Wake Tech's Industrial Automation Technician Training is perfect for individuals looking to engage with companies that use automated processes and advanced manufacturing systems. If you have a knack for mechanical and electrical components or prior experience in the field, this program can enhance your skills and propel your career forward.
Industrial automation training focuses on equipping participants with the skills needed to operate, maintain and troubleshoot various systems that facilitate automation in industrial processes. The training encompasses a range of critical topics:
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which are pivotal for controlling machinery and equipment
- Robotics, which involves the design and use of automated machines that can perform tasks traditionally done by humans
- Distributed control systems (DCS), which are used to monitor and control industrial processes across multiple locations
Through hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies work together to enhance efficiency, safety and productivity in manufacturing and other industrial settings.
Financial assistance available
Workforce Development offers financial assistance for many workforce training programs through the Propel program and other resources. Email [email protected] for more information.
Industry-recognized credential: Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) micro-credentials
Complete in: Three to 12 months
Automation Technologist
Are you seeking training in specific areas of Advanced Manufacturing? Wake Tech's Automation Technologist pathway offers five 96-hour courses focused on a specific, in-demand skill sets within Advanced Manufacturing. Courses can be completed within three months.
- Mechatronics Technician (MEC-3010Q1) – Pneumatics, PLCs and automation
- Mechanical Technician (MEC-3010P1) – Electrical, motor control, PLCs and automation
- Electrical Technician (MEC-3010O1) – Motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and automation
- Entry-Level Mechatronics Technician (MEC-3010R1) – Electrical, motor control, pneumatics and mechanical drives
- Robotics Programmer – Motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and automation
Foundations of Automation
Get a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of automation in modern manufacturing and industrial settings. These courses covers key concepts such as electrical and motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and robotics. Courses can be completed in eight months.
- Fundamentals of Electric Circuits & Motor Control (ATR-3115C1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-201 and C-202
- Introduction to Pneumatics & Pneumatics Troubleshooting (ATR-3115E1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-209 and C-304
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting (MEC-3010M1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Collaborative Robotics Technician Level 1 (MEC-3010K1)
PLC Technician
A PLC technician specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of programmable logic controllers, which are compact computing devices designed to automate and control an array of machinery and systems. These sophisticated controllers play a crucial role in various industries, managing everything from the smooth operation of traffic lights that regulate urban flow to the precise movements of assembly line machines that drive manufacturing efficiency. Courses can be completed in three months.
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Programming & Networking
Mechatronics Technician
Explore the fundamentals of mechatronics, which combines mechanical, electrical and software engineering to maintain automated systems. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical, hands-on experience in the Advanced Manufacturing Lab, participants engage with industry-standard tools and technologies. By the end of this training pathway, students will have a solid foundation in automation concepts, preparing them to enter the workforce or pursue advanced certifications in the field. This foundational knowledge will empower individuals to effectively engage with automated systems and enhance their career opportunities in the growing field of industrial automation. Courses can be completed in 12 months.
- Fundamentals of Electric Circuits & Motor Control (ATR-3115C1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-201 and C-202
- Electrical Schematics & Troubleshooting (ATR-3115F3)
- Introduction to Pneumatics & Pneumatics Troubleshooting (ATR-3115E1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-209 and C-304
- Mechanical Drive Systems (ATR-3115D1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-210 and C-301
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Programming & Networking
- Automation Systems
Industrial Automation Technician Courses
Collaborative Robotics Technician Level 1
Course Objectives
Have an understanding of workplace safety including maintaining an awareness of the work environment, ensuring it's cleanliness, identifying potential hazards, awareness of emergency procedures and emergency exit routes. Students will also receive training on personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as basic safety precautions for working with robots.
Have an understanding of safety functionality, including the safe use of tools and machinery. Students will learn the importance of checklists when operating equipment and machinery.
Understand Blueprints and how to read them. Successful students should be able to read a basic blueprint and determine the critical features of a part to ensure proper installation and that quality standards are being met.
Have an understanding of basic electrical theory including electrical terminology and fundamental measures. Topics covered include Ohm's law, Watt's Law, amperage, voltage, resistance, and wattage. Students will also learn the basics of electrical hazards and safe work practices.
