The Connected Smart Manufacturing System (CSM™) provides a comprehensive training platform that demonstrates how modern manufacturing lines operate—from raw material processing to finished product packaging and palletizing. Designed through collaboration between FANUC America, APT Manufacturing, and Rockwell Automation, the system introduces students to the technologies and workflows used in today’s automated production environments.
This advanced manufacturing training solution allows learners to explore robotics, CNC machining, PLC/HMI programming, machine vision, data analytics, and smart factory communications in a single integrated system. By simulating a fully connected production line, students gain hands-on experience with real industrial technologies and develop the troubleshooting and integration skills needed for modern manufacturing careers.
The CSM™ training system simulates a real-world production environment, allowing students to monitor part flow, configure production processes, and troubleshoot system faults. Using RFID tracking and laser marking for part verification, learners observe how products move through automated operations while analyzing performance and efficiency.
The system demonstrates how individual manufacturing processes connect to form a complete automated production line. Each operation is mounted on mobile carts that can be used together as a production cell or separated for focused classroom instruction.
The CSM™ system integrates technologies commonly found in modern automated facilities, allowing students to learn how machines, robots, and control systems interact in a connected manufacturing environment.
Students program and operate industrial robots using FANUC controllers and the iPendant interface. The integrated iHMI interface provides step-by-step guidance, programming tools, and tutorials that simplify the learning process for new users.
The FANUC ROBODRILL α-D14MiB vertical machining center introduces students to CNC machining concepts including programming, setup, operation, and automation integration. The system delivers high precision machining with rapid tool changes and advanced motion control.
The system incorporates Rockwell Automation control hardware and software to teach industrial control system design, programming, and troubleshooting.
Students apply their knowledge through project-based learning activities that simulate real production scenarios. Instructors can introduce system faults, modify PLC logic, or add additional controls to challenge students to diagnose and resolve automation issues.
The Connected Smart Manufacturing System supports a wide range of curriculum and certification pathways aligned with robotics, CNC machining, automation, and industrial networking careers.
The CSM™ system exposes learners to the same technologies used in advanced manufacturing facilities worldwide. By combining robotics, CNC machining, industrial controls, machine vision, and smart factory connectivity, the system helps prepare students for careers in robotics, automation engineering, industrial maintenance, and smart manufacturing.
