November 15, 2024
Mizzou engineers recently received a grant to enhance semiconductor manufacturing education using artificial intelligence and augmented reality.
Mizzou researchers don’t just talk about big ideas, they make them real. The Mizzou team, led by Huang Wang, associate professor of information technology, is currently using augmented reality and artificial intelligence tools to transform the way students learn.
The National Science Foundation recently awarded Wang a nearly $400,000 grant for his project, “Enhancing Hands-On Education in Cleanroom Semiconductor Manufacturing with AI-Assisted Augmented Reality.” This initiative aims to transform the way undergraduate students learn about semiconductor manufacturing by bringing advanced augmented reality (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to classroom and laboratory environments.
“The core of this effort needs to address both the practical and logistical challenges in semiconductor education,” said Wang, who is also director of the Collaborative Research Environment for Augmented Reality (CREXR) Institute. “Semiconductor manufacturing courses are critical to the curriculum because they reinforce the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom, provide practical experience, and prepare students for their future careers.However, the challenge is that traditional methods access and expensive equipment, which limits the number of students who can gain this important experience.”
Wang said that from his experience in the semiconductor industry, he recognized the potential of virtual and augmented reality in microfabrication lab training. Several years ago, her team developed a virtual reality prototype for photolithography, a critical cleanroom process. This provided valuable insights and laid the foundation for this study.
This project leverages XR technology to provide a scalable, immersive learning experience that allows students to practice semiconductor manufacturing techniques in a virtual environment and apply them in a real cleanroom environment. Integrating AI into XR systems provides real-time guidance and feedback, making training interactive and highly personalized.
“Our XR-based microfabrication training modules introduce advanced features and innovations,” she said. “They are portable, cost-effective, hands-free, capable of on-the-spot assistance while you work, and enhanced with AI to create a more supportive learning environment.”
Interdisciplinary approach to engineering education
This project is a collaboration between faculty from Mizzou’s School of Engineering and School of Education and Human Development, with the goal of making semiconductor training more accessible, efficient, and engaging.
Wang is collaborating with Xinghao Shu, an associate professor in the Mizzou College of Education and Human Development. Xu provides important pedagogical insights that shape the design, testing, and evaluation of learning modules. She also works with Mahmoud Al-Masri, professor of electrical engineering and computer science, in the clean room she uses for research in the center hall.
“Having such interdisciplinary talent and resources readily available on campus is invaluable,” Wang said. “Semiconductor research and education expertise with access to clean room facilities, VR/AR technical skills and equipment, and education expertise are all essential to making this project possible.”
This project combines cutting-edge technology and educational expertise to prepare students for careers in the semiconductor industry. Using virtual reality, mixed reality, and hands-on cleanroom training, students begin with simulated exercises and progress to real-world manufacturing.
This approach aims to help students develop technical skills and critical thinking abilities, while encouraging more students to explore opportunities in emerging fields.
“Our design integrates participatory learning, scaffolding, and triangular assessment based on multiple educational theories,” Wang said. “Providing hands-on experience to undergraduate students early on, attracting a broader pool of talent, and preparing them for a variety of semiconductor careers is essential.”
Choose a university that is developing new ways to educate future engineers. Choose Mizou Engineering!
