Skill Building

1. Welding Fundamentals - 4-Hour Class

• Hour 1: Introduction to Welding

  • Overview of welding processes

  • Safety precautions and equipment

  • Types of welding: MIG, TIG, Stick

• Hour 2: Hands-On Practice

  • Setting up the welding equipment

  • Welding practice on steel

• Hour 3: Welding Techniques

  • Learning various welding techniques

  • Creating basic welds

• Hour 4: Q&A and Review

  • Troubleshooting common welding issues

  • Review of class and next steps

Introduction to Manual Milling (7-hour class)

Hour 1:

• Overview of milling machines and their applications.

  1. Cranking handles, First test cut.

• Explanation of the main components of a manual milling machine.

• Safety considerations when operating a manual milling machine.

• Introduction to basic milling terminology.

Hour 2: 

• Mill tools overview

• Power feed & DRO Settings

• Checking squareness

• Part setup

Hour 3-6:

• Intro MIll/Drill project (Drill block)

Course Title: Comprehensive Manual Lathe Workshop

Course Duration: 6 Hours

Course Description:

The Comprehensive Manual Lathe Workshop is an immersive 3-hour session designed to provide participants with a thorough understanding of manual lathe operations. This workshop includes an introductory project called "Chuck Center," allowing participants to apply their learning immediately. By the end of the workshop, participants will have hands-on experience in setting up a lathe, performing basic turning operations, and completing a small project.

Course Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of manual lathe components and functions.

• Develop proficiency in workpiece setup, securing, and workholding devices.

• Master fundamental turning operations, including facing, turning, and chamfering.

• Acquire practical skills in using different lathe cutting tools.

• Apply safety protocols for manual lathe operations.

• Complete an introductory project, the "Chuck Center," to reinforce learning.

Course Outline:

Introduction to Manual Lathe Operations (30 minutes)

• Overview of lathe machines and their applications.

• Explanation of key components of a manual lathe.

• Importance of lathe operations in machining.

Lathe Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (20 minutes)

• Review of general lathe safety protocols.

• Proper use of PPE during lathe operations.

• Discussion on common hazards and accident prevention.

Lathe Cutting Tools, Tool Changes, Lathe Components, Setup (60 minutes)

• Overview of common lathe cutting tools.

• Selection and application of cutting tools for different turning operations.

• Hands-on practice with tool changes and adjustments.

• In-depth explanation of major lathe components.

• Techniques for proper workpiece setup and securing.

• Introduction to common workholding devices.

Chuck Center Project Demo (60 minutes)

• Hands-on Chuck Center project: Creating a centered cylindrical piece.

Basic Turning Operations (40 minutes)

• Overview of basic turning techniques: facing, turning, and chamfering.

• Practical demonstration of turning operations on the lathe.

• Tips for achieving precision in turning.

Advanced Turning Techniques and Troubleshooting (30 minutes)

• Introduction to advanced turning techniques, such as taper turning.

• Troubleshooting common issues during turning operations.

• Q&A session for participant queries.

Project Completion, Recap, and Closing (180 minutes)

• Completion and assessment of the Chuck Center project.

• Recap of key concepts and takeaways from the workshop.

• Distribution of additional resources for further learning.

Note: The Chuck Center project serves as a practical application of the concepts learned during the workshop, providing participants with a tangible takeaway. Instructors may tailor the content based on participants' familiarity with machining concepts and their specific learning objectives.

