Mechatronics

This online mechatronics course provides an intensive overview of the skills necessary for the mechatronics industry. You will learn math, inspection, safety, quality, electrical systems, automation, mechanical systems, fluid systems, rigging, and welding in mechatronics.

You will be given your own Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit (headset, two controllers, case, and Elite Strap) to complete 10 labs/simulations delivered through virtual reality (VR). Note: You have the option to complete the simulations online.

Upon course completion, you will not only have the training needed to begin a career in mechatronics but also be able to keep your Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit.

What you will learn

• Troubleshooting
• GD&T
• Production floor safety
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
• PLC equipment and communication
• Electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems
• Robot programming and maintenance
• Welding processes

How you will benefit

• Get an overview of the Benefits of Virtual Reality to get a better understanding of the value this mechatronics training offers
• Prepare for a career as a mechatronics engineer, mechatronics technician, automation engineer, automation specialist, or a controls engineer
• Gain the skills you need to confidently perform your job
• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

1. Electrical Systems
   1. Electrical Units 101
   2. Safety for Electrical Work 111
   3. Introduction to Circuits 201
   4. Introduction to Magnetism 211
   5. DC Circuit Components 221
   6. NEC(R) Overview 231
   7. AC Fundamentals 241
   8. Electrical Instruments 251
   9. Electrical Print Reading 261
   10. DC Power Sources 271
   11. AC Power Sources 281
   12. Conductor Selection 291
   13. Series Circuit Calculations 301
   14. Parallel Circuit Calculations 311
   15. Battery Selection 321
2. Fasteners
   1. Introduction to Assembly 101
3. Hydraulics and Pneumatics
   1. Introduction to Fluid Systems 101
   2. The Forces of Fluid Power 201
   3. Safety for Hydraulics and Pneumatics 211
   4. Introduction to Hydraulic Components 221
   5. Introduction to Pneumatic Components 231
   6. Introduction to Fluid Conductors 241
   7. Fittings for Fluid Systems 251
   8. Preventative Maintenance for Fluid Systems 261
   9. Hydraulic Power Variables 301
   10. Hydraulic Power Sources 302
   11. Pneumatic Power Variables 311
   12. Pneumatic Power Sources 312
   13. Hydraulic Control Valves 341
   14. Hydraulic Schematics and Basic Circuit Design 342
   15. Pneumatic Control Valves 351
   16. Pneumatic Schematics and Basic Circuit Design 352
   17. Actuator Applications 361
   18. Hydraulic Fluid Selection 371
   19. Contamination and Filter Selection 381
   20. Hydraulic Principles and System Design 391
4. Inspection
   1. Basic Measurement 101
   2. Basics of Tolerance 121
   3. Blueprint Reading 131
   4. Interpreting Prints 231
   5. Introduction to GD&T 301
   6. Major Rules of GD&T 311
   7. Inspecting a Prismatic Part 321
   8. Inspecting a Cylindrical Part 331
5. Lean
   1. Lean Manufacturing Overview 101
   2. Continuous Process Improvement: Managing Flow 124
   3. Continuous Process Improvement: Identifying and Eliminating Waste 125
   4. Total Productive Maintenance 141
   5. 5S Overview 151
   6. Intro to Six Sigma 171
   7. Troubleshooting 181
   8. Conducting Kaizen Events 191
   9. SPC Overview 211
   10. Metrics for Lean 231
   11. Process Flow Charting 241
   12. Strategies for Setup Reduction 251
   13. Management Tools: Problem Solving 270
   14. Six Sigma Goals and Tools 310
6. Mechanical Systems
   1. Introduction to Mechanical Systems 101
   2. Safety for Mechanical Work 111
   3. Forces of Machines 121
   4. Power Transmission Components 201
   5. Mechanical Power Variables 202
   6. Lubricant Fundamentals 211
   7. Bearing Applications 221
   8. Spring Applications 231
   9. Belt Drive Applications 241
   10. Gear Applications 251
   11. Gear Geometry 261
   12. Clutch and Brake Applications 271
7. Metal Cutting
   1. Safety for Metal Cutting 101
