The quality of undergraduate education in Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is enhanced by the acquisition of state-of- the-art laboratory equipment that demonstrates and stimulates experimentation with every relevant computer integrated manufacturing concept. The equipment will be used to support engineering education improvements in design, experimentation, manufacturing and computer integration of the enterprise. This project is significant and of vital importance because it will enable undergraduate students to perform laboratory experiments within the context of a computer integrated manufacturing environment while acquiring training in robotics, vision systems, computer numerically controlled machines, automated material handling, instrumentation, microprocessor applications, computer networking, and office automation. Twenty-one courses involving eight full-time faculty in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering will utilize the laboratory to improve the quality and quantity of Computer Integrated Manufacturing instruction in undergraduate engineering education.
