Networks in Mechatronic Systems

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 03.12.2025.

Module identifier

11B2090

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

German

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

only winter term

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

The internal networking of mechatronic systems such as vehicles, agricultural machinery and automation systems, as well as buildings and avionics, typically takes place via wired or wireless industrial bus systems. Communication with external systems and the use of cloud services via the internet is also constantly increasing.

Networking requires a high degree of interference immunity and reliability. Another important criteria is the real-time capability of data transmission.

This module introduces the basics of communication networks, deals with the special features of bus systems in mechatronics, presents important bus systems and shows their relevance for the overall system.

Teaching and learning outcomes

1. Basics of communication: OSI model, signal transmission on lines, media access procedures, error detection, routing, transport and application protocols

2. Industrial bus systems: Profibus, Industrial Ethernet, CAN, KNX and other bus systems

3. The overall networked system: data security, real-time requirements, effects on regulation and control

4. Wireless networks in the industrial environment: basic challenges, WLAN, Bluetooth

5. Networking with external systems: Architecture and the most important internet protocols, mobile networks, cloud services

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
45LecturePresence-
15Laboratory activityPresence-
Lecturer independent learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
30Preparation/follow-up for course work-
60Creation of examinations-
Graded examination
  • Homework / Assignment or
  • Written examination
Ungraded exam
  • Field work / Experimental work
Remark on the assessment methods

Examination format at the lecturer's discretion, normally a term paper. Term paper length approx. 10 to 20 pages.

The experimental work is carried out in the form of an internship. The experiments must be prepared and a report must be written.

Exam duration and scope

Graded examination performance:

  • Term paper: Length of term paper approx. 10 to 20 pages
  • Written examination: see applicable study regulations

Ungraded examination performance:

  • Experimental work: 5 experiments, each lasting 90 minutes

Recommended prior knowledge

None

Knowledge Broadening

Students who have successfully completed this module will be familiar with the most important bus systems used in industrial practice and in the automotive sector. They will understand the challenges involved in data transmission in industrial environments and in error detection and prevention, and will be familiar with possible solutions. They will also be familiar with methods for ensuring real-time performance with bus systems.

They are aware of the challenges and advantages of wireless networks in industrial environments. In addition, they are familiar with the opportunities and possibilities offered by the use of cloud services via the Internet.

Knowledge deepening

Students who have successfully completed this module will be able to assess the importance of bus systems for the overall system and its function. They will also understand the significance of bus systems for the requirements associated with ‘Industry 4.0’.

Students who have successfully completed this module will have experience with current tools for commissioning and analysing bus systems, particularly those commonly used in agricultural engineering and the automotive industry.

Application and Transfer

Students who have successfully completed this module will be able to analyse industrial networking requirements and develop suitable solutions for bus systems.

Academic Self-Conception / Professionalism

Students who have successfully completed this module will be able to classify media reports on increasing networking in industry, buildings, cars and agricultural machinery, and assess their relevance. They will be able to evaluate which bus system with which characteristics is really necessary and what does not offer any improvements for the mechatronic system as a whole.

Literature

G. Schnell, B. Wiedemann: "Bussysteme in der Automatisierungs- und Prozesstechnik", Vieweg Verlag

A. Bormann, I. Hilgenkamp: "Industrielle Netze - Ethernet-Kommunikation für Automatisierungsanwendungen", Hüthig Verlag

W. Zimmermann, R. Schmidgall: "Bussysteme in der Fahrzeugtechnik", Springer-Verlag

Applicability in study programs

  • Mechatronics
    • Mechatronics B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Lübke, Andreas
    Teachers
    • Lübke, Andreas