CNC Machining Workshop - 6-Hour Class

• Hour 1: Introduction to CNC Machining

  • Overview of CNC machines and applications

  • Safety and machine setup

• Hour 2: CNC Machine Operation

  • Hands-on experience with CNC mills

  • Programming basics

• Hour 3: Advanced CNC Techniques

  • More complex programming

  • Precision milling

• Hour 4: CNC Lathe Operation

  • Introduction to CNC lathes

  • Hands-on experience

• Hour 5: CNC Project

  • Students program and execute a project

• Hour 6: Q&A and Review

  • Troubleshooting and advanced techniques

  • Review of class and next steps

Introduction to Electronics - 3-Hour Class

• Hour 1: Electronics Basics

  • Introduction to components

  • Safety and equipment

• Hour 2: Circuit Building

  • Hands-on circuit building

  • Understanding schematics

• Hour 3: Soldering Workshop

  • Soldering techniques

  • Building a simple electronic project

Blacksmithing Basics - 5-Hour Class

• Hour 1: Introduction to Blacksmithing

  • History and safety

  • Tools and equipment

• Hour 2: Forging Techniques

  • Basic forging techniques

  • Creating simple projects

• Hour 3: Advanced Forging

  • Complex projects and techniques

  • Shaping and bending metal

• Hour 4: Heat Treatment

  • Heat treating and tempering

• Hour 5: Q&A and Review

  • Troubleshooting and advanced techniques

  • Review of class and next steps

PLC and Industrial Robot Programming - 8-Hour Class

• Hour 1: Introduction to PLC and Industrial Robots

  • Overview of Industrial Automation

  • Introduction to PLCs and robot systems

• Hour 2: Basics of PLC Programming

  • Understanding ladder logic

  • Hands-on practice with PLCs

• Hour 3: Industrial Robot Basics

  • Introduction to robot programming

• Hour 4: Robot Programming Practice

  • Hands-on programming exercises

• Hour 5: Advanced PLC Programming

  • Complex ladder logic programming

  • Integration with robots

• Hour 6: Advanced Robot Programming

  • Advanced robot control techniques

• Hour 7: Real-World Applications

  • Applications in manufacturing

  • Troubleshooting and maintenance

• Hour 8: Q&A and Review

  • Review of class and next steps

Objective: Students will learn the fundamentals of hardware hacking, including reverse engineering, hardware modification, and exploration of embedded systems. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to apply their knowledge to identify vulnerabilities, modify hardware components, and develop basic hardware-based projects.

Duration: 6 hours (divided into two 3-hour sessions)

Materials:

• • Various electronic devices (old computers, routers, smartphones, etc.)

  • Soldering iron and solder

  • Multimeter

  • Wire cutters and strippers

  • Screwdrivers

  • Breadboards and jumper wires

  • Arduino or similar microcontroller board

  • Basic electronic components (resistors, capacitors, LEDs, etc.)

Session 1: Introduction to Hardware Hacking (3 hours)

Overview of Hardware Hacking (30 minutes)

• • Definition and importance of hardware hacking

  • Examples of hardware hacking projects and applications

Basic Electronics Review (1 hour)

• • Overview of electronic components and circuits

  • Introduction to soldering techniques

Reverse Engineering (1 hour)

• • Principles of reverse engineering

  • Hands-on activity: Disassembling and analyzing a simple electronic device

Exploration of Embedded Systems (30 minutes)

• • Introduction to embedded systems and microcontrollers

  • Overview of common microcontroller architectures

Session 2: Hands-on Hardware Hacking Projects (3 hours)

Identifying Vulnerabilities (1 hour)

• Introduction to hardware security vulnerabilities, including physical access vulnerabilities, firmware vulnerabilities, and default configurations.

• Hands-on activity: Students work in pairs to identify and document potential vulnerabilities in a provided electronic device, such as a router or IoT device. They analyze the device's physical design, examine its firmware, and explore default settings to identify potential weaknesses.

Hardware Modification (1 hour)

• Techniques for modifying hardware components, including soldering, desoldering, and component replacement.

• Introduction to hardware modification tools and safety precautions.

• Hands-on activity: Students choose one of the identified vulnerabilities from the previous session and develop a plan to exploit or mitigate it through hardware modification. They practice soldering and desoldering techniques to remove and replace components, such as jumpers, resistors, or capacitors, to modify the device's behavior.

Developing Hardware-based Projects (1 hour)

• Introduction to prototyping with microcontrollers, focusing on Arduino or similar platforms.

• Overview of basic electronic components and their functions.

• Hands-on activity: Students design and implement a simple hardware-based project using an Arduino or similar microcontroller board. They select components based on their project idea and use breadboards and jumper wires to create circuits. Examples of projects include creating a basic alarm system, building a temperature sensor, or developing a simple IoT device.

Project Showcase and Discussion (30 minutes)
Students present their hardware hacking projects to the class, explaining the vulnerabilities they identified, the modifications they made, and the functionality of their hardware-based projects.

Class discussion on the ethical implications of hardware hacking, including responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities, ethical considerations in modifying devices, and the potential impact on cybersecurity and privacy.

Assessment:
Successful identification and documentation of hardware vulnerabilities.

Effective execution of hardware modification techniques demonstrated through the modification of a device to exploit or mitigate a vulnerability.

Completion and functionality of hardware-based projects, evaluated based on creativity, technical proficiency, and adherence to project requirements.

Conclusion:
The hands-on hardware hacking projects provide students with practical experience in identifying vulnerabilities, modifying hardware components, and developing hardware-based projects. By engaging in hands-on activities, students deepen their understanding of hardware hacking concepts and gain valuable skills that can be applied in real-world scenarios. Additionally, the project showcase and discussion encourage critical thinking and reflection on the ethical considerations surrounding hardware hacking practices.