Have an understanding of the basics of programmable logic controllers (PLC's), their functions and operation. Students will learn the different types of PLC's and develop a basic understanding of how they are programmed.
Have an understanding of basic pneumatic theory. Students will learn the different components of pneumatic power systems, how they function and how pneumatics are integrated into Robotic systems.
Have an understanding of the most common applications of industrial automation and collaborative robotics, and how they work together. Students will learn basics of robotic components, including arms, end effectors and axes. Students will understand how axes are used to control robot movement.
Develop an understanding of sensors that provide feedback data to robots and be able to explain the categories of sensors and show how sensors are used in industrial and collaborative robotics.
Have learned the basics of robotic connectivity, including proper electrical and pneumatic connections, verification of connections, and how to make adjustments.
Develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts required for programming collaborative robots, including the use of the Pendant Controller, and Reteach Points. Students will create a program, install the program, save it, and backup the system.
Know the robot machine modes (automatic and manual), understand when each should be used, and know how to switch from one to the other quickly in the event of an emergency. Students will also understand how to operate the robot at variable speeds to identify mechanical issues and ensure the robot is operating safely in the work environment.
Develop a working understanding of the troubleshooting process and how to identify problems, including quality control issues, and their causes.
Learn how to start, stop, and clear errors that might occur during the operation of the robot, and develop an understanding of why the errors might have occurred.
Learn how to recover from a robot crash, understand why the crash occurred, and evaluate the robot to ensure the crash did not damage the system.
Gain a working understanding of the importance of maintenance, as well as when to call in a Maintenance Technician for repairs.
Learn the importance of personal interaction with customers and co-workers. Students will understand the need to focus on customer service and satisfaction.
Outline of Instruction
Contact Hours
132
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
FANUC HandlingTool Operation and Programming Certification and/or Smart Automation Certification Alliance
Website
fanucamerica.com; saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
FANUC:
1. Robot safety and safety devices
2. Robot systems and components
3. Initial robot installation and start up
4. Basic robot operations using teach pendant
5. Basic robot programming
6. Program file manipulations
7. Robot integration
8. Troubleshooting system errors
9. Simulations for robots
SACA:
1. Electrical System Safety, Electrical Circuits, Electrical Diagrams and Measurements, Electrical Circuits
2. Electrical Motor Controls
3. Pneumatic Systems
4. Pneumatic Troubleshooting
5. Programmable Controller Systems
6. Programmable Controller Troubleshooting
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
Basic math and general computer skills
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, Collaborative Robots, Robotics Systems training panels and associated tools and equipment
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all modules with a minimum score of 75% for each module.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
This course is intended for personnel who wish to be employed in an industry position that utilizes Collaborative Robotics Operators
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Robotics Operator
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled robotics operators to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Robotics Operator
| Details | Section | Date(s) | Location | Price | Seats | 312661 | 08/11/25 - 11/24/25 | BEC | 352.00 | 15 | Register |
|---|
If you would like to be notified when additional sections become available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Introduction to PLCs and PLC Troubleshooting
Course Objectives
1. Start up and shut down a PLC system
2. Power up and perform a normal shutdown of a PLC system
3. Identify the parts of a PLC
4. Describe the basic operation of a programmable controller (PLC)
5. Describe the component functions of a PLC
6. Describe the operation of the PLC power supply circuit
7. Configure an Ethernet/IP Driver
8. Configure an Ethernet/IP Driver to permit PLC to PC communications
9. Describe the function of Ethernet/IP driver software
10. Transfer programs between a PLC / PC via point-to-point Ethernet
11. Connect and configure a point-to-point PLC Ethernet network
12. Download a PLC project from a PC via point-to-point Ethernet
13. Upload a PLC project to a PC via point-to-point Ethernet
14. Describe the basic operation of a point-to-point Ethernet network
15. Describe the Ethernet IP address system for point-to-point
16. Describe the basic operation of PLC programming software
17. Connect and configure a point-to-point PLC serial network
