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Integration and Improvement of a Robotics Laboratory in an

Industrial Engineering Curriculum

Abstract

Robotics is the study of robots and their design, manufacture and application to various systems. The impact and benefits of robotics in education at all levels have been broadly addressed and documented by many researchers and educators. Several institutions (including Carnegie Mellon) have developed a robotics program which has provided an extensive background for students wanting to study and conduct research in this arena of engineering. When coupled with hands-on laboratory modules, robotics provides a vast source of opportunities to use original ideas and analytical skills for the solution of concrete problems in the areas of manufacturing systems, programming, logistics and others. As an attractive educational tool, robotics contributes to the increase in students’ interest for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) concepts. Through this Course, Curriculum and Lab Improvement (CCLI) grant project sponsored by the National Science Foundation an updated Industrial Robotics and Automated Manufacturing (IRAM) Laboratory will be developed at Morgan State University. The IRAM Laboratory will provide an improvement in the current facility and combine the integration of additional courses with a hands-on laboratory approach into the Industrial engineering undergraduate curriculum. These subject areas include: advanced material handling systems, robotics and automation, computer-aided manufacturing, and flexible manufacturing systems. With the use of various hardware and software systems, students will be able to integrate course projects (using the IRAM Lab) with other pre-requisite courses allowing for a transition from the use of traditional manufacturing methodologies (i.e., manual) to modern computer-controlled ones. This CCLI project focuses on strengthening the engineering workforce by allowing engineering students to learn how to use software to model and determine solutions for various manufacturing scenarios, and to engage in realistic applications of flexible manufacturing systems with the use of newly developed laboratory modules. It is also aimed to provide students with experience in understanding and implementing robotics principles from key research literature; to offer students hands-on practice with real problems; and to give students confidence in their ability to develop group work expertise. It will also increase the number and readiness of engineering students entering into the labor force and graduate education programs.

Introduction Robotics is a technology that is concerned with the study of industrial and/or mobile robots. The official definition as provided by the Robotics Industries Association1 states that a robot is a reprogrammable, multifunctional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, tools, or special devices through variable programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks. In addition, these mechanical devices are commonly used and operated automatically to perform routine work for human beings. With the use of robotics, it is possible to minimize the time it takes to complete repetitive tasks (e.g., spot welding, spray painting, assembly operations, lifting,

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Pitts, R., & Camilo, R. (2010, June), Integration And Improvement Of A Robotics Laboratory In An Industrial Engineering Curriculum Paper presented at 2010 Annual Conference & Exposition, Louisville, Kentucky. 10.18260/1-2--16562