Applied research: a cooperative venture

One of the frequently cited difficulties encountered by universities and other educational institutions is the availability of state-of-the-art equipment for use by both faculty and students. This problem is magnified considerably in Engineering Technology programs because of the quantity of equipment required for effective laboratory experiences. One solution to the problem is the establishment of a joint venture between universities and industry whereby the university utilizes equipment provided by industry to solve some of the existing problems. A discussion is presented here of the Robotics Application Laboratory within the Engineering Technology Department of Texas A&M University. The structure of the lab, along with the discussion of some of the more recent industrial projects is presented in an effort to encourage the establishment of similar such laboratories in Engineering or Engineering Technology programs at other educational institution across the country.