This Networking Technology module introduces the fundamentals of networking technology, with emphasis on Ethernet and wireless network systems for industrial and business applications. The module balances theory with practice, applying networking principles and techniques in practical laboratories.

1. Discuss current network technologies, applications and emerging trends for industrial and business applications.

2. Describe the Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP).

3. Recognise and analyse Ethernet, Industrial Ethernet and wireless network architectures, devices and data.

4. Select, configure and problem-solve networking elements in a practical application.

5. Design, build and test a basic network in a practical application.

6. Appreciate network management principles and challenges.

This module will deal with the Quality Assurance systems and quality management principles needed in manufacturing and specifically in the building of automated machines and automated systems.

The course will cover both European Union (EU) and US regulations and related agencies.

1. Discuss the role of quality management in Manufacturing and the constraint linked to its implementation.
2. Analyse and apply a range of statistical tools to measure quality. Select appropriate methodologies of quality improvement and apply various tools and techniques for analysis of quality.
3. Investigate and discuss the role of automation in quality control.
4. Discuss the regulatory requirements that affect the development of automated systems and their impact on the design.
5. Discuss the sustainability aspects that are relevant to medical devices.

The aim of this module is to give students and understanding of, and practice with, instrumentation concepts and techniques that are important to both other modules in the programme and also to real world automation and robotics engineering.

This module introduces the learner to the key principles and performance parameters of scientific and industrial instruments, and provides expertise in the application of such principles. It also provides an introduction to the principles and practice of control systems and automation.

1. Explain the differences in performance between open- and closed-loop control systems and explain the principles involved in such systems.
2. Explain the mode of operation of key sensors and transducers and implement appropriate calibration and signal conditioning.
3. Measure, record and analyse data with a range of sensors and transducers.
4. Interpret instrument specifications correctly, verify that instruments are operated safely and within specifications.

5. Choose the optimum sensor and /or instruments for specific applications and make sensible decisions on the purchase of suitable scientific equipment to meet requirements.

The student will be introduced to the standards, tools, methodologies and techniques of project management. The student will complete a minor group project to an international standard.

1. Apply the principles and methodologies of project management to their specialist discipline.
2. Apply project management techniques and systems in their specialist discipline.
3. Recognise the complexities of team based management.
4. Structure project or job tasks, schedule and manage.
5. Apply engineering and project management techniques to real problems in industry or laboratory settings
6. Combine various aspects of the course in a practical context through preparing and delivering presentations / reports on the specification / scope, planning and implementing of a project

Python is an interpreted, high-level programming language, with a wide range of applications. This module introduces the Python programming language and environment, the Python standard library and some common Python libraries. The module emphasises both principles and practice, technical and soft skills, and uses professional tools.

1. Develop Python code, incorporating fundamental programming principles and techniques, forrobotic technology.

2. Select, use and test a range of standard Python language features and common libraries, using professional development tools.

3. Apply software engineering principles in Python.

4. Design and debug code to address unforeseen tasks.

5. Display an appreciation of good programming practice, style and ethics.

The aim of this module is to give students and understanding of, and practice in, mathematical concepts and techniques that are important to both other modules in the programme and also to real world automation and robotics engineering.

It is a module on mathematical methods and techniques employed in the solution of problems in Engineering. The course deals with the purpose, methods and applications of differentiation, integration, matrices, differential equations and probability theory.

1. Differentiate single variable functions requiring a combination of rules.

2. Determine the partial derivatives of functions of two variables.

3. Apply differentiation to solve rates of change and optimisation problems.

4. Select and apply appropriate techniques of integration to evaluate integrals.

5. Solve first order differential equations by direct integration and separation of variables.

6. Analyse the behaviour of systems and processes in engineering to recognise when differential equations are appropriate, formulate the problem, creatively model these behaviours in order to solve the problems, interpret and clearly communicate the results.

7. Apply the rules of probability and use probability models for data analysis .

This module will provide the student with knowledge of electromechanical schematics symbols and drawings. The student will be able to read/create schematic diagrams for circuits such as pneumatic, electrical, electro-pneumatics, and PLCs/ PACs. Using simulation software, the student will be able to analyse and optimise their circuit design.

This module will also provide the student with a practical knowledge of PLCs/PACs. Using software and hardware the students will analyse gate logic, boolean algebra and truth tables. They will learn to use subroutines and manipulation of data using advanced features of PACs.

1. Demonstrate competence in standards used in automation, including machine building standards

2. Construct schematic diagrams for basic industrial automated applications using the correct standards in pneumatic, electrical, electro-pneumaticsareas

3. Analyse and optimise circuit design using simulation.

4. Describe the industrial uses, feasibility and advantages/disadvantages of a PLC

5. Describe PLC technology using the correct terminology

6. Construct ladder logic programmes using Boolean Logic, IOs, timers, counters, sequencing, and advanced functions.

7. Discuss how automation can contribute to sustainable development goals.

This module is based on the theory of cognitive apprenticeship. In this module, students are immersed in their company as a trainee technician. Students attend around 80 hr of formal training session where they further develop their skills in programming and troubleshooting PLCs and robotic arms. They learn to integrate vision systems and other sensors to their automated systems. In order to become engineers in the field of automation students also need to learn about manufacturing processes and quality control. Throughout the module they reflect on their work, learn about manufacturing processes and develop artefacts which include robotics, PLC, as well as vision systems.

