Accu set to inspire young minds with robotics at UK’s largest 3D printing festival

Accu, a Huddersfield-based engineering business that supplies 50% of the world’s top manufacturers with precision engineering components, is set to be a platinum sponsor at the UK’s largest 3D printing festival, SMRRF (Sanjay Mortimer RepRap Festival) in Manchester on 7-8 March.

Attending SMRRF for the first time, Accu will be giving live demonstrations of its AccuBots combat robots, which were created using 3D printing technology. Visitors will be able to get hands-on experience with modular combat robots, learning how precision components are essential to building high-quality 3D-printed projects.

Accu will work with Sanjay Mortimer Foundation (SMF) Stars, neurodivergent makers and young minds supported by SMF through funding for education, resources and mentorship, to design and build their own combat robots. These robots will go head-to-head in a thrilling battle on the last day.

Ellis Ware, a Lead Engineer at Accu, who claimed victory in FightFest’s Featherweight robot fighting competition in 2024, sponsored by Accu, will discuss how 3D printing is transforming combat robotics during an inspiring presentation he will give on 7 March.

“Advances in technology, innovation and 3D printing are changing how we design and build combat robots,” says Ellis. “The speed and accuracy that 3D printing brings mean that we can test more ideas in robotics, building faster and stronger robots that, when paired with the right components, are way more reliable. I’ll be discussing how 3D printing has changed combat robotics over the years and continues to push the boundaries of what is possible.”

Hosted by the Sanjay Mortimer Foundation, SMRRF brings together engineers, educators, creators, innovators and STEM leaders for two days of exhibitions, live demonstrations and interactive workshops celebrating neurodiversity in STEM. This festival blends creativity, 3D printing, engineering and technology, with a strong focus on innovation and empowering neurodivergent young people.