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Engineering & Manufacturing

Engineering Technology Course Descriptions

ETEC 101: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Credits: 5.0

A survey course in artificial intelligence (AI). Topics will include an introduction to various subsets within AI like machine learning, deep learning and neural networks and a survey of industries likely to be impacted by a proliferation of AI based technologies. Special topics of interest to the class such as factory automation, autonomous driving cars and general-purpose robots will be discussed. Prerequisite(s): ETEC 150 or concurrent enrollment or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describethe basics of Artificial Intelligence.
  2. Understandthe tools used to implement Artificial Intelligence, includingprobability, linear algebra and high-speed computing.
  3. Describe what is required for dynamic decisions based on the speed and direction of AI advancement.

ETEC 110: Manufacturing Basics

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to basics of manufacturing, including personal protective equipment (PPE), safety practices, and the proper use of equipment to perform basic manufacturing processes such as drilling and cutting on commonly used materials, including metals and composites. Prerequisite(s): ENGLP 90 or AENGL 90 and placement in MATH 77.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Understand the usage, operation, and benefits of basic PPE equipment.
  2. Describe standard safety practices for chemicals (Safety Data Sheets), falls, power tools, electrical, etc. in a manufacturing environment.
  3. List the basic advantages/disadvantages of composites and metals and their proper handling techniques.
  4. Operate drilling and cutting equipment properly.
  5. Measure process results, such as hole dimensions and fastener torque.

ETEC 135: Quality and Metrology

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to quality assurance tools and basic measurement techniques used in manufacturing. Prerequisite(s): Placement in AENGL 90 or ENGLP 90 and placement into MATH 87.?

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe, select, and use various measurement tools, such as calipers and microscopes.
  2. Establish calibration intervals using usage history and gage studies.
  3. Explain various inspection and testing concepts and processes, including Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
  4. Explain and apply sampling systems.
  5. Calculate and apply simple control charts and describe their meaning.
  6. Select, construct, and apply the seven quality tools: cause and effect diagrams, flowcharts, check sheets, Pareto diagrams, scatter diagrams, control charts, and histograms.
  7. Explain quality concepts, such as Six Sigma, cost of quality, ISO certification, and continuous improvement techniques.
  8. Describe the basic principles of audits and CAPA systems.
  9. Explain and apply basic statistical techniques such as mean and standard deviation.

ETEC 140: Basic Electricity and Electronics

Credits: 5.0

Basics of AC and DC circuits. Includes resistors, capacitors, RC circuits, inductors, filters, diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers. Testing and troubleshooting circuits where voltage changes over time. Practice using DMM and oscilloscope. Prerequisite(s): ETEC 150 or placement into MATH 97.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe AC and DC current in electrical safety, electrical potential and current, effect of current on the body, emergency procedures in case of electrical shock, and prevention of equipment damage from electrostatic discharge.
  2. Describe the characteristics of insulators, conductors, semiconductors, and the primary sources of voltage/current.
  3. Explain the fundamental requirements of an electrical circuit, including the impact of ground lines and the fundamental electrical properties of voltage, current, resistance, power, and their units.
  4. Demonstrate analysis of circuits by applying Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's circuit laws, Watt's Law, the relationship among voltage, current, power,and work to troubleshoot series and parallel circuits.

ETEC 141: Microcontrollers and Sensors

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to microcontroller circuits and digital logic. Covers microcontroller programming and control circuits. Through lectures and hands-on labs, students will learn to use microcontroller I/O to work with digital and analog sensros and actuators. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 140 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Analyze and predict the operation of discrete logic gates and their truth tables and complex digitalschematics.
  2. Describe the common components and principle differences betweenCPUand MCU systems and how they are used in industry. Analyze a simple microprocessor program in terms of the control, addresses and data busses.
  3. Demonstrate troubleshooting techniques for discrete logic, CPU, and MCU based systems andtheir peripheral devices using a logic analyzer, oscilloscope, and multimeter.

ETEC 142: Automation Programming

Credits: 5.0

Through the use of functional testing with an oscilloscope, students will learn to troubleshoot a robotic system. Students will also program and build a robot system using the Arduino prototyping platform. Prerequisite(s): ETEC 140.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Create programs that demonstrate proficiency in programming using Arduino and ATMEL Studio.
  2. Demonstrate good coding practices, documentation, and archive maintenance using Doxygen and Git.
  3. Deploy and debug programs to multiple targets, using various techniques, including external debuggers.
  4. Work as a team to deploy a secure, functional Internet of Things project.

