Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation from Coursera

The "Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation" course is tailored to provide a comprehensive understanding of essential concepts and practical skills necessary for excelling in the field of collaborative robotics. Through three dynamic modules, participants will explore the intricacies of sensors & transducers in machine tools & robots, servo systems, and interfacing and simulation techniques. This course is designed to cater to the learning needs of undergraduate students of Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering, students specializing in robotics & automation, as well as post-graduate students of Mechanical Engineering & Computer-Aided Manufacturing Engineering. Additionally, practicing engineers in automation environments will find immense value in honing their skills through this specialized course.

As the backbone of modern industrial automation, robotics engineering holds immense significance in optimizing processes, enhancing productivity, and improving efficiency. Throughout the course, participants will delve into the nuances of robotic engineering, gripper designs, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), and mechatronics system design. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum ensures that students develop a holistic understanding of the subject, enabling them to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and expertise.

A strong foundation is laid through the prerequisites of the course, encompassing basics on industrial manufacturing, fundamentals of introductory mechatronics, introductory electronics, and applied physics. These prerequisites ensure that participants enter the course with the necessary background knowledge to fully engage with the advanced concepts presented throughout the modules.

Upon completion of this course, participants will acquire a diverse set of skill sets essential for success in the field of collaborative robotics. From robotic manipulator design to robotic gripper design, participants will gain proficiency in designing and implementing key components of robotic systems. Furthermore, the course emphasizes the importance of interfacing mechanical components with digital control circuitry, equipping participants with the ability to seamlessly integrate hardware and software components in automation environments.

A deep dive into sensor & transducer technology empowers participants to leverage cutting-edge sensing technologies for precise measurement, feedback, and control in robotic applications. Additionally, participants will develop troubleshooting skills essential for identifying and resolving issues in mechatronic systems, ensuring smooth operation in industrial settings. Mechatronics system design principles are thoroughly explored, enabling participants to conceptualize, design, and optimize complex systems tailored to specific industrial requirements.

The course culminates in simulation using MATLAB-Simulink, providing participants with hands-on experience in designing, modeling, and simulating robotic systems. This practical aspect of the course not only reinforces theoretical concepts but also prepares participants for real-world implementation and problem-solving.

In conclusion, the "Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation" course offers a transformative learning experience for individuals aspiring to excel in the dynamic field of collaborative robotics. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience, participants emerge with the expertise and confidence to make meaningful contributions to the future of industrial automation.

What's inside

Syllabus

Sensor & Transducers in Machine Tools & Robots

Mechatronics revolutionizes industries by seamlessly blending mechanical and electronic components, enhancing efficiency and adaptability. Sensors, acting as sensory organs, enable machines to perceive and respond to their environment, ensuring safety and functionality across diverse applications. From proximity to temperature sensors, these devices are pivotal for accurate and reliable operations in modern manufacturing.

Servo Systems in Machine Tools & Robots

Optical encoders ensure precise speed measurement in machine tools by converting shaft rotation into digital signals, vital for CNC machining and robotics. Sensor interfacing in CNC machines enables predictive maintenance, optimizing tool usage and enhancing machining efficiency. Autonomous mechatronic systems in machine tools operate independently, adapting to dynamic conditions, reducing human intervention, and optimizing processes.

Interfacing and Simulation

Industrial robots are meticulously designed for precision and efficiency, featuring structured systems with carefully arranged components like joints and links. These versatile robot manipulators excel in tasks ranging from manufacturing to surgery, offering precision and flexibility in complex environments. Tailored robotic configurations, along with specialized gripper designs, optimize efficiency across various applications, while microprocessors and PLCs orchestrate seamless control and automation in modern machinery.