   2. Metal Cutting Fluid Safety 231
8. Motor Controls
   1. Relays, Contractors, and Motor Starters 201
   2. Distribution Systems 221
   3. Limit Switches and Proximity Sensors 231
   4. Introduction to Electric Motors 301
   5. Symbols and Diagrams for Motors 311
   6. Logic and Line Diagrams 312
9. PLCs
   1. Introduction to PLCs 201
   2. Hardware for PLCs 211
   3. PLC Inputs and Outputs 231
   4. Hand-Held Programmers of PLCs 280
   5. Overview of PLC Registers 305
10. PLCs: Siemens
    1. Basics of Siemens PLCs 200
    2. Siemens PLC Hardware 210
    3. Siemens PLC Inputs and Outputs 240
    4. Siemens Human Machine Interfaces 250
    5. Siemens SIMATIC Modular PLCs 260
    6. Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 PLCs 340
    7. Siemens Safety Integrated for Factory Automation 360
11. Quality
    1. ISO 9001:2015 Review 122
    2. Approaches to Maintenance 131
    3. Customer-Focused Quality 155
    4. TS 16849:2009 Overview 221
12. Rigging
    1. Introduction to Machine Rigging 111
    2. Rigging Equipment 121
    3. Rigging Inspection and Safety 131
    4. Lifting and Moving Equipment 141
    5. Rigging Mechanics 220
13. Robotics
    1. Introduction to Robotics 201
    2. Robot Safety 211
    3. Robot Components 221
    4. End Effectors 225
    5. Robot Power and Drive Systems 265
    6. Robot Axes and Pathways 280
    7. Robot Sensors 315
    8. Vision Systems 320
    9. Robot Troubleshooting 331
    10. Concepts of Robot Programming 341
    11. Robot Maintenance 355
    12. Robot Installations 370
14. Safety
    1. Introduction to OSHA 101
    2. Ergonomics 102
    3. Personal Protective Equipment 111
    4. Noise Reduction and Hearing Conservation 121
    5. Respiratory Safety 131
    6. Lockout/Tagout Procedures 141
    7. SDS and Hazard Communication 151
    8. Bloodborne Pathogens 161
    9. Walking and Working Surfaces 171
    10. Fire and Safety and Prevention 181
    11. Flammable/Combustible Liquids 191
    12. Safety for Lifting Devices 211
    13. Powered Industrial Truck Safety 221
    14. Confined Spaces 231
    15. Environmental Safety Hazards 241
    16. Machine Guarding 271
15. Shop Essentials (Applied Mathematics)
    1. Math Fundamentals 101
    2. Math: Fractions and Decimals 111
    3. Units of Measurement 112
    4. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part I 124
    5. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part II 125
    6. Geometry: Lines and Angles 151
    7. Geometry: Triangles 161
    8. Geometry: Circles and Polygons 171
    9. Trigonometry: The Pythagorean Theorem 201
    10. Trigonometry: Sine, Cosine, Tangent 211
    11. Statistics 231
16. Supervisor Essentials
    1. Managing Performance: Best Practices 130
    2. Managing Performance: Corrective Actions 135
    3. Conflict Resolution Principles 150
    4. Conflict Resolution for Different Groups 155
    5. Team Leadership 160
    6. Manufacturing Management 180
    7. Personal Effectiveness 190
    8. Managing the Diverse Workplace 210
    9. Harassment and Discrimination 215
    10. Performance Management and the Law 230
17. Welding
    1. Welding Safety Essentials 101
    2. PPE for Welding 111
    3. Welding Fumes and Gases Safety 121
    4. Electrical Safety for Welding 131
    5. Introduction to Welding 141
    6. Introduction to Welding Processes 151
    7. Math Fundamentals for Welding 161
    8. Geometry Fundamentals for Welding 171
    9. Material Tests for Welding 201
    10. Welding Ferrous Metals 211
    11. Welding Nonferrous Metals 212
    12. Overview of Weld Types 221
    13. Overview of Weld Defects 222
    14. Welding Symbols and Codes 231
    15. Fabrication Process 232
    16. Electrical Power for Arc Welding 241
    17. Introduction to GMAW 251
    18. Introduction to SMAW 252
    19. Introduction to FCAW 261
    20. Introduction to GTAW 262
    21. Overview of Soldering 271
    22. Introduction to Automation 291
    23. GMAW Applications 301
    24. Advanced GMAW Applications 302
    25. SMAW Applications 311
    26. FCAW Applications 321
    27. GTAW Applications 331
18. Workforce Essentials
    1. Essentials of Communication 115

