Implicit in the applied nature of technology education is the capacity to create functional solutions or opportunities to enhance society. The study of electronics and control is a critical aspect of technological capability, with an understanding of systems-based solution being the focus of this module. The module identifies the fundamental principles of control systems to ensure a capacity to apply new and future technologies to create functional solutions. This module builds on previous electronics and technology modules to develop more agile and intuitive control systems. Students will develop the capacity to design, select, manage and develop control systems using existing technologies appropriate to teaching senior cycle technology subjects. To aid this development students will use a computational thinking framework when developing logical systems. Selected aspects of senior cycle Technology syllabi in the contexts of teaching, learning and course design will be explored as so to differentiate between core and optional competencies.

Components of an automated system, controllers, servo motors and feedback. Analog/Digital and Digital/Analog conversions. Binary and analogue outputs and inputs to devices. Interfacing with, and control of devices using electronic simulation software and programming development environment. Text-based programming language, syntax and structure suitable for automation. Robot classification and control, degrees of freedom, programming techniques. Robotic applications. Microcontrollers & microprocessor and their applications to simple automation projects. Design of working microcontroller circuits incorporating Input and Output devices. Generation of a straight-line motion by linkage mechanism. Transfer of torque and motion between non-coaxial shafts with changing relative alignment. Automotive steering mechanisms and suspension mechanisms. Indexing: Intermittent timed motion.

On successful completion of this module, students will... Demonstrate an understanding of the components of computational thinking including decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction and algorithms Demonstrate an understanding of how to program PICs robotic systems using appropriate software Design simple automated projects suitable for use in schools Demonstrate an understanding of how an analog signal can be converted to a digital output. Incorporate PIC technology into the design of a working system including sensors and output devices

On successful completion of this module, students will... Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of problem-based learning and task led activities in teaching and learning of Technology subjects. Form an opinion on the role of the Technology subject in the context of the practical subjects offered at second level. Demonstrate an appreciation of how modern robotic technologies can be utilised to solve real world problems. Demonstrate an appreciation for sustainable/environmental projects that utilise a technological solution and are appropriate for 2nd level technology subjects

On successful completion of this module, students will... Produce Prototypes and working models to a high standard employing a range of material processing and finishing techniques Demonstrate a safe and efficient procedure when using advanced manufacturing techniques including the laser cutting machine and a 3D printer. Use microcontrollers to control a simple automated systems.

Project and problem based learning will be embraced to create a constructivist-learning environment for students. Therefore, a series of short analytical problems and projects will be essential to achieving the required discovery learning ethos. Lectures will provide students with the prerequisite knowledge and information on logic, programming and methods to approach solving problems. There will be formative and informative questioning and quizzes, involving discussion with students around the latest technologies in manufacturing, automation and programming. Some lectures will involve a tutorial focused approach, especially around the understanding and application of programming and logic. The weekly labs will focus on the development of programming and logic skills to aid solving problems and developing manufacturing techniques. A computational thinking framework will be used as a "way of thinking" about problems and an aid for navigating through complex scenarios. The labs will also support the further development of processing and materials application to appropriate projects with a focus on advanced manufacturing processes.