SPAN – Skill Planning and AcquisitioN Cell 
The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering has always recognized the need for upgrading the skills of students and faculty to keep up with the rapidly changing requirements of the technology industry. Various workshops have been conducted by the department keeping these technological requirements in mind. In order to bridge the gap between industry and academics, the ECE department is launching SPAN – Skill Planning and AcquisitioN Cellthat will identify and plan skill development programs according to current industrial requirements.
The objectives of this cell are to:
(i) improve employability of students by exposingthem to relevant industry standard platforms
(ii) foster in students and staff the ability to design and implement projects catering to the needs of society
(iii) facilitate students and staff to keep up with rapidly changing technologies
(iv) make learning effective and enjoyable
SPAN takes great pride in announcing that AICTE has acknowledged our efforts and funded our activities for the year 2021-22 under the AICTE Scheme for Promoting Interests, Creativity, and Ethics among Students (SPICES). We are very grateful to AICTE-SPICES and the Management of TIST for their support.
SPAN ACTIVITIES – ODD SEMESTER (2024-2025)
|
S.No |
DATE |
PROGRAM |
BATCH |
NUMBER OF STUDENTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
1.2.2024 to 2.2.2024 |
Industrial Workshop on Embedded Systems and IoT – Srishti Robotics |
S4 ECE |
24 |
|
S4 RA |
40 |
|||
|
1 |
22.7.2024 to 27.7.2024 |
Training and Internship at Bosch Rexroth-GPTCK Centre Of Competence In Automation Technologies |
S5 RA |
48 |
|
2 |
22.7.2024 to 26.7.2024 |
Industrial Training on Digital Design and Verification using Cadence Tool by ENTUPLE TECHNOLOGIES |
S3 ECE |
25 |
|
3 |
29.8.2024 to 31.8.2024 |
Training on EDGE AI using STM Microcontrollers by Digitoad Technologies |
S7 RA |
8 |
|
4 |
August to October 2024 |
CAD and 3D Printing Projects under the SPAN Project Based Learning (PBL) program |
S3 RA |
52 |
|
5 |
September 2024 |
AI-based Vision Systems projects under the SPAN Project Based Learning (PBL) program |
S5 ECE |
31 |
|
S5 RA |
49 |
|||
|
6 |
7.10.2024 to 8.10.2024 |
Arduino Microcontroller Board and Its Applications |
S3 ECE |
17 |
|
S3 RA |
40 |
|||
|
7 |
18.10.2024 |
Webinar on Advancements in Additive Manufacturing – Wipro3D, Nikon SLM |
S3 RA |
25 |
|
8 |
November – December 2024 |
Python Project Based Learning under the SPAN Project Based Learning (PBL) program |
S1 ECE |
65 |
|
S1 RA |
57 |
|||
|
9 |
16.12.2024 |
Python Team Challenge 2024 |
S1 ECE |
65 |
|
S1 RA |
57 |
TRAINING AND INTERNSHIP AT BOSCH REXROTH-GPTCK CENTRE OF COMPETENCE IN AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES
Bosch Rexroth’s GPTCK Center provided training for fifth-semester B Tech Robotics and Automation students, covering electro hydraulics and pneumatics, PLC fundamentals, software and Bosch PLCs with applications in lighting and motor control. The course included concepts in industrial automation and hands-on experiments with various sensors, as well as implementing lift logic on Bosch PLCs. Students gained practical experience in hydraulics and pneumatics, including cylinder control, and integrated these systems in a mini assembly line model with conveyor belts and mechanization
INDUSTRIAL TRAINING ON DIGITAL DESIGN AND VERIFICATION USING CADENCE TOOL BY ENTUPLE TECHNOLOGIES
Third-semester B Tech ECE students successfully completed the Industrial Training on Digital Design and Verification using Cadence Tool conducted by ENTUPLE TECHNOLOGIES. This session marked the start of an ongoing journey in turning ideas into practical systems, offering hands-on experience with ASIC and FPGA flows, Verilog constructs, combinational and sequential circuit design, protocol state machine modeling, and test bench creation, thus advancing their skills in SoC and IC design with Cadence Tool.
