The FANUC Advanced Automation Challenge 2.0 invites all CERT schools to work with local industry to create problem solutions. This challenge provides students the opportunity to improve their STEM skills and become familiar with the advanced manufacturing industry. 

This challenge encourages students to work with manufacturers to design a solution or solve a problem using FANUC products or an integrated solution with technology from FANUC, Rockwell, Cisco or Lincoln. Students (aka “Tomorrow’s Innovators”) will have the opportunity to test their STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) skills and critical thinking abilities. 

Students will interview a manufacturer to learn about their processes and consider potential opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge. Students will use their school’s robot, CNC, or advanced manufacturing technology to develop/design a workable solution and provide a demonstration.

Creativity is encouraged - students decide how simple or complex their solution is. 

The goal of this open-ended challenge is to change the perception of what todays advanced manufacturers looks like and introduce manufacturers to Tomorrow’s Innovators. This challenge will prepare them for exciting STEM career opportunities, develop their problem-solving skills, and introduce them to real-world advanced manufacturing applications.

Manufacturers need a workforce that is prepared to work in the new, Smart Factories of Industry 4.0. FANUC, together with Rockwell Automation, Cisco Systems, and Lincoln Electric, are committed to supporting education programs that serve the needs of the advanced manufacturing industry.

Awards will include a FANUC Robot, a FANUC CNC Simulator, a Rockwell PLC/HMI package, FANUC Simulation software, and technology from Cisco and Lincoln, representing over $100,000 investment in STEM education programs.

If you have been in the market for a large-platform 3D printer, we have exciting news! Moss now partners with 3D Platform, a leading manufacturer of large-scale, industrial-class 3D printers. 3DP’s flagship 3D printer, the 3DP1000, offers a large build area of 1 meter x 1 meter x 0.5 meter. (To put this in perspective, this is more than 70 times the size of the average desktop 3D printer!) 

3D Platform is committed to building on industrial strength linear motion components, actuators, and motors while maintaining affordable flexibility with open market software and control solutions. They offer helpful How-To training, videos, and FAQ on their website. 

Learn more - contact Moss today to learn about the most reliable, large format 3D printer in its class:

Experts are discussing an important shift in manufacturing technology: which is more beneficial, additive or subtractive manufacturing. Let's face it - it's a crowded field, full of technologies and applications. Fictiv discusses the future of production in this blog post, and how people are choosing technology for tomorrow’s industry. In today’s maker-climate, each technology has advantages, and implications for your students.
 
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is another term for 3D printing, and can use a variety of materials and printers. 3D printing has always been very useful for rapid prototype development, but it is starting to make its impact on the manufacturing world as well. Materials such as PLA and ABS plastics, as well as composite and metal materials improve printing. 3D printing is used as a step in the design process in companies ranging from Nike to Ford. Designers will print a prototype and use a 3D rendering to test and develop and enhance in a way that drawings can’t duplicate. Prints are faster and cheaper to produce than traditional machine tooling. The precise dimensions (often printed in color) provide a realistic model for designers and engineers to manipulate.
 
Subtractive Manufacturing
Subtractive manufacturing is a process by which 3D objects are constructed by successively cutting material away from a solid block of material. Subtractive manufacturing can be done by manually cutting the material but is most typically done with a CNC Machine. One of the advantages of subtractive manufacturing is the variety of materials that can be used, from wood and metal to plastics and acrylics to plasma. (Finer applications such as laser engravers work with an even wider array of materials.) CNC is widely used in manufacturing, and can be found in most facilities.
 
Necessary Skill Set
There is ongoing conversation about which method is more prevalent in the future of manufacturing. In reality, both have a place in 21st century manufacturing, which is why your students should be familiar with both technologies. In order for someone to comfortably use either technology, they need a solid understanding of design and CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) programs, as well as a familiarity with engineering principles so they can understand and develop using the best materials for the project. CNC operators should have a mechanical aptitude, and be able to read blueprints and drawings.
 
Learn More
You can give students hands on experience with both additive manufacturing (3D printing) and subtractive manufacturing (CNC). Moss partners with the following companies to provide cost-effective classroom solutions:​

• Afinia (3D printing)
• Ez Router (CNC)
• FANUC (Robotics and CNC)
• Techno CNC Systems (CNC)
• Universal Laser Systems (Laser cutting and engraving)

Contact Moss to assess which technology is right for your students and your program. We can help you introduce these programs or enhance existing programs with curriculum and tools. Ensure your students are ready for their next steps. 

​Whether you are building a Makerspace of Fab Lab, you have undoubtedly considered a CNC Router. CNC technology is a key component of fabrication, but the technology is as diverse as the applications. CNC equipment is designed to route, carve, drill, and engrave in wood, plastic, foam, aluminum and other materials for a wide range of applications.
 
CNC routers, plasma cutters and laser equipment make it easy and exciting for educators to prepare students for the technical manufacturing jobs of tomorrow. Students understand modern manufacturing challenges, turning design concepts into reality on industry standard equipment.
 
