Module Details

Module Code: MANU8002
Title: Automation Systems
Long Title: Automation Systems
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2024/25 ( September 2024 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 5400 - Manufacturing Engineering
Module Delivered in: 4 programme(s)
Module Description: This module develops the concepts of automated systems in an industrial environment. It presents an overall perspective on what a system is, the components involved and how process control elements are integrated. It develops the skills required to work effectively as a member of a team.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Examine an automated system and recommend alternative solutions.
LO2 Differentiate between the differerent levels of communication in a production facility.
LO3 Develop and evaluate a Human Machine Interface for process control taking into account ergonomic principles.
LO4 Choose appropriate hardware and develop a PLC program for a given application.
LO5 Work effectively as a member of a team.
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
Automation Systems Components
Overview of industrial automation, robots, CNCs, PLCs, AS/RS, sensors, vision systems, barcoding, design of systems.
Industrial Sensors
Sensor types, installation considerations, applications, datasheets.
Industrial Communication
Serial communication, LANs, industrial networks, distributed control, SCADA, HMI.
Programmable Logic Controllers
PLC operation, I/O modules, programming instructions, analogue I/O, PID functions.
Team Working
Task allocation, communication, planning, record-keeping, reporting.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 50
Timing Week 10 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Develop a PLC based control solution. Group assessment.
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 20
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Maintain a weekly log of key learned points that will act as a reflective look at material covered and work carried out each week.
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 30
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
A report on an automation system of your choice. This report should reflect the individual's understanding of the system and its function from design, production, feedback, and control perspectives.
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 Information delivery to support project Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact Project work Every Week 3.00 3
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Reflection and planning Every Week 2.00 2
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 5.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Information delivery to support project Every Week 1.00 1
Lab Contact Project work Every Week 3.00 3
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Reflection and planning 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
  • Jon Stenerson. (2003), Industrial Automation and Process Control, 1st. Pearson Education, USA, [ISBN: 0130330302].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • W. Bolton. (2018), Mechatronics, 7th Ed.. Pearson, p.688, [ISBN: 978-1-292-25097-7].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_EAMTE_8 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Advanced Manufacturing Technology 1 Mandatory
CR_EPPTE_8 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Process Plant Technology 1 Elective
CR_ESENT_8 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Sustainable Energy Engineering 7 Mandatory
CR_EMASD_8 Certificate in Manufacturing Systems Design 1 Mandatory