Mechatronics

Principles of Manufacturing LDC is designed to provide students with exposure to various occupations and pathways in the Advanced Manufacturing career cluster, such as Machining Technology, Industrial Maintenance Technology, Mechatronics, and Welding. To gain a holistic view of the advanced manufacturing industry, students will complete all core standards, as well as standards in two focus areas. Throughout the course, they will develop an understanding of the general steps involved in the manufacturing process and master the essential skills to be an effective team member in a manufacturing production setting. Course content covers basic quality principles and processes, blueprints and schematics, and systems. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will advance from this course with a nuanced understanding of how manufacturing combines design and engineering, materials science, process technology, and quality. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  9-10 / Prerequisite:  None)

Robotics LDC is an applied course for students who wish to explore how robots and automated systems are used in industry. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will understand the historical and current uses of robots and automated systems; programmable circuits, interfacing both inputs and outputs; ethical standards for engineering and technology professions; and testing and maintenance of robots and automated systems. Students are expected to use engineering notebooks to document procedures, design ideas, and other notes for all projects throughout the course. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  10 / Prerequisite:  Principles of Manufacturing LDC)

Dual Enrollment Mechatronics I is an applied course in the manufacturing cluster for students interested in learning more about careers as a mechatronics technician, maintenance technician, electromechanical technician, and manufacturing engineer. This course reviews mechanical components of mechatronics systems as well as their combined uses with instrument controls and embedded software designs. Upon completion of this course, proficient students can describe and explain basic functions of physical properties and electrical components within a mechatronic system. They can logically trace the flow of energy through a mechatronic system and can communicate this process to others. They know how to effectively use technical documentation such as data sheets, schematics, timing diagrams, and system specifications to troubleshoot basic problems with equipment. Finally, they develop strategies to identify, localize, and correct malfunctioning components and equipment. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  11 / Prerequisite:  admission into TCAT Dual Enrollment Program)

Special Note:  Upon successful completion of the course, college credit will be awarded by Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Students must enroll in Dual Enrollment Mechatronics I in the fall and Dual Enrollment Mechatronics II in the spring.

Dual Enrollment Mechatronics II is an advanced course for students interested in learning more about such careers as mechatronics technician, maintenance technician, or electromechanical technician. Following the groundwork of mechanics and electronics laid in Mechatronics I, this course covers basics of pneumatic, electro pneumatic, and hydraulic control circuits in a complex mechatronic system. In addition, the course addresses basic digital logic and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) employed in the mechanical, electronic, and control systems in a mechatronics system. Upon completion of this course, proficient students can explain the inter-relationships of components and modules within a complex mechatronic system. They understand the differences between hydraulic and pneumatic fluid power and can explain the scientific principles that apply. They also use technical documentation (such as datasheets, circuit diagrams, displacement step diagrams, timing diagrams, and function charts) to troubleshoot and resolve malfunctioning pneumatic and hydraulic components and circuits. They demonstrate understanding of the role of programmable logic controllers (PLC) in mechatronic systems and the ability to write, debug, and run basic ladder logic. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  11 / Prerequisite:  Dual Enrollment Mechatronics I)

Special Note:  Upon successful completion of the course, college credit will be awarded by Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Students must enroll in Dual Enrollment Mechatronics I in the fall and Dual Enrollment Mechatronics II in the spring.

Dual Enrollment Mechatronics III expands on the concepts from the previous two courses. Students will continue to master the following skill sets: technology foundations, safety & orientation, technical math, blueprint reading, mechanical positioning, predictive maintenance, DC electric, AC electrical, AC/DC electronics circuits and digital, programmable logic controllers, and motor controls. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  12 / Prerequisite:  Dual Enrollment Mechatronics II)

Special Note:  Upon successful completion of the course, college credit will be awarded by Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Students must enroll in Dual Enrollment Mechatronics III in the fall and Dual Enrollment Mechatronics IV in the spring.

Dual Enrollment Mechatronics IV continues to expand on the concepts from previous courses. Students will continue to master skills required to earn the Mechatronics Maintenance Helper Technician Certificate. Students will have the opportunity to participate in industry credential exams for the following TDOE-recognized certifications: FANUC Robotics, Siemens Level 1 Certified Mechatronic System Assistant, and NC3 Festo. Students who complete all four dual enrollment courses will earn their Mechatronics Maintenance Helper certificate through TCAT Memphis. Credits:  1.0 (Grade Level:  12 / Prerequisite:  Dual Enrollment Mechatronics III)

Special Note:  Upon successful completion of the course, college credit will be awarded by Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Students must enroll in Dual Enrollment Mechatronics III in the fall and Dual Enrollment Mechatronics IV in the spring.