1. Select the appropriate tools, methodologies and techniques to solve manufacturing problems, and design and implement solutions.
2. Communicate findings to teams and management, and work effectively as a team member.
3. Describe and communicate how the regulatory constraints affect the operations of the company, and how ethical considerations affect their conduct as a technician.
4. Program and troubleshoot a PLC, integrating inputs and outputs.

5. Designand build an automated rig for a basic operation, including safety features.

6. Reflect on their experiential learning, and their ability to solve problems using a structured technical approach, and identify gaps.

This module will provide the student with knowledge of electromechanical components that are used in industrial automated applications. Components in the areas of motors, drive systems, levers and linkages wil be covered. The student will have a strong understanding of the operation, construction and uses of these components.

1. Describe the industrial uses, feasibility and cost effectiveness of types of mechanical systems

2. Select the components of a mechanical systemfor differentautomated applications

3. Defineactuators’ specifications for different applications.

4. Define conveyors’ specifications for different applications.

C and C++ are foundation programming languages in the fields of automation, robotics and general embedded systems. This module introduces fundamental programming skills through modern C and C++. The module emphasises both principles and practice, technical and soft skills, and uses professional software and hardware tools. Students develop code using basic programming techniques with good programming style, perform algorithm design, and consider applications and performance.

1. Develop and debug basic programs incorporating fundamental programming principles and techniques.

2. Select, use and test modern C & C++ core language and standard library features, using professional software andhardware development tools.

3. Apply basic algorithm design and documentation techniques.

4. Design & debug codeto address unforeseen tasks.

5. Display an appreciation of good programming practice, style and ethics.

6. Describe applications and principles of C & C++.

The goal of the module is to equip the learner with the knowledge and skills required to specify, analyse, implement and test industrial control systems including PID and motion control systems.

1. Explain the principles involved in different control systems and their differences in performance and applications

2. Select the appropriate control strategy for a given application in process and motion control

3. Specify the components for open loop and closed loopcontrol for industrial use cases

4. Develop process and motion control systems for industrial use cases

An introduction to Six Sigma, which will both explain the concepts and use of the tools and techniques of Six Sigma.

1. Distinguish and explain Lean Six Sigma concepts and explain why organisations use them.

2. Define, select and apply Lean and Six Sigma tools for problem solving, prioritizing problems, reducing waste, evaluating process performance and improving processes.

3. Collect, summarise, analyse and interpret data using graphical methods, descriptive and inferential statistics.

4. Explain the concept of ethics and integrity and examine various codes of ethics for engineers.

5. Communicate findings effectively, accepting responsibility for their own contribution and performance.

This module will provide students with knowledge of robotic automation systems, including the use of vision systems in robotic applications. Students will learn how to integrate components in a robotic cell and program the cell using the teach-pendant. A 3D modelling software will be used for programming, optimisation and virtual commissioning of robotic cells. Finally, the module will cover cost and safety considerations when the automation of a manual operation is proposed.

1. Discuss robotics technology and anatomy.

2. Use a 3D model of a robotic cell for programming, optimisation and virtual commissioning.

3. Use a teach-pendant to programme a robotic cell.

4. Use vision systems for robotic industrial applications.

5. Discuss the industrial uses, feasibility and cost-effectiveness of robotic systems.

6. Integrate hardware components (PLC, sensors, end-effectors, vision systems) with a robotic system.

7. Discuss safety standards relating to robotic arms.

The Internet of Things (IoT) project module provides a structured engineering project experience in the general application area of the Internet of Things. Students develop an individual project in a collaborative learning environment, with structured support lectures, laboratories and mentoring on selected subject areas. The module progresses from idea creation, research and planning through design, build, coding, test, problem-solving, presentation and demonstration, while incorporating agile principles. Students focus on technical skills and soft skills concurrently throughout the module.

1. Research an IoT based application area and create a project proposal, following general requirements.

2. Discuss a selected IoT application area, including industry, trends, technologies, ethics and contribution to sustainable development goals.

3. Investigate & select suitable hardware and/or software elements to use in a project, following general guidelines.

4. Develop, integrate, build and test hardware and/or software elements of a project, on a specified Internet of Things development platform.

5. Apply problem solving techniques to technical and other issues that arise in the context of a project.

6. Manage project deliverables throughout the project timeline in an agile environment.

7. Contribute towards a collaborative working environment, as well as work independently towards project goals.

8. Demonstrate project technical functionality, including data capture, data storage anddata analytics.

9. Communicate project ideas, design and deliverables, using professional tools and guidelines.

This module is based on the theory of cognitive apprenticeship. In order to become engineers in the field of automation students need to learn about manufacturing processes and culture. In this module students are immersed in their company as a trainee engineer. Students attend around 30 hr of formal training session where they further develop their skills in programming and troubleshooting PLCs. They reflect on the industry culture, learn about manufacturing processes and design and automated cell.

1. Design an automated cell integrating hardware such asrobotic arm, PLC controller, drive or vision systems as well assafety features.

2. Participate in process planning according to company quality policies and system.
3. Undertake a six sigma project and communicate the findings to staff and management.
4. Apply management skills within their occupation as an engineer and describe their ethical obligations as an engineer.

5. Reflect on their experiential learning and their ability to solve problems using an engineering approach, identify gaps and devise self-learning strategies.