MEC 111 - Mechatronics & Industry 4.0

Credits: 3
3 Skills Lab Hours

Description
This course provides students with an overview of the field of mechatronics, including industrial revolutions, connected devices, control systems, simulation and automated equipment. Concepts are paired with a series of lab activities where students construct a small-scale assembly line in a modular fashion, simulate that assembly line and validate functionality in production. Students also learn appropriate workplace communication and soft skills that are demanded by manufacturing employers. Upon completing this course, learners have the opportunity to sit for three industry credentials at no cost: National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) Introduction to Mechatronics, Industry 4.0 and Mike Rowe Works Work Ethic Certification.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

Describe the history of industrial revolutions in manufacturing including societal context.
Identify common pneumatic and electropneumatic sensors, actuators and control devices.
Construct simulations of pneumatic systems using GRAphe Fonctionnel de Commande Etapes/Transitions (GRAFCET) compliant nomenclature and symbols.
Deploy code based on simulation in order to automate production equipment.
Design a simulated assembly line involving material handling, sorting and packaging.
Write effective workplace communications in the form of emails, technical memoranda and progress reports.
Identify security risks associated with internet-connected devices.
Describe benefits associated with networks of sensors and control devices linked by automated feedback loops.

Listed Topics

History of manufacturing
Components of mechatronics
Pneumatics and electropneumatics
Simulation
Industry symbols including the GRAFCET standard
Automated equipment
Control systems
Communication skills
Industry 4.0
Cyber-physical systems

Reference Materials
Instructor-approved textbook and materials

Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:

Communication
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Approved By: Dr. Quintin B. Bullock Date Approved: 03/09/2026
Last Reviewed: 03/09/2026

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