Core Module Information
Module title: Automation and Robotics

SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: MEC11107
Module leader: Yuyang Zhou
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Engineering and Mathematics
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

This module explores automation and robotics in industry. This module covers the kinematics modeling of robotic arms and different controllers for robotic arms. The module also includes the use of industry-level programming tools and simulators, as well as the control of physical robots. You will engage with both physical and simulated robots to solve manipulation and navigation tasks in industrial settings. Practical sessions will utilize Siemens Melfa Basic, Festo Infodicatic graphical language, and MATLAB to provide hands-on experience.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Demonstrate a critical understanding of the operation of industrial robots and Critically evaluate robots for particular applications

LO2: Evaluate mathematical principles for modeling robotic arm dynamics and kinematics, and design control algorithms to optimize performance.

LO3: Analyse particular industrial applications and evaluate possible solutions in terms of automated (dedicated / flexible) or mixed manual/ automated systems.

LO4: Design flexible and dedicated automatic systems.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Yuyang Zhou
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 22 Each week you attend a 2 hour lecture where we will use various interactive activities to stimulate critical thinking, and foster a collaborative environment to enhance your understanding and retention of the module content.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 20 Hands-on activities and simulated environments provide opportunities to enhance real-world application, encourage peer collaboration, and foster feedback-driven experiential learning and skill development in both practical and simulated contexts.
Face To Face Centrally Time Tabled Examination 3 A three-hour examination will provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts, apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and showcase critical thinking and problem-solving skills under timed conditions.
Online Guided independent study 155 A learning approach where students take responsibility for their own learning process, with support and direction from academics through tutorials and research assessments. This method combines the independence of self-directed study with the guidance of a structured framework provided by academic staff.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Centrally Time Tabled Examination 70 1~2~3 Exam Period HOURS= 3hrs Centrally Time Tabled Examination. The exam covers a number of topics including the use of engineering principle equations for the mathematical modeling/control of Robotic systems[M1, M2, M3]. Different control algorithms and their limitations for the robotic arm will be examined[M1, M2, M3]. The exam also covers fundamental knowledge of robotic classification and kinematics [M1, M2, M3]. The exam also covers the design of solutions and understanding of the theory of robotics using and choosing sensors, actuators and control in industrial tasks [M3].
Project - Practical 30 3~4 Week 13 HOURS= 10min/1000word Group work implementing a solution for an industrial robotic task designing and programming the solution on the simulated and physical robots [M1, M3, M16]. The task includes the use of industrial standards for robot operation [M5] and software design. Assessment includes a 10 minutes video demonstrating the system and its use cases [60%]. Short report of maximum 1000 words [40%] including explanation of the algorithms.
Component 1 subtotal: 30
Component 2 subtotal: 70
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
MEC11107 Automation and Robotics