Alistair Forbes
Papers
1
Total Citations
5
H-Index
1
About
Alistair Forbes is a leading figure in precision engineering and large-volume metrology, with a particular focus on quantifying and managing measurement uncertainty in advanced manufacturing systems. His most cited work, "Positional uncertainty in optical-based metrology systems in large volume manufacturing" (2018, 5 citations), addresses a critical challenge in autonomous precision assembly: how to reliably determine the position of components when using optical systems over large scales. Forbes’ major contribution lies in developing rigorous mathematical frameworks that translate raw sensor data—from laser trackers, photogrammetry, and other optical instruments—into actionable, traceable uncertainty budgets. This work is foundational for industries such as aerospace and automotive, where millimeter-level errors in large structures can lead to costly rework or safety failures. Beyond this paper, Forbes is recognized for his long-standing role at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), where he has advanced international standards for coordinate metrology and Bayesian uncertainty analysis. His research bridges theoretical statistics and practical industrial needs, making him a key resource for engineers and scientists working to push the boundaries of high-precision, large-scale manufacturing.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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