Module Code - Title:
DM6011
-
AUTOMATED SYSTEM DESIGN
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To introduce the student to the broad issues relating to the design and implementation of Automated and Mechatronic systems at a macro level. The module will examine the managerial, human and technological and economic factors involved in this process.
Approaches to the technologies available to the automation of discrete part and continuous processes will be examined and evaluated.
The aim will be to provide a broad, strategic overview of automation and mechatronics processes appropriate for management.
Syllabus:
Elements of an automated system, levels of automation within the manufacturing plant.
Currently employed and state of the art systems for automation of continuous and discrete manufacturing systems. Factory 4.0 and the integration of the value chain in the manufacturing process. Current trends in Europe and worldwide. Emerging technologies.
Management of automated and mechatronic systems in a manufacturing context.
Human and economic factors.
Case studies from the Irish and International settings.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Be able to describe the current trends and emerging technologies automation and Mechatronic systems
Be able to critically appraise current and emerging technologies in Mechatronics and Automation and suggest an appropriate combination of technologies for a given application in a manufacturing setting.
Identify and suggest solutions to issues that may arise in the implementation of such a system.
Will critique and make recommendations based on real-life case studies taken from the Irish manufacturing sector
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Students will have a clear appreciation of the role of automation and mechatronics in the strategic development of the manufacturing sector both at plant and national level.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module will comprise lectures and tutorials/workshops. There will be a number of invited guest lectures from practitioners and managers drawn from the manufacturing sector.
Successful participants will be:
(i) Knowledgeable about modern automation processes and the alternative approaches to automating a manufacturing process.
(ii) Articulate in describing the key technologies currently used in automation and will be able to critically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages associated with a particular system.
(iii) Responsible in designing environmentally and socially sustainable systems
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
ERCEA - European Research Council Executive Agency (2015)
Robotics: Spotlight on ERC projects
, European Research Council
Habib, M.K. and J.P. Davim (2013)
Interdisciplinary Mechatronics
, ISTE Ltd
Bolton, W. (2008)
Mechatronics, A Multidisciplinary Approach
, Prentice Hall
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
eoin.hinchy@ul.ie