Collaborative Development and Integration of Laboratory Material Utilizing a Flexible Manufacturing Cell

This paper presents the design and implementation of laboratory material that integrates two traditionally independent courses in the industrial engineering curriculum, manufacturing, and simulation, utilizing an flexible manufacturing cell. This collaborative project incorporates a team-based learn-by-doing approach to the theoretical knowledge in these subject areas. This dynamic environment gives the students the opportunity to design an automated system for manufacturing a product and analyze the production methods. Furthermore, the students have the opportunity implement their system design and contrast the design against the working system. The results of this project are discussed along with the anticipated impact on the curriculum.