Level 4 Introduction to Automation

The programme is suitable for technician/operation staff with level 3/4 qualifications (or equivalent industry experience) and apprentices who need retraining as automation systems technicians. Programme learning outcomes are:

• Introduction to industrial automation technical terms.
• Planning, developing, and building automated systems.
• Technical documentation
• Building models and creating simulations.
• Open and closed-loop control systems.
• Pneumatic and electrical actuators, sensors, and controllers.
• Using computers as tools for programming and simulation.
• Be able to detect and eliminate errors in simple automation.
• Be able to investigate PLC Technology.
• Become familiar with the internal architecture of PLCs and their application.
• Be able to explore the typical input and output devices used with PLCs.
• Become familiar with basic programming techniques used with PLCs.
• Be able to develop PLC systems to solve engineering problems.
• Become familiar with how PLCs are used in various industrial applications.
• Become familiar with Solenoid valves.
• Become familiar with Sensor technology.
• Become familiar with Electrical wiring.
• Become familiar with Relay control systems.
• Become familiar with Logic control.
• Become familiar with Control of direct current motors.
• Become familiar with Inductive sensors.
• Become familiar with Optical sensors.
• Become familiar with Polarity reversal circuits.
• Become familiar with programming PLCs in Ladder Diagram (LD).

The automation CPD programme has a predominantly practical focus for many of the learning outcomes with an integrated learning approach of lectures and a workshop-based tutorial to develop attendees’ understanding of theoretical concepts with a hands-on learning experience.

Attendees will have access to the University Campus North Lincolnshire’s (UCNL) purpose-built Engineering laboratories to undertake the automation practical sessions.

The Introduction to Automation CPD programme focuses on the underpinning engineering concepts that contribute to current industrial practices in automation. The programme provides attendees with the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience using our state-of-the-art laboratories whilst consolidating knowledge through the delivery of interactive theory sessions. Our purpose-built engineering laboratories house a wide range of industry-standard training equipment including Pneumatics, Mechatronics, Robotics, PLCs, Fluid Processing, and a unique Industry 4.0 Smart Factory training system enabling the study of the full range of industrial concepts.

The programme offers a learning experience which has the attendees at its centre with the team focused on providing a friendly and supportive learning environment. The programme is designed in a way that progressively prepares attendees with the knowledge and ability to analyse, comprehend and manage basic automation resulting from the fundamentals of PLC programming to the function and use of automation equipment. This flexibility will be a significant asset for the attendees, because of the continuous evolution of the technologies in the automation sector.