In the Spring, you, Bath Rugby wing, Will Muir, visited our Dyson campus in Malmesbury to meet with our Dyson Institute Undergraduate Engineers. During your visit, you learned all about how you can gain an engineering edge on the rugby pitch. It’s interesting to note that you studied engineering before pursuing a career in rugby, and we saw this as a perfect opportunity to combine two of your interests.
We’re proud to say that Dyson has been a partner of Bath Rugby since 2014, and our commitment to the club has been long-term. Like Bath Rugby, we also prioritize resilience, discipline, learning from failure, and a determination to be the best. Additionally, we aim to nurture young talent, just like you.
If you want to find out more about the Dyson Institute, feel free to visit our website: Dyson Institute website Tackling engineering on the rugby pitch: Dyson’s undergraduates pass their knowledge to Bath Rugby in an exciting collaboration. Bath Rugby wing, Will Muir, had the opportunity to visit the Dyson campus in Malmesbury and meet with Dyson Institute Undergraduate Engineers to discover how engineering principles can be applied to gain an edge in rugby. Having studied engineering himself, Muir found this partnership to be a perfect opportunity to combine his two interests. Dyson and Bath Rugby share a commitment to resilience, discipline, learning from failure, and nurturing young talent, making this collaboration a valuable learning experience for both parties.
Muir was impressed by the range of engineering aspects he explored throughout the day. From designing wind turbines to understanding the aerodynamics of rugby balls, he discovered how mechanical engineering can play a role in the sport he loves. The Dyson Institute provides a unique opportunity for individuals to gain theoretical knowledge and apply it in a practical setting while working with Dyson. Muir expressed gratitude for the chance to get a taste of what the students at the Dyson Institute experience and highlighted the value of this collaboration in pushing boundaries and striving for excellence both on and off the rugby pitch.
Tackling engineering on the rugby pitch: Dyson’s undergraduates pass their knowledge to Bath Rugby
Introduction
Engineering and rugby may seem like two worlds apart, but the intersection of these disciplines has created a unique opportunity for knowledge exchange. In a groundbreaking partnership, Dyson, the renowned technology company, has teamed up with Bath Rugby to bridge the gap between engineering education and the demanding world of professional rugby. This collaboration not only allows the players to gain a deeper understanding of engineering principles, but also provides Dyson’s undergraduate students with the chance to apply their knowledge in a practical and exhilarating setting.
Background
The Dyson Institute is known for its unwavering commitment to providing a rigorous education in engineering. From mechanical to electrical engineering, students at the institute embark on a journey of hands-on learning, problem-solving, and innovation. On the other hand, Bath Rugby has carved a niche for itself in developing young talent, fostering a culture of growth, discipline, and determination.
Partnership between Dyson and Bath Rugby
The partnership between Dyson and Bath Rugby was established in 2014, driven by a shared vision of resilience, discipline, learning, and determination. This collaboration transcends the boundaries of their respective fields, bringing together engineers and rugby players to learn from each other’s expertise.
Will Muir’s visit to Dyson campus
Recently, Bath Rugby’s rising star, Will Muir, had the opportunity to visit the Dyson campus and interact with the undergraduate engineers. This visit allowed Muir to gain an engineering edge on the rugby pitch, as he delved into the practical applications of the theoretical knowledge he acquired during his studies.
Will Muir’s engineering background
Before becoming a professional rugby player, Muir had been pursuing a degree in engineering. Growing up on a farm, he developed a natural inclination towards machinery and a deep fascination for how things work. This interest drove him to choose mechanical engineering as his preferred degree.
Theoretical knowledge vs real-life application
Education is not solely about accumulating theoretical knowledge; it is about understanding how to apply that knowledge in real-life situations. Muir’s visit to the Dyson Institute provided him with a golden opportunity to showcase his theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. By witnessing engineers in action, Muir gained valuable insights into how engineering principles can be applied to solve everyday problems.
Designing a wind turbine with Dyson Institute students
One of the highlights of Muir’s visit was a group activity with Dyson Institute undergraduate students. The objective was to design a wind turbine capable of generating renewable energy efficiently. Through collaborative brainstorming and idea generation, Muir and the students combined their knowledge of both engineering and rugby to come up with innovative solutions.
Exploring aerodynamics in a rugby ball
As part of the visit, Muir and the undergraduate engineers attended a lecture on the aerodynamics of a rugby ball. This session emphasized the relevance of aerodynamics in both engineering and rugby. Muir was able to understand how the principles of airflow and pressure affect the flight and trajectory of a rugby ball, which he could then apply on the field to enhance his performance.
Applying mechanical engineering in rugby
Engineering principles are not restricted to the confines of the workshop; they can be applied to various aspects of rugby as well. Muir’s exposure to the practical applications of mechanical engineering gave him a fresh perspective on the sport. From analyzing and improving the design of rugby boots for enhanced grip to studying the biomechanics of players to optimize performance and reduce the risk of injuries, the possibilities for applying engineering in rugby are vast.
The various aspects of engineering
Engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines, and each has its own relevance and potential application in the world of rugby. Mechanical engineering, as exemplified by Muir’s background, focuses on understanding and manipulating the physical world. Electrical engineering can be employed to develop advanced tracking systems or innovative sports gear. Civil engineering can contribute to the design and construction of top-notch sporting facilities. By exploring these various aspects of engineering, rugby teams can gain a competitive edge and achieve new levels of excellence.
Testing and pushing boundaries
Both engineering and rugby thrive on pushing boundaries. In the world of engineering, this means continuously testing the limits of what is possible and striving for innovation. On the rugby pitch, players constantly seek to surpass their previous performances and reach new heights. The partnership between Dyson and Bath Rugby provides a platform to test boundaries in both disciplines, fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement.
The unique opportunity of Dyson Institute
The Dyson Institute offers a truly unparalleled opportunity for undergraduate engineers. The chance to work with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge engineering company is invaluable. By partnering with Bath Rugby, Dyson extends this opportunity to aspiring rugby players, allowing them to access the expertise and resources available at the institute. This collaboration is a testament to the forward-thinking nature of both organizations and their commitment to nurturing talent across different fields.
Conclusion
The intersection of engineering and rugby presents an exciting prospect for knowledge exchange and innovation. The partnership between Dyson and Bath Rugby is a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability to leverage expertise across disciplines. By bridging the gap between engineering education and professional rugby, this partnership opens up new avenues for exploration, pushing boundaries, and driving excellence in both fields. As more initiatives like this emerge, we can anticipate even greater advancements in engineering and sports, ultimately benefitting society as a whole.