Dec 18, 2025  
BC3 Academic Catalog: 2024-2025 
    
BC3 Academic Catalog: 2024-2025 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

MECH 220 - Automation and Robotics

3 Credits: (2 lecture, 2 lab)

Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the basic principles of industrial robotic technology and automation.  Motion control systems, electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic power systems, and sensing systems are introduced.  Concepts are reinforced with hands-on lab exercises, including programming of an industrial robot. 

Note Spring semester only.

Prerequisite MATH 117 or MATH 101.


Text
Rehg, James A. (2003). Introduction to robotics in cim systems (5th ed.). Upper  Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Objectives
The student will be able to:

A. Define technical specifications associated with industrial robots.

B. Explain the machine classifications used by the robot industry.

C. Classify the various types of automated workcell support equipment.

D. Explain the basic end-of-arm tooling classifications.

E. Use industrial sensors.

F. Demonstrate safety practices needed in automated systems.

G. Program an industrial robot to perform a typical industrial task.

Content
A. Safety in robotic installations.

B. Robot arm geometries and work envelopes.

C. Power sources and drive systems.

D. Path control techniques.

E. Kinematics.

F. End-of-arm tooling.

G. Automation sensors.

H. Robot accuracy, repeatability and payload.

I. Vision systems.

J. Programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

K. Programming and process flowcharting.

Student Evaluation
The objectives will be evaluated as follows: A, B, C, D, E, F and G will be evaluated using homework assignments, examinations and laboratory exercises.