Conference sessions are comprised of technical papers, panels, and case studies on the latest issues impacting the industry. Get the most up-to-date information from leading industry experts in your fields.

Program subject to change. More session presentations will be added below as they are approved.

 

Monday, May 6, 2024

Design for Environmental Conditions: A Holistic Approach
1:15 - 3:05 p.m.

This session offers a comprehensive exploration of designing products and systems that excel under diverse environmental conditions. You'll gain insights into the critical aspects of thermal management, fatigue analysis, and understanding the physics of failure. Our experts will guide you through the intricacies of optimizing designs for real-world scenarios, enhancing reliability, and reducing the risk of failure. This session will equip the reliability expert and novice with the knowledge and tools to create robust and enduring solutions capable of withstanding the harshest environmental challenges.

 

Unveiling Insights Through Dynamic Testing and Analysis
3:25 - 5:15 p.m.
Chair: Abdalla Ramini, IBM

In this session, we explore the exciting world of dynamic testing and analysis, a field that unveils the hidden behaviors and responses of complex systems to varying forces and conditions. Experts in the discipline will guide you through cutting-edge methodologies, equipment, and real-world case studies, showcasing how dynamic testing can uncover critical design flaws and defects in aerospace, automotive, and other civil and military industries. Join us to uncover the secrets behind how structures, materials, and machinery react to dynamic forces, allowing enhancement of product design, safety, and performance. Whether you're an expert or novice, this session will broaden your understanding of dynamic testing's applications and impact across multiple domains.

Presentations:

  • A Practical Approach to the Shock Response Spectrum (SRS) — Jade Vandekamp, Vibration Research Corporation
  • Some Insight into Laboratory Vibration Test Specification Development Based Upon Analysis of Field Measurement Information — Ron Merritt, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division
  • Additive Manufacturing Coldplates: Testing for Cleanliness and Material Shedding — Dave Vess, Northrop Grumman

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Beyond the Norm: Non-Standard Measurement Techniques in Environmental Testing
9:30 - 11:20 a.m.
Chair: Nick Clinkinbeard, Collins Aerospace

Delve into the world of unconventional measurement techniques that are revolutionizing environmental testing. In this session, you'll explore innovative approaches and technologies that go beyond traditional methods, offering new insights into the complex dynamics of our environment.

Presentations:

  • Camera-based Motion Amplification for Vibration Testing and Modal Analysis — Jeff Hay, RDI Technologies
     

Real Life Fixturing Challenges and Principles
1 - 2:50 p.m.
Chair: Ben Shank, Thermotron Industries

How a product is held on test can radically affect its dynamics and alter the ability to deliver realistic climatic environments.  Talks in this session showcase fixturing challenges and principles using specific examples.

Presentations:

  • How Can Test Fixturing Enable Representative Testing — Tyler Schoenherr, SANDIA
  • Vibration Fixtures – A Solution for Falling Between the Cracks of Standardization — Tony Araujo, Paragon Systems Testing
     

Vibration and Shock Test Fixture Design and Evaluation Panel Discussion
3:10 - 5 p.m.

Chair: Randy Patrick, YUMA Test Center

Session reviews custom and standard fixture fabrication considerations to support test item mounting on a dynamic test system. Panel members will discuss fixture material, weight, rigidity, attachment points and threaded inserts, control methods/problems, cost including head expanders and horizontal tables. Audience questions and participation is encouraged. 

Panelists:

  • Tony Araujo, Paragon Systems Testing
  • Shawn Martin, Speciality Engineering and Manufacturing Company (SEMCO)
  • Kevin McIntosh, W5 Engineering
  • Bill Boswell, Consultant


Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Platform Specific Testing: A Panel Discussion
8 - 9:50 a.m.

Chair: Ron Merritt, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division 

Join us for an insightful panel discussion that explores the world of platform-specific environmental testing. In this session, experts from various industries will share their experiences and insights on tailoring environmental testing to specific platforms.


Beyond Earth: Environmental Testing for Space Applications
10:10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Chair: Julie Jennings, Lockheed Martin

Embark on a journey to the cosmos in this fascinating session that explores the crucial role of environmental testing in ensuring the success and safety of space missions. From extreme temperatures to vacuum conditions, participants will gain an understanding of how environmental testing replicates the harsh conditions of space on Earth. Join us as experts delve into the intricacies of testing methodologies, challenges, and their impact on spacecraft and equipment design. Whether you're a space enthusiast, engineer, or scientist, this session offers a unique perspective on how environmental testing paves the way for mankind's adventures beyond our planet.

Presentations:

  • Coupled Multi-Actuator Testing for Space Flight Hardware Applications — Raman Sridharan, Data Physics Corporation
  • Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket Successfully Completed Two Fairing Separation Tests — Denisse Aranda, Blue Origin

Mastering Climatics Testing and Analysis: Uncovering Environmental Insights
3 - 4:50 p.m.
Chair: Erick Acosta, U.S. Army

Join us for an engaging session dedicated to climatics testing and analysis, where we unlock the power of environmental testing to ensure product reliability and performance. Experts in the field will delve into the intricacies of subjecting products to extreme temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions, providing real-world examples and cutting-edge techniques. Learn how climatics testing identifies vulnerabilities, optimizes product design, and enhances safety in industries ranging from electronics to aerospace. Whether you're an engineer, quality control professional, or researcher, this session will arm you with the knowledge and skills to harness the potential of climatics testing in your projects.

Presentations:

  • Thermal Imaging in Environmental Test Chambers — Ben Shank, Thermotron Industries
  • Thermal Gradiant Mapping in Environmental Chambers — Rikki Lucas, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

Thursday, May 9, 2024
 

Building Success from the Ground Up: Strategies for Qualification Test Program Development
8 - 9:50 a.m.

In this session, you will gain valuable insights into crafting a successful qualification test program. Our experts will guide you through the strategic planning, design, and execution phases, sharing best practices and case studies. Whether you're in product development, quality assurance, or testing, this session equips you with the knowledge and tools to develop a comprehensive and effective qualification test program that ensures product reliability and compliance with industry standards. Don't miss this opportunity to build a robust foundation for your testing endeavors.


Navigating the Path to Reliable Products: Qualification Test Program Development Panel Discussion
10:10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Join us for an engaging and informative panel discussion where experts from various industries share their experiences and insights into developing qualification test programs. From defining test objectives to selecting the right test methods and protocols, this discussion will explore the diverse strategies and challenges in ensuring product reliability and compliance. Whether you're a quality engineer, product manager, or involved in product development, this session offers a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and gain valuable tips on developing a robust qualification test program that stands up to industry standards and customer expectations.