The HND in Industrial Computing and Automation program offers students a deep understanding of industrial systems, computing technologies, and automation processes. It focuses on equipping students with the skills required to design, implement, and maintain automated systems and smart technologies that optimize industrial operations. The program integrates computer science with automation, focusing on the development and application of software, hardware, and network systems in the industrial sector. Students will gain expertise in automation systems, control engineering, and the latest technologies used in modern industrial settings.
PROGRAMME |
SEMESTRE |
DURATION |
CREDIT |
PARTNER INSTITUTION |
ACCREDITATION |
INDUSTRIAL COMPUTING AND AUTOMATION |
4 SEMESTERS |
2 YEARS |
120 |
MINESUP |
|
CORE OBJECTIVES
1. Develop a Strong Understanding of Industrial Computing
- – Introduction to Industrial Computing : Provide students with foundational knowledge in industrial computing systems, focusing on computer hardware, software, and networks used in industrial environments.
- – Embedded Systems : Teach students how to design and develop embedded systems that control and automate industrial processes.
- – Industrial Networking : Equip students with knowledge of industrial communication protocols, including Modbus, CAN bus, and Ethernet/IP, ensuring the proper operation of connected devices in automated systems.
- – Computational Methods : Introduce students to computational techniques for modeling, analyzing, and optimizing industrial systems.
2. Master Automation Control Systems
- – Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) : Provide hands-on experience with PLCs, the core devices used in industrial automation, teaching students how to program, configure, and troubleshoot these systems.
- – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) : Teach students how to design and implement SCADA systems, enabling real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes.
- – Automation Control Devices : Equip students with the skills to work with sensors, actuators, motors, and other devices that form part of the industrial automation ecosystem.
- – Industrial Robotics : Introduce students to the principles of industrial robotics, including robot programming, maintenance, and integration into production lines.
3. Learn Industrial Process Control Techniques
- – Process Control Systems : Teach students about the principles of process control systems, including feedback and feedforward control, system dynamics, and stability analysis.
- – Distributed Control Systems (DCS) : Introduce students to DCS, which is used for managing complex industrial processes such as those found in manufacturing, energy, and chemical industries.
- – Control Loop Design : Equip students with the ability to design and implement control loops for systems like temperature, pressure, and flow control in industrial settings.
4. Promote Data-Driven Decision-Making
- – Industrial Data Analytics : Teach students how to collect, analyze, and interpret data from industrial systems to improve decision-making processes and optimize operations.
- – Big Data and Machine Learning : Provide students with an understanding of how big data and machine learning are used to forecast trends, predict maintenance needs, and enhance industrial processes.
- – IoT in Industrial Automation : Equip students with the skills to integrate the Internet of Things (IoT) in industrial applications, enabling real-time monitoring and control of equipment and processes.
5. Enhance Knowledge of Software Development for Industrial Applications
- – Industrial Software Design : Teach students the development of software for industrial applications, including control software, user interfaces, and system integration software.
- – Human-Machine Interface (HMI) : Provide students with the knowledge to design and implement user interfaces that allow operators to interact with automated systems effectively.
- – Real-Time Operating Systems : Introduce students to real-time operating systems (RTOS) used in industrial applications for controlling processes and ensuring timely operations.
6. Understand Safety and Compliance in Industrial Systems
- – Safety Systems and Protocols : Teach students the importance of industrial safety, including the design and implementation of safety-critical systems such as emergency shutoff mechanisms, alarms, and interlocks.
- – Industrial Standards and Regulations : Provide knowledge of international safety standards such as ISO 13849, IEC 61508, and functional safety protocols for ensuring safety in automation and control systems.
- – Cybersecurity in Industrial Systems : Educate students on the importance of cybersecurity in industrial environments, focusing on protecting critical control systems from cyber threats.
7. Prepare Students for Practical Applications in Automation and Control
- – Industrial Automation Projects : Allow students to work on real-world automation projects, where they will design, implement, and optimize systems based on industry needs.
- – Troubleshooting and Diagnostics : Equip students with problem-solving skills to identify and correct faults in industrial automation systems, using diagnostic tools and analytical methods.
- – Collaborative Engineering : Foster collaboration between students and other engineering disciplines such as mechanical and electrical engineers, ensuring the success of complex automation projects.
8. Strengthen Industrial Management and Efficiency Optimization Skills
- – Industrial Process Optimization : Teach students to evaluate and optimize industrial processes to increase productivity, reduce waste, and improve resource efficiency using automation.
- – Energy Management : Equip students with knowledge of how to monitor and control energy consumption in automated systems, focusing on reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
- – Lean Manufacturing : Provide students with tools for implementing lean manufacturing principles, integrating automation to eliminate inefficiencies and improve production flow.
9. Prepare Students for Career Readiness and Professional Development
- – Internships and Practical Experience : Offer students the opportunity to work with industry partners in real-world settings, gaining hands-on experience with automation systems and industrial computing.
- – Professional Certifications : Prepare students for industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or PLC Programming Certifications to enhance career prospects.
- – Career Services and Networking : Provide career counseling, resume-building support, and networking opportunities with professionals in automation, control systems, and industrial computing to help students transition successfully from academia to the workforce.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
1. Automation Engineer
- – Design and Implementation : Design and implement automation systems for industries like manufacturing, energy, and robotics, programming and troubleshooting automation systems such as PLCs, SCADA, and robotics.
2. Control Systems Engineer
- – Control System Design : Focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for industrial applications in manufacturing plants, power generation, and chemical processing facilities.
3. Industrial Software Developer
- – Software Development : Develop specialized software for industrial control, monitoring, and automation systems, including real-time applications and human-machine interfaces (HMI).
4. Robotics Engineer
- – Robotics Design and Programming : Work with robots in industrial settings, designing and programming robotic systems for use in manufacturing, material handling, and assembly processes.
5. Process Control Engineer
- – Process Control Development : Develop and maintain automated control systems to monitor and regulate industrial processes, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
6. Industrial IoT Engineer
- – IoT System Implementation : Specialize in implementing IoT devices and systems in industrial environments, enabling real-time monitoring, control, and data analytics for production optimization.
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting Specialist
- – System Maintenance and Troubleshooting : Manage the maintenance and troubleshooting of automated systems, identifying and resolving faults in control devices, sensors, PLCs, and robotics.
8. Cybersecurity Specialist in Industrial Automation
- – Cybersecurity Focus : Focus on securing industrial control systems (ICS) from cyber threats, ensuring that automated systems are protected against hacking and cyberattacks.
9. Industrial Data Analyst
- – Data Analysis : Analyze data from industrial automation systems to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for process improvement and predictive maintenance.
10. Industrial Network Engineer
- – Network Setup and Maintenance : Specialize in the setup and maintenance of industrial network systems, ensuring connectivity and proper communication of automated devices and control systems.