Introductory description

This module explains the methodologies and techniques for control of automated industrial processes and machines which vary in time or based on events. It fosters theoretical and practical knowledge on:

• Technology of actuators and sensors commonly used in industrial automation,
• Techniques for design of digital PID controllers
• Basic digital electronics and logic design.
• Hardware and software architecture of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• PLC ladder programming.
• Design and implementation of control systems using PLCs

Examples: sizing of electric motors for a robotic arm, programming of logic controllers for a pick and place application on a conveyor belt, tuning of a digital PID for speed control of a CNC machine.

This module is linked with C1, C2, C3, C4, C6, C13, and C17, of the AHEP 4.

LO1 : C3, C4, C13.
LO2 : C1, C2, C17.
LO3 : C1, C6.
LO4 : C2, C3, C17.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Actuators and selection criteria: electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic actuators.
Sensors and selection criteria: position, force, proximity/distance, and vision sensors.
Sensor periphery: Amplifiers, filters, etc.
Motors: DC, synchronous brushless, asynchronous, and stepper motors.
Motion control: architecture of motion control systems; PID controller; motion control with DC motor; kinematic chains; motion synchronization.
Digital Electronics and Logic Design: logic gates, Boolean algebra, truth tables, Karnaugh maps, digital electronics.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): PLC architecture, PLC programming, memory addressing, scan cycle, ladder diagram, PLC timers, PLC counters.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate acquired knowledge in selecting actuators and sensors suitable for a given motion control system [AHEP:4 – C3, C4, C13]
• Demonstrate knowledge of tuning a digital PID to satisfy given static and dynamic specifications [AHEP:4 – C1, C2, C17]
• Design and implement control systems using programmable logic controllers PLCs [AHEP:4 – C1, C6].
• Apply basic logic and digital electronic circuits to practical systems [AHEP:4 – C2, C3, C17].

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module

Subject specific skills

• Translate conceptual designs or technical specifications into operational process control systems (S1 in ST0023) or operational designs or specifications for systems or components to solve electrical/electronic challenges (S1 in ST0024).
• Select, use and apply approved problem-solving methods to solve complex problems and determine appropriate solutions (S2 in ST0023 and ST0024).
• Select the best method for collating and conveying complex information using a range of data sources and supporting documentation (S3 in ST0023).
• Interpret and produce technical documentation such as schematic and circuit diagrams (S4 in ST0023), simulation models (S4 in ST0024).
• Demonstrate leadership when undertaking control system engineering activities such as system design, integration operational simulation of control systems (S10 in ST0023).
• Lead electrical/electronic engineering activities (S11 in ST0024).
• Identify areas for improvement and lead continuous improvement activities in the operation and performance of the system or component (S14 in ST0024).

Transferable skills

• Digital literacy: Comfortable with using digital media to communicate, solve problems, manage information, collaborate, create and share content.
• Teamwork: Operate within, and contribute to, a respectful, supportive and cooperative group climate; Sensitive to the impact of actions on others.
• Critical thinking: Recognise patterns, themes and key messages from sometimes confused and incomplete data; Make informed decisions on the value of a range of sources allowing an evidence based conclusion based on this analysis.
• Problem solving: Use rational and logical reasoning to deduce appropriate and well-reasoned conclusions.
• Communication: Written: Present arguments, knowledge and ideas, in a range of formats.