Good to know

Know what's good

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, and possible dealbreakers

Tailored for individuals in robotics engineering, mechatronics, and undergraduate students in mechanical and mechatronics engineering

Well-suited for practicing engineers seeking to enhance their knowledge in automation environments

Provides a comprehensive foundation in sensors, transducers, servo systems, and interfacing techniques

Covers essential topics in robotics, including robotic gripper design, PLC, and mechatronics system design

Emphasizes practical skills through hands-on design, modeling, and simulation using MATLAB-Simulink

Prerequisite knowledge in industrial manufacturing, mechatronics, electronics, and physics is assumed

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation with these activities:

Review Fundamentals of Industrial Manufacturing

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Strengthen your understanding of the fundamentals of industrial manufacturing, providing a solid foundation for the concepts and techniques covered in the course.

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Review textbooks or online resources on industrial manufacturing.
Identify key concepts such as production processes, materials handling, and quality control.
Consider enrolling in an online course or workshop on industrial manufacturing fundamentals.

Explore online tutorials on mechatronics system design

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Guided tutorials can provide additional insights and practical examples to complement the course content on mechatronics system design.

Browse courses on Mechatronics

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Identify reputable online platforms or resources that offer tutorials on mechatronics system design.
Select tutorials that cover specific aspects or concepts related to the course material.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step and take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Apply the knowledge gained from the tutorials to your coursework and projects.

Find a mentor in the field of robotics

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Mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate the field of robotics and industrial automation.

Browse courses on Robotics

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Identify potential mentors who have experience and expertise in robotics and industrial automation.
Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in learning from them.
Establish regular meetings or communication channels with your mentor.
Seek feedback and advice from your mentor on your coursework, projects, and career goals.

Eight other activities

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Create a presentation on the applications of industrial robots

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Developing a presentation on the applications of industrial robots will reinforce your understanding of the various industries and tasks where robots are utilized.

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Research and identify different industries and applications where industrial robots are deployed.
Gather information on the specific tasks and benefits of using robots in these applications.
Design and create a visually appealing and informative presentation.
Consider incorporating examples, case studies, or videos to illustrate the practical aspects of industrial robot applications.
Present your findings to an audience or share your presentation online.

Learn from Industry Experts: Mechatronics Tutorials

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Supplement your course with video tutorials created by industry experts on mechatronics, providing practical insights and demonstrations to enhance your understanding.

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Identify relevant tutorials on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or YouTube.
Follow along with the tutorials, taking notes and asking questions in the discussion forums.
Practice implementing the concepts demonstrated in the tutorials.

Solve Mechatronics Engineering Problems

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Enhance your problem-solving abilities in mechatronics engineering by practicing with online exercises or quizzes, improving your critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

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Find online exercises or quizzes on mechatronics engineering topics.
Attempt to solve the problems or answer the questions.
Check your answers and review the explanations to identify areas for improvement.

Practice designing and simulating robotic manipulators

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Regular practice in designing and simulating robotic manipulators will enhance your understanding of the principles and techniques involved.

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Identify a specific robotic manipulator design problem or challenge.
Use CAD software or simulation tools to design and model the robotic manipulator.
Simulate the robotic manipulator's operation and performance.
Analyze the simulation results and identify areas for improvement.
Refine the design and simulation process based on the analysis.

Participate in Robotics and Automation Study Group

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Engage with fellow students in a study group dedicated to robotics and automation, fostering discussions, sharing insights, and tackling challenges together to improve your understanding.

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Join or form a study group with classmates or other learners interested in robotics and automation.
Set regular meeting times and establish a study schedule.
Discuss course material, work on assignments collaboratively, and exchange knowledge.

Practice Designing Robotic Manipulators

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Sharpen your skills in designing robotic manipulators by completing online coding exercises or practice problems, gaining confidence in applying the concepts learned in the course.

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Find online coding exercises or practice problems related to robotic manipulator design.
Attempt to solve the exercises and problems, referring to course materials and resources for assistance.
Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement.

Develop a prototype for a robotic gripper

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Building a physical prototype of a robotic gripper will provide hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of the design and functionality of grippers.

