Computer Applications in Engineering Education recently published an article titled “Design of a two‐degrees‐of‐freedom robotic arm for monitoring applications for teaching robotics and artificial intelligence technology.” The manuscript introduces an innovative approach to teaching engineering students the core principles of artificial intelligence and robotics within the context of Industry 4.0. This methodology involves a project-based learning strategy, providing students with hands-on experience by designing and implementing a functional robotic arm prototype.
Robotic Arm Design
The project involves the creation of a low-cost prototype robotic arm with two degrees of freedom, specifically designed for monitoring applications. The robotic arm integrates Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, allowing it to perform complex tasks. Its design employs inverse and direct kinematics, enabling the robot’s end effector to follow user-defined trajectories accurately.
Constructed from a 3D printed structure using polylactic materials, the robotic arm utilizes two servo motors with a 180-degree mobility range. These motors are controlled via an ESP32 microcontroller, enabling precise movements and operations. The overall design and implementation underline the feasibility of incorporating advanced technologies like AI and IoT into educational tools, making them accessible and applicable for undergraduate engineering students.
Control and Interface
The control system for the robotic arm is managed through a MATLAB GUI (Graphical User Interface). This interface is designed to provide users with detailed information about the robotic arm’s activities, including status updates, trajectory types, and quality assessments. The GUI enhances user interaction, allowing students to engage deeply with the technology and understand its practical applications.
The results from this project indicate a successful integration of multiple technologies, demonstrating the practical applications of AI and robotics in an educational setting. This approach not only helps students grasp theoretical concepts but also equips them with practical skills that can be applied beyond academic environments.
Previous developments in teaching robotics and AI to engineering students have often focused on theoretical knowledge without substantial hands-on experience. Traditional methods lacked the integration of cutting-edge technologies like IoT and advanced kinematics. This new project-based approach bridges this gap, offering a more immersive and practical learning experience.
Comparing this to earlier methodologies, the inclusion of a low-cost, 3D printed robotic arm prototype significantly reduces barriers to entry. It makes advanced technological education more accessible, fostering a more inclusive learning environment. This innovative project provides valuable insights into how modern technologies can be harnessed to enhance educational outcomes effectively.
Educators can utilize this methodology to create impactful robotics courses that motivate students through practical applications. The use of a MATLAB GUI for control adds an extra layer of interaction, making the learning process more engaging. By integrating AI and IoT, this approach offers a comprehensive learning experience that prepares students for the technological advancements in Industry 4.0.
This project-based learning strategy not only teaches fundamental concepts but also provides students with the skills needed to implement these technologies in real-world scenarios. The successful integration of AI and robotics within an educational framework demonstrates the potential of such methodologies to revolutionize engineering education. This approach could serve as a model for future curriculum designs, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.
