Factory automation solutions provider Omron has gifted US$830,000 (£642,000) and robotics equipment to California State University, Chico (Chico State) for a new and expanded mechatronics laboratory and classroom space.
The planned 2,505ft2 (233m2) learning environment, dubbed the Omron Mechatronics CoLab, will feature brand-new industrial equipment of the type currently being used in next-generation factories worldwide.
Chico State boasts the USA’s first accredited programme in mechatronics engineering and it’s hoped that the addition of cutting-edge equipment will make the university a more attractive option for students interested in the subject.
California State University, Chico president Gayle Hutchinson, said: “The Omron Mechatronics CoLab at Chico State will enable the university to build an exciting leading-edge lab where we can prepare students as the next generation workforce.
“It will be a collaborative space that will inspire research and have a transformative impact on our students, faculty, region, state and country.”
Laboratory construction began in summer 2019 and opened for classes in the spring 2020 term.
Want to learn more about how automation is transforming factory operations? Robotics and Automation – the UK’s largest dedicated robotics and automation exhibition – takes place on the 3rd and 4th November 2020 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Register your interest now at www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk
