Dorigo Systems, a leading contract electronics manufacturing firm based in Burnaby B.C., has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Simon Fraser University (SFU) to pioneer the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies in the electronics manufacturing industry. With financial backing from MITACS, the partnership aims to revolutionize production systems and foster a new generation of engineers equipped to navigate the world of smart factories.
The collaboration between Dorigo and SFU is centered on equipping future engineers with the skills necessary for the successful implementation of smart factories. SFU’s Mechatronic Department is spearheading the development of a graduate program designed to cultivate a robust talent pool within the local economy. Dr. Edward Park, PhD, P.Eng, and Associate Dean of the School of Mechatronic Systems at SFU, highlighted the goals of the program, stating that it was conceived to provide a new Masters of Engineering program in smart manufacturing and systems, as well as a research project focused on Industry 4.0.
Industry 4.0, characterized by the fusion of data-driven intelligence with manufacturing processes, has thrust the electronics manufacturing industry into a new era of innovation. Recognizing the immense potential of this shift, Dorigo Systems and SFU have united their resources to reshape agile manufacturing. The joint research project aims to explore and validate Industry 4.0 concepts across Dorigo Systems’ manufacturing processes, integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and big data analytics to enhance productivity and agility within the electronics manufacturing value chain.
SFU alumni and senior project manager at Dorigo Systems, Kin Leong, emphasized the importance of contributing to the Industry 4.0 knowledge pool and recognized unique opportunities for contract electronics manufacturers (CEMs) like Dorigo in batch-based manufacturing.
SFU has recently established its Smart Manufacturing Hub, positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge research. The university has also been recognized as Canada’s top university for innovation in global WURI rankings in 2023. As part of this new collaborative effort, SFU’s Mechatronic Department is developing a graduate program aimed at equipping future engineers with the specialized skills needed to fully harness the potential of smart factories.
One key area of investigation within this partnership involves additive manufacturing in electronics production. By employing 3D printing technologies, Dorigo Systems and SFU are pioneering rapid prototyping and on-demand manufacturing of electronic components. This approach aims to streamline production, reduce waste, increase design flexibility, and accelerate time-to-market, thereby fostering innovation and sustainability.
The partnership is also exploring the integration of collaborative robots or ‘cobots’ on assembly lines. These cobots can automate repetitive tasks, enhance precision, ensure consistent quality, and provide a more ergonomic work environment for human operators.
Leong acknowledged the role of human dexterity in manufacturing processes but expressed optimism about the potential benefits of integrating cobots into these processes. He stated that while humans currently remain the most versatile and flexible resource in contract manufacturing, there is potential for cobots to reach that level with further research and development.
The implications of this pioneering partnership extend beyond Dorigo Systems’ operations. The insights gained from this research are expected to influence and inspire the broader industry, redefining the future of manufacturing. By embracing Industry 4.0 technologies and leveraging their combined expertise, Dorigo Systems and SFU are paving the way towards increased operational efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness in the electronics manufacturing industry.