MTConnect - Directory of Resources

The first directory of resources is released. It is a listing of companies working to provide MTConnect offerings and services.

Hardware
Assembly and Test Worldwide
Bosch Rexroth Corporation
GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms
MAG Industrial Automation Systems, MAG Cincinnati
Mazak Corporation
Parlec, Inc.

Software Applications
Bosch Rexroth Corporation
GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
MAG Industrial Automation Systems, MAG Cincinnati
Mazak Corporation
Parlec, Inc.
TechSolve, Inc.

Development Tools
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.
Consulting Services
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.

Training
Georgia Tech Factory Information Systems Lab
Great Technological Collaborations, Inc.
MacKintok Information Architects & Designers
TechSolve, Inc.

Simulation Games # 4: Problem-based Learning and Simulation Games

Simulation game based learning is an extension of the problem-based learning paradigm, having all its inherent characteristics plus some additional advantages. Simulation game and problem based learning are both experiential, collaborative, active learning and learner centric approaches. In simulation game, the instructor is a facilitator of learning process and students have the responsibility of learning as in problem-based learning. In problem-based learning, a self-assessment is conducted at the end of the problem or the learning cycle. On the other hand, simulation game has a scoring system that is the indication of one’s performance. Students are motivated to maximize their score by trying alternative strategies and read more literature. This is a significant advantage over problem-based learning. Secondly, simulation games are online computer based where student can learn as per his or her time at any place where there is an internet connection. Some studies have found that engineers are visual learners. Advanced graphics and multimedia may be used to capture the student’s attention. This observation calls for extensive use of simulation games especially in the light of decreasing computer technology cost and increasing speeds. Thirdly, some sort of online help is provided in simulation games. Thus, a student does not have to wait for the instructor to address the difficulty. Last and the most important advantage with simulation games is that they can save a lot of clerical work for students. The student can try out various strategies and alternatives and focus on the parameter of interest leaving the calculation and presentation work for the software. It is a more systematic and organized way of learning.

Enhance your assets

I came across this interesting study in Harvard Business Review which shows that companies which invest more in their employee do better in business. The article states that layoff and wage cut is a short term solution for cost cutting. It’s more like a desperate effort to keep oneself afloat. In the long term it is the employees which are the most valuable assets for the company. Motivated employees are much more efficient than the 8-hour wage workers. Companies should realize that employees are its assets and not liabilities. Actually these human assets don’t have depreciation as in the fixed assets. As these assets grow the business grows, the company grows. Click here to access the article.

Using a Single Tool to Accomplish Multiple Processes

Reducing inventory and managing multiple operations is key factor in today’s competitive manufacturing world. Fox and Turner describe the application of face milling to eliminate the traditional method of drilling and boring. Using interpolation a face mill can be effectively used to drill holes. Thanks to the advancement in the computer technology to manage all the complex calculations for the helical interpolation. This operation is suitable if the surface finish requirements are not better than 125 Ra and tolerances not tighter than 0.002 inches. Also the method is cost effective for holes which are larger than 6 inches in diameter. Fox also describes the difference between drilling with an end mill versus a face mill and limitations of using a face mill in extremely large diameter holes and tight tolerance parts. Complete article can be accessed here.