Overview

Learn to design, implement, and troubleshoot communication systems for robotics.

Mechatronic systems are transforming our world, with robots as some of the most impactful examples. These versatile machines enhance efficiency across diverse fields, from manufacturing and agriculture to household tasks and space exploration.

Effective communication protocols are critical for seamless data exchange between devices and systems in robotics.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of key communication protocols and essential hardware used in mechatronics, with a strong focus on robotic applications.
Participants will also learn about the Robot Operating System (ROS) and gain the skills to use its communication framework for seamless interaction between software and hardware. With this knowledge, participants will be prepared to design effective, robust and adaptable robotic solutions fit for a variety of industrial applications.

Who is this course for?
Designed for those seeking to deepen their expertise in communication systems within robotics and industrial automation, this course is geared towards professionals, engineers, and students in fields such as electrical engineering, computer science, and robotics, interested in developing practical skills.

A hands-on approach: build your own robot
One of the course's unique features is its use of modular mechatronic educational hardware. This hardware facilitates a systematic approach to designing robotic applications, guiding you through the entire process of mechatronic system integration – from conceptualization and analysis to construction and control.

The open-source hardware and firmware enables customization, making it adaptable for various applications, including student thesis projects. Additionally, the course integrates knowledge of other robotics components, such as motor control, sensing, and system integration, highlighting their role in communications.

Full Program
This course is an initiative of the Erasmus + project GEMS (Graceful Equalizing of Mechatronics Students). It is part of the online program Building Robots: From Mechatronic Components to Robotics, developed by GEMS partners, with the Teaching Factory Competence Center leading the part about communication in robots.

What You'll Learn

  • Design and implement reliable communication networks for systems.
  • Integrate microcontrollers, sensors, and hardware seamlessly.
  • Utilize Robot Operating System (ROS) resources for efficient robotic system communication.
  • Troubleshoot communication protocols in industrial and robotic setups.
  • Apply serial, industrial, and wireless protocols effectively.
  • Stay updated with emerging communication technologies and trends.

After taking this course, you will be able to:

  • Develop communication firmware and hardware for robotic systems.
  • Work with other disciplines to communicate in various robotics applications.
  • Deploy ROS in practical robotic systems.

Details

Course Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to Communication Protocols

  • Overview of communication protocols
  • Importance of communication protocols in robotics and industrial equipment
  • Basic concepts: data transmission, baud rate, protocols
  • Types of communication protocols

Week 2: Fundamentals of Serial Communication

  • Understanding Serial Communication 
  • Overview of RS-232, RS-485, and other serial communication standards
  • Configuration and settings for serial communication

Week 3: Wireless Communication Technologies

  • Wireless communication fundamentals
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other wireless protocols
  • Wireless communication in industrial environments

Week 4: Communication Hardware in Robotics

  • Introduction to communication hardware components
  • Microcontrollers, microprocessors and communication interfaces
  • Actuator control and feedback mechanisms
  • Integration of communication hardware in robotic systems

Week 5: ROS (Robot Operating System) Fundamentals
Introduction to ROS architecture and components

  • ROS communication concepts: topics, messages, services, actions
  • Understanding ROS nodes, topics and messages
  • ROS tools and utilities for communication and development
  • Hands-on exercises and projects using ROS for communication in robotics applications

Week 6: Advanced Topics in Communication Protocols

  • Real-time communication requirements in robotics and industrial applications
  • Synchronization and timing considerations
  • Fault tolerance and error handling mechanisms
  • Emerging trends and future directions in communication protocols
  • Research projects exploring advanced communication protocols for specific industrial applications

Qualifications

Chartered Engineering Competences
All our online courses and programs have been matched to the competences determined by KIVI’s Competence Structure, a common frame of reference for everyone, across all disciplines, levels and roles. 

These competences apply to this course:

  • A1: Extend your theoretical knowledge of new and advancing technologies.
  • B2: Conduct appropriate research, and undertake design and development of new and creative engineering solutions.

Admission

This is a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) that runs on edX.

Prerequisites

  • Fundamental analogue and digital electronics.
  • Preliminary programming experience (e.g. in C/C++ or Python).

  • Starts: Sep 02, 2025
  • Free | Earn certificate for $139
  • Length: 7 weeks
  • Effort: 4 - 6 hours per week

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