A five-year quest for a “Quality Manufacturing” lab

Abstract

In this paper we describe our experience in developing and implementing a software-based Quality Manufacturing Lab at St. Mary's University of San Antonio. The lab simulates a real-world experience for senior industrial engineering students; it prepares them for their first job opportunity. The knowledge gained from at least five upper division courses would be required in order to accomplish the task set forth for teams of three to four students in the QM lab. The QM lab has a basis in computer database and simulation software. A vast amount of information is needed for the students to complete their task. This information is readily available in a wide variety of textbooks and handbooks, but not easily accessed (thus the need for the database knowledge compilation). Students would be given the drawing of a component part. By using the extensive database and simulation, the QM students must pick the appropriate material, the type of process, the machine settings, the finishing requirements, the costs, and the production sequencing. They then simulate the manufacture of the parts and compare results with other groups and approaches. This project was funded by a two-year grant from the Department of Education's Minority Science Improvement Program (MSIP). The QM lab documentation will be made available to interested industrial or manufacturing engineering programs nationwide.