Automated Systems Technology- Mechatronics

Program Description:

The Automated Systems Technology - Mechatronics program is a field of study that focuses on the integration of mechanical, electrical (electronics), fluid power (hydraulics or pneumatics), and computer technologies to control machine movements. The new term for this is “Mechatronics.” The students’ studies begin with courses in mechanics, sensors, basic electronics, pneumatics, control logic and robot programming and control. The student goes on to learn how to program a specific Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), and then writes and troubleshoots programs to control seven machines. The seven tasks - Pick and Place Feeding, Gauging, Indexing, Sorting and Queuing, Servo Robot Assembly, Torquing, and Parts Storage - are integrated into an assembly line that produces a real product.

Program Outcomes:

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

1. Demonstrate computer skills required by the Automated Systems industry.

2. Demonstrate critical thinking and manual skills to solve and troubleshoot and repair a malfunctioning circuit or mechanical device.

3. Demonstrate the use of test equipment to measure circuit and mechanical system variables, and service tools to effect [sic] adjustments and a repair.

4. Apply mathematical skills to the solution of a circuit problem.

5. Demonstrate safe work habits.

Requirements & Specific Information:

Articulation agreements (available for viewing on the college website at www.macomb.edu) allow students to get Macomb credit for related high school courses. Contact your high school teacher or counselor for details or call the Engineering Technology Office at 586.445.7435.

Students interested in furthering their studies in the field of renewable energy may complement the Associate of Applied Science degrees in Automated Systems Technology-Mechatronics or Electronic Engineering Technology with the Renewable Energy Technology Certificate.

Career Opportunities:

Automated Systems Technology-Mechatronics-Associate of Applied Science: Job titles such as Mechanical Engineering Technicians, Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technicians, Robotics Technicians, and Electro-Mechanical Technicians are attainable upon completion of this course of study. To learn more from a career specialist, visit the Office of Career Services at either campus or explore online at www.onetonline.org.

Automated Systems Technology-Mechatronics-Certificate: Job titles such as Mechanical Engineering Technicians, Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technicians, Robotics Technicians, and Electro-Mechanical Technicians are attainable upon completion of this course of study. To learn more from a career specialist, contact the Office of Career Services at Center Campus H109, 586.445.7321; South Campus S147, 586.445.7321; careerservices@macomb.edu; or explore online at www.onetonline.org.

Transfer Pathways:

Some universities in the area (Wayne State University and Lawrence Technological University among them) offer a degree in Bachelor of Science Engineering Technology (BSET). The Electronic Engineering Technology program from Macomb is transferable in total to most of these universities and articulation (transfer) agreements are in place. However, students pursuing the BSET should refer to the specific agreement for their university of choice. The agreements are available online at www.macomb.edu, or can be picked up at the Engineering Technology
office at South Campus in R-124. These students should also see the program advisor at their selected university as soon as possible.

Students intending to transfer and complete a bachelor’s degree need to make early decisions concerning an academic major and a transfer destination. Statistics show that students who make these decisions early are more likely to persist to graduation than their undecided counterparts. Students planning to transfer credits earned at Macomb are strongly urged to see a counselor or academic advisor as early as possible in their college careers.

• Transfer Resource Guide
• Transfer Plan Database

Programs

• Automated Systems Technology - Mechatronics, AAS (full-time)
• Automated Systems Technology - Mechatronics, AAS (part-time)

• Automated Systems Technology - Mechatronics, Certificate