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Mechanical Engineering
MECH 4452

Automation and Robotics MECH 4452

Mechanical Engineering Course

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Notices

Registration news

Registration is now open for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.

Additional Information

Please check the classroom locations listing on the first day of your course.
Find out if you qualify for financial aid.
BCIT’s English Language Proficiency Standard for Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) is English 12.
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Course Overview

The course covers the fundamentals of automation systems and the role of automation in industry. Topics include industrial automation, digital twin, Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, actuator sizing, Programming Logic Controllers [PLCs], electro-hydraulic and electro-pneumatic control systems, and an introduction to robotics. It covers the basics of industrial robots and cobots as integrated in flexible manufacturing systems. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the applications of automation and robotic systems in industry.

Prerequisite(s)

50% in MECH 3330 and 50% in MECH 3356

Credits

4.0

Not offered this term: This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Explain key elements of modern automation systems such as control technologies, flexible manufacturing systems, industry 4.0, digital twin, and smart factory. [1,2,3]
Explain the effect of PID control modes on a control signal in industrial process and motion control systems. [2,3,5]
Describe the characteristics of various types of DC and stepper motors, and basics of their position, velocity, and torque control methods. [2] Size electric motors for various transmission systems including lead screws, gear boxes, pulleys, rack and pinions, conveyor systems, and belt-driven systems. [2]
Create and simulate simple PLC programs with a simulation software using contacts, coils, timers, and counters. [2,5]
Simulate simple automation systems that include PLC, electro-hydraulic and electro-pneumatic circuits, and electric actuators. [2,5]
Describe common types of industrial robots and cobots and their main components and applications. [2,3]
Interpret a typical industrial robot specification sheet and describe robot safety and communication protocols. [2,3]

Effective as of Fall 2025

Related Programs

Automation and Robotics (MECH 4452) is offered as a part of the following programs:

Indicates programs accepting international students.
Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

School of Energy

Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering Full-time
Mechanical Engineering Technology (Mechanical Design Option)
Diploma Full-time

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Privacy Notice: The information you provide will be used to respond to your request for BCIT program information and is collected under Section 26(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). For more information about BCIT’s privacy practices contact: Director, Privacy, Information Access & Policy Management, British Columbia Institute of Technology, 3700 Willingdon Ave. Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2, email: privacy@bcit.ca.

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