Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

Smart Factories and the ""connected workforce"" (humans and robots working together) are revolutionizing*production processes around the world. Collaborative robots (cobots) are integral to this transformation*because they can work side-by-side with humans without bulky, expensive safety cages. Affordable, adaptable*and easier to use than traditional robots, cobots are making automation accessible for small and medium-sized*companies (SMEs). Yet Canadian manufacturers are lagging behind international competitors in adopting*advanced robotics. Obstacles to adoption include uncertainty about the uses and benefits of cobots and a lack of*skilled workers to manage them. Humber is a global leader in mechatronics and robotics, with the*programming strength, faculty expertise and innovation capacity (bronze medal in 2017 Mechatronic*Olympics, 20 gold skill awards) to train the talent and provide the guidance companies need to modernize*production with cobots. We are proposing to purchase 3 cobot models, each with different functions and*capabilities, to 1) address current skills gaps by raising awareness and providing training in the diversity of*cobot models and applications available 2) expand our applied research capacity 3) help companies innovate*single and multi-cobot applications that will reduce costs, increase productivity, improve safety, generate new*revenue and deliver competitive advantage. The cobots will be integrated into Humber's world-class Centre for*Technology Innovation (CTI), focused exclusively on experiential learning, applied research and innovation.*They will also be incorporated into at least 6 programs to ensure student learning remains relevant. Our cobot*training programs will benefit nearly 1,000 students, faculty and businesses initially, with expanded training*available when the CTI building opens in 2018. We are already using cobots to create automated solutions for*companies such as Magna, Higgins and 416 Automation, with several new projects in development, and will*establish more partnerships in new industry sectors as we acquire more cobots and refine our expertise.