ETEC 143: Automation Programming and PLCs

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) that control industrial automated systems. Students will also learn to safely connect sensors and actuators to PLCs as well as program the systems using ladder logic. Prerequisite(s): Completion of MATH 84, MATH 87, or PREP 78 with a minimum grade of 2.0, or appropriate score on the math placement test is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe typical applications for PLCs, their modes of operation, addressing schemes, and terminology.
  2. Describe basic PLC functions, program structures, I/O symbols, supported languages, and their use in industry.
  3. Create a basic ladder logic program utilizing inputs, outputs, timers, and counters to sequence the execution of a holding circuit.
  4. Use lab test equipment and instructional trainers and program PLCs to actuate small-scale models of industrial equipment.
  5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of different types of sensors used in automated industrial processesand how they can be integrated with PLCs.

ETEC 150: Applied Technical Math

Credits: 5.0

Covers mathematical concepts critical to modern technical fields. Topics include algebra, trigonometry, logic, number systems and theory, probability, and statistics. Prerequisite(s): Placement into MATH 87 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Convert numbers to and from decimal, scientific, engineering, and metric notation.
  2. Use simple algebraic formulas to solve for an unknown quantity.
  3. Understand statistics, probability, sets, and logic.
  4. Solve simple equations involving right angle trigonometry.

ETEC 155: Special Topics in Engineering Technology

Credits: 1.0 - 5.0

Topics of current interest in Engineering Technology.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe, identify, and explain, with examples, important concepts of interest in engineering technology.
  2. Demonstrate information literacy: understand and critically evaluate material (journal articles, websites, news articles, and other media sources of information) related to topics of interest in engineering technology.

ETEC 175: Introduction to Materials Science

Credits: 5.0

Mechanical, chemical and thermal properties of engineering materials including metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers and composites. Includes materials micro-structure, atomic bonding, atomic arrangement, crystal structure, coexisting phases, interfaces, defects and impurities. Prerequisite(s): Placement in MATH 81 or 87.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain the differences in properties of different materials, including metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, and composites.
  2. Relate the properties of materials to microstructure.
  3. Describe the basics of processing techniques for altering the microstructure and properties of different materials.
  4. Apply the basic principles of material selection to specific applications.

ETEC 180: Polymer Technology

Credits: 5.0

Course provides an overview of thermoset and thermoplastic polymers. Topics include chemical composition, physical properties, deformation, mechanical behavior, fabrication, processing and manufacturing of polymers. Prerequisite(s): Placement in MATH 87.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the basic properties and characteristics of polymers.
  2. Explain and apply the basics of deformation, elasticity, and mechanical behavior in polymeric materials.
  3. Explain the relationship between polymer structure and properties.
  4. Identify the different types of polymers, including elastomers and fibers.
  5. Explain the various fabrication techniques of polymeric materials, and explain the advantages and disadvantages.
  6. Apply and explain the application of polymers to engineering and composite manufacturing.
  7. Perform basic qualification and selection of polymer materials.

ETEC 199: Special Project: Engineering Technology

Credits: 1.0 - 5.0

Special project topic to be arranged by student(s) and supervising instructor for projects in Engineering Technology. Enrollment by arrangement and permission of a faculty advisor. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Complete an independent project on a ETEC focused area of interest or need, either individually or as a member of a research team.
  2. Develop specific concepts or materials relevant to the project topic.
  3. Develop, with guidance, a comprehensive approach or activity that supplements the learning in a particular course or program of study.
  4. Develop, implement, and complete a project adhering to established or innovative procedures and due dates.
  5. Read, evaluate, and interpret relevant concepts and findings in general, technical, and research literature related to the project.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to construct, articulate, and defend a valid scientific argument and to critique others' arguments and techniques.

ETEC 200: Introduction to Composites

Credits: 5.0

General overview of composite materials and fabrication procedures. Covers composite constituents, material forms, mold design and development, ASTM standards, fabrication processes, composite applications, bonding, fastening, laminating and finishing techniques. Prerequisite(s): Placement in MATH 81 or 87.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain the basic properties, characteristics, and constituents of composite materials.
  2. Explain the functions and elements of ASTM standards.
  3. Explain and apply the different fabrication processes for composite materials, including bonding, fastening, laminating, and finishing techniques.
  4. Describe the primary usage of composite materials in today's industry and potential for future applications.
  5. Perform basic fabrication processes in making composite structures.
  6. Follow procedures when using lab equipment, and apply safety procedures when working in the lab.

ETEC 230: CAD and 3D Printing

Credits: 5.0

A continuation of SOLIDWORKS with an introduction to 3D printing that will be used in conjunction with CAD modeling. Prerequisite(s): ENGR& 114 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Create advanced drawing configurations.
  2. Create assemblies that are ready for 3D printing.
  3. Print simple 3D parts.

