MecLab offers a compact introduction to the world of industrial automation technology and serves as a modular training system for technical education. Each station represents a realistic automation component and can be used individually or in combination.
In addition, the individual stations can be combined to form more complex production lines. This results in end-to-end process chains that replicate real-world industrial workflows and offer a wide range of opportunities for project-based work.
After a short induction period, students will be able to work independently with MecLab. They analyse processes, plan workflows, implement solutions and continue to optimise the system.
Standard exercises can be flexibly expanded and modified by exchanging components. That means tasks can be tailored to different levels of learning and adapted time and again.
MecLab is not a rigid system; it can be flexibly expanded. In addition to the three basic stations, further modules are available, for example for programming with microcontrollers (Arduino) or logic controllers (LOGO!). The training system can thus be tailored to different curricula, learning levels and teaching objectives.
MecLab was developed specifically for technical vocational training in automation technology and addresses key requirements in schools. The training system offers a practical and motivating learning environment in which technical content is actively explored.
The modular structure provides flexibility for the application scenarios – from a step-by-step introduction to project work – and specifically promotes STEM skills such as problem-solving and systematic thinking.
Thanks to the intuitive operation, students can quickly work independently, develop solutions as a team and experience technical concepts in a practical and engaging way.
MecLab gives students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of industrial production step by step and in a way that is both motivating and educationally sound.
The MecLab teaching concept is based on modern teaching principles and supports teachers in lesson planning.
MecLab can be flexibly adapted to different learning environments, from individual workstations to group work and project teams to a complete classroom set. Thanks to its modular design, the system can be adapted to suit different teaching methods and learning objectives, and is suitable for both structured exercises and project-based work. Furthermore, the compact design also facilitates mobile applications.
None – MecLab was designed to help users get started with automation and is aimed at STEM students.
Depending on the variant, with 230V or 110V.
Yes – all stations have a modular design and can be combined with one another.
Yes, replacement and upgrade components are available for all stations.
MecLab is normally controlled using FluidSIM Light/MecLab.
Alternatively, it can also be controlled via a microcontroller or a LOGO! controller. Festo Didactic offers suitable, pre-configured packages for these variants.
Yes, it is possible to purchase additional FluidSIM Light/MecLab licences for Windows. These are available exclusively as licence package with 8 licences.
The supportinglearning materials for the MecLab stations (548704/ 548705/ 548706) and MecLab systems (549786/ 556276) are available free of charge.
FluidSIM E/P/H is the full version of the software, offering a comprehensive range of functions for the topics electrical engineering (E), pneumatics (P) and hydraulics (H).
FluidSIM Light/MecLab, on the other hand, has a reduced range of functions and is specifically designed for working with MecLab.
Upgrading from FluidSIM Light/MecLab to FluidSIM E/P/H is not possible.
A range of videos is available for FluidSIM, covering various topics such as GRAFCET, the creation of projects, and other basic and advanced features of the software.
The software FluidSIM Light/MecLab can be downloaded here.