itself. These simple questions can introduce fundamental ideas about habitats and animal adaptations. The event is therefore suitable for families who want an activity that is both enjoyable and educational. It provides a balance between structured participation and relaxed exploration. A Convenient Drop-In Event for Families in Aberdeen The drop-in format is another important feature of the event. Families do not need to commit to a formal appointment or follow a strict timetable. They can attend during the advertised three-hour period and participate in the activity as availability allows. This makes the event particularly convenient for families with young children. Parents can plan their visit around the needs of their children and combine the museum activity with other plans in Aberdeen. The event takes place on Friday, 24 July 2026, during the summer holiday period. This timing makes it a practical option for families searching for activities during the school break. The University of Aberdeen also lists broader summer activity at the Zoology Museum, with the museum open during the summer holidays for visitors to enjoy. Encouraging Interest in Zoology and the Natural World Events like Family Fun Friday can play an important role in introducing children to zoology. Zoology is the study of animals, and it covers a wide range of topics including anatomy, behaviour, evolution, ecology, and conservation. A child does not need advanced scientific knowledge to begin exploring these ideas. Simple questions about a clay mini beast can introduce concepts that are central to zoological study. For example, a child may create a sea creature and begin thinking about how it survives underwater. Another child may create a land animal and consider how it moves or finds food. These conversations help connect creative activity with scientific thinking. The event can also encourage awareness of the variety of life on Earth. Learning about animals from different environments can help children understand the importance of protecting biodiversity and respecting the natural world. An Accessible Event for Families and Young Visitors The event has been designed to be accessible and welcoming for families. Free entry and a relaxed drop-in structure make it suitable for a broad audience. Parents and guardians can attend with children and participate in the experience together. The event is especially relevant for families looking for educational activities that do not feel like traditional classroom lessons. Children can learn through doing, making, observing, and asking questions. For local families, the event offers a convenient opportunity to visit a university museum. For visitors to Aberdeen, it provides an additional cultural and educational activity to include in a summer itinerary. The University of Aberdeen's King's College location also gives visitors the chance to experience one of the University's historic academic settings while attending a family-focused activity. The University's listed contact address is King's College, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX. A Memorable Family Day Out in Aberdeen The Family Fun Friday: Zoology Museum event has all the elements of a memorable family activity: creativity, learning, exploration, and free participation. Children can create their own clay mini beasts while families enjoy the atmosphere of a university museum. The activity is particularly valuable because it encourages children to become active participants. Instead of simply looking at exhibits, they can create, imagine, and discuss the animal world around them. For parents, the event provides a useful opportunity to support learning during the summer holidays. For children, it offers a fun way to explore animals and creative making. For the wider community, it demonstrates how university museums can connect academic knowledge with public engagement. The Family Fun Friday: Zoology Museum event at the University of Aberdeen is an upcoming free family workshop taking place on 24 July 2026 from 11:00 to 14:00. The event focuses on creating magic clay mini beasts of land and sea and is designed to provide a fun, creative, and educational experience for families and children. With no advance booking required and free participation, the event is an accessible choice for families seeking summer activities in Aberdeen. Its combination of creative making and zoological themes encourages children to explore science through imagination and hands-on learning. The event also reflects the University of Aberdeen's broader commitment to public engagement, family learning, and accessible educational experiences. For families looking for an enjoyable activity that combines creativity with an introduction to the natural world, this event offers a strong opportunity to learn, explore, and spend quality time together in a museum environment.

The MND Volunteer Skills & Strategy Workshop is a dedicated day of learning designed to empower the individuals who are the lifeblood of our organization. Volunteers in the Northamptonshire area play a diverse range of roles, from providing direct emotional support to families to organizing high-profile fundraising galas. This workshop aims to provide a standardized, high-quality training experience that ensures every volunteer feels confident, safe, and effective in their chosen role. The morning sessions focus on "Advanced Communication and Empathy." Facilitated by experienced care coordinators, this module helps volunteers navigate the difficult conversations that often arise when supporting those with a terminal diagnosis. We explore active listening techniques and how to provide boundaries that protect both the volunteer and the service user. Following this, a session on "Digital Advocacy" will teach participants how to use social media and online platforms to amplify the Association's message and reach new donor demographics in the digital age. Safety and compliance are paramount; therefore, the afternoon includes a mandatory update on safeguarding policies and data protection (GDPR) specifically tailored to the charity sector. We also include a vital segment on "Emotional Resilience," recognizing that the work our volunteers do can be emotionally taxing. This session provides practical tools for self-care and highlights the peer support networks available within the Association. By the end of the day, attendees will have a deeper understanding of the Association’s strategic goals for 2026 and beyond. Whether you are a long-standing branch member or someone considering volunteering for the first time, this workshop offers a comprehensive look at how your time and talents can be best utilized to support the MND community. The event is free to attend, and all materials, including a new volunteer handbook, are provided.