Bridging the gap between engineering theory and practice

In high-tech engineering, theory often clashes with real-world challenges. The solution? A practical feedback loop. That’s exactly what the CoreDux Semicon Academy offers: no-nonsense, hands-on training to master gas and liquid transportation systems. When VIRO and CoreDux decided to work on this together, they didn’t just create a training program – they built a problem-solving partnership, focusing on real-world applications and peer-to-peer learning. Their collaboration is built on one thing: solving real engineering problems. Here’s how they do it.

Fixing real world problems

The collaboration between VIRO and CoreDux began in 2017, when VIRO encountered a complex design challenge involving gas and liquid transport systems. The problem centered on non-standardized parts that made welding cumbersome, decreased efficiency, and complicated logistics. Additionally, manual welding processes increased labor time and risk of error. 

In addition, they introduced over 130 “Quick Reference Cards” (and counting), providing clear, foolproof instructions that ensure robust and efficient designs. These tools are now integral to daily workflows and are continuously refined based on real-world use, forming a vital pre-design check system for any project.

This collaboration proves that when knowledge is shared openly, innovation thrives.

Since then, the collaboration has deepened through the CoreDux Academy, where both companies learn from each other. The Academy sessions are highly practical, focusing on common engineering challenges such as:

• Welding techniques: Understanding the importance of orbital welding versus manual welding in maintaining consistency and minimizing contamination.
• Flexible hose design and performance: Examining bending radii, material fatigue, and flow resistance.
• Component selection and standardization of procedures: Reducing custom-made parts to streamline assembly and logistics.
• System validation: Techniques for testing cleanliness and vacuum integrity in gas and liquid transportation systems.

At the heart of smarter design lies understanding – and nothing accelerates understanding like being able to see, touch, and explore real, open-worked products. By working directly with transparent and sectioned hose assemblies, engineers from both CoreDux and VIRO have engaged in a powerful two-way knowledge exchange.

Take, for instance, this hands-on approach has already led to tangible results. A recent optimization involved designing a stepped transition within a hose, significantly reducing vibrations and flow imbalances. This improvement was made possible by gaining literal insight into the inner workings of the hose and considering performance requirements early in the layout phase.

By enabling engineers to think beyond the schematic, these open-worked models foster deeper understanding, better collaboration, and smarter product choices – driving innovation from concept to application.

The Academy’s hybrid model, where online and in-person sessions blend, allows for wider participation while maintaining interactivity. VIRO and CoreDux have moved from small, intimate workshops to sessions that involve engineers from multiple locations. The quick response feedback loop during these sessions remained centrally coordinated, while more complex questions were addressed publicly, with both companies contributing to and benefiting from the learning process.

What sets the VIRO x CoreDux collaboration apart is the balance between theoretical insight and practical experience. VIRO’s strength in conceptual engineering meets CoreDux’s practical manufacturing expertise, creating a synergy that drives innovation. Both companies respect each other’s expertise and actively seek ways to learn from one another.

Eric sums it up: “We don’t just train. We share, we solve, we sustain. It’s about creating a long-term partnership where knowledge flows both ways.”

As the Semicon industry evolves, so does the CoreDux Academy. The goal? To make every session a practical, insightful, and interactive experience that leaves engineers better equipped to face real-world challenges.