A Low-cost Laboratory-based Robotic Teaching Method 279 Mozafar Saadat School of Mechanical Engineering University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK M.Saadat@bham.ac.uk Jonathan Kean Ee Ooi School of Mechanical Engineering University of Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK Jko978@bham.ac.uk ABSTRACT 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. Keywords Industrial robot, simulation, modular robot, Laboratory-based 1. INTRODUCTION There is a constant need to review the education of future engineers so as to keep modules relevant and contemporary. As time changes, so does the perspective of society, where skills such as creative problem solving become more sought after than head knowledge. Traditional teaching methods seem to be outdated in addressing the needs of the industry [1]. Modules that can motivate students into learning or studying engineering play vital roles in keeping engineering alive [2]. Engineering education should be taught with students as the centre of attention. Teaching and learning should revolve around the student. However, higher education institutions are moving in this direction but not in the desired rate. It must be WEE2011, September 27-30, 2011, Lisbon, Portugal. Editors: Jorge Bernardino and José Carlos Quadrado. noted that technology outdates itself within a couple of years, and thus the teaching of technology should respond accordingly and in the same pace [3,4]. An effective approach in modern learning and teaching is through problem Based Learning (PBL) [3,5,6] whereby theoretical concepts can be learnt through an investigative approach by the student. A robot is a good analogy to represent real-life teaching of engineering concepts. It is complex from an overview but can be broken down into many smaller modules. These individual modules are then easier to understand on their own and to which students are more accustomed. This concept is effective in training students to deal with complex multi-module problems, helping in developing their analytical and practical problem solving skills [7]. Modular building blocks such as LEGO ® sets are excellent tools for systems prototyping and are widely used in the engineering and the field of robotics. Moreover, education is enhanced through the use of LEGO ® sets as they stimulate people through hands-on learning, often leading to a more effective learning than traditional methods. Simulations are made possible with the advancement of computer technology. Higher computational power allows for more complex analyses with numerical methods, whilst keeping simulation times short. Simulations help the optimisation of processes, and reducing manufacturing time and costs. In the case of robotics, simulations are able to help engineers visualise physical concepts such as automated manufacturing and assembly workcells. Besides, governing parameters on the ability of an industrial robot can be simulated, allowing for the study of robotic systems without the high costs of purchasing one. 2. TEACHING INDUSTRIAL ROBOTICS In recent years the requirement for employing robots in the manufacturing industry has increased. The response by the relevant engineering schools within universities has been to develop robotic and automation courses for their undergraduate and postgraduate students [8]. However, there are other stake holders that cannot not afford to develop specialist courses or purchase expensive robotic equipment. Examples include UK Health and Safety Executive, whose specialists would require sound understanding of robotic technology from health and safety point of view, but may not be necessarily robot specialist. The subject of robotics is very diverse, with science ranging from machine design, computer science, control engineering and electrical engineering. In the manufacturing sector, industrial automation leads to the employment of robots in the production lines where high production rates with consistent quality of