Overview and Award Outcomes
Overview
Automated Machinery Systems emphasizes the full integration of mechatronics into modern manufacturing and distribution systems. Mechatronics is the synergistic application of mechanical systems, electrical systems, control systems, and computer science to build and maintain high-tech equipment. These skill sets are combined into the building, installing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of packaging systems, distribution systems, and other manufacturing systems. Through the integration of technology into systems, students are prepared to fill many high-demand roles in packaging, distribution and manufacturing. Emphasized areas of focus include electro-mechanical systems, programmable logic controllers (PLC’s), robotics, sensors (including machine vision), and troubleshooting procedures.
Award Outcomes
Demonstrate safe work practices
Create and troubleshoot programs for Programmable Logic controllers, robotics, and other industrial hardware
Install, maintain, and troubleshoot Industrial electrical systems
Install, maintain, and troubleshoot mechanical systems
Install, maintain, and troubleshoot motor control systems
Apply quality practices to the operation of automated manufacturing and distribution systems
Apply maintenance practices to the operation of automated manufacturing and distribution systems
Career Opportunities
Automated packaging machine mechanics and technicians are in high demand; surveys indicate even a greater demand as technologies advance. Before reaching the consumer, almost every product is packaged and packed in several forms. Automation in the manufacturing industry is a high opportunity field. This is a Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI) approved program.
Semester Sequence
Offered at Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie
First Semester
| ARET1126 | Mechanical Power Transmission | 3 |
| ARET1161 | Mechatronic Systems | 3 |
| ARET1175 | Industrial Electricity and Electronics I | 3 |
| ARET1200 | Introduction to Robotics | 2 |
| | |
| Choose one course from MnTC Goal Area 1 | 3 |
Second Semester
| ARET1130 | Maintenance Operations | 2 |
| ARET1140 | Computer Integrated Manufacturing | 3 |
| ARET1155 | Automation Controls | 3 |
| ARET1180 | Industrial Electricity and Electronics II | 3 |
| | |
| Choose one course from MnTC Goal Area 2 | 3 |
Summer Semester
| Technical Studies Electives | 4 |
| Recommended: | |
| ARET2181 | Internship | 1 - 4 |
Third Semester
| ARET1165 | Vision Systems for QA/SPC | 3 |
| ARET1185 | Sensor Applications | 2 |
| ARET1190 | Programmable Logic Controllers | 3 |
| ARET2105 | Fluid Power Motion Control | 2 |
| | |
| Technical Studies Electives | 4 |
Fourth Semester
| ARET1170 | Troubleshooting Mechatronic Systems | 3 |
| ARET2101 | Advanced Automation Controls | 3 |
| ARET2111 | Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers | 3 |
| ARET2150 | Engineering Design and Fabrication | 2 |
| ARET2200 | FANUC Robotics Operations | 2 |
| ARET2250 | FANUC Vision Systems | 1 |
Technical Studies Electives
Any combination of Automation Robotics Engineering Technology (ARET), Center for Manufacturing and Applied Engineering (CMAE) and/or Engineering CAD Technology (ENGC) courses listed below that are not required for this award may be used as an elective totaling 8 credits.
Choose a Total of: 8 Credits
Graduation (60 Credits)
Semester listings reflect the recommended sequence. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the information herein is subject to change without notice.
4/15/2024 : BP 4026 / EP 4005