Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Laboratories

The Laboratory is equipped with a state-of-the-art Intelitek SmartCIM Industry 4.0 system for manufacturing and automation, which includes four Industrial robotic stations for automated assembly (employing four Yaskawa GP8 6-dof robotic arms), an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) employing a 4-dof robot for material handling, a Conveyor and loop-based transportation system with 15 pallets and five stations, CNC milling, CNC turning, and laser engraving machines, and a Machine vision station for quality control and defect detection. All these equipment are coordinated and managed through a central PLC and HMI, commanded by an integrating Manufacturing Execution System (MES) software. In addition, the laboratory has the following equipment:
- Four Epson T3 SCARA robots,
- One Festo Robotino mobile robot,
- Ten Programmable Logic Controllers and HMI educational units,

- Four Siemens PLCs with communication cables,

- Six Allen-Bradley Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) with communication cables,
- Traffic Light Training System, Including Traffic Lights, and user manual and work sheets
- Electro-Mechanical Training System with DC Motor, including DC Motor Drive, Electro-Mechanical DC Motor, and user manual and work sheets
- Electro-Mechanical System with Stepper Motor, including DC Supply, Stepper Motor Drive, Electro-Mechanical Stepper Motor, and user manual and work sheets
- One Electro-Pneumatic Training System, which is a small production line to study the control of an electric compressed-air system used in manufacturing lines,
- One Bottling Process Line, which is a small-scale production unit to study pneumatics, motion control, and PLC sequencing.
- Peripheral devices such as optical encoder, wiring module, Emergency Switch, and toggle Switches with lights, push buttons and lights, user manuals and worksheets.

Cal Poly Pomona is the home of the largest and best-equipped university foundry in the West. Students experience the thrill of producing castings of their own design. Patternmaking, core-making, molding, melting, and pouring by students provide real-world encounters with foundry processes. In addition to molding with green sand, sodium silicate, and investment casting, cores can be produced using other processes. Melting is accomplished using an induction furnace as well as a gas-fired unit.

The lab is equipped to demonstrate various joining methods, including TIG, MIG, needle arc, submerged arc, spot welding, soldering, and brazing. Multiple workstations allow students to explore these techniques, benefits, and limitations while gaining hands-on experience. This lab ensures students develop a solid understanding of modern welding and joining technologies.

Machine tools and tooling in this laboratory are oriented toward providing the student with manual control over machining processes such as turning, boring, drilling, milling and grinding. Students learn the capabilities of the various machines and the experience variables that control size, surface finish and other aspects of machining. The lab is part of the study program for all students in Manufacturing, Industrial and Mechanical Engineering as well as those in Engineering Technology.

Our Metrology and Precise Measurement Lab is dedicated to the science of measurement and accuracy. Equipped with advanced tools and technology, this lab provides students with hands-on experience in dimensional metrology, calibration, and quality assurance. Students learn to use precision instruments such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and laser scanners to ensure the highest standards of measurement accuracy. This lab supports coursework and research in manufacturing, quality control, and industrial engineering, preparing students for careers in industries where precision and reliability are paramount.

The Systems Simulation Lab is dedicated to system analysis and problem-solving using simulation and industrial engineering tools. In this lab, students build and analyze computer models of production and service systems to optimize performance and efficiency. Students gain practical skills in optimizing processes, making data-driven decisions, and solving complex problems across industries.

The basics of plastics engineering are taught in this lab using small-scale production and lab equipment. Students learn about the chemistry and production engineering considerations involved in these processes.

The IME Department at Cal Poly Pomona offers computer-aided design and drafting courses for students majoring in engineering. The CADD labs are equipped with computers and peripheral equipment. Students are taught the fundamentals of graphics, solid modeling, and design.

 

The Human Factors and Ergonomics Lab focuses on studying human interactions within work environments to enhance productivity, safety, and overall well-being. This lab is equipped with tools for ergonomic analysis, human performance evaluation, and workplace design. Students engage in research and projects on human factors engineering, including cognitive ergonomics, biomechanics, and usability testing. By simulating real-world scenarios, the lab enables students to design and optimize systems that improve user experience and operational efficiency, preparing them for impactful careers in human-centered design and engineering.