Level 4 – Automation, Robotics and PLCs

Pearson/Edexcel BTEC Level 4 Engineering – Automation, Robotics and PLCs

This unit can be studied  as part of a BTEC HNC or HND in Engineering. 

Unit introduction

The word automation was not used until the 1940s and it originated in the automotive manufacturing sector as a method designed to reduce labour costs and improve the quality, accuracy and precision of the finished products. We are all now very familiar with the sight of dancing robots, not only in the production of cars but in everything from washing machines to pharmaceuticals. As a result of this technology the products we purchase may have never been touched by human hands and we all benefit from a reduction in costs and improvement in quality.

The aim of this unit is to investigate how Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and industrial robots can be programmed to successfully implement automated engineering solutions. Within the PLC topics, different types of programming languages are practiced using Siemens LOGO software.   For a better understanding of  robotics, students will use RoboDK for simulation and offline programming of industrial robots.

On completion of this unit you should:

1. Describe the design and operational characteristics of a PLC system.
2. Design a simple PLC program by considering PLC information, programming and communication techniques.
3. Describe the key elements of industrial robots and be able to program them with straightforward commands to perform a given task.
4. Investigate the design and safe operation of a robot within an industrial application.

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