ES946-10 Automation and Robotics
Introductory description
Automation & Robotics is fundamental to the fourth industrial revolution. This module explains the techniques and applications of Automation, with particular reference to Industrial Robots which are applied to manufacturing industries. The module is taught by a wide range of experienced engineers and includes hands-on training on robots, kinematic robot simulation, vision systems, pneumatics and PLCs.
Module aims
Automation & Robotics is fundamental to the fourth industrial revolution. It specifically covers the use of automation and in particular industrial robots in manufacturing . It also covers related aspects of designing products for automated manufacture, and using sensors to make automation behave more intelligently and be more flexible.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
- Principles and methods of automatic assembly.
- Robot technology and applications
- Design concepts for automation including safety issues and risk assessment.
- Programmable Logic Controllers
- Robot programming using kinematic simulation
- Automated materials handling and storage
- Machine Vision & Sensors for Automation
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Systematically apply sensors to automation applications
- Hypothesise capabilities, limitations and future trends in automation systems to conceptually plan safe automated installations
- Evaluate the design of products for automated processes and assembly
Indicative reading list
Niku, S.B., 2010. An Introduction to Robotics: Analysis, Control, Applications. 2nd ed. Wiley (ISBN 9780470604465) TJ 211.N4
Wilson, Mike, 2014. Implementation of Robotic Systems, Butterworth-Heinemann (ISBN 9780124047334), EBOOK/ TS191.8.W55.
Craig, J. J., 2013. Introduction to robotics : mechanics and control, Pearson (ISBN 9781292040042), TJ 211.C7
Winfield, A., 2012. Robotics: A Very Short Introduction, Oxford University Press, (ISBN 9780199695980), TJ211.W56
Groover, M. P., 2016. Automation, production systems, and computer-integrated manufacturing, Pearson (ISBN 9781118474204), TS183.G763
Boothroyd, G., Dewhurst, P., Knight W. A., 2011, Product Design for Manufacture and Assembly Taylor & Francis Inc. (ISBN 9781420089271), TS171.4.B66
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Ability to conceive, make and realise a component, product, system or process
Plan and manage the design process, evaluating outcomes, and working with technical uncertainty
Transferable skills
Awareness of the nature of business and enterprise in the creation of economic and social value
Overcome difficulties by employing skills, knowledge and understanding in a flexible manner
Study time
| Type | Required | Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 13 sessions of 1 hour 30 minutes (19%) | |
| Practical classes | 5 sessions of 1 hour 30 minutes (7%) | |
| External visits | (0%) | 4 sessions of 1 hour |
| Private study | 8 hours (8%) | |
| Assessment | 65 hours (65%) | |
| Total | 100 hours |
Private study description
Only required if external visit is not available at time of module running. Watch online videos as guided by module leader.
Costs
| Category | Description | Funded by | Cost to student |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment and project costs |
Memory stick |
Department | £0.00 |
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A2
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-module assignment | 100% | 65 hours | Yes (extension) |
|
3500 word post module assignment |
|||
Assessment group R1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resubmission assignment | 100% | Yes (extension) | |
|
100% Assignment |
|||
Feedback on assessment
Written feedback and annotated submission will be provided in a report for all Post Module assignments
Pre-requisites
Background in engineering or related area, either a degree or industrial experience.
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 1 of TESA-H7Q0 Postgraduate Taught Manufacturing Systems Engineering & Management
- Year 1 of TESS-H7Q1 Postgraduate Taught Manufacturing Systems Engineering & Management
- Year 1 of TESS-H7Q5 Postgraduate Taught Manufacturing Systems Engineering & Management (HKPU)
This module is Core option list D for:
- Year 1 of TWMS-H7A1 Postgraduate Taught Supply Chain and Logistics Management (Singapore)
This module is Option list A for:
- Year 1 of TESS-H1P2 Postgraduate Award in Engineering Business Management
- Year 1 of TESA-H1P7 Postgraduate Taught Engineering Business Management
- Year 1 of TESS-H1P1 Postgraduate Taught Engineering Business Management
- Year 1 of TESS-H1PS Postgraduate Taught Engineering Business Management (Singapore)
- Year 1 of TESS-H1PU Postgraduate Taught International Technology Management