Automation

Control systems: Construction and functionality of PLC. Input and output units. Connection of sensors and actuators. Programming languages, emphasizing instruction lists and ladder diagrams. Practical PLC programming in modern development environment. Digital instructions and addresses.
Instrumentation: Calibration. Sensor technology. Signal transmission and filtering. Control valves. Process and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID)
Practical control engineering: Short introduction to PID controllers. Methods for controller tuning.

Knowledge. The candidate can
- describe the structure and functionality of a PLC.
- describe the interface of the PLC against other units.
- explain the basic programming tools used with PLCs.
- explain the different programming languages use with PLCs.
- explain the functionality of the lectured sensors.
- explain the purpose of low-pass filters, and in what situations they are used.
- explain the purpose of a process and instrumentation diagram (P&ID)
- explain the structure and functionality of a control loop.
- explain the functionality and use of a PID controller.
- explain how proportional gain and integral and derivation time influences the behaviour of a controlled process.
- place the subject components of control systems, instrumentation and practical control engineering in an common context.
Skills. The candidate can
- program PLCs to perform given tasks using instruction lists and ladder diagrams.
- program PLCs in a modern programming environment.
- connect a PLC to specified external units.
- calibrate sensors and transmitters.
- instrument simple processes for specified tasks.
- design a specified low-pass filter.
- tune a PID-controller using the lectured methods, and according to specified criteria.
- document a simple, albeit complete automation system, set up for a specific purpose.
General competence. The candidate
- has a practical understanding of automation systems and their purpose.
- wields a technically precise language in communication with colleagues and representatives of other knowledge areas.

Lectures and lab at gatherings. Exercises between gatherings are important. Teaching and learning methods vary, and may include lectures, exercises, lab. work, group work, discussions, presentations etc.