Award in Robot Mechanisms and Manipulators

Unit Description

This unit is a foundation course in mechanisms and robots. After a brief introduction on the subject matter and terms the motion properties of mechanisms including degrees of freedom, velocity and acceleration will be presented. Design constraints and motion analysis for the robotic systems will be first performed in a simulated environment. Eventually a prototype robotic arm with a small number of degrees of freedom would be assembled from scratch and also programmed to perform specific trajectories. The learners would learn how 3D printing can be used to manufacture fixtures for robotic arms, will learn assembly of mechatronics systems and also programming through the final project task. Building from scratch a robotic arm would give a clear picture of all the challenges and problems that robotic systems have and will also clarify the forward and inverse kinematics concepts.

Learning Outcomes

1. Recognise different joints, kinematic forms, mobile vs fixed with end-effectors.
2. Compare Cartesian, Cylindrical and Polar Coordinate system in a simulated environment.
3. Build a robotic arm from scratch using 3D printed parts for fixtures.
4. Programme a robotic arm to follow required trajectory and analyse the working envelope

Entry Requirements

• MCAST Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical or Electronics) – Level 3 or
• 1 SEC O-levels/SSC&P (Level 3) pass – Compulsory: Mathematics or Physics

Maturity Clause Applications

Applicants who satisfy the following conditions may apply for consideration to join this MCAST programmes as mature students:

1. Be in possession of a School Leaving Certificate.
2. Have, by the end of the same calendar year:

Attained the age of 21 years for entry to programmes at MQF Level 4

An Updated Curriculum Vitae and a Motivation Letter should accompany applications under the Maturity Clause.

Shortlisted applicants may be called for an interview to assess their suitability for the selected programme.