18. Download a PLC project from a PC via point-to-point USB serial
19. Upload a PLC project to a PC via point-to-point USB serial
20.Describe the basic operation of USB serial communications
21. Describe the USB configuration using PLC programming software
22. Change PLC operation mode to Run or Program
23. Monitor PLC status using I/O indicators and software
24. Describe the functions of PLC operation modes
25. Connect and configure HMI panel with Ethernet network
26. Download a project to an HMI panel via an Ethernet network
27. Operate a basic HMI panel project with Ethernet network
28. Describe the operation of a Human Machine Interface (HMI) panel
29. Transfer programs between a PLC / PC via USB serial
30. Operate and monitor a PLC
31. Connect, configure, and operate an HMI panel with Ethernet
32. Describe basic functions of an HMI panel project
33. Configure PLC discrete I/O
34. Identify a discrete I/O terminal given a tag
35. Describe the memory organization of a typical PLC
36. Describe types of discrete PLC I/O modules
37. Describe how discrete I/O devices are interfaced to a PLC
38. Describe the format of PLC instruction and I/O addresses
39. Interpret a tag
40. Interpret a basic PLC ladder logic program
41. Interpret a basic PLC I/O diagram
42. Interpret a basic PLC power diagram
43. Design and test a basic PLC ladder program
44. Describe the operation of basic PLC logic instructions: normally-open, normally-closed,
output coil, internal coils, timers, and up/down counters
45. Describe the symbolic, absolute discrete I/O address system
46. Create a PLC project
47. Enter and operate a PLC logic program
48. Edit a PLC project
49. Describe the elements of a PLC project
50. Configure PLC discrete I/O
51. Program and operate a basic PLC logic program
52. Create a PLC project
53. Program and operate a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
54. Interpret a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
55. Enter and operate a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
56. Interpret the operation of a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
57. Describe the operation of PLC comparison instructions
58. Interpret a PLC logic program that uses basic math instructions: Add, Subtract, Divide, and Multiply
59. Enter and operate a PLC program that uses basic math instructions
60. Interpret a PLC logic program that uses a Compute instruction
61. Enter and operate a PLC program that uses a Compute instruction
62. Design and test a PLC program that uses math instructions
63. Describe the operation and applications of basic PLC math instructions
64. Describe the operation and applications of PLC Compute instruction
65. Interpret the operation of PLC motor control sequence program
66. Design and test the operation of a PLC motor control sequence program
67. Describe the operation of a seal-in logic program
68. Describe the operation of a PLC-controlled motor control circuit
69. Describe the operation of a reversing motor control
70. Interpret the operation of an event-driven 2-step PLC sequence program
71. Interpret the operation of a time-driven 2-step PLC sequence program
72. Design and test a basic event-driven PLC sequence program
73. Design and test a time-driven PLC sequence program
74. Describe the operation of an event-driven PLC sequence program
75. Describe the operation of a time-driven PLC sequence program
76. Use status and diagnostic indicators to troubleshoot a PLC
77. Describe two levels of troubleshooting and give an application of each
78. Describe types of PLC faults
79. Troubleshoot PLC inputs and outputs
80. Force on a PLC output
81. Troubleshoot PLC inputs and outputs
82. Describe the function/applications of forcing outputs
83. Describe types of input/output module and field device faults
84. Describe methods of troubleshooting inputs and outputs
85. Troubleshoot PLC power distribution system
86. Troubleshoot power distribution faults
87. Describe the operation of a PLC power distribution system
88. Describe types of power distribution faults
89. Describe methods of troubleshooting power distribution faults
90. Troubleshoot a PLC processor
91. Describe types of processor faults
92. Describe methods of troubleshooting processor faults
93. Troubleshoot a PLC system with discrete I/O
94. Describe methods of systems troubleshooting
95. Describe a 6-step PLC systems troubleshooting process
96. Interpret the operation of a multi-step event-driven PLC sequence program
97. Interpret the operation of a multi-step time-driven PLC sequence program
98. Design and test a PLC multi-step PLC sequence program
99. Describe the operation of a multi-step event-driven and time-driven PLC sequence programs
100. Describe types of PLC documentation: truth table, sequence of operation
101. Describe how to interpret a multi-step PLC sequence program
102. Troubleshoot a multi-step PLC sequence program with event-driven and time-driven steps
103. Describe how to troubleshoot PLC sequence programs
Outline of Instruction
1. PLC Workplace Safety
• Lab: Demonstrate proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when working with PLC
systems. Have students show how to apply PPE in various PLC troubleshooting scenarios and understand
under what circumstances each type is required.
