MEC 140 - Introduction to Robotics

4 credit hours - Fours hours of lecture and directed laboratory weekly; one term.
Learn the basic principles of robotics, such as mechanical construction, electronics, sensors, motors and robot programming. This course uses a hands-on approach to introduce the basic concepts, focusing on the construction and programming of autonomous mobile and Industrial robots. Works in groups to build and test increasingly more complex robots, culminating in an end-of-semester robot project. Lab fee $100.

Prerequisite(s): EET 130 or permission of department chair.

Location(s) Typically Offered: Arnold Main Campus (MC)

Term(s) Typically Offered: Spring

Course Outcomes:

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

Understand the basic principles of robotic systems.
Explain the role of robotics in industrial automation and various other fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and logistics.
Describe the anatomy/components of a typical robotic system.
Build and manipulate electronic circuits with a microcontroller.
Apply DC motor control concepts with pulse width modulation.
Demonstrate proficiency in basic robot programming with a microcontroller to perform simple tasks.
Locate, utilize, and understand data sheets and references needed for design, construction and troubleshooting of robotic systems.
Understand the components used in robot sensing and perception, including potentiometers, color, proximity sensors, and tactile sensors.
Design and construct robots capable of autonomous operation.
Analyze and troubleshoot common robot programming and operation issues.