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The following materials will be shipped to you approximately 10 business days after enrollment:

• Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit (headset, 2 controllers, case, and elite strap)

Material Fees are non-refundable upon registration.

Please note: Due to the high cost of the kit, it will not ship until 10 days after your start date. We are unable to deliver the kit to P.O. Boxes; you may be asked to provide an alternate shipping address for your delivery.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to take this course. However, this course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

This is not an instructor facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email.

What is the average salary of a mechatronics technician?

According to Indeed, the average salary for a mechatronics technician is $60,664 per year in the U.S.

What is mechatronics?

Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines principles from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering to design and create automated and intelligent systems.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What hardware is included?

The course includes the Meta Quest 3 headset with the two controllers, a carrying case, and the Elite Strap.

What should I do if I encounter technical difficulties while using VR?

If there are issues with the simulations, you can contact a student advisor and/or access the VR Help Center in the Learning Management System, which includes documentation, videos, and guides to assist with any issues.

If there are any issues with the hardware, you should contact Meta for assistance.

Do I need any prior experience with VR technology to take this course?

You do not need to have any prior experience with VR technology to take the course. However, if you do not have any experience with VR, we have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world.

Do I have to return the headset and accessories once I complete the course?

You do not have to return the headset and accessories once you complete the course, it is included in the cost of this program.

What are the benefits of using VR in learning?

Using virtual reality in learning has many benefits. Here is a link to a document summarizing the many benefits.

Will all the course content be delivered through VR, or just certain parts?

For this course, only the 10 labs/simulations are delivered through virtual reality. However, there is an option to complete the simulations on the web.

Can I participate without a VR headset, or is it mandatory?

You have the option of completing the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended)

What are the minimum system requirements for my computer/device to run the VR content?

• Mobile App: Android and Apple
• Network bandwidth: A broadband internet connection is required for larger images, audio, video, interactive components, and Virtual Labs.
• Screen resolution: The minimum screen resolution recommended is 1024 x 768 pixel
• Ram: 8 GB is the minimum recommendation
• Graphic Card: Not required but will increase performance of Virtual Labs

Is the VR experience compatible with all VR platforms (Oculus, HTC Vive, etc.)?

This particular VR experience is only compatible with Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3.

How do I set up the VR equipment for the course? Will there be technical support?

Technical support is provided through the robust Hemp Center available in the Learning Management Systems.

What if I experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR? Are there accommodations for that?

If you experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR, there is an option to complete the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended).

Is there a specific platform or app I need to download to access the VR content?

To access the VR content, you will need to download a specific app from the Meta Quest store. The information for this will be provided upon enrollment.

How do I interact with instructors and other students in the VR environment?

There is no interaction with instructors and other students in the VR environment.

Is there a way to practice or familiarize myself with the VR setup before the course begins?

We have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world that can help you get started.

What happens if my VR equipment breaks or malfunctions? Will I be penalized for missed coursework?

You have the option of completing the labs using virtual reality or web-based simulations. If the VR equipment breaks or malfunctions, you can complete the labs using the web-based versions.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."