Course Description
This course covers the basics of pneumatic, electro pneumatic and hydraulic control circuits in a complex mechatronic system. Students will learn the functions and properties of control elements based upon physical principles, and the roles they play within the system. Technical documentation such as data sheets, circuit diagrams, displacement step diagrams and function charts will also be covered. By understanding and performing measurements on the pneumatic and hydraulic control circuits, students will learn and apply troubleshooting strategies to identify, localize and (where possible) to correct malfunctions. Preventive maintenance of (electro) pneumatic and hydraulic components as well as safety issues within the system will be discussed.
Course Goals
Upon completion of the course, students should:
- Understand what a mechatronic system is, and the inter-relationships of components and modules within a complex mechatronic system with a focus on (electro) pneumatic and hydraulic control systems.
- Understand the role of (electro) pneumatic and hydraulic control systems in complex mechatronic system and subsystems.
- Understand troubleshooting, maintenance and safety issues revolving around (electro) pneumatic and hydraulic circuits within a mechatronic system.
Course Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the role of various (electro) pneumatic and hydraulic components within a given system or module.
- Trace and describe the flow of energy in a given mechatronic system or subsystem.
- Describe the basic physical properties of pneumatic and hydraulic components.
- Carry out measurements and adjustments on pneumatic and hydraulic components in a mechatronic system.
- Read, analyze and utilize the technical documents such as data sheets, circuit diagrams, displacement step diagrams, timing diagrams and function charts for the pneumatic and hydraulic components within a mechatronic system.
- Correctly localize, identify and document causes of malfunctions in pneumatic and hydraulic circuits, based upon the technical documentation.
- Correct malfunctions in pneumatic and hydraulic circuits, where possible, or correctly identify the expertise required to correct a malfunction.
- Apply safety rules while working on the system.
- Transfer the knowledge learned from one system to another system.