Explore UCD

UCD Home >

MEEN41350

Academic Year 2024/2025

Introduction to Robotics (MEEN41350)

Subject:
Mechanical Engineering
College:
Engineering & Architecture
School:
Mechanical & Materials Eng
Level:
4 (Masters)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Assoc Professor Nikolaos Papakostas
Trimester:
Autumn
Mode of Delivery:
Blended
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

The primary objective of this module is to provide an insight into modern robotics and automation technologies. The module covers a broad series of technology areas related to mechanical, electrical, electronic and civil / structural engineering applications.
The primary focus of the lectures is on introducing the main principles and applications of robotic technologies. At the same time, a number of process modelling tools are presented, allowing for the design of robotic cells and applications.
Particular emphasis is given to modern Industry 4.0 technologies and to their implications on the operation of modern manufacturing and engineering environments.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Critique and be able to explain the role of simulation modelling in systems design and analysis.
2. Apply the steps of a simulation project.
3. Develop simulation models of basic manufacturing, logistics and service systems.
4. Understand the fundamental principles underlying robotic technologies.
5. Realise the basic capabilities of modern robotic technologies and applications.
6. Demonstrate a high level of competency in applying systems simulation and in understanding the basic requirements of novel automation projects where robots are planned to be introduced.
7. Understand the importance of collecting and analysing process and production data.
8. Manage and work as part of a team and demonstrate written and presentation skills.

Indicative Module Content:

Module Outline and Introduction to Robotics
Manipulator Kinematics
Introduction to Simulation
Sensors and Vision Systems
Process Simulation Frameworks
Robot Control
Robot Environment and Collaborative Robots
Mobile Robots
Advanced Process Modelling
Robot Programming
Robot Specifications and Selection Process
Digital Manufacturing and Product Lifecycle Management

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Specified Learning Activities

24

Autonomous Student Learning

75

Lectures

24

Laboratories

2

Total

125


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
active/task-based learning
lectures
lab work
group work

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Group Work Assignment: Group project. Week 3, Week 4, Week 5, Week 6, Week 7, Week 8, Week 9, Week 10, Week 11, Week 12 Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
40
No
Exam (In-person): Final Exam End of trimester
Duration:
2 hr(s)
Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
60
No

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Autumn Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - Autumn: All Weeks Fri 09:00 - 10:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 1 Week(s) - 3 Tues 14:00 - 15:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 2 Week(s) - 5 Tues 13:00 - 14:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 3 Week(s) - 6 Tues 14:00 - 15:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 4 Week(s) - 4 Tues 13:00 - 14:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 5 Week(s) - 9 Tues 13:00 - 14:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 6 Week(s) - 10 Tues 13:00 - 14:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 7 Week(s) - 11 Tues 15:00 - 16:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 8 Week(s) - 12 Tues 15:00 - 16:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 9 Week(s) - 7 Tues 14:00 - 15:50
Autumn Laboratory Offering 14 Week(s) - 8 Tues 14:00 - 15:50