ObjectivesThis two-year diploma program provides students with the necessary skills needed to repair and modify automated equipment used in the home automation, retail, manufacturing, gaming, security, medical, and energy sectors. Robotics technicians acquire knowledge in many aspects of electronics and mechanics. This includes: Programmable Logic Devices (PLD), Programmable Integrated Circuits (PIC), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computer Numerical Control (CNC), Motor Controls, Programming Embedded Systems, Machine Tool Operations, and Fluid Power. Employers expect graduates to have the ability to solve problems and communicate ideas clearly. The Robotics program is delivered in a professor-assisted self-directed learning environment. Courses consist of a series of modules made up of hands-on labs and/or assignments. This unique environment allows the student to accelerate ahead of scheduled deadlines. Robotics is an excellent program for applicants looking for a comprehensive and challenging career. With intakes in the fall, winter and summer, this year-round program can be completed in four consecutive terms, or in the traditional two-year format. This allows greater flexibility for the student than other conventional technician programs. The Robotics program is constantly under review to continue to meet the needs of an ever-changing industry. Students who graduate from this program will enjoy many rewards including personal satisfaction and splendid career opportunities.
Entry requirementsYou would be an excellent fit for Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technician - Robotics if you: * Are self motivated; * Enjoy working with your hands; * Like problem solving through troubleshooting; and * Work well with others.
Academic titleDiploma (2 years)
Course description
Level 1
DAT9102 : Technology as a Useful Tool
This hybrid general education course incorporates the skill set to understand the infrastructure of technology commonly found in today's work place. The course highlights how computer technology contributes to various fields such as mechanical design, electronics, medicine and administration. Areas of study include essentials of a computer platform; its peripheral devices, application software, and local area networking (LAN).
ELN8613 Basic Electronic Assembly
In this course, students are exposed to soldering techniques. A series of projects offer practice in making soldered connections to a variety of terminals and installing and removing electronic components of printed circuit boards. Students also assemble BNC test leads from shielded cable. Theory lessons provide technical information.
ELN9101 Dc Electronics
This is a theory and lab course, with an emphasis on labs. Areas of study include, what electricity is, how it is produced, voltage, current, power, resistance, how to identify and measure the various components, as well as the relationship between them.
ELN9102 Ac Electronics
The theory and lab course examines the theory of alternating current and its special applications in electronic circuits. Topics covered include RMS, average, applied, peak-to-peak and instantaneous values. Lab experiments deal with RC and RL circuits, transformer characteristics and LC filters. RLC circuits, and series and parallel resonance are also covered.
MAT8001 Math Fundamentals
This course provides a review of mathematical fundamentals including: measurement and basic geometry; basic operations with numbers, algebraic expressions and algebraic fractions; formulas; factoring; solving linear, fractional and simple quadratic equations; exponents and radicals; graphs and their applications; and introduction to trigonometry of right angle triangles.
ROB8201 Pneumatics
During this hands-on course the student will demonstrate theoretical knowledge through the use of practical pneumatic circuits. Areas of study include, design and build pneumatic circuitry to address specific real-world industrial applications. Topics include but are not limited to: units of measure, directional control valves, check valves, limit switches, flow controls and different pneumatic actuators. As this course is based on a hands-on approach, work clothes and safety glasses are a must.
WEL9107 Welding - Oxyacetylene and Arc
This is a hands-on course in oxyacetylene, shield metal arc (SMAW), gas metal arc (MIG), and gas tungsten arc (TIG) welding. Students learn the basic setup and safe operation of all of these welding processes. Independent study and project-based learning are emphasized.
Level 2
CAD9101 Computer-Aided Design and Computer Numerical Control
In this course, students use Computer-Aided Design and Computer Numerical Control equipment to produce prototype part. Students produce drawings on a CAD system and program a CNC (mill or lathe) machining centre to produce the desired design. Independent study and lab-centered exercises are emphasized in this practical course. Innovative Design is encouraged.
ELN9190 Semi-Conductor Devices
This is an intense theory and lab course offered in an independent learning mode. The properties and uses of semi-conductors are related to solid-state devices, diodes, transistors and integrated circuits. Lab experiments examine and illustrate the proper use of semi-conductor components. The theory and experience used in this course have widespread applications in electronics.
ELN9191 Circuits
This course exposes the student to the knowledge and skills required to become familiar with a wide variety of circuit configurations and their characteristics. The components from DC, AC and Semiconductors are now tied together to form amplifiers, operational amplifiers and power supplies. The course is built on a series of modules, where each module is a building block for the next. Analytical skills and troubleshooting skills are further developed through the use of experiments.
