Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand the fundamental concepts and applications of industrial automation.
- Identify and differentiate between various industrial automation systems and their functionalities.
- Gain knowledge about sensors, actuators, and programming languages used in automation.
- Comprehend the communication protocols and human-machine interfaces critical to automation systems.
- Explore advanced topics such as industrial robotics, smart factories, and relevant standards and regulations.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 2083: Industrial Automation Fundamentals
1. Introduction to Industrial Automation
- Definition of industrial automation
- Applications in various industries (manufacturing, processing, assembly lines, etc.)
- Benefits of automation: increased efficiency, safety, quality, and cost reduction
- Role of automation in modern industrial environments
2. Types of Industrial Automation Systems
2.1 Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
- Overview and architecture
- Typical applications
- Advantages and limitations
2.2 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
- System components and functions
- Use cases in monitoring and control
2.3 Distributed Control Systems (DCS)
- Structure and characteristics
- Differences between DCS and PLC
- Industrial applications
2.4 Robotics in Industrial Automation
- Types of industrial robots (articulated, SCARA, Cartesian, etc.)
- Applications in manufacturing and assembly
- Integration with other automation systems
3. Sensors and Actuators in Industrial Automation
- Role of sensors: data acquisition and environment monitoring
- Common sensor types: proximity, temperature, pressure, flow, vision
- Role of actuators: executing control commands
- Types of actuators: electric motors, pneumatic, hydraulic
- Interaction between sensors and actuators in automated processes
4. Programming Languages for Industrial Automation
- Overview of automation programming standards (IEC 61131-3)
- Ladder Logic (LD): structure, symbols, and usage
- Function Block Diagram (FBD): graphical programming and benefits
- Structured Text (ST): syntax and applications
- Sequential Function Chart (SFC): process sequencing and control flow
- Practical examples of programming automation systems
5. Industrial Communication Protocols
- Importance of communication in automation networks
- Modbus: serial and TCP/IP versions, applications
- Profibus: fieldbus communication and topology
- Ethernet/IP: industrial Ethernet standards
- DeviceNet: device-level communication
- Comparison and selection criteria for protocols
6. Industrial Robotics
- Overview of robot types and their characteristics
- Applications in welding, painting, assembly, material handling
- Robot programming techniques
- End-of-arm tooling: types and selection
- Safety considerations and risk mitigation
7. Human-Machine Interface (HMI) in Industrial Automation
- Definition and significance of HMI
- Components of HMI systems
- Design principles for effective and user-friendly interfaces
- Visualization, control, and alarm management
- Examples of HMI tools and software
8. Industrial Automation in Smart Factories
- Concept of smart factories and Industry 4.0
- Integration of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) with automation
- Predictive maintenance using real-time data
- Real-time data analytics and decision making
- Benefits: flexibility, efficiency, and reduced downtime
9. Industrial Automation Standards and Regulations
- Overview of major standards:
- ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
- IEC 61131 (Programmable controllers)
- ISO 13849 (Safety of machinery)
- Importance of compliance for safety and efficiency
- Regulatory bodies and certification processes
Unlock the full outline
Get the complete content outline, learning outcomes and assessment methods for Industrial Automation.
KSh 20 one-off, or included with a plan
Learning Outcomes
Unlock the outline above to see learning outcomes.
Assessment Methods
Unlock the outline above to see assessment methods.