MODERN MODELS OF ENGINEERING AND POLYTECHNIC EDUCATION OF CHILDREN

The article discusses the concept of engineering and polytechnic education, the main modern models for the implementation of engineering and polytechnic education in the system of basic and additional education. The content of polytechnic training at various levels of the basic education system (preschool education, primary general education, basic general education, secondary general education), the features of the implementation of technological profile education, the directions of engineering and polytechnic training in the system of additional education through the organization of group classes with children are described (basics of initial modeling, paper plastic, ship modeling, car modeling, aircraft modeling, circuit design, Cuboro construction, robotics, 3D modeling, algorithmic and programming), the advantages of an integrated model. The factors determining the choice of the educational model of engineering and polytechnic education of children are indicated (the social request of the region, public organizations, surrounding manufacturing enterprises, parents, students; the material and technical support of the educational institution; the level of professional readiness of the teaching staff to implement the direction).

A technology management system for the development of single-task construction robots

Purpose Because of the sharply growing interest worldwide of “hard” physical-mechanical robot systems for the execution of on-site construction tasks [i.e. single-task construction robots (STCRs)], the purpose of this study is to equip development projects with a systematic design-management system model that allows to integrate the different needs and aims of stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach This paper proposes a STCR-technology management system (STCR-TMS) for the complete development cycle of STCR designs. The STCR-TMS is based on established principles from systems engineering and management and STCR-specific activities developed and tested by the authors as standalone elements in previous research work. Findings The application of the STCR-TMS revealed the practicability of the method and the underlying concepts to provide practical guidance for the development process. Additional findings indicate that the method is sufficiently generic and flexible for application to different types of robots and indifferent world regions. This research has also shown that key activities need to be addressed to increase the practicability of the STCR-TMS. Originality/value A unique characteristic of this method is the evolution with each utilization cycle. In addition, individual elements are interchangeable and can be adapted based on external circumstances. These properties allow the TMS to be applied to other fields in construction robotics. With the progression of the verification and validation of the method, know-how and certain elements can be fed into standardization activities (e.g. establishing a management system standard).

Robotics in Construction: Opportunities and Challenges

Building and construction is one of the major industries around the world. Construction industry is labour-intensive and is conducted in dangerous situations; therefore the importance of construction robotics has grown rapidly. Applications and activities of robotics and automation in this industry started in the early 90s aiming to optimize equipment operations, improve safety, enhance perception of workspace and furthermore, ensure quality environment for building occupants. The main goal of this paper is to convince building designers and managers to incorporate robotic systems when managing modern buildings. This paper studies recent applications for robots and automation in the construction industry and sets opportunities and challenges through a new framework for better planning and control of construction equipment operation.