It’s no secret that technology will drive our economy in the coming years. That’s why the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education market is set for a 13.7% CAGR from $60.1m in 2024 to $132m in 2030. Hands-on robotics education will play a big part in that.
Learning robotics isn’t just an exciting prospect; it’s a necessary one, especially as automation looks set to pervade the economy. But for many schools, it’s also a daunting prospect.
A lack of funds and training has hindered robotics adoption in some classrooms. Physical robots are expensive to buy, and frequently costly to maintain in the classroom. There are also safety concerns with inexperienced students handling expensive equipment. Facilities are also an issue, because not all schools have the space for a robotics lab.
All that is changing, thanks to a new development in robotics education. Epson is helping to solve these issues with a progressive robotics solution that gives educators a platform to build their own learning experiences.
The solution comes in three stages.
Phase 1: The Virtual Robotic Lab
This offers a low-cost, software-only virtual robotics laboratory. It’s a scalable solution that supports entire classrooms with minimal infrastructure and no robot hardware maintenance, but that doesn’t mean it’s limited. It offers over 300 robot configurations with the ability to import CAD models of existing equipment. Students can experiment and explore without the risk of damaging equipment or endangering themselves.
Phase 2: Virtual to Reality Labs
When students are ready to progress, the second stage of the robotics lab enables them to interact with cost-effective, education-discounted physical robots. These use the same programming environment as the virtual learning lab, providing continuity in their learning and keeping them engaged as they test their virtual programs on real hardware. They can mix virtual and physical robots interchangeably.
Phase 3: Advanced Labs
The final step in the three-phase robotics journey is a more advanced physical lab that integrates advanced mechanisms like vision systems and part feeding into the education process. At this stage, programs can continue to leverage the virtual environment and add on unique automation cells rather than duplicate existing cells to support more students.
Why take a progressive approach?
The virtual lab enables schools to grow their robotics education solution over time, minimizing their up-front investment. It offers varied configurations, using different cells in the virtual lab’s simulator to teach students different skills.
Getting started with Epson Robotics education solutions
Are you ready to prepare your students for a career in robotics? Take the first step in your robotics education journey at Epson.com/robotics-for-education
