The aim of this project is to introduce integrated manufacturing into the upper level undergraduate curriculum through development of a laboratory. Generally, the technical area deals primarily with computer usage in the integrated manufacturing environment: computer simulation, human-computer interaction, and knowledge- based computer-aided engineering. Suitable computer work stations are essential. These stations must support system simulation, animated simulation, user interface development, expert systems, CAD, and AM, all with adequate speed, storage, and graphics. The significance of this project is twofold. First, results of recent faculty and graduate student research will be transferred to the undergraduate upper level thereby enhancing the curriculum. Second, the mechanisms for this transfer will be available for study; to help develop the pedagogical means for facilitating inter-level transfer in other topical areas.
