The Curious Kid
Abhijith Bhat’s journey into the world of mechanical engineering began as a curious child. From an early age, he displayed an insatiable curiosity, constantly breaking and fixing things, whether they were mechanical, electrical, or electronic. This inherent inquisitiveness laid the foundation for his future career.
Choosing the Mechanical Path
As he grew older, Abhijith’s curiosity extended to the realm of engineering. Despite having interests in electronics and electrical engineering, the world of mechanical systems and metallurgy captivated him the most. It was during high school that he faced a pivotal decision – which field of engineering to pursue. Mechanical engineering emerged as the clear choice, setting him on a path of exploration and discovery.
The Changing Landscape
Abhijith delved into the world of mechanical engineering at university, where he witnessed the field’s evolution over the years. His college days were filled with ambitious projects, such as building hovercrafts that merged principles from aerospace and mechanical engineering. However, he couldn’t help but notice a concerning trend – a declining passion or interest in mechanical engineering among students. The allure of higher salaries and compensation packages in other fields threatened to overshadow the essential and passionate purpose driven roles of mechanical engineering in industry.
Embracing Challenges
Throughout his career, Abhijith encountered numerous challenges, each offering valuable lessons. He recounted a particularly daunting problem related to a tool setter project. The team faced a critical issue – the electronics PCB would break if the tool setter went beyond a certain point. In a stroke of innovative thinking, they devised a simple yet effective solution, adding a wiring connector and a top plate to create an unbreakable tool setter. This experience highlighted the power of simplicity in solving complex problems.
Technological Advancements
Abhijith highlighted the impact of generative AI, particularly ChatGPT, on their work. They harnessed this technology to optimize electronics, reduce power consumption, and explore new frontiers. Additionally, he hinted at their future endeavors in robotics, anticipating remarkable advancements in the field.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Manufacturing
Sustainability played a crucial role in Abhijith’s approach to manufacturing. He emphasized the importance of reusing materials and minimizing plastic usage wherever possible. Their products indirectly contributed to sustainability by enhancing cycle times, extending tool life, and reducing rework and rejection rates. This not only improved efficiency but also lessened carbon footprints, making manufacturing processes more eco-friendly.
A Message to Aspiring Engineers
In a heartfelt message to the next generation of engineers, Abhijith encouraged them to consider mechanical engineering. He highlighted the abundant opportunities in reviving older manufacturing companies and stressed the enduring nature of the field. He urged young engineers to immerse themselves in the craft, learn from experienced professionals, and embrace the journey.
Inspiration and Innovation
Abhijith drew inspiration from his father, whose competitive spirit ignited his passion for engineering. However, it was the remarkable journey of David Mcmurthy, the inventor of probes and owner of Renishaw, that truly motivated him. Mcmurthy’s relentless pursuit of innovation and problem-solving left an indelible mark on Abhijith. His aspirations were clear – to prioritize engineering above all and, perhaps, venture into entrepreneurship later.
Abhijith Bhat’s journey, from a curious kid to a successful mechanical engineer and aspiring entrepreneur, serves as a testament to the enduring allure of the mechanical field. His story offers inspiration to all, underscoring the pivotal role of innovation and passion in driving the mechanical industry forward. On Engineers Day, his narrative serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for aspiring engineers, inviting them to join the ranks of those who shape the future through mechanical innovation.
