Automation Laboratory
- programmable logic controllers (PLC)
- programmable automation controllers (PAC)
- motors and motor control
- sensing technology
- actuator technology
- industrial networks
The Department of Engineering Technology employs an applied approach to learning by transitioning concept theory taught in the classroom to hands-on development explored in the laboratory.
Students work together in multidiscipline teams to complete automated task-oriented projects using industry-standard hardware and software products. Projects range from simple computer-simulated programming exercises to the development of fully functional machine tools as students build their skills in automated control system technology.
The laboratory also provides graduate students the resources necessary to assist them with their applied research projects focused on automated control system technology. Past graduate students have completed projects on:
- integration of an automated vision system for product quality assurance in a medical manufacturing application
- development of a supervisory control system to monitor and control a work cell of 10 integrated machine tools
- development of a computer simulation application for process improvement of automated assembly system for a local manufacturer
- development of a linear to polar displacement control system to automate a tube bending application for a local manufacturer
- development of an automated clinical laboratory DNA/RNA processing system