Course Duration: 8 Hours (2 Sessions x 4 Hours each)

Course Description:

The Introduction to Load Cells and Strain Gauges course offers participants hands-on experience alongside theoretical knowledge, providing a comprehensive understanding of load cells and strain gauges. Through practical experiments and demonstrations, participants will learn to install, calibrate, and troubleshoot load cells and strain gauges, enhancing their skills in force measurement and weighing systems.

Course Objectives:

• Gain practical experience in installing, calibrating, and troubleshooting load cells and strain gauges.

• Understand the basic principles and types of load cells and strain gauges.

• Explore practical applications of load cells and strain gauges in force measurement systems.

• Develop proficiency in selecting appropriate load cells and strain gauges for specific applications.

Session 1: Hands-on Experiments and Installation (4 Hours)

Hands-on Installation (1 Hour)

• Participants install load cells and strain gauges on provided test specimens, following proper installation techniques and precautions.

Calibration Demonstration (1 Hour)

• Demonstration of load cell and strain gauge calibration procedures using calibration equipment.

Practical Applications Overview (1 Hour)

• Introduction to practical applications of load cells and strain gauges in force measurement systems, including weighing scales and material testing.

Hands-on Calibration (1 Hour)

• Participants calibrate load cells and strain gauges using calibration equipment, ensuring accurate measurements.

Session 2: Theory and Troubleshooting (4 Hours)

Introduction to Load Cells and Strain Gauges (1 Hour)

• Overview of load cells and strain gauges, including basic principles, types, and characteristics.

Strain Measurement Techniques (1 Hour)

• Explanation of strain measurement techniques, including quarter-bridge, half-bridge, and full-bridge configurations.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance (1 Hour)

• Common issues and challenges in load cell and strain gauge operation.

• Techniques for troubleshooting and diagnosing problems.

Practical Application Discussion (1 Hour)

• Discussion and analysis of practical applications of load cells and strain gauges, based on hands-on experiments conducted in Session 1.

Assessment:

Successful completion of hands-on installation and calibration tasks.

Participation in discussions and demonstrations.

Understanding demonstrated through quizzes or knowledge checks.

Conclusion:

The Introduction to Load Cells and Strain Gauges course provides participants with a balanced mix of practical experience and theoretical knowledge. By starting with hands-on experiments, participants gain valuable skills in installation, calibration, and troubleshooting, setting a strong foundation for understanding the principles and applications of load cells and strain gauges. This course equips participants with the necessary skills to confidently apply load cells and strain gauges in real-world force measurement systems.

The Advanced Industrial PLC Programming course is designed for professionals with a foundational understanding of PLC systems. This intensive 20-hour program will delve into advanced PLC programming techniques, focusing on real-world industrial applications. Participants will gain hands-on experience, enabling them to design and troubleshoot complex industrial automation systems.

Course Objectives:

• Master advanced PLC programming concepts.

• Develop expertise in ladder logic and structured text programming.

• Understand industrial communication protocols.

• Implement motion control and PID control in PLC systems.

• Learn advanced troubleshooting and diagnostic techniques.

• Explore PLC integration with SCADA systems.

Course Outline:

Session 1-2: Advanced Ladder Logic Programming (4 hours)

• Advanced ladder logic instructions.

• Sequencers and state machines.

• Developing efficient and scalable programs.

Session 3-4: Structured Text Programming (4 hours)

• Introduction to structured text programming.

• Advanced data types and structures.

• Complex algorithms in structured text.

Session 5-6: Industrial Communication Protocols (4 hours)

• Profibus, Modbus, and Ethernet/IP.

• Configuring communication networks.

• Troubleshooting communication issues.

Session 7-8: Motion Control in PLC (2 hours)

• Introduction to motion control.

• Programming motion profiles.

• Synchronization and camming.

Session 9-10: PID Control in PLC (2 hours)

• Principles of PID control.

• Tuning PID controllers in PLC systems.

• Applications of PID in industrial processes.

Session 11-12: Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques (2 hours)

• Diagnosing complex faults.

• Use of advanced diagnostic tools.

• Strategies for minimizing downtime.

Session 13-16: SCADA Integration with PLC (4 hours)

• Introduction to SCADA systems.

• Configuring PLC-SCADA communication.

• Real-time monitoring and control.

Session 17-18: PLC Security and Best Practices (2 hours)

• Cybersecurity considerations.

• Implementing best practices for secure PLC programming.

Session 19-20: Project and Case Studies (2 hours)

• Hands-on project incorporating advanced PLC concepts.

• Analysis of real-world industrial case studies.

