Introduction:
With over 28 years of dedicated service, Dr. Nagahanumaiah has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of manufacturing research and leadership. His journey has encompassed two prestigious research institutions, namely CSIR-CMERI in Durgapur and CMTI in Bangalore. Throughout his illustrious career, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills while fostering a culture of innovation.
Educationally, Dr. Nagahanumaiah holds a Ph.D. from the renowned Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Masters in Tool Engineering from Indo-Danish Tool Room, Bangalore, and a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering from Bangalore University. His research spans over areas including micro-nano scale manufacturing technologies, modular-reconfigurable machine tools, additive manufacturing, and tool design, rapid tooling for injection molding, cost modelling, manufacturing process selection, and manufacturability evaluation. He has left an indelible mark on the field of micro-nano systems engineering and manufacturing technology through his dedication and remarkable achievements.
A Trailblazing Researcher and Mentor:
At CSIR-CMERI, Dr.Nagahanumaiah pioneered the field of ‘Micro-Nano Systems Engineering,’ establishing a specialized group with multidisciplinary expertise. As the founding head, he provided effective leadership and mentorship for over 14 years. Under his guidance, this team developed 12 cutting-edge technologies, resulting in 5 successful technology transfers and earning recognition for 4 young scientists with young scientist awards from CSIR, INAE and IEI.
Dr. Nagahanumaiah also filed 9 patents (two patents have been granted) and published 108 research articles; guided 15 M.Tech and 8 PhD Scholars. Currently ten scholars (5 PhD and 5 MS by research) are working with him. In addition, his contribution towards mentoring several youngsters in their field of research cementing his reputation as a trailblazing researcher.
Innovations and Technological Advancements:
Dr. Nagahanumaiah’s contributions as a principal investigator and bench researcher have been nothing short of extraordinary. He has been instrumental in the development of several ground breaking micro machines and process technologies. These include a “Reconfigurable Micro Factory,” “Micro-EDM Machine,” “Multi-purpose Laser Processing System,” “Nano-scratching Micro Machine,” “Micro Injection Unit,” “Paper-based Miniature Fuel Cell,” and “Smart Foundry-2020.” His work has not only resulted in functional prototypes but has also ushered in invaluable processing methodologies, such as parallel spark Micro-EDM, hard coating of Additive Manufactured molds, and selective laser sintering of sub-10 µm copper powder etc. Furthermore, his engineering prowess extends to micro-patterned antibacterial surfaces, which have transformative implications for healthcare and beyond. Dr. Nagahanumaiah’s remarkable journey has undeniably advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Leading CMTI into a New Era:
As the Director of the Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI), He has provided visionary leadership that has transformed the institute’s mission and impact. Recognizing the need for evolution, he initiated technology marketing and incubation activities, raising the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 65 potential technologies for transfer. His commitment to open innovation has fostered collaborations across the innovation spectrum to address manufacturing sector challenges.
Remarkable Achievements:
Under his dynamic leadership, CMTI has achieved remarkable milestones. Over the past five years, the institute has filed 18 patents, secured copyrights for 4 innovations, and obtained trademarks for 4 products. The teams at CMTI has designed and supplied to their customers 30 cutting-edge machines, test rigs and products, setting new standards in India and finding practical applications nationwide. Furthermore, the institute’s forward-looking approach has led to the successful licensing of four major technologies to prominent manufacturers, resulting in substantial revenue generation. This is a resounding testament to CMTI’s unwavering commitment to advancing cutting-edge machinery, automation systems, and their indispensable subsystems, truly propelling India towards self-reliance in technology and innovation.
Honors and Recognition:
Dr. Nagahanumaiah’s exceptional contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the ‘BOYSCAST Fellowship’ from DST and the ‘Raman Research Fellowship’ from CSIR. He was honored with the ‘We Think for India’ award by the Prime Minister of India for his role in shaping the Indian Manufacturing Policy draft in 2003.
In 2023, he has been elected as a Fellow of the Indian National Academy of Engineers (FNAE) and received the ‘Distinguished Leadership Award’ from the International Society of Industrial Engineering and Operation Management, USA, in 2021. Additionally, he was awarded the ‘Eminent Engineering Professionals Award – 2021’ by the Institute of Engineers India (IEI). He is the member of the International Association of Engineers, UK, and a Member of the International Institution for Micromanufacturing (I2M2), USA.
In Summary, Dr. Nagahanumaiah’s dynamic leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation have propelled CMTI into a leading force in technology development and transfer. His achievements in patenting, licensing, and the creation of cutting-edge machines not only reflect his vision but also his dedication to advancing the manufacturing sector. CMTI’s remarkable journey from service provider to technology originator, under his stewardship, stands as a testament to the institute’s boundless potential and its pivotal role in institute trajectory. He remains a constant source of inspiration, innovation, and leadership, driving the growth of manufacturing technology and the enhancement of workforce skills.
