ARET 4401 - Automation Systems

Credit(s): 4
The Automation Systems course is divided into two main branches; Manufacturing Technologies, including CNC, CAD and CAM; and Microcontrollers and advanced Programming, which constitute essential tools in modern manufacturing, particularly in complex automated systems. Students learn the theory behind the microcontroller and microprocessor architecture and its role as part of a whole. This theory is complemented with practical exercises that reflect the importance of microcontrollers in a complex automated system. The use of component data sheets for reference, calculations and design is also explained. The course culminates with the instruction of C/C++ advanced programming, which is applied when operating microcontrollers and constructing devices that include this type of element. Fundamental programming skills can be taught parallel to the instruction of the C/C++ syntax at the earlier stages as needed. Students will apply knowledge about automation manufacturing to evaluate and create complex automated systems; illustrate the importance of microcontrollers and automated tools as essential components on an automated system; apply the relationship of these elements as part of a whole and analyze how they interact with others in a way that allows for successful operation and continuous improvement;
create and develop programs for advanced automated robotic modules and systems; analyze CAD, CAM and CNC concepts to support and improve complex automated systems. The Automation Systems course is divided into two main branches; Manufacturing Technologies, including CNC, CAD and CAM; and Microcontrollers and Programming, which constitute essential tools in modern manufacturing, particularly in mechatronic systems. When breaking down a system into its constituent modules, it is likely to find a microcontroller as the intelligent core of the entire structure. The microcontroller section begins to explain the theory behind microcontroller and microprocessor architecture, and focuses later its features and ways of interaction with other electronic elements understanding its function, and its role as part of a whole. This theory is complemented with practical exercises that reflect the importance of microcontrollers in a mechatronic system. The use of component data sheets for reference, calculations and design is also explained. The course culminates with the instruction of Assembly Language programming, which is applied when operating microcontrollers and designing and constructing devices that include this type of element. Basic programming skills can be taught parallel to the instruction of the Assembly syntax at the earlier stages as needed. This section makes up for approximately 60% of the total material for Manufacturing Automation. Students will: 1. Be able to apply knowledge about automation manufacturing to maintain and improve mechatronic systems;
2. Realize the importance of microcontrollers and automated tools as essential components on a mechatronic system; 3. Understand the relationship of these elements as part of a whole and how they interact with others in a way that allows for successful operation and continuous improvement; 4. Program mechatronic modules and systems; 5. Use CAD, CAM and CNC general concepts to maintain and improve mechatronic systems.

Prerequisite(s): ARET 3406 and ARET 3308

Faculty Consent: Y