The Puzzled Man
Photo credit: Antony Robotham/CoPilot
  • Plymouth Athenaeum, Derry's Cross, Plymouth PL1 2SW

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Join Plymouth Athenaeum for a free talk to discover more about the evolution of everyday technology from simple tools to complex systems as Dr Antony Robotham helps untangle the complexity and considers why the technology we all use feels more complicated.
The Puzzle of Progress will highlight the practical technology all around us. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Robotham designed an environmentally friendly face shield, manufactured from recycled materials that were compostable or recyclable at the end of its useful life.
Antony is Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering in the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics (SECaM) at the University of Plymouth. He has taught engineering design at all levels and his roles have included Associate Head (Teaching and Learning) and Deputy Head of School in the former School of Engineering. Latterly, he has been Project Lead for the University's new Babbage facilities, overseeing the development of the specialist laboratories and managing an £11m budget for the procurement of new equipment on behalf of SECaM.

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This talk is part of a series of events celebrating the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Plymouth Mechanics’ Institute. These events and activities, in late May and early June, focus on the past, present and future of mechanics, engineering and technology.
The Plymouth Mechanics’ Institute was founded on 30 May 1825 and merged with the Plymouth Athenaeum in 1899.
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