Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title
Module Code
School
Online Module Resources
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	7.5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

The purpose of this module is to introduce the students to aspects of automation as widely used in manufacturing and to apply advanced technology to automate processes in the context of SMART factories and Industry 4.0.

Learning Outcomes

1. Analyse automation problems and generate the appropriate logic control.
2. Understand the operation of and apply programmable logic control to automation.
3. Explain where and how supervisory control and data acquisition is used in the production environment.
4. Describe and analyse parts transfer and feeding devices, particular in the contexts of indexing and free transfer systems
5. Safety considerations in automation, impact of automation on the workforce
6. Design automation systems with capability to interact with the digital manufacturing landscape.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	36	Presentation of material relating to the module by the lecturer
Tutorial	12	Guided engagement by the student with problems associated with automation of manufacturing
Laboratory	6	Interaction with automation equipment to understand its application to automation. Reporting on observations, engineering technology and findings after each session
Independent Study	83	Self-guided review of module material to develop fuller understanding and application in the workplace
Assignment Completion	50	Development of solution to automation assignment challenge
Total Workload: 187

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Logic control
Design and analysis of automation problems using logic control.

Automation for timed problems
Use of graphical analysis techniques.

Use of PLCs
Software/Hardware setup

SCADA systems
LAN configuration, communication protocols.

Part feeding and transfer systems

Indexing and free transfer systems

Cost benefit analysis

Design for Automation
Use of Digital Twin approach to develop and validate solutions to automation involving processing and transfer of parts

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	%	Examination Weight	%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

C. Ray Asfahl: 1992, Robots and manufacturing automation, 2nd Edition, Wiley, New York, 0471553913
Geoffrey Boothroyd: 0, Assembly Automation and Product Design, Second Edition, CRC, 1574446436
Thomas O. Boucher: 0, Computer automation in manufacturing, Chapman & Hall, London, 041260230X

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

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