Overview
This unit aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles and concepts of industrial control and automation. The unit will focus on the essential components of automation systems. You will also gain practical expertise in programming Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) using ladder logic and other programming languages. This unit will offer hands-on, project-based learning opportunities that will enable you to apply your theoretical knowledge in practical settings. In this unit, you will learn to configure sensors, actuators, and control equipment to solve industrial problems. You will assess multiple options and choose the best combination of components for your design. Additionally, you will create, evaluate, and simulate an automation solution to a given industry issue using industry-standard components, software, and PLCs. This unit aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9: "Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure" by fostering innovative and sustainable industrialisation using industrial automation solutions.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Prerequisites: ENEX12002 Introductory Electronics OR (ENEE13018 Analogue Electronics & ENEE13020 Digital Electronics).
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2024
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Residential Schools
This unit has a Compulsory Residential School for distance mode students and the details are:
Click here to see your Residential School Timetable.
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student unit evaluation survey
The available learning materials and resources are insufficient to help students to learn independently.
Learning resources and video lectures should be improved with interactive content for independent learning.
Feedback from Unit Coordinator's reflection
The unit lacks adequate real-world examples of industrial automation systems.
Industrial automation-related technologies and real-world examples should be included in the unit content.
Feedback from Unit Coordinator's reflection
The online test may not be an adequate method for evaluating the practical knowledge of students.
The online test should be replaced with a practical project that applies industrial automation technologies to solve real-world problems.
- Understand the principles and concepts of industrial control and automation, including sensors, actuators, controllers, communication systems and feedback mechanisms
- Demonstrate proficiency in programming Programmable Logic Controllers using languages such as ladder logic
- Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on, project-based learning experiences that simulate real-world industrial automation problems, including the design and implementation of control logic
- Evaluate appropriate sensors and actuators for controlling physical parameters in industrial processes
- Comply with relevant industry standards and regulations governing industrial automation to ensure system reliability and safety
- Collaborate proficiently in teams when presenting solutions to industrial automation problems.
Learning Outcomes for this unit are linked with the Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competency Standards for Professional Engineers in the areas of
1. Knowledge and Skills Base, 2. Engineering Application Ability, and 3. Professional and Personal Attributes at the following levels:
Intermediate
1.2 Conceptual understanding of the mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, and computer and information sciences that underpin the engineering discipline. (LO: 1I 3I)
1.5 Knowledge of engineering design practice and contextual factors impacting the engineering discipline. (LO: 4I 5I)
1.6 Understanding of the scope, principles, norms, accountabilities and bounds of sustainable engineering practice in the specific discipline. (LO: 4I 5I)
3.1 Ethical conduct and professional accountability. (LO: 4I 5I 6I)
3.2 Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains. (LO: 1I 2I 5I 6I)
3.3 Creative, innovative and proactive demeanour. (LO: 3I 6I)
3.4 Professional use and management of information. (LO: 1I 4I 5I 6I)
3.5 Orderly management of self and professional conduct. (LO: 5I 6I)
3.6 Effective team membership and team leadership. (LO: 5I 6I)
Advanced
1.1 Comprehensive, theory-based understanding of the underpinning natural and physical sciences and the engineering fundamentals applicable to the engineering discipline. (LO: 1A 3I 4A)
1.3 In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline. (LO: 1A 3A 4A)
1.4 Discernment of knowledge development and research directions within the engineering discipline. (LO: 1I 3A 4A)
2.1 Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem-solving. (LO: 2A 3A 4I 6I)
2.2 Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources. (LO: 2A 3A 6I)
2.3 Application of systematic engineering synthesis and design processes. (LO: 2A 3A 6I)
2.4 Application of systematic approaches to the conduct and management of engineering projects. (LO: 2I 4I 5A 6I)
Note: LO refers to the Learning Outcome number(s) that link to the competency and the levels: N – Introductory, I – Intermediate and A – Advanced.
Refer to the Engineering Undergraduate Course Moodle site for further information on the Engineers Australia’s Stage 1 Competency Standard for Professional Engineers and course level mapping information: https://moodle.cqu.edu.au/course/view.php?id=1511
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| 1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 30% | ||||||
| 2 - Laboratory/Practical - 30% | ||||||
| 3 - Project (applied) - 40% | ||||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| 1 - Communication | ||||||
| 2 - Problem Solving | ||||||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | ||||||
| 4 - Information Literacy | ||||||
| 5 - Team Work | ||||||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | ||||||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | ||||||
| 8 - Ethical practice | ||||||
| 9 - Social Innovation | ||||||
| 10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | ||||||
Textbooks
Principles of Measurement Systems
Edition: 4th (2005)
Authors: John P Bentley
Pearson Education Ltd.
