WELCOME TO MECHATRONICS!

INSTRUCTORS

Michael Terribile
Department Head, Mechatronics
Michael.Terribile@cttech.org
203-783-5380
Scott Malota
Instructor, Mechatronics
Scott.Malota@cttech.org
(203) 783-5380

COURSE INFORMATION

Connecticut Technical Education and Career System’s Mechatronics course breakdown by grade. Each student is required to complete four years of a Career Technical Education program.

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
3 Credits 3 Credits 3 Credits 3 Credits
Exploratory and Introduction to Mechatronics Basics of Electrical and Electronic Circuitry, Motors, Generators, Motor Controls and Power Supplies Semiconductor Devices, Pneumatics, Robotics and Programmable Logic Controllers, Hydraulics and National Electrical Code Digital Electronics, Robotics, Appliance Repair, Refrigeration, Programmed Logic Controllers and Variable Speed Drives

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS*

Students deciding to enter the Mechatronics field will be introduced to the basics of safety as well as equipment identification and use. Students are introduced to mechanisms and a wide variety of electromechanical principles and practices. Safety, hand tool and digital multi-meter use are demonstrated and practiced.

In Grade 10, students learn circuit interpretation, design and construction through the use of computer-assisted training and simulators. Principles of direct current, alternating current, magnetism, semiconductors and electronic devices are taught and practiced. Students demonstrate the ability to use test equipment to measure electrical and mechanical variables.

In Grade 11, students are instructed and demonstrate skills in construction and diagnostic repair of direct current motors, alternating current motors, motor controls, hydraulics and pneumatic devices and equipment. Motor control design use and troubleshooting are taught and practiced with simulators and motor controls. Electronic circuitry is instructed and practiced. The National Electrical Code is presented through basic projects, and students demonstrate analytical skills needed to verify or troubleshoot residential and commercial low- and high-voltage wiring, including commercial and residential alarm and automation systems. They will perform school electromechanical projects for customers. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work-based Learning (WBL).

In Grade 12, robotics, programmable logic controllers and variable speed drives are taught. Motor controls, hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical theories are applied to the field of major appliance repair. Students are trained in preparation for their Environmental Protection Agency Section 608 refrigeration certification, Level 1. Digital electronics are instructed and practiced. Service documentation is developed and tested. Students are instructed in preventative maintenance schedules and proper maintenance procedures are practiced. Troubleshooting, part nomenclature, interpretation and application of schematics and proper service techniques are refined. They will demonstrate the ability to complete a job application, interview and have entry-level job readiness and trade skills. Students will perform school electromechanical projects for customers. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work-based Learning (WBL). Each student will take the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute exam, a performance-based test.

Students successfully completing this course of study will be able to pursue a two- or a four-year degree in the areas of mechanical, electrical or electronic engineering. Students electing to immediately enter the workforce typically acquire positions as production development technicians in manufacturing facilities and robotics technicians in assembly applications. Additionally, they can get jobs as repair technicians for all phases of high- and low-voltage electricity, hydraulic and pneumatic mechanical controls.