Robotics, Automation and Mechatronics Technology

Degrees and Certificates

Courses

RAMT 101: Science of Success

Credits 1

This is a practical one-credit course that provides the tools and skills necessary to get a strong start with the transition for new students at NDSCS. This course will introduce students to campus resources, policies and procedures and cover topics such as time management, study skills, goal setting, wellness, financial literacy, and professional development. (F, S, O)

RAMT 102: Applied DC Theory

Credits 4

This course examines the basic components used in electrical circuits using Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Laws. The course stresses the appropriate terminology, units and uses of the various components in DC (direct current) environment only. Circuit analysis is stressed with circuits connected in series, parallel and series/parallel configurations, as well as R-L and R-C circuits.

RAMT 103: Applied AC Theory

Credits 4

This course examines the fundamentals and applications of AC electrical systems. Electromagnetism, RLC series and parallel circuits, power factor, AC transformers, and motors will be covered in this course. Prerequisite: RAMT 101.

RAMT 107: Mechanical Drives and Maintenance I

Credits 2
This combined lecture/lab course will explore the use of basic mechanical systems and components and their applications to industrial machinery. Emphasis is given to how these components work, their use in mechanical systems, and proper installation and maintenance procedures. Topics to be covered will include: precision measurement, belt drives, bearings/seals, chain drives, gear drives, and couplings. (F)

RAMT 109: Mechanical Drives and Maintenance II

Credits 2
This course will expose the student to multiple predictive maintenance technologies used in industry. The course will cover the theory behind, and application of, the following technologies in use: thermography, ultrasonic detection, vibration analysis, oil/grease analysis, stroboscopic analysis, and motor circuit analysis. The course will also explore current best practices in precision machine alignment, including belt/chain alignment and rotating machinery alignment. The student will use the textbook, case studies from industry, and some hands-on exercises to explore these topics. Prerequisite: RAMT 107. (S)

RAMT 120: 3D Modeling and Design

Credits 3
This is a lecture and laboratory class dealing with the theory and application of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and additive manufacturing techniques (also knows as 3D printing). Using CAD software and Makerbot 3D printers, students will learn how to design and create basic parts and items using common 3D printer materials. Emphasis will be placed on designing parts with the minimum amount of printer materials required and minimizing printing time. (F)

RAMT 124: Robotics Systems I

Credits 3

This combined lecture and lab class will cover basic robotic handling and operations as delivered through Fanuc Robotics C.E.R.T. curriculum. Students will also become familiar with the theory, setup, and operation of robotic vision systems, as well as basic electrical and mechanical maintenance/troubleshooting of industrial robots. Students will be involved in lectures, discussions, and hands-on equipment labs. (S)

RAMT 137: Print Reading, Drafting and Safety

Credits 2
This is a lecture and laboratory class dealing with the theory and application of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), using CAD software, as well as reading and interpretation of prints, schematics and the use of symbols. The OSHA 10 hour safety course for general industry will be completed as part of this class. (F)

RAMT 143: PLC's I

Credits 3

This is a lecture and laboratory course using Siemen's platform programmable logic controls systems. The class will address the theory, construction, application, installation, and introductory programming of PLC's. (S)

RAMT 202: PLC's II

Credits 3
This is a lecture and laboratory course dealing with the theory, construction, application, installation, and programming of microprocessor-based programmable controllers. Logic networks solving typical industrial control problems are developed and programmed into a variety of controllers to learn the limitation and capabilities of each machine. This course is an 8 week class. Prerequisite: ECAL 243. (F)

RAMT 221: Robotics II

Credits 3
This course is a combined lecture and lab class which will cover advanced robotics programming, troubleshooting, maintenance, and interfacing the robots to other peripheral equipment. Areas of focus for this course will include programming, integrating, troubleshooting, and repairing of robotic systems. Students will be involved in lectures, discussions, and hands-on equipment labs. Prerequisite: ECAL 224. (F)

RAMT 222: Solid State Systems I

Credits 2

This course covers the foundations of electronics, the devices used in electronic circuits, how they function, and the proper handling of electronic components. The course covers the proper operation and use of test equipment such as multi-meters and oscilloscopes used in industry for testing and troubleshooting equipment. RAMT students - Corequisite:  RAMT 223.

RAMT 223: Solid State Systems II

Credits 2

This course covers the foundation of electronics, the devices used in electronic circuits, how they function, and the proper handling of electronic components. The course covers the proper operation and use of test equipment such as multi-meters and oscilloscopes used in industry for testing and troubleshooting equipment. This course also covers relays, timers, and sensors. RAMT Students - Corequisite:  RAMT 222.  (F)

RAMT 240: Principles of Project Management

Credits 2
This course will cover the theory and practical application of project management. The student will be assigned a project and the student will develop drawings, develop material lists, calculate cost inputs, and develop a project timeline. (S)

RAMT 244: Capstone Project

Credits 2

This course is the culmination of 2 years in the RAMT program. Students, in groups, will be assigned a capstone project. The teams and projects will be assigned by the instructors. Requirements for each project will be provided by the instructors. The projects will involve different elements from the coursework completed over the course of the program. All documentation, including operational instructions and drawings, will also be completed. The projects will be planned during RAMT 240: Principles of Project Management course and built during this course. Students will make a final presentation of their projects at the end of the course. Prerequisites: RAMT 240. (S)

RAMT 246: Quality Assurance Standards and Methods

Credits 3
This course is a lecture course that will introduce the student to the concept of statistical analysis and quality assurance as applied to the manufacturing and maintenance environment. Through lecture, discussion, case studies from industry, and exercises, the student will gain a basic understanding on how data is collected, analyzed, and used in the day-to-day operations of a modern facility for process improvement, defect/waste elimination, and risk/hazard assessment. The course will also explore the following Lean Manufacturing and Maintenance Management tools and their application: Kaizen, Six Sigma, 5S, 5 Why, Root Cause Analysis, and Wrench Time Studies. (S)

RAMT 250: Drives and Servo Systems

Credits 2
This combined lecture/lab course will explore the commissioning and operation of Siemens variable frequency drives and servo control systems. Students will gain an understanding of the operational theory of these components, the usage of these systems in industrial settings, and basic programming protocols. (S)

RAMT 294: Capstone Project

Credits 2

This course is the culmination of 2 years in the RAMT program. Students, in groups, will be assigned a capstone project. The teams and projects will be assigned by the instructors. Requirements for each project will be provided by the instructors. The projects will involve different elements from the coursework completed over the course of the program. All documentation, including operational instructions and drawings, will also be completed. The projects will be planned during RAMT 240: Principles of Project Management course and built during this course. Students will make a final presentation of their projects at the end of the course. Prerequisites: RAMT 240. (S)

RAMT 297: Internship

Credits 4

This internship course provides students with supervised, hands-on work experience in their chosen career field. The internship course reinforces technical and professional skills gained in the classroom through real-world application in a workplace setting. Students will develop industry-specific competencies, enhance problem-solving and communication skills, and gain insight into workplace expectations. Faculty and industry professionals will provide guidance and evaluation to ensure meaningful learning outcomes. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate increased proficiency in their field, apply critical thinking to job-related tasks, and reflect on their professional growth.