Dr. Patrick Blanchard —Technical Leader in Advanced Polymer Systems at Ford Motor Company

Abstract: The presentation will discuss key trends in electrification with examples of how Ford is transforming its business to accelerate implementation of ultra-efficient manufacturing systems. Two case studies will be featured that describe how innovations in materials and manufacturing play a significant role towards achieving on-going sustainability goals.

Biography: Dr. Patrick Blanchard is an expert in lightweight materials development with a demonstrated capability to guide research projects from concept through to fully validated production ready solutions. He completed his PhD in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nottingham, UK. Since joining Ford in 1999, he has focused on the development of lightweight materials and manufacturing technologies. Since 2009, he has led an R&D team tasked with design and development of class A and structural composite components destined for a wide variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles. From 2011 onwards, Dr. Blanchard has also been responsible for all carbon fiber related research including development of alternate low cost precursors (e.g. textile PAN) and new derivative products and processes. Dr. Blanchard has authored over 68 internal/external publications, awarded 14 patents, and as a team member received a 2009 PACE award and a 2018 JEC Innovation award.