To help train workers and explore innovations, Oracle and Festo Didactic joined forces Apr. 29 to open the 30,000-sq-ft Oracle Industry Lab in Chicago. The facility provides hands-on, simulated industry settings that let users experiment, learn, and develop technologies.
For instance, lab visitors can interact with Festo's Learning Factory, which is used worldwide in training and workforce development programs. It models Industry 4.0 production facilities, and provides students with a holistic platform for understanding smart manufacturing. The Learning Factory's automated machines use advanced sensors, controllers and software to produce “Lot size one” simulated cell phones. Students learn and follow the process from order entry through production and distribution.
“We're thrilled to be working at the Oracle Industry Lab, where we partner with the leading information company to harness data for the education and training," says Ted Rozier, engineering director at Festo Didactic. "The demand for skilled workforce in manufacturing is skyrocketing, and innovations such as this will prepare the next generation of workers.”
The lab also joins users and technology partners with Oracle's solutions and industry expertise to incubate and demonstrate new solutions. Supported by Verizon 5G ultra-wideband networking, the lab will first focus on use cases in utilities, construction and engineering, and communications and manufacturing.
“Many industries are trying to navigate increasing regulatory, environmental and customer demands,” says Burcin Kaplanoglu, VP of Oracle Industry Labs. “We built the Chicago lab to bring together leading innovators like Festo Didactic, so we can jointly help customers shape ideas into solutions that improve productivity, operational intelligence and sustainability.”
