New WSU smart factory to have artificial intelligence, robotics as it looks to future
Wichita State University next year will have a new smart factory, a highly digitized production facility that uses artificial intelligence and robotics in manufacturing to increase productivity.
The new construction on the Innovation Campus at WSU is a partnership with Deloitte, an international consulting firm. The smart factory will offer students an “immersive experiential learning environment that will accelerate the future of manufacturing,” according to a news release.
The facility will include a full-scale production line and labs exploring smart factory capabilities. The university and Deloitte hope the factory will spark a conversation about how businesses can accelerate sustainable operations.
“Wichita is a cutting-edge hub for precision manufacturing and technology,” said Jay Golden, president of the university. “By collaborating with Deloitte, we will be able to bring together the organization’s experience with our educational, research and innovation capabilities.”
The smart factory is also expected to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing by using new technology to promote more sustainable practices.
A Deloitte study found that a majority of manufacturers surveyed believe smart factories will improve productivity.
Some opponents worry that new technologies in smart factories, like artificial intelligence and robotics, could lead to job losses.
“Working alongside humans, smart factories can self-adapt and autonomously optimize manufacturing operations,” the release read.
The Innovation Campus at WSU is over 120 acres and home to a number of global companies, including Deloitte. The facility will feature more than 40 robots, 26 augmented and virtual reality assets, 10 types of 3D printers, nine reverse engineering machine types, 21 professional engineering software programs and more.
“The Smart Factory @ Wichita is the future, offering endless technological capabilities for organizations, as we believe it’s critical to provide a hands-on learning experience for our business and academic communities,” Golden said.
