Course

Fundamentals of Automation: Evolution and history, Hard vs soft automation- components of automated system – sensors, actuators and controllers – Introduction to open and closed loop system –Batch and continuous automation – current and future trends in automation.

Introduction to robotics: Definition and structure of a robot – Classification- industrial, service, mobile and aerial. Robot anatomy – links, joints, actuators and end-effector. Concept of degree of freedom, workspace and configuration space. Levels of robot autonomy. AI integration in automation and robotics.

Applications: Few case studies in Industrial automation and Robotics, pick and place robot, human robot interaction. Cyber-physical systems, IoT in automation. Ethical and societal aspects or robotics.

Course Objectives

• To provide foundational knowledge of automation and robotics, including system components, classifications, and modes of operation.
• To familiarize students with real-world applications of automation and robotics, incorporating emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and cyber-physical systems.

Course Outcomes

At the end of the course the student will be able to

CO1: Explain the fundamental concepts and evolution of automation systems, including differences between hard and soft automation.

CO2: Describe the structure and classification of robots, along with the basic concepts like degrees of freedom, workspace, and autonomy levels.

CO3: Analyse the role of sensors, actuators, controllers, and different types of automation

CO4: Evaluate real-world case studies involving robotics and automation, and understand ethical, societal, and technological impacts.

CO-PO Mapping

Craig, John J., Introduction to Robotics: Mechanics and Control, 4th Edition, Pearson Education, 2017.
Frank Lamb, Industrial Automation: Hands-On, McGraw-Hill Education, 2013.