2. Safety Procedures in PLC Operations
• Lab: Demonstrate the use of tools and equipment specific to PLC installation and maintenance.
Students will display proper lifting methods for heavy PLC hardware and components. Demonstrate the
use of checklists prior to operating or troubleshooting PLC equipment. Have students generate PLCspecific safety checklists.
3. PLC Ladder Logic Programming
• Lab: Learn the fundamentals of creating logic using PLC ladder diagrams. Students will practice
designing and interpreting ladder logic programs used in PLCs for various control applications.
4. Electrical Concepts in PLC Systems
• Lab: Review basic electrical safety in the context of PLC systems. Demonstrate how to use a
Digital Volt/Ohm Meter (VOM) to read resistance, continuity, voltage, and current in PLC circuits. Students
will wire simple series and parallel control circuits connected to PLC inputs and outputs and verify their
proper function.
5. Introduction to PLC Hardware and Software
• Lab: Have students identify common PLC hardware components and describe the function of
each. Demonstrate and have students practice programming using relay ladder logic. Students will review
PLC safety procedures, wire a PLC system, verify inputs and outputs, load pre-written code, and confirm
system functionality. They will then make simple modifications to existing code, save changes, download
to the PLC, and verify the updated function.
6. PLC Control of Pneumatic Systems
• Lab: Review pneumatic safety with a focus on PLC-controlled pneumatic systems. Students will
build a pneumatic circuit integrated with a PLC, verify the inputs and outputs, and ensure the system
operates as intended.
7. PLC Applications in Industrial Automation
• Lab: Describe how PLCs are utilized in industrial automation processes, including material
handling systems, material identification systems, and manufacturing execution systems. Students will
explore PLC integration with robotic components such as servomotors, robotic arms, end effectors,
grippers, and encoders. They will demonstrate methods for axis control using PLC programming and
describe various types of end effectors and grippers and their applications.
8. PLC Integration with Sensors
• Lab: Describe various types of sensors used in PLC systems, their applications, and limitations.
Students will demonstrate the use of sensors within a PLC-controlled robotic system, including
implementing emergency stop functions and safety interlocks to halt robot motion in emergencies.
9. Interfacing PLCs with Robotic Systems
• Lab: Identify the terminology used in specifying safeguarding systems for PLC-controlled robots.
Distinguish between pneumatic and electric drives as controlled by PLCs. Demonstrate and have students
perform lockout/tagout procedures on PLC and robotic equipment. Review relevant safety guidelines and
standards for PLC and robotic system integration.
10. Advanced PLC Programming and Troubleshooting
• Lab: Students will demonstrate a basic understanding of advanced PLC programming methods.
They will use teach pendants in "teach mode" to program PLC-controlled robotic systems. Students will
practice "walk-through" and "lead-through" programming techniques and discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of online versus offline PLC programming. They will describe the role of PLCs in computer-integrated manufacturing, identify common coordinate systems used in PLC-controlled robotics, and
distinguish between different types of program codes. Finally, students will explain the importance of
maintaining current backups of all PLC programs and configurations to aid in troubleshooting and system
recovery.
Contact Hours
132
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
Smart Automation Certification Alliance (Programmable Controller Systems 1 (C-207) and Programmable Controller Troubleshooting (C-208))
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
1. PLC Workplace Safety
2. Safety Procedures in PLC Operations
3. PLC Ladder Logic Programming
4. Electrical Concepts in PLC Systems
5. Introduction to PLC Hardware and Software
6. PLC Control of Pneumatic Systems
7. PLC Applications in Industrial Automation
8. PLC Integration with Sensors
9. Interfacing PLCs with Robotic Systems
10. Advanced PLC Programming and Troubleshooting
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
High School Graduate or GED; at least 18 years of age; reading level of 10th grade or higher. Basic math and general computer skills.