Harlaw Harlaw , Essex , England
ISBN: 0-130-43028-5
Binding: Paperback
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Laptop/Computer
- Factory I/O License
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: Harvard (author-date)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
d.moratuwage@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Introduction to Industrial Control and Automation
- History and evolution of industrial automation
- Key concepts and terminology
- Benefits and challenges
- Overview of modern automation technologies
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Measurement Systems and Characteristics
- Types of measurement systems
- Key characteristics (ex: range, sensitivity, precision)
- Error analysis and uncertainty
- Calibration
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sensors in Industrial Automation - I
- Overview of sensors and their importance
- Types of sensors (e.g. analogue and digital)
- Selection criteria in industrial applications
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Introduction and history of PLCs
- PLC hardware architecture
- I/O Modules and wiring
- Communication buses
- Basics of PLC Programming
- Ladder Logic Diagrams
- Advantages of using PLCs in automation.
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Assessment 1 - Online Quiz Part 1 (Open from 15th July - 2nd August)
Module/Topic
Sensors in Industrial Automation - II
- More advanced sensors
- Integration of sensors with PLCs
- PNP vs NPN Sensors
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Signal Conditioning for Sensing
- Importance of signal conditioning
- Typical signal condition approaches
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Introduction to Actuators - I
- Importance of actuators
- Different types of actuators
- Working principles and applications
- Selection criteria for actuators
- Integration of actuators with PLCs
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Assessment 1 - Online Quiz Part 2 (Open from 5th August - 30th August)
Module/Topic
Introduction to Actuators - II
- Advanced actuators
- Integration of actuators in industrial systems.
- Safety of industrial control systems (e.g. interlocks etc.)
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Industrial Process Control
- Basics of process control
- PID Control theory and tuning
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Compulsory residential school.
Module/Topic
Introduction to SCADA Systems
- Overview of SCADA Systems and their importance
- Main components of a SCADA System (e.g. RTUs, MTUs, and communication infrastructure)
- Applications of SCADA Systems
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Project Help
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Project Progress Update
Chapter
Lecture Notes/Slides
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
This unit includes a mandatory residential school. Please refer to the timetable for specific dates and location information. Additionally, students are required to purchase a license for Factory I/O software. Further details can be found on the Moodle site.
1 Online Quiz(zes)
This assessment is divided into two online quizzes (due on week 4 and week 7) and includes short answer questions, structured questions and calculations. Each quiz evaluates the knowledge about fundamental concepts in measurement systems, sensors, and actuators and the ability to assess appropriate sensors and actuators for industrial processes. More details will be available in the Moodle Tiles.
2
Other
Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students usually within 2 weeks after submission. However, please note that no model answers will be provided.
Marks will be allocated for the following:
- Understanding fundamental concepts
- Application of fundamental concepts and logical reasoning
- Problem-solving and correct calculations
- Understand the principles and concepts of industrial control and automation, including sensors, actuators, controllers, communication systems and feedback mechanisms
- Evaluate appropriate sensors and actuators for controlling physical parameters in industrial processes
- Comply with relevant industry standards and regulations governing industrial automation to ensure system reliability and safety
2 Laboratory/Practical
This assessment is designed to provide a hands-on learning experience in industrial automation through a laboratory experiment focused on programming a Modular Production Station (MPS). More details will be available in the Moodle Tiles.
Week 10 Friday (20 Sept 2024) 11:59 pm AEST
Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students usually within two weeks after submission. However, please note that no model answers will be provided.
Marks will be allocated for the following:
- PLC Programming proficiency.
- The ability to evaluate and utilise available sensors/actuators for a practical application.
- Application of theoretical knowledge on design and implementation of control logic.
- A fully working system with the expected outcome, as evidenced by a video.
- An individual lab report with solutions and discussions needs to be submitted.
- Understand the principles and concepts of industrial control and automation, including sensors, actuators, controllers, communication systems and feedback mechanisms
- Demonstrate proficiency in programming Programmable Logic Controllers using languages such as ladder logic
- Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on, project-based learning experiences that simulate real-world industrial automation problems, including the design and implementation of control logic
- Collaborate proficiently in teams when presenting solutions to industrial automation problems.
3 Project (applied)
This assessment is designed to provide a hands-on learning experience by automating a simulated factory environment using a control program executed in a simulated PLC. Students are expected to design a virtual factory using specified software and a suitable set of sensors and actuators. They will then write a control logic program in Ladder Logic and run it in a simulated PLC to operate the factory and achieve a set of specified tasks. More details will be available in the Moodle Tiles.
Week 12 Friday (4 Oct 2024) 11:59 pm AEST
Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students usually within two weeks after submission. However, please note that no model answers will be provided.
Marks will be allocated for the following:
- PLC Programming proficiency
- The ability to choose and utilise a set of suitable sensors and actuators for a given automation task.
- A fully working system with the expected outcome, as evidenced by a video.
- Codes for the Ladder Logic Diagram program and the simulated virtual environment project files.
- A report including implementation details and an explanation of the overall operation.
- Demonstrate proficiency in programming Programmable Logic Controllers using languages such as ladder logic
- Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on, project-based learning experiences that simulate real-world industrial automation problems, including the design and implementation of control logic
- Evaluate appropriate sensors and actuators for controlling physical parameters in industrial processes
- Comply with relevant industry standards and regulations governing industrial automation to ensure system reliability and safety
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