TRAINING ON EDGE AI USING STM MICROCONTROLLERS BY DIGITOAD TECHNOLOGIES
A workshop on Edge AI by DigiToad Technologies (Empowering Engineering Education for the AI Driven Futurewas conducted from August 29th to August 31st, 2024.Students of S8 B Tech Robotics and Automation attended this workshop. NanoEdge AI Studio, developed by STMicroelectronics, is a powerful tool that enables developers to integrate machine learning models onto microcontrollers, specifically for edge computing applications. When used with the Nucleo-L476RG microcontroller, Nano Edge AI Studio is ideal for tasks such as anomaly detection, classification, and regression analysis using data from connected sensors. These applications were implemented in the hands on workshop.
CAD AND 3D PRINTING PROJECTS UNDER THE SPAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PBL) PROGRAM
The students of S3 Robotics and Automationdesigned and implemented projects in CAD and 3D Printing. Projects focused on design, CAD Modeling and 3D printing of claw and parallel grippers, gear boxes, linear actuators and guide rails, robotic manipulator parts, fixtures, mobile robot chassis, indexing tables and drone propellers and ducts.
AI-BASED VISION SYSTEMS PROJECTS UNDER THE SPAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PBL) PROGRAM
The students of S5 ECE and S5 Robotics and Automation successfully completed and demonstrated various AI-based Vision Systems projects under the Project Based Learning (PBL) Program conducted by SPAN in September 2024. The projects showcased innovative solutions for AI-based security and access control, intelligent traffic management, plant disease detection, hand gesture recognition, automated part recognition and many more. Through this program, students gained hands-on experience in designing, developing, and deploying AI-driven vision systems, demonstrating their skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. The projects not only illustrated the transformative potential of AI in various industries but also underscored the students’ preparedness to address real-world challenges.
ARDUINO MICROCONTROLLER BOARD AND ITS APPLICATIONS
A two-day online workshop on “Arduino Microcontroller Board and Its Applications”, organized under SPAN for S3 ECE and Robotics and Automation students, was conducted by Dr. Georgina Binoy Joseph. The workshop provided an engaging introduction to Arduino, covering its architecture, programming environment, and various applications. Participants learned to set up the Arduino IDE, write basic programs, and connect sensors through hands-on activities. The second day focused on practical projects, including motor speed and direction control, emphasizing real-world applications in automation. Overall, the workshop successfully enhanced students’ understanding of microcontroller technologies and inspired hands-on learning.
WEBINAR ON ADVANCEMENTS IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
The Skill Planning and Acquisition Cell SPAN arranged a webinar titled “Advancements in Additive Manufacturing: Government Initiatives and Emerging Opportunities in India” on October 18, 2024. This event was part of the 3D Thursday Webinar Series, organized in collaboration with Wipro and in partnership with Nikon SLM. Attended by S3 Robotics and Automation students, the session covered the latest trends in additive manufacturing, examined government initiatives that support the industry, and discussed emerging opportunities in India. Participants gained valuable insights into the future of manufacturing and the skills necessary to succeed in this rapidly evolving field.
PYTHON PROJECT BASED LEARNING UNDER THE SPAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PBL) PROGRAM
Recognizing that programming skills are essential to excel in any field, SPAN has taken the initiative to guide students to enhance their programming skills through self-learning. The students of S1 ECE and S1 Robotics and Automation successfully completed individual projects in python programming. The students were given projects covering key areas of python programming. The completed projects were shared in a common group forming a repository that can be used by students in their preparation for technical tests for placements.
PYTHON TEAM CHALLENGE 2024
A Python Team Challenge was conducted for students of S1 ECE and S1 Robotics and Automation. Students were given real world problems whose solutions were based on algorithms that are the foundations of IC Routing in VLSI Design and Path Planning in Robot Motion Planning. The challenge was completed on 16.12.2024.
EXPERT TALK ON INDUSTRY 4.0 AND SMART MANUFACTURING
On 26th September 2024, Dr. Georgina Binoy Joseph, Dean Academics U.G.and Assoc. Professor,Department of Robotics and Automation, TIST, delivered a talk on “Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing” for the students of Mangalam College of Engineering, organized in collaboration with METALS and IEI Student Chapter. The session highlighted the transformative impact of advanced technologies such as Robotics, IoT, AI, Digital Twinning andother automation technologies on the manufacturing sector.
