To introduce the student to industrial sensors and their applications in automation. To introduce the student to advanced control systems within automation and outline typical hardware elements found within an automated production environment. To introduce the student to programmable logic controller hardware and software. To introduce the student to material transportation systems used within industrial environments.

Introduction to Automation & Control Systems Basic elements of an automated system, control systems - open looped, closed looped systems, levels of automation within the manufacturing plant. Continuous and discrete control systems. Hardware: Sensors - types and applications, correct selection, Analogue to Digital Converters, Digital to Analogue Converters, encoders, logic gates, Boolean algebra. Programmable Logic Control, ladder logic, timers, counters, industrial applications and uses. Material Transportation Systems Material handling, transport equipment, AGV's, conveyors, design of systems, rating of systems. Material storage systems, retrieval systems, carousels. Automated Identification: Bar-coding, 1D barcode, 2D barcodes, Radio Frequency ID, smart sensors - linked to production control and warehousing. Pneumatic systems used within automated production environments.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 1. Design ladder logic solution given a sequence of required operations. 2. Specify and design an automated material transportation system including appropriate control & sensors capable of handling a variety of products. 3. Design and specify pneumatic control aspects within automated systems. 4. Code Robotic cells and other automated systems.

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On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 1. Develop fabrication basic parts 2. Wire PLC units and sensors.

The module will include a challenge driven continual assessment where students are tasked with the development of an industry equivalent automated artifact. This focuses on an open brief assessment which challenges students to approach unique solutions to the proposed problem. In this manner the module encourages students to become more inquisitive and imaginative in problem solving. Groupwork and performing in groups is a key aspect of the module and as such students become more aware of their personal responsibility. The module is designed to continually evolve in response to latest developments and advances in industrial automation. Learning Environment The learning environment is based on a mix of interactive lectures, laboratory sessions, practical instruction and space for problem solving within groups. The lab sessions will take place in a dedicated automation laboratory while the desired lecture space is a setting which facilitates collaboration. Students will be instructed in a practical manner under the guidance of the lecturer and technical staff to ensure they are familiar with industrial automation technology. Graduate Attributes: Industrial automation problems prescribed to the students in a challenge driven continual assessment based on typical industrial problems/technology, to encourage the students to be curious problem solvers, critical, knowledgeable and inquisitive. Students need to be agile in their thinking to find creative solutions to prescribed problems.