Projects shown in the lab could be anything from immersive virtual showrooms in collaboration with automakers like GM, to the simulation of real-world factories with a view to improving training and assembly processes with ABB Robotics.The other pivotal objectives of the ARC are to create the educational programs needed for the field, and to assist industry partners with projects in this space so they can use these technologies for real in their businesses.
“The key thing is collaboration,” says Dr. Khalid Mirza, Founding Director or ARC. “We’re encouraging collaboration between all these companies and enabling them to solve their piece of the problem, then take away the whole solution to be used for themselves.”
Opportunities for students
AR technology is set to play a key role in the future of manufacturing by creating more cost-effective and efficient solutions for companies.
With the ARC on their doorstop, opportunities for students in the region have expanded significantly. Those who participate in the ARC educational program will graduate with a unique, in-demand skillset—and a competitive edge over their peers—that will prepare them for successful careers in this rapidly growing field, following their graduation.
“Equipping graduating students with this knowledge will only empower them further as we continue into this age where digital and physical media converge,” explains Holton.
But because this is a partnership with business, the ARC is not just about learning skills in an educational silo. The projects they work on will often be real projects brought to the center through industry partners.
Dr. Mizra says that this practical, real-world application is one of the things that makes the ARC unique—and which can give students a foot in the door as interns. “We’re trying to build an open relationship where there’s an easy flow of resources between the university and industry,” he says.
As well as building a bridge between education and industry, the ARC also provides a space where students of different disciplines can work together on solving the challenges of the future.
Source: Unreal Engine Blog