ENL1813T Communications I
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
MAC9200 Machine Shop
This course covers the principles of machining. It focuses on metal removal operations and the selection of machine tools for specific operations, including the use of drill presses, lathes, milling machines, and grinders and jig borers.
PHY9180 Physics
This modularized theory course introduces the student to the fundamental principles of physics with an emphasis on technology. The concepts of linear motion, force and momentum, energy, work and power, mechanical advantage, thermodynamics, waves and magnetism are presented to the student through individualized instruction, lecture format when requested, and group tutoring. Students apply theories in a supervised laboratory setting, using a variety of experimentation tools and instruments.
Level 3
ELN8301 Digital Techniques I
This individualized course covers the fundamentals and theory of digital logic, including number systems. In lab experiments, students learn to design and apply modern digital circuitry. Topics of study include logic gates and Boolean algebra and the introduction to PLD's.
ELN8302 Digital Techniques II
This theory and lab course introduces students to sequential logic, circuits, combinational logic, flip-flops, counters shift registers, circuitry and digital design. Lab experiments involve practical applications and encourage creativity and design. The student will develop skills in designing digital circuitry for modern applications.
ELN9203 Microprocessors
The microprocessor is one of the most comprehensive and versatile self-contained electronic control systems in existence. As a result, an understanding of the microprocessor is vital to any study of robotics. This course uses a PIC microprocessor and assembly language to expose the student to various fundamental programming and interfacing techniques. Analytical and troubleshooting skills are further developed through experiments with the PIC and its associated components.
ELN9211 Dc and Ac Motor Controls
DC and AC motors are an intricate part of any industrial process. A thorough knowledge of how motors are controlled is a great asset to any Electro-Mechanical Technician. This course looks at various motors and their control circuits. The student will gain practical experience wiring and troubleshooting single and three phase circuits using logic control, forward/reverse starters, multiple motor control, relays and timers.
ROB8311 Electro-Pneumatics
During this hands-on course the student will demonstrate theoretical knowledge through the use of practical circuits with real life pressures and flow rates. This course introduces students to design and build fluid power circuitry to address specific real-world industrial applications. Topics include, but are not limited to: units of measure, directional control valves, check valves, ladder diagrams, relays, limit switches, flow controls and different fluid power actuators. Students will start with hydraulic systems, moving along to electrical and logic-based control of fluid power systems. As this course is based on hands-on approach, work clothes and safety glasses are a must. Be prepared to get dirty!
Choose one from equivalencies:
GED0550 General Education Elective
For this course, students have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Options include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Personal Understanding.
Level 4
ELN9204 Microprocessor Interfacing and Programming
This course is a follow-up to the Microprocessors course (ELN9203). Interfacing the PIC microcontroller to an assortment of electronic components demonstrates many of the various ways these components can be used in industry. Topics include; Temperature Sensors, Proximity Sensors, EEPROM Programming, Analog to Digital Conversion, Clocking Data in and out, Interfacing Displays, Real-Time Interfacing, and Programming the PIC using C and Assembly Language. Different methods of circuit analysis and troubleshooting skills are examined through experimentation with the PIC and its associated components
ELN9206 Mechanisms
This is a self-directed theory course, which familiarizes students with a variety of mechanical components found in almost all machines. These components include bearings, seals, shafts and keys, couplings, brakes and clutches and threaded fasteners. The course also introduces types of friction and lubrication.
ELN9207 Programmable Logic Controllers
The programmable logic controller has become the most powerful change to occur in the electronics world for factory automation. The ability to replace large banks of mechanical timers and relays with a software alternative has provided large cost savings in terms of equipment and upgrades. As an electro-mechanical technician, you will run into the PLC in a wide variety of applications. This course will provide practical experience in interfacing the PLC to conveyor belts, motors, sensors, pneumatic circuits, level sensors, robots and more. Completion of this course will enable a technician to convert a machine that is presently controlled by relay logic and motor driven timers to one that is PLC controlled. Knowledge gained from this course will show you that the PLC is as important to the industrial automation world as the personal computer is to the business world.
ENL1819T Reporting Technical Information
In this technical communication course, students draw upon knowledge acquired through their studies and through research to improve their skills in communication, critical thinking, and the documentation and evaluation of both primary and secondary sources. These combined skills are demonstrated in the production of workplace-oriented, vocationally related documents and presentations. Emphasis is placed on technical communication goals students are required to achieve for graduation.
ROB9205 Industrial Robot Fundamentals
In this course, students explore robotic applications and the various elements of robotic systems. The student is exposed to a variety of robots and their various parts; drives, controllers, arms, sensors and end effectors. This course involves research and creativity on the part of the student and a final project that simulates an industrial process.