Events
Wake Tech Launches Collaborative Robotics Program With Donation Of ABB's YuMi® Robot
RALEIGH, N.C. (March 27, 2017) – Wake Tech Community College has launched a new Collaborative Robotics program at its Advanced Manufacturing Center in Raleigh. The training program features YuMi®, an award-winning, dual-arm, small-parts-assembly robot that includes flexible hands and state-of-the-art controls.
YuMi is manufactured by ABB, a pioneering technology leader in electrification products, robotics and motion, industrial automation, and power grids, serving customers in utilities, industry, and transport and infrastructure globally. YuMi is designed for a new era of automation in which people and robots will work side by side. ABB donated the collaborative robot to Wake Tech through a partnership with the Wake Tech Foundation.
"Leading-edge community colleges, such as Wake Tech, play a critical role in preparing the American workforce for the future of manufacturing," says Wake Tech President Dr. Stephen Scott. "As manufacturing returns to the U.S., it will not look as it did before. Modern industry needs trained and skilled employees in automation and advanced manufacturing."
Robotics is one of the fastest growing technologies in the world. Globally, the countries with highest density of robots per factory worker – South Korea, Germany, and Japan – enjoy low unemployment rates.
"Automation drives competitiveness and productivity while it creates jobs and economic prosperity," says Greg Scheu, president of the Americas Region for ABB. "It is important for industry, education and government to work together to train and bring people with us to enjoy the prosperity of a new industrial revolution."
YuMi will be incorporated into a course that teaches the principles of collaborative robotics through hands-on labs and online modules. Students will explore the robot’s uses, applications, operation, and maintenance. YuMi will also be included in other classes at Wake Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Center, including manufacturing processes, circuit board technology, and industrial maintenance.
Collaborative Robotics is a Workforce Continuing Education training program that will be taught at the Beltline Education Center in Raleigh.
