Building the Future: UTC Students Bring EV Innovation to the Smart Factory

UTC Mechatronics students meeting at The Smart Factory to kick off their EV capstone build

At the Smart Factory, we’re always looking for ways to bridge education, innovation, and real-world manufacturing. We’re thrilled to collaborate with University of Tennessee Chattanooga Mechatronic Engineering students on an exciting capstone project: building a mini EV Volkswagen ID. Buzz production line right here in our facility. This project is more than just a hands-on learning experience. It’s an unique gateway for students to dive into cutting-edge technology and apply their skills in a real manufacturing environment, where ideas come to life.

We’re particularly excited to spotlight our partner DENSO Robotics, a pioneer in robot development since the 1960s and the world’s largest manufacturer of small assembly robots. With more than 100,000 units installed globally, DENSO robots are designed to meet the exacting demands of the automotive industry, delivering high productivity while keeping cost of ownership low. Thanks to DENSO's generous donation of a state-of-the-art robot, students will have the rare opportunity to experience first-hand the precision, efficiency, and reliability that have made DENSO synonymous with excellence in robotics.

DENSO offers an impressive line up of industrial robots, from high-speed, high-precision four-axis SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) robots to five- and six-axis articulated arms with payloads up to 20 kg. Their robots come in multiple configurations - from standard, to dust and waterproof models - and are backed by user-friendly programming software, controllers and teach pendants. It’s this versatility and performance that makes DENSO the perfect partner for hands-on learning in our Smart Factory.

We'd also like to extend our gratitude to Deutsche Messe Technology Academy, whose commitment to advancing manufacturing and facilitating industrial knowledge transfer continues to inspire our innovative projects and partnerships around the globe.

This EV project not only represents the future of manufacturing, but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and ingenuity. We can’t wait to see the students breathe life into this project, all powered by the exceptional technology of DENSO Robotics. Come visit us and see for yourself!