Module Details

Module Code: MECH9008
Title: Advanced Automation with PLCs
Long Title: Advanced Automation with PLCs
NFQ Level: Expert
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2022/23 ( September 2022 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 5211 - Mechanical Engineering
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: With the integration of mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment in modern day industry, there is a need for an integrated approach to the training requirements for personnel to be able to adjust, service, maintain, program and design modern equipment. This would include the advanced programming of PLCs, servo drives, machine safety systems, networking, mechanical setup and adjustment of sensors.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Programme PLC's using all five IEC PLC programming languages.
LO2 Network automation systems, using industrial standard bus networks.
LO3 Apply safety systems incorporating Safety Relays and Safety PLC's.
LO4 Design, install and commission analogue sensors for Mechatronic systems.
LO5 Design, install, commission and program Servo Drive Systems.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Program using the IEC programming Languages
Program different types of PLC, using Statement, Ladder, Function Block Diagram, Sequential Function Chart and Structured Text.
Networking
Design and commission industrial network systems, including CANbus and Profibus.
Safety Systems
Design and commission machine safety systems incorporating safety PLC's and safety relays. Machine safety up to and including Category 4 safety systems.
Analogue Sensors
Install and commission industrial analogue sensors. Callibration and signal conditioning of the sensors.
Servo Drive Systems
Install and commission linear and rotary servo drive systems. Program drive controllers for digital and network signalling.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 70
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Design and program an automated system incorporating safety, networking, analogue inputs and servo drive systems.
Assessment Type Non-MTU Exam % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 12 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
End of semester exam
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Formal Lectures Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact Practial Programming and Networking of Automation Systems Every Week 2.00 2
Independent Learning Non Contact Student directed learning Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Formal Lectures Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact Practial Programming and Networking of Automation Systems Every Week 2.00 2
Independent Learning Non Contact Student directed learning Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Sunit Kumar Sen. (2021), Fieldbus and Networking in Process Automation, 2. [ISBN: 9780367712389].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • William Bolton. (2018), Mechatronics: Electronic Control Systems in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Seventh. [ISBN: 978129225097].
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
  • International Organization for Standardization. (2015), ISO 13849-1:2015 - Safety of machinery — Safety-related parts of control systems — Part 1: General principles for design.
  • International Organization for Standardization. (2015), I.S. EN ISO 13850:2015 - SAFETY OF MACHINERY - EMERGENCY STOP FUNCTION - PRINCIPLES FOR DESIGN.
Supplementary Article/Paper Resources
  • International Society of Automation. ISA95: Enterprise-Control System Integration.
  • International Society of Automation. ISA101: Human-Machine Interfaces.
  • International Society of Automation. ISA88: Batch Control.
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_EMECE_9 Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 9 Elective