Note: This course assumes participants have completed Intro to Programmable Logic Controllers and Industrial Robots course. Practical applications and real-world projects will be emphasized to ensure participants can apply their skills in industrial settings.

The Advanced Industrial Robot Programming course is tailored for professionals with a fundamental knowledge of industrial robot programming. Over 30 hours, participants will delve into advanced programming techniques, focusing on complex applications such as path planning, vision integration, and collaborative robotics. Hands-on exercises and real-world simulations will empower participants to master advanced robot programming skills.

Course Objectives:

• Develop expertise in advanced robot programming languages.

• Master trajectory planning and motion control.

• Implement vision system integration for industrial robots.

• Understand collaborative robot programming and safety.

• Explore sensor integration for adaptive robotics.

• Design and optimize complex robotic applications.

Course Outline:

Session 1-2: Advanced Robot Programming Languages (4 hours)

• Overview of advanced robot programming languages.

• Introduction to ROS (Robot Operating System).

• Advanced script development for robotic applications.

Session 3-4: Trajectory Planning and Motion Control (4 hours)

• Principles of trajectory planning.

• Motion control techniques for precise movements.

• Implementing smooth and coordinated robot motion.

Session 5-6: Vision System Integration (4 hours)

• Introduction to vision systems for industrial robots.

• Programming robots for object recognition.

• Hands-on exercises in vision-guided robotics.

Session 7-8: Collaborative Robot Programming (4 hours)

• Principles of collaborative robotics.

• Safety considerations for human-robot collaboration.

• Programming techniques for collaborative robots.

Session 9-10: Sensor Integration for Adaptive Robotics (4 hours)

• Overview of sensors used in industrial robotics.

• Programming robots for sensor feedback.

• Applications of adaptive robotics in manufacturing.

Session 11-12: Advanced Tool Path Planning (2 hours)

• Techniques for optimized tool path planning.

• Implementing complex tool trajectories.

• Minimizing cycle times in industrial applications.

Session 13-14: Simulation and Offline Programming (4 hours)

• Importance of simulation in robot programming.

• Hands-on exercises in offline programming.

• Validating and optimizing robot programs through simulation.

Session 15-16: Real-time Control and Monitoring (2 hours)

• Implementing real-time control in robot programming.

• Monitoring and debugging robot programs in real-time.

Session 17-18: Industry-specific Applications (4 hours)

• Tailoring robot programming for specific industries.

• Case studies and applications in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

Session 19-20: Project and Case Studies (4 hours)

• Comprehensive hands-on project incorporating advanced robot programming concepts.

• Analysis and discussion of real-world industrial case studies.

Note: This course assumes participants have completed the Intro to Programmable Logic Controllers and Industrial Robots course. Practical applications and real-world simulations will be emphasized to ensure participants can apply their skills in diverse industrial settings.

Course Description:

The Introduction to Software Defined Radio (SDR) course is tailored for beginners with an interest in radio communications and digital signal processing. Over 24 hours, participants will delve into the fundamentals of SDR technology, gaining hands-on experience with SDR hardware and software. The course emphasizes practical learning with a series of engaging projects, starting with a simple intro project to ignite students' interest.

Course Duration: 24 Hours

Course Objectives:

Understand the principles of Software Defined Radio.

Familiarize with SDR hardware and software tools.

Learn basic signal processing techniques.

Gain proficiency in implementing radio communication systems.

Apply SDR technology to practical projects, ranging from introductory to advanced levels.

Course Outline:

Session 1-2: Introduction to SDR (4 hours)

Overview of Software Defined Radio technology.

Comparison with traditional radio systems.

Introduction to common SDR hardware and software platforms.

Session 3-4: SDR Hardware and Software (4 hours)

Hands-on exploration of SDR hardware components.

Installation and setup of SDR software tools.

Basic configuration and calibration of SDR devices.

Session 5-6: Signal Processing Basics (4 hours)

Fundamentals of digital signal processing (DSP).

Introduction to modulation and demodulation techniques.

Practical exercises in signal analysis and manipulation.

Session 7-8: Introductory Project: FM Radio Receiver (4 hours)

Guided project to build a simple FM radio receiver using SDR technology.

Implementation of tuning, demodulation, and audio playback functionalities.

Testing and optimization of the FM radio receiver.

Session 9-10: Intermediate Project: Aircraft ADS-B Receiver (4 hours)

Guided project to build an ADS-B receiver for tracking aircraft positions.

Implementation of signal decoding, data processing, and visualization.

Testing and validation of the ADS-B receiver system.

Session 11-12: Intermediate Project: Weather Satellite Receiver (4 hours)

Guided project to receive and decode weather satellite images using SDR.