Choosing a CNC Router
When choosing a CNC Router, consider the following components:

• Quality: Economical and Technologically Advanced CNC Control Systems - Techno CNC’s high performance industrial quality CNC equipment enables students to learn on full scale production systems guaranteeing that they are well prepared for real-world applications upon entry into the workforce.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly, with a short learning curve - Techno CNC’s routers, plasmas cutters and laser equipment make it easy for educators to prepare students for the technical manufacturing jobs of tomorrow. Students can quickly and easily assimilate the new technology and how it can be applied to real world circumstances.
• Compatibility with available CAD/CAM Software - Open architecture that works with all industry standard software programs is essential. This enables educational institutes the flexibility to integrate their CNC’s throughout a variety of STEM electives and curriculums, such as manufacturing, architectural design, prototying, and pre-engineering.
• Curriculum: Learning with certified instructors - FANUC’s comprehensive curriculum teaches the critical aspects of CNC machine setup, operation and programming using industry-leading equipment and providing sufficient repetition to ensure effective learning.  Student certification requires passing both an academic and practical skills test to ensure competence. 
• System Integration - With FANUC’s Certified Education CNC Training program, students will first write, edit and proof programs using 3D solid model animation in NCGuide software running on a PC.  Using a USB memory stick, they then transfer the part program from NCGuide to the CNC on the machine either in the classroom and/or a workshop and then perform setup and testing.
• Resources: Tools and Resources make the difference – From live training, webinars, guides, and back-end support, it is important to choose a provider that will ensure you are successful in your classroom.

 
At Moss, we represent Techno CNC Systems, FANUC, and ez Router – we can provide options based on your program goals and budget considerations. Let us help  you develop your FabLab or Makerspace.
 
Tell us – what is the single biggest consideration you have when looking at CNC Routers? 

If you have a FANUC CERT program, you already know the benefits of adding robotics to your training programs. With FANUC America's educational products, students can learn to utilize the latest automation technology in robots, CNC, ROBODRILL, and integrated solutions while applying science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills. Some of the successful approaches used by educational institutions are:

• Integration of advanced automation to teach design and manufacturing concepts
• Industry-based and credentialed learning for Career Technical Education programs
• Integrate CERT program with career cluster curriculum
• Apply industrial automation training to engineering technology curriculums
• Add CERT programs to workforce retraining initiatives

 
Are you getting the most out of your robotics program? Maximize your program with one or more of the following tools:

• Integrated Conveyor - FANUC offers a MH1 or MH2 cart integrated conveyer. Using simple I/O commands students simulate real world part inbound and outbound functions. The integrated conveyer uses a dual V-guide belt tracking system. Each V-guide belt measures 3.75" (95mm) wide x 18" (457mm) long. The belt speed is adjustable from 5 to 50 ft./min (1.5 to 15 m/min). Externally mounted speed and directional controls. For further details such as, electrical requirements, limitations, and operating environment please reference manufacturer specifications.
• iRVision 2D Guidance Hardware & Software - Robotic vision provides the intelligence required for successful dynamic manufacturing processes and robust robotic applications. FANUC is committed to providing reliable and cost effective robotic vision solutions. FANUC’s iRVision is the first on-board robotic vision system, making all R-30iB robots “Vision Ready.” This makes for easy installation and calibration of the iRVision 2D Guidance Hardware and software.
• Vision Light Kit for Sony camera, Banner Ring Light w/Bracket: Provides a consistent light source for easier iRVision teaching with consistent results
• Grippers – gripper options include Vacuum Gripper, Pneumatic Grippers, Electric Parallel Servo Grippers. The FANUC Vacuum Gripper EOAT allows students to simulate a pick and place application.
• Remote Surface Mounted FS-15iA Force Sensor - The seamless integration of a six-degrees-of-freedom force sensor results in an intelligent robot that can “feel” enabling the most demanding mechanical assembly and material removal operations.

 
These are just a few of the options available for FANUC CERT training programs. Let us help you customize and enhance your program, while improving student outcomes. Contact Moss today for competitive pricing.

Does your design and engineering program have a Fab Lab? If not, your students may be missing some key opportunities. Fab Labs are popping up in colleges and technical centers, offering tools and technology enabling students to create and refine. A Fab Lab, short for Fabrication Lab, is ideal for students to design and create prototypes, and is filled with tools designed to enable students through the design process. Fab Labs are most popular in schools with strong engineering and design progams.
 
While each Fab Lab is different, they have similar components. If you are designing a Fab Lab, consider implementing these elements:

1. Design Tools – From computers, design software and CAD tools, design is an important element. Many schools we talked with offered File Assistance. All 3D file formats are prone to errors in geometry. Successful Fab Labs will supply file review and assistance for students designing .STL files, helping students troubleshoot designs before production.
2. 3D Printers – 3D printers, also known as 3D rapid-prototypers, are capable of taking digital geometry in the form of a stereolithographic file (.STL) and producing small models. 3D printers come in a variety of price points, and print in a variety of materials. Check out options from 3D Systems here.
3. 3D Scanners – 3D laser scanning, the process of converting physical objects into precise digital models, enables you to quickly and accurately capture your object’s shape and geometries. This process supplies you with a complete digital representation of your part to be used for reverse engineering, quality inspection or at any point of a typical manufacturing cycle. 3D Scanners are available in several price points, from Afinia and 3D Systems.
4. Laser Engravers – Laser cutting and engraving is a very versatile process used to cut or engrave numerous materials including wood, leather, acrylic, anodized aluminum, Formica, and even mother of pearl. It can also be used engrave and mark some metals, marble, and stone to create a variety of projects. The laser cutter excels even with fine, intricate work. Universal Laser Systems can customize lasers based on your need.
5. CNC Routers and CNC Plasma Cutters– CNC equipment is designed to route, carve, drill, and engrave in wood, plastic, foam, aluminum and other materials for a wide range of applications. Plasma Cutters are extremely useful for cutting sheet metal in curved or angled shapes. Cost-effective CNC Routers are available from Techno CNC Systems, EZ Router, and FANUC.

 
Fab Labs can complement in-class instruction, and provide a “lab” environment for coursework. We want to hear from you – are you considering adding a Fab Lab? What tools are you looking for to complete (or begin) your Fab Lab design?