ETEC 243: Controls and Instrumentation

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to Computer Aided Design, controls, and instrumentation used for industrial pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical automation systems. Prerequisite(s): ETEC 140.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe electronic system troubleshooting techniques, methodologies, and terminology as well as demonstrate their use in locating faults with common electrical test equipment.
  2. List the factors that affect the ability of sensors to detect a target or cause an actuator to miss its target.
  3. Describe and apply the Laws of Thermodynamics, types of heat transfer, humidity, and dew point.
  4. Describe volumetric flow rate, flow velocity, mass flow rate, and flow measurement technologies.
  5. Describe the modes of control (on-off, proportional, integral, and derivative), the affect each mode has on maintaining the process quality, and how loop tuning will assure that the process will meet and maintain quality standards.

ETEC 244: Fluid Power Systems

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to industrial fluid power systems. Students will learn how hydraulic and pneumatic power systems are used in industry. Through lectures and hands-on lab exercises students will learn the safe installation and operation of fluid systems. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 110 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of fluid power safety practices and general shop safety.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of fluid power systems and fluid types, properties, units of measure, and energy conversion.
  3. Utilize physical laws to calculate force, pressure, flow, and energy conversions for system components.
  4. Describe pneumatic terminology, thermodynamics, topology rules, pump configurations, types, system components, schematics, and schematic symbols.

ETEC 245: Robotics and Industrial Automation

Credits: 5.0

An examination of automated industrial processes. Students will learn the types of automation used in industrial robotics. Through hands-on lab exercises students will learn how to operate and program an industrial robotic arm. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 140 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the major components of robotic systems and the coordinate systems they operate within, degrees of freedom, and how robot axis and motion are expressed in those coordinate systems.
  2. Explain the various methods of programming and training a robot with PLCs.
  3. Describe the various sensors, actuators, tools, and image detectors used in robotic systems.
  4. Explain the use of robotic error codes and other troubleshooting techniques and demonstrate their use in troubleshooting and repair.
  5. Perform robot startup and demonstrate programming for basic motion control in the different coordinate systems available.

ETEC 246: Advanced PLCs and Communications

Credits: 5.0

Students will learn advanced applications of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) used to operate automated systems. Students will learn to program and communicate with the systems. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 143 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Use Ethernet TCP/IP protocol to identify and set addresses, subnet masks, and gateways.
  2. Evaluateand install drivers for network cards and troubleshoot communications in a PLC as well as set parameters, baud rates, and dip switches.
  3. Apply troubleshooting procedures and common failure modes of PLCs and associated input, output, and control modules.
  4. Configure,connect, troubleshoot, and commission a PLC system with HMI, communications buses, and network.

ETEC 247: Machine Tools and CNC

Credits: 3.0

Students will learn the basic use of machine tools and CNC (Computer Numeric Control) systems. Prerequisite(s): ENGLP 90 or AENGL 90 and placement in MATH 71 or MATH 77.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate the safe use of various hand-held and shop floor mounted machine tools and their maintenance.
  2. Demonstrate ability to program, operate, and troubleshoot CNC equipment.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency at the use and calibration of machine, hand, and measurement tools and equipment.
  4. Describe and practice electrostatic discharge prevention and other best practices for maintenance and repair of sensitive equipment.

ETEC 248: Mechanical Components and Power Transmission

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to mechanical systems and how they are used in industry. Students will learn the components and mechanisms that are present in mechanical systems and how such devices transfer and modify power characteristics. Students will predict the behavior of mechanical systems then construct those systems to verify the predictions. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 143 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate understanding design, functions, and physical properties of mechanical power transmission components and electrical drives (both AC and DC).
  2. Explain systems used in robotics, advanced manufacturing, and applied automation technology.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of energy flow, troubleshooting, failure analysis, and predictive maintenance pertinent to common industrial mechanical systems.
  4. Use lab test equipment and trainers to model the setup and operation of mechanical power transmission components like those used in industry.

ETEC 250: Materials Engineering Design

Credits: 5.0

Overview of structural design utilizingmaterials including material and process selection, structural design, aesthetic qualities, assembly, and practical design information. This is a lab-based course focusing on product design. Prerequisite(s): ETEC 200 or concurrent enrollment.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Apply the basic principles of structural design utilizing advanced materials.
  2. Explain the advantages of planning a design to meet the manufacturing requirements.
  3. Apply the basic principles of material and process selection, structural design, aesthetic design, and assembly.
  4. Perform design, construction, and fabrication of laminated parts.
  5. Use appropriate terminology as it relates to structure design and manufacturing.

