Fundamentals of Robotics

Course Description

ETS1603C – Fundamentals of Robotics is a 3-credit, combined lecture and laboratory course (indicated by the "C" lab suffix in the Florida SCNS) that introduces students to robotics and robotic applications in automated manufacturing environments. Students learn topics related to robotic design including robotic terminology, robotic programming, sensing and sensors, actuators, robotic platforms, and the application of artificial intelligence in robotics. Laboratory activities provide hands-on application of concepts and theories. The course also covers robotic classifications, applications, socioeconomic impact, end effector selection and calibration, simulation software, I/O and sensor interfacing, and hands-on experiences programming industrial robots for assembly, conveyor integration, and fault detection within a Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) work-cell environment.

This course is part of the Engineering Technologies > Specialty Engineering Technology taxonomy of Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS) and is offered at multiple Florida colleges including Miami Dade College (MDC) and Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ).

Learning Outcomes

Required Outcomes

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

• Demonstrate an understanding of the history, evolution, and terminology of robotics, including identifying key milestones and the disciplines involved in robot construction and application.
• Classify robots by power-supply control methods (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic) and motion control methods (limited sequence, point-to-point, continuous path).
• Explain the basic types of robot control systems, including drum, air logic, and programmable controllers.
• Identify and describe input devices (sensors) used in robotic systems, including proximity sensors, photo sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and vision systems.
• Identify and describe output devices and actuators, including AC, DC, stepper, vector AC drive, and servo motors used in robotic assemblies.
• Write, test, and troubleshoot basic robot programs using teach pendant and/or programming software environments.
• Perform end effector selection and calibration for specific robotic tasks.
• Interface robots with I/O devices and sensors in a CIM work-cell environment, including clamping, parts feeding, index table control, conveyor integration, and fault detection.
• Demonstrate safe operating procedures and apply robot safety standards in laboratory settings.
• Discuss the socioeconomic impact of robotics on manufacturing and the workforce.

Optional Outcomes

The following outcomes may be covered depending on institutional emphasis and available equipment:

• Understand the history, application, and evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in robotics, including machine learning, natural language processing, planning, inference, and computer vision.
• Compare and contrast types of AI and describe the roles of Boolean logic and decision logic in robotic control systems.
• Use 3D robotic simulation software (e.g., RoboCell, RobotExpert, or equivalent) to develop and validate robot programs prior to physical deployment.
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic 3D modeling concepts and their application in robotic workcell design.
• Apply industry-standard programming languages (e.g., Python, C, or proprietary robot languages) with an emphasis on robotics-specific coding.
• Analyze the integration of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) systems and their relationship to automated robotic workcells.
• Demonstrate teamwork and collaborative problem-solving skills in project-based laboratory activities.

Major Topics

Required Topics

• Introduction to Robotics: History and evolution of robotics; key definitions and terminology; interdisciplinary nature of robotics (mechanical, electrical, computer science).
• Robot Classification: Classification by power supply (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic); classification by motion control (limited sequence, point-to-point, continuous path); classification by application (industrial, collaborative, mobile).
• Robot Anatomy and Mechanical Systems: Robot axes and degrees of freedom; joints, links, and end-of-arm tooling (EOAT); work envelope and payload specifications.
• Robot Control Systems: Types of controllers (drum, air logic, programmable); teach pendant operation; motion control fundamentals.
• Sensors and Input Devices: Discrete and analog sensors; proximity, photoelectric, ultrasonic, and vision sensors; sensor integration with robot controllers.
• Actuators and Output Devices: AC and DC motors; stepper motors; servo motors; vector AC drives; pneumatic and hydraulic actuators.
• End Effectors: Types of grippers and tooling; selection criteria; calibration and setup procedures.
• Robot Programming: Teach programming and online programming methods; basic program structure; motion instructions; I/O instructions; testing and debugging programs.
• I/O and Sensor Interfacing: Digital and analog I/O; interfacing sensors and actuators to robot controllers; CIM work-cell integration (clamping, conveyor, index table, parts feeding).
• Robot Safety: ANSI/RIA safety standards; safety zones and guarding; risk assessment; lockout/tagout procedures in robotic environments.
• Robotic Applications in Manufacturing: Assembly, welding, material handling, painting, and inspection applications; introduction to CIM work-cells; fault detection.
• Socioeconomic Impact of Robotics: Effects on manufacturing workforce; job displacement and creation; global competitiveness; ethical considerations.

