Proceedings of the XMO Industrial Seminar 2026: Excellence in Manufacturing and Operations
Keywords
Metal additive manufacturing; Bio-inspired designs; Manufacturing education
Tracks
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
DOI
10.5703/1288284318694
Abstract
This paper presents an engagement-based learning framework implemented in an undergraduate mechanical engineering course on additive manufacturing, with a specific focus on metal additive manufacturing (AM). The course integrated in-class discussion of AM fundamentals, discussing processes, materials, and designs with parallel semester-long team-based activities for encouraging and increasing hands-on student engagement. The paper specifically elaborates on the implementation of the project activity, focused on the design and manufacturing of bio-inspired lightweight lattice structures. The outcomes and reflections demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in enhancing student engagement and complement the in-class lectures while also presenting future opportunities for improvements. This framework shows potential to effectively prepare undergraduate learners for emerging applications in convergent manufacturing.
Evaluating engagement-based learning opportunities in undergraduate manufacturing education
This paper presents an engagement-based learning framework implemented in an undergraduate mechanical engineering course on additive manufacturing, with a specific focus on metal additive manufacturing (AM). The course integrated in-class discussion of AM fundamentals, discussing processes, materials, and designs with parallel semester-long team-based activities for encouraging and increasing hands-on student engagement. The paper specifically elaborates on the implementation of the project activity, focused on the design and manufacturing of bio-inspired lightweight lattice structures. The outcomes and reflections demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in enhancing student engagement and complement the in-class lectures while also presenting future opportunities for improvements. This framework shows potential to effectively prepare undergraduate learners for emerging applications in convergent manufacturing.