|
S.No |
DATE |
PROGRAM |
Attended by |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SPAN Programs for TIST Faculty |
|||
|
1 |
29.8.2024 to 31.8.2024 |
Training on EDGE AI using STM Microcontrollers by Digitoad Technologies |
Faculty and Lab Instructors, DoE (ECE, RA) |
|
2 |
6.9.2024 |
Workshop on Outcome-Based Education (OBE) Philosophy for Faculty |
Newly Joined Faculty, All departments |
TRAINING ON EDGE AI USING STM MICROCONTROLLERS BY DIGITOAD TECHNOLOGIES
A workshop on Edge AI by DigiToad Technologies (Empowering Engineering Education for the AI Driven Future was conducted from August 29th to August 31st, 2024.NanoEdge AI Studio, developed by STMicroelectronics, is a powerful tool that enables developers to integrate machine learning models onto microcontrollers, specifically for edge computing applications. When used with the Nucleo-L476RG microcontroller, Nano Edge AI Studio is ideal for tasks such as anomaly detection, classification, and regression analysis using data from connected sensors.These applications were implemented in the hands on workshop.
WORKSHOP ON OUTCOME-BASED EDUCATION (OBE) PHILOSOPHY FOR FACULTY
A workshop on Outcome-Based Education (OBE), Revised Bloom’s Taxonomy (RBT), and the Creative Learning Process (CLP) of TIST was conducted for newly joined faculty at Toc H Institute of Science and Technology (TIST) on 6th September 2024. The workshop aimed to help participants assimilate the pedagogical models and teaching philosophy of TIST and was led by Dr. Georgina Binoy Joseph, Dean Academics, UG, TIST.
GUIDANCE FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH MOOC COURSES
In order to guide students in developing skills through Massive Open Online Courses MOOC, SPAN developed a plan to guide students of BTech ECE and RA to select and complete MOOC courses from the second semester to the eighth semester. The areas requiring skill development over and above the syllabus specified by the University are identified and a set of courses are suggested to students for each semester. Course selection considerations include both theoretical and practical contents of the course.
INDUSTRY PROJECTS
Skill development through real-time industry projects is crucial for adapting to rapidly changing technologies. SPAN supports this initiative by identifying students for industry-based projects through technical assessments, facilitating interactions with industry for project selection and providing ongoing technical support.
CENTELON IT SOLUTIONS LLP (IoT AND ROBOTICS)
Abel Eugene D’Silva and Fahad from the S7 Robotics and Automation have secured opportunities at Centelon IT Solutions LLP in Techno Park, Trivandrum, from October 16, 2024, to April 15, 2025. Their roles will focus on Robotics, AI and IoT, where they will engage in robot development and explore IoT applications. This experience will enhance their industry-relevant skills and networking opportunities, paving the way for successful careers in Robotics, AI and IoT.
INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION
TELEKINESIS,GERMANY SHOWCASES EXCEPTIONAL WORK BY S7 ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION STUDENTS IN INDO-GERMAN COLLABORATION
The CEO of Telekinesis, Germany highlighted the outstanding contributions of final-year Robotics and Automation students AlikhaBalan, Grigari T, Jeevan Rajuand Siddarth Rduring a meeting with the Consulate General of India. Under the mentorship of Dr. Georgina Binoy Joseph, Associate Professor in the Department of Robotics and Automation, the team presented their innovative work as part of an Indo-German collaboration initiative.
TOC H ALUMNUS PIONEERS INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION WITH ROBOTIC WELDING CELL AT SFO TECHNOLOGIES
Akshay Kannan, an alumnus of Toc H Institute of Science and Technology, Department of Robotics and Automation(2020-2024 batch), was part of the teamsuccessfully designed and implemented SFO Technologies’ first robotic welding cell during his final year of B Tech Robotics and Automation. This cutting-edge system, featuring a KUKA robot, incorporates advanced functionalities such as an HMI interface for intuitive operator control, pneumatic locks and fixers for precise part positioning, sensors for seamless operation, a rotating table for efficient welding on both sides of parts and flexible programming to accommodate diverse components. This groundbreaking project not only enhanced production efficiency at SFO Technologies but also provided Akshay with invaluable hands-on experience in industrial automation.
|
S.No |
NAME OF INDUSTRY/ORGANISATION |
NAME OF STUDENT |
|---|---|---|
1 |
Centelon IT Solutions LLP (IoT and Robotics), Trivandrum |
1.Abel Eugene D’Silva, S7 RA |
2 |
Telekinesis (Robotics), Germany |
1. Alikha Balan, S7 RA |
3 |
SFO Technologies |
1. Akshay Kannan, RA |