Optional Topics

• Artificial Intelligence in Robotics: Overview of AI concepts (machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing); Boolean and decision logic in robotic control; autonomous behaviors.
• Robot Simulation Software: Introduction to simulation environments (e.g., RoboCell, RobotExpert, or equivalent); virtual workcell programming; offline programming methods.
• 3D Modeling for Robotics: Basic CAD concepts; 3D modeling of workcells and components; digital twin concepts in manufacturing.
• Advanced Programming Techniques: Structured programming constructs (if/then, do/while loops); subroutines; error handling and fault recovery routines.
• Collaborative Robots (Cobots): Introduction to human-robot collaboration; cobot safety features; basic cobot programming (e.g., Universal Robots).
• Mobile and Autonomous Robotics: Overview of autonomous robot platforms; navigation and path planning concepts; sensors used in mobile robotics.
• Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing: IoT integration with robotics; data collection and monitoring; introduction to networked automated systems.

Resources & Tools

• Industrial Robot Hardware: Institutions typically provide hands-on access to industrial robot arms such as Yaskawa Motoman, FANUC, ABB, or KUKA platforms for laboratory exercises.
• Simulation Software: RoboCell (Intelitek/Yaskawa), Siemens RobotExpert, or equivalent 3D robotic simulation environments for offline programming practice.
• Programming Environments: Manufacturer-specific robot programming languages (e.g., Yaskawa INFORM, FANUC Karel/TP); industry-standard languages such as Python or C where applicable.
• Laboratory Equipment: CIM work-cell components including conveyors, index tables, clamps, part feeders, I/O modules, and sensor arrays.
• Teach Pendant: Hands-on use of OEM teach pendants for robot jogging, point recording, and program execution.
• Safety Equipment: Personal protective equipment (PPE), safety fencing/light curtains, and lockout/tagout hardware consistent with ANSI/RIA R15.06 standards.
• Reference Standards: ANSI/RIA R15.06 Industrial Robot Safety Standard; Robotics Industries Association (RIA) publications.

Career Pathways

Completion of ETS1603C provides a foundation for careers in the fast-growing automation and advanced manufacturing sectors. This course commonly serves as a component of College Credit Certificate (CCC) and Associate in Science (A.S.) degree programs in Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, and Automated Systems.

• Robotics Technician / Robot Operator: Set up, operate, program, and maintain robotic workcells in manufacturing environments. Entry-level salaries average approximately $66,000 annually.
• Automation Technician: Install, troubleshoot, and maintain automated production equipment including robots, PLCs, and HMI systems.
• CIM / Manufacturing Systems Technician: Integrate and support computer-integrated manufacturing systems in production facilities.
• Robotics Specialist / Systems Integrator: Mid-to-advanced career path involving systems design, multi-robot cell integration, and cross-platform programming. Salaries average approximately $105,000 annually.
• Controls Engineer (with additional education): Design and develop control logic for automated systems using PLC/HMI and robotic platforms.

This course also supports transfer pathways into Engineering Technology A.S. degrees at Florida colleges, with credits potentially applicable toward baccalaureate programs in Mechatronics or Automation Engineering Technology.

Special Information

Certification Preparation

ETS1603C provides foundational knowledge and hands-on skills aligned with several industry-recognized credentials. Students are encouraged to pursue the following certifications upon or during course completion:

• NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) – Robotics Operator Credential: The NIMS Robotics Operator credential validates a candidate's ability to utilize robotics equipment to perform application-specific tasks while following applicable safety regulations. The Fundamentals of Robotics curriculum and labs are designed to cover the knowledge and provide hands-on experience required for NIMS Robot Operator credentials.
• Yaskawa Certified Robot Operator (via Intelitek): Students who complete training on Yaskawa Motoman robots may be eligible to sit for the Yaskawa Certified Robot Operator examination — an industry-endorsed certification that is highly regarded in manufacturing job markets. Completion of the Operator certification is a prerequisite for the Yaskawa Certified Programmer credential.
• Siemens RobotExpert Certification (Optional): At institutions where Siemens PLM-partnered curriculum is used, students completing Manufacturing Process with RobotExpert coursework may pursue the Siemens-endorsed RobotExpert industry certification.
• OSHA 10 – General Industry: Students are encouraged to complete OSHA 10-Hour General Industry training to supplement workplace safety knowledge applicable to robotic and automated manufacturing environments.

Lab Indicator Note

The "C" suffix in the course number ETS1603C designates a combined lecture and laboratory course that meets in the same place at the same time, per Florida SCNS convention. Lab fees may apply in addition to standard tuition.

Program Context

At FSCJ, ETS1603C (listed as Robotics – Mechanics and Controls) is offered with no prerequisites and is a core component of the Industrial Automation and Artificial Intelligence Systems Technology programs. At MDC, it is offered as Introduction to Robotics within the Engineering Technology program. The course articulates into A.S. degree programs in Engineering Technology at multiple Florida institutions.