The Smart Manufacturing Hub is equipped with a Industry 4.0 training system that simulates a highly automated smart factory, and is embedded with artificial vision, collaborative robots, smart devices and more. PHOTO courtesy Simon Fraser University.
B.C’s Simon Fraser University has a new Smart Manufacturing Hub which aims to revolutionize traditional manufacturing processes.
Housed at the Surrey Campus, the space is the first-of-its-kind in Western Canada and comes equipped with a state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 training system that simulates a highly automated smart factory, and is embedded with artificial vision, collaborative robots, smart devices and more.
Long-term success of smart manufacturing ultimately depends on a highly skilled workforce, and digitally skilled labour in Canada’s manufacturing sector is currently in short supply. Training the next generation of Industry 4.0 professionals who can develop and implement high-tech solutions to establish Canada as a leader in the field remains crucial.
SFU launched the hub to build a highly skilled workforce of Industry 4.0 professionals who can develop and implement high-tech solutions to establish Canada as a leader in the field. The hub will be a space of innovation and collaboration with industry and new training opportunities for working professionals.
Students in SFU’s Master of Engineering in Smart Manufacturing and Systems (MSE) program will be among the first to train in the new space as they develop an interdisciplinary skillset to build engineering solutions for a smart manufacturing future.
“The Smart Manufacturing Hub builds upon SFU’s leadership in innovation as well as our commitment to build world-class research spaces, and transform industries and economies through technology,” says Dugan O’Neil, SFU vice-president, research and international. “The Hub will be a catalyst for further industry partnerships and the new Master’s program will deliver job-ready graduates to meet the needs of Canadian companies.”
