This week at GBSIoT, we had the pleasure of welcoming 27 enthusiastic Year 12 students from the Aston University Engineering Academy (AUEA). The visit provided an exciting opportunity for these future engineers to immerse themselves in the world of Industry 4.0 technologies, gaining hands-on experience in both manufacturing and robotics.
Exploring the Cyber Manufacturing Rig
The students began their visit with an introduction to our cyber manufacturing rig, a cutting-edge facility demonstrating the principles of Industry 4.0. As they explored the rig, they were introduced to the concept of smart manufacturing, where interconnected systems and real-time data drive efficiency and innovation.
One of the highlights of the factory experience was an overview of advanced machinery from Siemens and Festo. The students were fascinated by the detailed workings of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), participating in a demonstration on a small-scale production line to assemble a five-component demo phone case. They witnessed first-hand how technology seamlessly integrates with modern manufacturing processes.
Hands-On Challenge with PLCs
In a spirit of friendly competition, the students were divided into two teams to assemble the phone case using PLCs. This hands-on challenge fostered teamwork and collaboration, while also allowing them to engage directly with the machinery and apply their theoretical knowledge to a practical task. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and problem-solving skills as they navigated the operations to complete the assembly, highlighting the precision and efficiency required in modern manufacturing.
Delving into Robotics in the Classroom
Following the factory session, the students moved to the classroom for an introduction to robotics. Under the guidance of our expert instructors, they wrote code in Arduino to programme a Braccio robotic arm. This activity was designed to develop their coding skills while introducing them to the fundamentals of robotic control.
Safety was a key priority as students learned how to set up and operate the robotic arm correctly. They used loop functions to programme the arm’s movements, learning to control its joints to complete a sequence of tasks: grabbing a sponge, lifting it, displaying it, lowering it to a new location, releasing it, and finally returning the arm to its starting position.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
At GBSIoT, we believe that hands-on experience is vital in helping students develop the skills and knowledge required for the next generation of engineers. The visit from AUEA students not only allowed us to showcase our advanced facilities but also provided an opportunity to inspire young minds to consider careers in engineering and technology. The students’ engagement and enthusiasm reaffirmed our commitment to delivering educational experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice.
We look forward to welcoming more students in the future and continuing to play a leading role in shaping the future of engineering through innovative learning experiences.