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Research and identify the requirements and specifications for the robotic gripper.
Design and model the robotic gripper using CAD software.
Select appropriate materials and fabrication techniques for the gripper.
Assemble and test the robotic gripper prototype.
Evaluate the performance of the prototype and make necessary modifications.

Develop a Prototype for a Robotic Gripper

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Apply your knowledge of robotic gripper design to create a physical prototype, demonstrating your ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical solutions.

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Design the robotic gripper, considering its purpose, materials, and actuation mechanism.
Source the necessary components and materials.
Assemble and test the robotic gripper, making adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Automation Engineer

Automation Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems in manufacturing and industrial settings. This course covers topics such as PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), servo systems, and interfacing techniques, providing Automation Engineers with the expertise to create efficient and reliable automated solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Automation Engineer

Robotics Engineer

Robotics Engineers play a crucial role in designing, building, and maintaining robots for various industries. The "Fundamentals of Robotics & Industrial Automation" course provides a strong foundation in sensors and transducers, mechatronics system design, and robotic manipulator design, equipping Robotics Engineers with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Mechatronics Engineer

Mechatronics Engineers merge the disciplines of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to design and develop complex electromechanical systems. A solid understanding of sensors and transducers, mechatronics system design, and robotic gripper design, as taught in this course, is essential for success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer

Systems Engineer

Systems Engineers oversee the design, development, and deployment of complex systems that integrate multiple components. The interdisciplinary nature of this course, covering topics from sensors and transducers to simulation using MATLAB-Simulink, provides a broad foundation for Systems Engineers to excel in this multifaceted role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineers are responsible for optimizing production processes and improving manufacturing efficiency. This course provides insights into industrial manufacturing, sensor interfacing in CNC machines, and mechatronics principles, which are all essential knowledge for Manufacturing Engineers to design and implement efficient manufacturing systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer

Industrial Designer

Industrial Designers combine art and engineering to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products for various industries. The course's focus on robotic gripper design and user-centered design principles provides Industrial Designers with the knowledge to create innovative and ergonomic robotic solutions.

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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design and develop a wide range of mechanical systems, including machinery, robots, and vehicles. A solid understanding of sensors and transducers, servo systems, and mechatronics system design, as taught in this course, is highly beneficial for Mechanical Engineers to develop effective and efficient mechanical designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and components. This course provides a foundation in sensors and transducers, interfacing techniques, and servo systems, which are essential knowledge for Electrical Engineers to work with robotic and automated systems.

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Computer Engineer

Computer Engineers design and develop computer systems and software. This course provides insights into interfacing mechanical components with digital control circuitry and simulation techniques, which are valuable skills for Computer Engineers to create robust and reliable software solutions for robotic applications.

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Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspectors ensure that products meet established quality standards. The course's emphasis on sensors and transducers, precision measurement techniques, and troubleshooting skills can enhance the ability of Quality Control Inspectors to effectively inspect robotic systems and components.

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Maintenance Technician

Maintenance Technicians repair and maintain machinery and equipment in various industrial settings. The course's coverage of sensors and transducers, servo systems, and troubleshooting skills can equip Maintenance Technicians with the knowledge and abilities to effectively maintain and repair robotic systems.

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Production Manager

Production Managers oversee production operations to ensure efficiency and profitability. This course provides insights into industrial manufacturing, mechatronics principles, and robotic applications, which can help Production Managers understand the integration of robotics and automation into production processes.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and oversee projects to achieve specific goals. Understanding the principles of robotics and automation, as covered in this course, can help Project Managers effectively lead projects involving the implementation of robotic systems.

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Sales Engineer

Sales Engineers provide technical expertise to customers during the sales process. This course provides a foundation in robotics and automation, enabling Sales Engineers to effectively communicate the benefits and applications of robotic solutions to potential customers.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation and instructions for technical products and services. This course provides insights into the design and functionality of robotic systems, enabling Technical Writers to create clear and accurate documentation for robotic applications.

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