Robotics/3D Printing

​​​​​​​The understanding and implementation of robots and AI (Artificial Intelligence) into the workplace is becoming an increasingly important aspect of economic growth in Europe. In order to take advantage of the technological advances SME Managers need the appropriate tools (including skills and competencies) to evaluate the value of automation and how to integrate robots and AI into the workforce.

SME Managers need to consider a range of strategic factors to integrate next-generation robots into their overall strategy. They need to re-think workflows – introducing autonomous units that can think and interact with a wider ecosystem requires a re-evaluation of workplace structure. They need to consider social factors – the introduction of robots requires an understanding of social context and how these they interact and communicate.

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Working with Partners we have developed a series of training and support tools for SME Managers to enable them to assess the value of robots to their business development and sustainability and then effectively introduce them. These tools will include a best practice guide, self-assessment tools and an information exchange platform.

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​​Since its beginning, the 3D printing industry has experienced significant growth, evident in Wohlers Associates’ yearly reports (Wohlers Report 2019 ISBN 978-0-9913332-5-7). Behind this growth is a talented workforce. But, as with most disruptive technologies, the sector growth happens much quicker than the pace of learning, leading to a talented workforce. This lag has created what is commonly known as the 'Additive Manufacturing (AM) Skills Gap'; the notion that there are simply not enough talented people to fill jobs and thus meet the needs and demand from the AM employers.

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Working with Partners we have devloped support materials to provide support for the educational and training challenges related to equipping the future workforce with relevant and needed skills to participate in the 3D printing revolution. 

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The online training has been designed especially for any individual who has an interest in basic Robotics, and 3D printing, and as a way of upgrading their skills it is divided into five modules and will allow the acquisition of knowledge in the areas of Technical Drawing and Computer-Aided Design, 3D printing, Electronics and Microcontroller Programming.

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The role of Competition and Mobility as a new teaching methodology and in the development of trainees’ soft skills.

 

Our ERASMUS+ funded project evaluated the “Learning by Competing” concept using robotics training as the model.

 

The key objectives were to:

 

• create and test innovative teaching methodologies.

• introduce competition in teaching and learning methods.

• develop ICT and mobility competencies.

• promote perseverance and resilience as success tools.

• develop soft skills and use the motivational effects of robotics to excite students about science and technology.

 

The project developed 4 training modules on Robotics from basic to advanced level, available online in an e-learning format and free of charge. The modules were tested be way of 3 mobility flows to allow the participation in 3 robotics competitions in 3 European cities.

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