Implementation of signal decoding, image processing, and visualization.

Testing and validation of the weather satellite receiver system.

Session 13-14: Advanced Project: Digital Voice Communications (4 hours)

Guided project to implement digital voice communications using SDR technology.

Introduction to digital voice protocols and modulation schemes.

Hands-on exercises in transmitting and receiving digital voice signals.

Session 15-16: Advanced Project: Spectrum Sensing and Monitoring (4 hours)

Guided project to develop a spectrum sensing and monitoring system using SDR.

Implementation of spectrum analysis algorithms and visualization tools.

Real-time monitoring of radio frequency spectrum for signals of interest.

Session 17-20: Final Project: FMCW Radar and Beamforming (8 hours)

Comprehensive project to design and implement an FMCW radar system using SDR.

Integration of beamforming techniques with phased array antennas for directional sensing.

Demonstration and presentation of final project results.

Session 21: Passive Radar with Kraken SDR (2 hours)

Introduction to passive radar principles and applications.

Overview of Kraken SDR and its capabilities for passive radar.

Hands-on demonstration of passive radar setup using Kraken SDR.

Note: This course offers a progressive learning experience, starting with introductory projects to build foundational skills and gradually advancing to more complex applications. Practical hands-on projects are interspersed throughout the course to reinforce learning and engage participants at every level of expertise.

**Course Title: Advanced Fiber Optic Strain Measurement**

**Course Duration: 12 Hours (2 Sessions x 6 Hours each)**

**Course Description:**

The Advanced Fiber Optic Strain Measurement course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of fiber optic sensing principles and advanced techniques for strain measurement. Through hands-on demonstrations and practical exercises, participants will gain proficiency in designing, deploying, and interpreting data from fiber optic strain measurement systems for various engineering applications.

**Course Objectives:**

1. Gain practical experience in setting up fiber optic strain measurement systems.

2. Understand the principles and limitations of fiber optic sensing for strain measurement.

3. Explore advanced techniques and applications of fiber optic strain measurement.

4. Develop skills in data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation for fiber optic sensing.

**Session 1: Hands-on Demonstration and Fundamentals (6 Hours)**

1. **Hands-on Demonstration: Fiber Optic Sensor Setup (2 Hours)**

   - Participants set up a fiber optic strain measurement system using Bragg grating sensors or distributed sensing systems.

   - Learn the basics of fiber optic sensor installation, connection, and calibration.

2. **Introduction to Fiber Optic Strain Measurement (1 Hour)**

   - Overview of fiber optic sensing principles and advantages over traditional strain measurement techniques.

3. **Types of Fiber Optic Sensors (1 Hour)**

   - Discussion on different types of fiber optic sensors, including Bragg grating sensors, interferometric sensors, and distributed sensors.

4. **Data Acquisition and Instrumentation (1 Hour)**

   - Introduction to data acquisition systems and instrumentation for fiber optic strain measurement.

5. **Interpretation of Fiber Optic Strain Data (1 Hour)**

   - Overview of data interpretation techniques and software tools for analyzing fiber optic strain measurement data.

**Session 2: Advanced Techniques and Applications (6 Hours)**

6. **Advanced Fiber Optic Sensing Techniques (1 Hour)**

   - Exploration of advanced techniques in fiber optic sensing, including temperature compensation, multiplexing, and dynamic strain measurement. 

7. **Real-world Applications of Fiber Optic Strain Measurement (1 Hour)**

   - Case studies and examples of fiber optic strain measurement applications in civil engineering, aerospace, and structural health monitoring.

8. **Hands-on Exercise: System Design and Deployment (2 Hours)**

   - Participants design and deploy a fiber optic strain measurement system for a specific engineering application, such as bridge monitoring or composite material testing.

9. **Data Analysis and Interpretation (1 Hour)**

   - Practical exercises in analyzing and interpreting data collected from fiber optic strain measurement systems.

10. **Troubleshooting and Maintenance (1 Hour)**

   - Techniques for troubleshooting common issues and maintaining fiber optic strain measurement systems.

**Assessment:**

- Successful completion of hands-on demonstrations and exercises.

- Participation in discussions and practical exercises.

- Understanding demonstrated through quizzes or knowledge checks.

**Conclusion:**

The Advanced Fiber Optic Strain Measurement course provides participants with practical experience in setting up fiber optic strain measurement systems. Through hands-on demonstrations and practical exercises, participants gain valuable skills in fiber optic sensing principles, data acquisition, and interpretation. This course equips participants with the expertise needed to implement fiber optic strain measurement solutions effectively in various engineering applications.