Robotics Skills Put to the Test for Foundation Degree Engineering Students
On 7th May, seven students from the Manufacturing Management pathway of the Foundation Degree in Engineering undertook their practical assessment for the Industrial Robotics unit at the University Centre, Poole.
Working in teams of three to four, the students were tasked with designing, programming, and developing an automated robotic system that simulated an industrial production line. Their challenge: to create a cycle between a 6-axis robot arm and a collaborative robot (Cobot) that could sort randomised coloured plastic marbles; red, blue, and green, using both a colour sensor and a light intensity sensor.
Each robot system was required to detect and sort the marbles by colour, directing them into designated chutes to simulate feeding into another stage of production. The assessment required not only precision in programming but also innovation in design. As part of their project, all students designed and 3D printed several key components:
- Output Pivot Plate
- Modified Reinforced Grippers
- Single Lane Input Track
- Pin Drop Randomiser
The students' robotic solutions successfully demonstrated their understanding of industrial automation and system integration. Each team presented their completed systems to a panel of lecturers.
We are proud to announce that all students achieved an exceptional Distinction grade in their assessment, an outstanding testament to their hard work