Learning Supplies Needed
PLCs, Programmable Devices (laptops)
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all modules with a minimum score of 75% for each module.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Controls Technician, and/or Tech Level I, II, or III
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled
robotics operators to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Controls Technician
Controls Technician Level I
Controls Technician Level II
Controls Technician Level III
| Details | Section | Date(s) | Location | Price | Seats | 312659 | 08/06/25 - 11/19/25 | BEC | 352.00 | 13 | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 312022 | 08/07/25 - 10/17/25 | BEC | 352.00 | 15 | Register |
If you would like to be notified when additional sections become available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Mechatronics Technician
Course Objectives
1. Gain an understanding of pneumatic circuits and how to troubleshoot pneumatic systems.
2. Learn PLC architecture.
3. Operate PLCs and program subroutines and sequencing events.
4. Learn to troubleshoot PLCs and return them to proper function.
5. Develop foundational knowledge in how robotics systems are integrated into automated manufacturing environments.
6. Learn basic robotics operation principles and programming techniques.
Outline of Instruction
- Pneumatics Power Systems
o Introduction to pneumatics and safety
o Pneumatic Power
o Circuit Connections
o Cylinder Circuits
- Pneumatic Troubleshooting
o Pneumatic Troubleshooting Concepts
o In-Circuit Pneumatic Component Testing
o Troubleshooting Trainer Practice
- Introduction to PLCs
o Introduction to PLC Architecture
o Data Communications
o Industrial Networks
o Ethernet TCP/IP Operations
o PC-PLC Connections
o Network Addressing
o RSLinx Communications
o Configure IP Addresses
- PLC Operation
o Basic Operation
o Program Operations
o Memory Organization
o Counters
o Timers
o Subroutines
o Event Sequencing
o Program Analysis
- PLC Troubleshooting
o PLC Programming Languages
o Processor Troubleshooting
o Systems Troubleshooting Techniques
- Introduction to Robots
o Basic Robot/Cobot Systems
o Controllers
o Applications
o Mechanical Units
o Battery Systems
o Jogging
o 6-Axis Robot Operation
o Configuration
o Program Validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
1. Basic Operations
2. Advanced Operations
3. Robot System Operations
4. IIoT, Networking and Data Analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None.
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides; PLC and pneumatics trainers, Robotics Systems training panels and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how PLCs and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Mechatronics Technician; Maintenance Technician; Robotics Technician; Automation Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Mechatronics Technician
Maintenance Technician
Mechatronics Operator
Robotics Technician
Automation Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Mechanical Technician
Course Objectives
1. Learn the components of electrical circuits and series.
2. Understand how to correctly measure electrical output and draw.
3. Understand different transformer types and their applications.
4. Learn ladder logic fundamentals.
5. Demonstrate how ladder logic is used to program and operate robots/cobots.
6. Develop a working knowledge of how robots/cobots are controlled, programmed, and used in automated manufacturing environments.
Outline of Instruction
- Electrical Circuits & Systems
o Fundamentals of electricity
o Electrical safety & lockout/tagout
o Electrical Components
o Input/Output devices
- Electrical Measurements
o Voltage measurement
o Current measurement
o Resistance measurement
o Series & parallel circuits
- Transformers
o Introduction to transformers
o Transformer sizing
o Transformer types
- Ladder Logic
o Diagram Basics
o Logic Elements
- Introduction to PLCs
o Introduction to PLC architecture
o Data Communications
o Industrial networks
o Ethernet TCP/IP operations
o PC-PLC connections
o Network addressing
o RSLinx communications
o Configuring IP addresses
- PLC Operation
o Basic PLC operation
o Program operations
o Memory organization
o Counters
o Timers
o Subroutines
o Event sequencing
o Program Analysis
- Introduction to Robots
o Basic robot/cobot systems
o Controllers
o Applications
o Mechanical units
o Battery systems
o Jogging
o 6-Axis robot operation
o Configuration
o Program validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
1. Basic Operations
2. Advanced Operations
3. Robot System Operations
4. IIoT, Networking and Data Analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, Collaborative Robots, robotics systems training panels, electrical circuit training panels, and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how mechanical systems, electrical systems, PLCs, and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Mechanical Technician; Mechatronics Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Mechanical Technician
