International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

The report examines the current state and challenges of vocational education in the transport and energy sectors. It analyzes the need for modernization through project-based learning, digital transformation, and team-based learning, which have been proven to enhance outcomes and prepare learners for Industry 4.0. The report presents international practices in dual education and effective models of partnerships between education and industry. Finally, it outlines the main barriers—institutional, resource-related, social, and those stemming from resistance to change—that hinder the widespread implementation of innovative approaches.

The aim of this research is to develop and implement a smart microfactory concept for use in engineering studies as well as for the overall promotion of technical studies at TTK Tallinn University of Applied Sciences. The microfactory allows students to directly engage with a small-scale manufacturing cycle which includes many of the processes found in an actual industrial factory, such as production planning, material handling, quality control and production feedback and optimisation. Pencil sharpening was chosen as the production task. For this purpose, several devices were designed and manufactured which utilise a variety of different sensors and a collaborative robot UR3. The production unit also incorporates a manufacturing execution system (MES) that students can develop and refine themselves. Thanks to a hands-on approach which combines both theoretical studies and practical experience, students are able to observe the effect of their decisions to a production process in a miniature yet realistic environment.

This paper presents a design proposal for an electronic throttle control system intended for the experimental light hybridelectric vehicle. This vehicle was made in the scope of ongoing student project of developing and creating a light hybrid-electric vehicle as a platform for educational and research work. In the present case, ATV/quad-vehicle engine is used, where the throttle command of IC engine was originally realized using mechanical linkages and cable. In order to fully exploit hybrid drive potentials, control of both IC engine and electric hub motors had to be exerted by using single accelerator pedal. For this purpose, the original IC engine control system had to be replaced by an electric motor actuator that uses control signal from accelerator pedal used for electric motors control. The prototype of mechanism that converts rotation of electric motor actuator output shaft into linear displacement of the needle valve was also designed and produced applying 3D printing technique.