
New IoT laboratory gives students hands-on experience with future technology
Students at the Centre for Industrial Electronics (CIE) at ÌǹûÅÉ¶Ô are now getting hands-on access to future technologies thanks to a brand-new IoT laboratory. Here, they can learn to program and develop intelligent solutions that connect physical devices to the internet. The result is practical experience that strengthens teaching drives innovation and enhances future career prospects.
Engineering students at ÌǹûÅÉ¶Ô in Sønderborg now have access to advanced IoT equipment in a brand-new laboratory. The goal is clear: to bring theory from the lecture hall into real-world, practical scenarios.
“IoT connects everything—from refrigerators and telephones to production facilities,” explains Associate Professor Mohamed Kheir from the Institute of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering.
“Our new laboratory allows students to translate their theoretical knowledge into tangible solutions. They learn to programme the equipment and develop small yet realistic applications.”
For example, students can build IoT systems that monitor temperature, humidity, and COâ‚‚ levels, automatically issuing alerts if problems arise. This demonstrates how the technology is practically relevant, from home environments to industrial settings.
“We are also looking into industrial applications,” Kheir adds. “IoT is an essential part of Industry 4.0, where production facilities and robots are interconnected, and data analysis can optimise operations. The students gain experience designing networks and systems suitable for modern, automated factories.”
As IoT merges with Artificial Intelligence (AI), more opportunities emerge. The laboratory also provides insights into how cameras and sensors can be programmed to identify patterns and faults, for example, on a production line. Here, students learn to train AI models to recognise objects or detect defective items, opening up a wealth of intelligent solutions across industry, agriculture, healthcare, and everyday life.
“AI is a natural part of IoT,” says Kheir.
“Imagine a smart home that knows your preferences, adjusts the temperature, plays your favourite music, or tells you what to buy. This is no longer science fiction, but part of the reality our students need to be prepared for.”
Although the laboratory is currently intended mainly for teaching, Kheir envisions prospects for research. The new facilities form a solid foundation for projects that could eventually contribute to developing and enhancing IoT solutions. They could also pave the way for collaboration with industries increasingly seeking IoT and AI expertise.
“Currently, the laboratory is primarily geared towards teaching,” says Kheir. “But in time, we can expand and use it for research projects that benefit students, businesses, and society.”
With the new IoT laboratory, ÌǹûÅÉ¶Ô is taking a significant step towards making future technology accessible and understandable for upcoming engineers. Students participating in the courses can look forward to moving from books and lectures to practical experience, developing the skills necessary to shape the world of tomorrow.