A low-cost laboratory-based robotic teaching method

Robotics is an important element of automation in the manufacturing industry. Modern manufacturing requires high quantity production lines and highly efficient tools with sustained efficiency. The increase in employment of robots calls for an exposure of the technology to personnel working with or around robots, both engineers and non-engineers. Current university and other vocational based teaching modules use a variety of practical methods such as use of an industrial robot, simulation packages, and modular robot building block kits in order to achieve the required learning objectives. In this paper a novel laboratory-based methodology for a low-cost educational module is introduced through integration of modular Lego-type robot building blocks and an industrial robot workcell simulation environment. This method is particularly beneficial in situations where use of a real life robot is not available due to equipment cost. The paper demonstrates the student engagement through a number of conceptual learning examples. The results of student experience using the integrated approach are positive.