Course Title

Course Title: Fundamentals of Automation

20 Professional Development Hours/2.0 CEUs

Course Description: The Fundamentals of Automation course explains the differences between fixed and flexible automation as well as examining the components and controls systems used in manufacturing automation. Robotics and robot process applications are covered in detail.

Overall Course Objectives:

Recognize the considerations that are necessary in establishing various approaches to automation.
Explore robotic processing applications in welding, paint and coatings, and machine handling.
Develop an understanding for the types of sensors, interfaces and controllers used in manufacturing automation.

Course Content:

Lesson 1 - Productivity Growth and Automation Cost

Objectives:

Identify the factors that affect productivity.

List the benefits of improved productivity.

Describe the Life Cycle Analysis technique of Process Automation.

Lesson 2 - Introduction to Automation

Objectives:

Define “mechanization” in the automation process, and be aware of the various levels of automation.

Compare and contrast the variety of approaches to automation.

Differentiate between fixed and flexible automation.

Lesson 3 - Equipment for Flexible Automation

Objectives:

List and describe the characteristics of a well designed flexible manufacturing system.

Identify characteristics of the different types of transfer systems.

Understand robot classification systems along with robot design variations and components.

Lesson 4 - Robot Process Applications

Objectives:

Describe the robotic arc and resistance welding processes and the components used.

Indicate the four major areas of the manual painting and coating process that have promoted the use of robots.

Identify the robotic assembly and materials handling components that are used for these applications.

Lesson 5 - Control Systems and Communications

Objectives:

Understand the importance of the Hierarchal Control System, and explain the levels of control.

Compare a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to a Relay Control.

Identify the features that distinguish Local Area Networks (LANs).

Lesson 6 - Sensors, Interfaces & Controllers

Objectives:

Describe the broad classification of sensors.

List the specific goals that Operator Interface (OI) devices are used to achieve.

Explore the various types of motion and robotic controllers and coordinators.

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