Abstract:

Project-based learning allows students to train in digital and transversal competencies towards their professional future. These will be shaped by the new paradigm of Industry 4.0 for industrial engineers, underpinned by several key technologies including robotics and additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. The modification of the curricula of industrial engineering degrees for adapting them to new industrial needs takes time and normally a high economic cost to accommodate classrooms and laboratories, thus delaying the implementation of technological content. Therefore, a final project is an opportunity for students to acquire new skills that help them to prepare to the changing future of a new industrial era characterized by constant technological progress. The present work focuses on the use of low-cost technology for the training of the future industrial engineer, presenting a robotics and 3D printing project as a case study. By using the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 educational robotics kit and an extruder pen, a prototype of an autonomous mobile robot for fused deposition modelling is built. This robot has the advantage of being able to move between different workstations to manufacture in situ any required part at every moment. The project illustrates the possibility of using low-cost technology to train engineering students in robotics, programming, mechanical design and 3D printing in an autonomous and practical way. At the same time, it fosters creativity and innovation, which will greatly help them in their future professional career.

Keywords:

Industry 4.0, Innovation, Technology, Mobile Robotics, 3D printing, LEGO Mindstorms.