ETEC 255: Special Topics in Engineering Technology

Credits: 1.0-5.0

Topics and seminars of interest in Engineering Technology.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe, identify, and explain, with examples, important engineering technology concepts of interest.
  2. Demonstrate information literacy: understand and critically evaluate material (journal articles, websites, news articles, and other media sources of information) related to topics of interest in engineering technology.

ETEC 256: Networking Industrial Systems

Credits: 5.0

Covers the different methods used to network sensors, actuators, and control devices when integrating industrial automated systems. Students will examine the protools used in remote I/O and other forms of distributed control. These will include both the specialized protocols used in industry as well as TCP/IP used to connect devices to typical corporate networks. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 141 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the special issues and hazards present when networking industrial devices.
  2. Identify different protocols used in industrial networking along with their associated hardware.
  3. Compare industrial and corporate networking protocols using the standard OSI model.
  4. Create simple simulated networked industrial automated systems.

ETEC 257: Motor Controls and Drives

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to control systems and drives used with industrial motors. Students will learn how to safely connect and drive motors using typical industrial components. The primary focus will be on the three phase induction motor that is common in industry, but other types will be covered including DC motors, stepper motors, and servos. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 140 with a minimum grade of 2.0 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe how to safely work the high-voltage power circuits and low-voltage control circuits present in industrial motor systems.
  2. Identify the different components needed to properly drive industrial motors.
  3. Demonstrate proper and safe techniques working with motors in lab exercises.
  4. Demonstrate troubleshooting techniques for industrial motor systems.

ETEC 260: Composites Manufacturing

Credits: 5.0

Overview of processes involved in development and production of composite products. Includes tooling, fabrication, machining, assembly, quality assurance, repair, lay-up, vacuum bagging and cure processing of wet laminating techniques and pre-impregnated materials. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 200 with a minimum grade of 2.0.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Apply the basic principles of structural design utilizing composite materials.
  2. Explain the advantages of planning a design to meet the manufacturing requirements.
  3. Apply the basic principles of materials and process selection, structural design, aesthetic design, and assembly.
  4. Perform design, construction, and fabrication of laminated parts.
  5. Use appropriate terminology as it relates to composite structure design and manufacturing.
  6. Perform simple repairs of composite structures.
  7. Follow appropriate processes for structural and nonstructural evaluation, material handling, and surface preparation.

ETEC 290: Engineering Technology Capstone Project

Credits: 5.0

Students use the skills developed during their prior courses to work as a team to design and build a project. Prerequisite(s): Completion of ETEC 200 or ETEC 257 with a minimum grade of 2.0 is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Collaborate with other students and/or industry partners to define project parameters and project objectives.
  2. Prepare a written and oral presentation that describes the project.
  3. Demonstrate mastery of selected skills by completed project objectives.

ETEC 291: Engineering Technology Internship

Credits: 1.0 - 10.0

Students working toward the ETEC degree, receive on-the-job training in materials science. Instructor permission required to enroll in this course. 

Course Level Objectives

  1. Document their work hours at the internship site and produce a supervisor's evaluation of their work.
  2. Demonstrate skills necessary for the workplace at which the internship takes place.

ETEC 292: Career Planning and Workplace Relations

Credits: 2.0

Designed to give students an overview of engineering technology careers. Includes field trips, resume building, interviewing skills, job search skills and developing skills to work in groups. Prerequisite(s): ENGL& 101 placement  or completion of ENGL 99 is required to take this class.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Search for information on specific careers.
  2. Obtain company information and assess best fit with personal professional interests and goals.
  3. Write and format an effective resume.
  4. Access local and regional resources to support job search.
  5. Apply interpersonal skills for effective teamwork, conflict resolution, motivation, leadership, and communication.

ETEC 299: Special Project: Engineering Technology

Credits: 1.0 - 5.0

Special project topic for individual/group to be arranged by student(s) and supervising instructor in Engineering Technology. Enrollment by arrangement and permission of a faculty advisor. S/U grade option.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Complete an independent project on a ETEC focused area of interest or need, either individually or as a member of a research team.
  2. Develop specific concepts or materials relevant to the project topic.
  3. Develop, with guidance, a comprehensive approach or activity that supplements the learning in a particular course or program of study.
  4. Develop, implement, and complete a project adhering to established or innovative procedures and due dates.
  5. Read, evaluate, and interpret relevant concepts and findings in general, technical, and research literature related to the project.
  6. Demonstrate the ability to construct, articulate, and defend a valid scientific argument and to critique others' arguments and techniques.
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