Da Nang University of Technology Introduces “Smart Factory” for Robotics Education
Da Nang, Vietnam – In a significant leap toward modernizing engineering education, the University of Technology – Da Nang University has launched a state-of-the-art “miniature smart factory” right inside its lecture halls. This cutting-edge facility allows students to engage directly with industrial robots, autonomous mobile robots, and advanced artificial intelligence systems, offering a hands-on learning experience that simulates real-world manufacturing environments.
On March 6, 2026, the university, in partnership with KUKA Vietnam Co., Ltd., officially inaugurated the Training, Research, and Development Center for Industrial Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Applications on its campus. This center aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills by exposing students early to technologies used in modern automated production lines.
A Realistic Smart Factory Simulation
The centerpiece of the facility is a comprehensive smart factory system integrating multiple industrial robot stations with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and an AI-powered operational monitoring system. Students can simulate entire production processes, from programming and system integration to running automated assembly lines within a laboratory setting.
The center’s equipment arsenal includes advanced industrial robots such as the KR 6, KR 8, and KR 70 models, alongside the KMP 400i autonomous robot. The system features conveyor belts integrated with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI), industrial cameras, automatic welding power sources, and sophisticated simulation software. Such tools ensure that learners acquire not only theoretical understanding but also direct practical experience in automation, robotics programming, and AI applications.
Setting Industry Standards in Education
Unlike traditional university laboratories, the new center is designed to meet near-enterprise standards. This approach enables students to familiarize themselves with real manufacturing technologies and equipment, preparing them to enter the workforce with relevant industry skills.
The collaboration with KUKA Vietnam extends beyond providing hardware; experts from the company will actively participate in instructor training, support teaching activities, and organize workshops, seminars, and robot simulation competitions. The center has also pledged to annually upgrade its equipment to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.
Supporting Regional Industry and Inspiring Youth
In addition to serving educational purposes, the center is positioned as a technology support hub for businesses in Vietnam’s Central and Central Highlands regions. Local enterprises can utilize the facility to explore automation solutions, test smart manufacturing models, and collaborate on research projects aimed at accelerating digital transformation within the regional manufacturing sector.
Moreover, the university plans to open the center to high school students for visits and interactive experiences. This initiative seeks to spark young learners’ interest in science, technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence, fostering the next generation of innovators in these critical fields.
By integrating practical, industry-standard robotics training into its curriculum, Da Nang University of Technology is advancing Vietnam’s technical education and contributing to the modernization of the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.
Source: Báo Tuổi Trẻ, March 6, 2026