Mechatronics Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Electrical Technician
Course Objectives
1. Learn three-phase power in the context of automated manufacturing systems
2. Develop an understanding of how pneumatic systems work and how to troubleshoot those systems
3. Integrate an understanding of ladder logic into pneumatically-operated manufacturing systems
4. Set up PLCs to control robotic systems and communicate to multiple devices
5. Describe various types of robotic systems and how they are employed in automated manufacturing environments
6. Employ PLC programs to control robotic systems
Outline of Instruction
- Introduction to Motor Control
o Three-Phase Power
o Electrical Safety
o Protective Devices
o Three-Phase Motors
- Ladder Logic
o Diagram Basics
o Logic Elements
- Pneumatic Power Systems
o Introduction to Pneumatics and Safety
o Pneumatic Power
o Circuit Connections
o Cylinder Circuits
- Basic Pneumatic Circuits
o Flow Control Valves
o Speed Control
o DCV Applications
o Pneumatic Maintenance
- Introduction to PLCs
o Introduction to PLC Architecture
o Data Communications
o Industrial Networks
o Ethernet TCP/IP Operations
o PC-PLC Connections
o Network Addressing
o RSLinx Communications
o Configure IP Addresses
- PLC Operation
o Basic Operation
o Program Operations
o Memory Organization
o Counters
o Timers
o Subroutines
o Event Sequencing
o Program Analysis
- Introduction to Robots
o Basic Robot/Cobot Systems
o Controllers
o Applications
o Mechanical Units
o Battery Systems
o Jogging
o 6-Axis Robot Operation
o Configuration
o Program Validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
1. Basic Operations
2. Advanced Operations
3. Robot System Operations
4. IIoT, Networking and Data Analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None.
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, collaborative robots, pneumatics trainers, robotics systems training panels, PLC trainers, and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how PLCs and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Electrical Technician; Mechanical Technician; Automation Technician; Maintenance Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Electrical Technician
Mechanical Technician
Automation Technician
Maintenance Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech's Notify Me service.
Entry-Level Mechatronics Technician
Course Objectives
1. Gain a foundational understanding of electrical theory and how circuits work
2. Understand core aspects of electrical safety and how to apply it in real-world scenarios
3. Demonstrate understandings of electrical measurements
4. Explain the purposes of transformers, their applications, and applicable sizes/types
5. Illustrate applications of three-phase power and, its specific safety protocols, and how it is used to power motors
6. Learn ladder logic elements and how they apply to programming PLCs
7. Outline pneumatic system components and their control mechanisms
8. Demonstrate knowledge of various mechanical drive systems, how to troubleshoot them, and maintain equipment with integrated mechanical drive components
Outline of Instruction
- Basic Electrical Circuits
o Fundamentals of Electricity
o Electrical Safety/Lock Out Tag Out
o Electrical Components
o Input/Output Devices
- Electrical Measurements
o Voltage Measurement
o Current Measurement
o Resistance Measurement
o Series & Parallel Circuits
- Transformers
o Introduction to Transformers
o Sizing of Transformers
o Transformer Types
- Introduction to Motor Control
o Three-Phase Power
o Electrical Safety
o Protective Devices
o Three-Phase Motors
- Ladder Logic
o Diagram Basics
o Logic Elements
- Pneumatic Power Systems
o Introduction to Pneumatics
o Pneumatics Safety
o Pneumatic Power
o Circuit Connections
o Cylinder Circuits
- Basic Pneumatic Circuits
o Flow Control Valves
o Speed Control
o DCV Applications
o Pneumatic Maintenance
- Introduction to Mechanical Drives
o Power System Transmission Safety
o Motor Mounting
o Gear Drives
o V-Belt Drives
o Chain Drives
- Torque, Power, and Efficiency
o Machine Loading
o Rotary Power
o Mechanical Efficiency
o Shaft Torque
- Power Transmission Systems
o Shaft Alignment
o V-Belt Operation
o Chain Drive Operation
o Spur Gear Operation
o System Maintenance
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
1. Basic Operations
2. Advanced Operations
3. Robot System Operations
4. IIoT, Networking and Data Analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None.
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, collaborative robots, pneumatics trainers, robotics systems training panels, PLC trainers, and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center;
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher.
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to become an entry-level mechatronics technician.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Mechatronics Technician, Mechanical Technician, Electrical Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Mechatronics Technician
Mechanical Technician
Electrical Technician
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