Learn more about the academic programs we are delivering in Summer 2024. If you have any questions about part-time studies, please contact us.

 

 

Overview

SIMATIC is a series of programmable logic controller and automation systems, developed by Siemens. The series is intended for industrial automation and production. Simatic devices are intended to separate the control of a machine from the machine's direct operation, in a more lightweight and versatile manner than controls hard-wired for a specific machine.

The brains behind many automated processes, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are incredibly sophisticated and widely used in industry today. Manufacturers use PLCs when they need flexible yet precise electrical control over any range of processes that coordinate inputs and outputs. For example, PLCs are used in traffic signals, pharmaceutical manufacturing, theme park attractions, and automotive assembly, just to name a few. The Siemens SIMATIC family of control products includes a variety of PLC models designed to handle the full range of applications.

Most often used in Advanced Manufacturing, or Lean Manufacturing environments, Integrated Automation Systems are typically faster than regular technology, reduce the cost of machinery overall and reduce the need for manual labour by using a series of devices that are interconnected using various computerized hardware and software.

Career Opportunities

Integrated Automation Systems, are also referred to as Human Machine Interfaces, or Mechatronics, and are used in numerous industries, most commonly in manufacturing and food processing, however, job titles in automation can now be found in other rapidly automating industries such as healthcare, hospitality, travel and leisure, aerospace, printing, film, agriculture and retail.

Automation technicians troubleshoot, service and maintain the computerized systems and robotic devices that are designed to reduce human interaction, such as robotic assembly devices and computer-controlled building air-conditioning systems. These machines and systems are often found within industrial and manufacturing plants and other commercial facilities. Technicians perform routine diagnostic checks, monitor automated systems, isolate problems and perform repairs.

Some common job titles include:

  • Automation Service Technician
  • Automation Specialist
  • Automation Technician
  • Bench Technician
  • Control Specialist
  • Control Systems Support Specialist
  • Field Technician
  • Maintenance Technician
  • Motion Control Specialist
  • PLC Operator
  • PLC Programmer
  • PLC Technician
  • Production Support Technician
  • Robotics Technician

For more information on careers in this sector, visit:

Entry Requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with:

  • Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
  • Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U) or Grade 11 Mathematics: MCR3(U)

OR Mature Student Status (age 19 or older) with the above prerequisite course(s), their equivalent(s) or appropriate Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) Certificate program credits (see Academic Upgrading)

Students are strongly encouraged to observe listed course pre-requisites, unless they have previous industrial experience.

Filter Classes: In Class     Online     Correspondence     Hybrid     Availability   

Part-time Studies courses are being offered in either of the following four formats: Online, Flexible, In-person, Hybrid. Click Availability below to see current offerings.

Curriculum

IAS106
Introduction to Siemens
Availability
 

This course covers the fundamentals of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and automation control systems, including: principles for designing and controlling simple mechanical, electrical and fluid systems; concepts of control system theory; an introduction to various control systems and PLCs in a complex mechatronic environment; SIMATIC S7 & Comfort HMI and the related programming software TIA portal/STEP7. Using computer simulation, students learn the role that PLCs play within mechatronic systems or subsystems. They will also learn basic elements of PLC functions by writing small programs and testing these programs on an actual system (2 axis gripper pick and place unit). Students will learn to identify malfunctioning PLC hardware, as well as apply troubleshooting strategies to identify and localize problems caused by PLC software.




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IAS101
Advanced Siemens PLC Techniques and System Integration
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

IAS106

Students explore more advanced topics in the field, including: S7-1500 and S7-300 PLCs, Hardware installation and wiring, TIA and PLCSIM, Communication set up: PROFINET and MPI, Linear programming and Sequential control, Organization blocks, function blocks, data blocks including multi instances, and functions, Structured programming, Interrupts, Array, retentive data, and PLC data type, Multiple addressing and indirect addressing, Move operations, Shift and rotate, Conversion operations, Word logic operations, Program control, Operation of analog signals, PID configuration and PID tuning, Utilization of system resources, Programming in FBD, SCL, STL, and GRAPH, Networking of PLCs, System Integration with S7-1500 PLC and Comfort HMI, Introduction to SINAMICS drives, Complex sequential control with FESTO's Robot and MPS (Distributing station, Handling station, and Separating station, etc.).




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IAS105
Siemens Advanced HMI
Availability
 

The course examines the design, program, and essential techniques used to create HMI (Human Machine Interface) including the principles of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. The subject matter covers how the chemical batch mixer application works, how to program in multiple languages, and how to debug, troubleshoot, test, and connect the application to WinCC. The course also covers the following functions: data logging, viewing data in visual representation with trend view, message setup for various events on the application, alarm setup when an event is generated, recipe use to select preprogrammed values, and multiple screen creation.




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Program Outcomes

This program is designed for Technicians and Technologists seeking to upgrade or enhance their skills and maintain awareness of current technologies in Automation. It will provide students with thorough knowledge in the area of PLC installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and an understanding of how this equipment integrates with other automated systems.

Upon completion of the program, students will meet the following outcomes:

  • Capable of installing, wiring, and configuring PLC hardware
  • Demonstrate the ability to program, compile, download and execute a PLC project
  • Trouble shoot and maintain a variety of PLC control systems from several major manufacturers
  • Design an integrated PLC control system
  • Design a distributed HMI application
  • Manage and monitor Application and Documentation of projects.

Completion

Recognition of Achievement

Upon successful completion of the program requirements, please submit a Request for Recognition of Achievement Form to the Faculty of Continuing Education and Training. There is no cost for this and your Recognition of Achievement will be sent to you electronically.

Program Contacts

Cherry Langlois
Program Assistant
Cherry.Langlois@senecapolytechnic.ca
416-764-0984


Jacqueline Bar
Academic Program Manager
Jacqueline.Bar@senecapolytechnic.ca
416-764-0978


For more information about this program, fill out the following form.