Control technology

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 01.10.2025.

Module identifier

11B0410

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

German

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

only summer term

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

The Control Engineering module deals with the basic principles and techniques for controlling technical processes in various fields of application. Control engineering plays a decisive role in the automation of production processes, machine control and many other technical systems.

In this module, students are familiarized with the most important concepts of control engineering. One focus is on the programming and application of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other control systems. Students learn how to create, implement and test control software in order to realize automated processes in various technical areas.

The topic of sustainability is also addressed, as control technology makes a major contribution to the energy-efficient production of goods of consistent quality within the framework of automation technology. In addition, automation technology takes over work that is monotonous and harmful to people's health.

Teaching and learning outcomes

  • Basic concepts of control technology
  • Components of an automation system
  • Structure and mode of operation of PLC systems
  • Programming and model-based programming of PLCs
  • Structuring of control projects
  • Design methods
  • Introduction to handling technology
  • Control technology for industrial processes
  • Industrial communication systems
  • Introduction to safety technology
  • Sustainability
  • Future technologies
  • Several consecutive laboratory exercises supplement and deepen the material covered in the lecture

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
60Preparation/follow-up for course work-
15Exam preparation-
15Study of literature-
Graded examination
  • oral exam or
  • Written examination
Ungraded exam
  • Field work / Experimental work
Remark on the assessment methods

Oral examination or written examination of the lecturer's choice.

Exam duration and scope

  • Oral examination: see general part of the examination regulations
  • Written examination: see current study regulations; 
  • Experimental work: A total of approx. 5 experiments (90 minutes each)

Recommended prior knowledge

Basic knowledge of digital technology (Boolean algebra, KV diagram) and communication technology (ISO/OSI layer model) is required.

Knowledge Broadening

Students who have attended the "Control technology" module expand their knowledge of the basic concepts and techniques of control technology. They learn about the components of automation systems and the structure and operation of PLC systems. Through the programming and model-based programming of PLCs, they acquire practical skills for structuring and implementing control projects. They are also familiarized with design methods in order to develop efficient solutions. The introduction to handling technology, industrial process control technology, industrial communication systems and safety technology expands their specialist knowledge and areas of application. The consideration of sustainability and future technologies sensitizes them to current challenges and developments in industry. Practice-oriented laboratory exercises deepen their understanding and give them practical experience for their professional careers.

Knowledge Understanding

Students who have successfully completed the "Control Engineering" module have a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals and concepts of control engineering. They are able to identify and understand the components of an automation system and analyze the structure of control projects. In addition, they have basic knowledge of programming and model-based programming of PLCs and are familiar with various design methods. Their knowledge also includes basic aspects of handling technology, control technology of industrial processes, industrial communication systems, safety technology and sustainability. They have gained practical experience through laboratory exercises and can apply their knowledge in real applications.

Application and Transfer

Students who have successfully completed the "Control Engineering" module are able to apply and transfer the knowledge and skills they have acquired in various areas. They understand the basic concepts of control technology as well as the components and mode of operation of automation systems and PLC systems. Thanks to their knowledge of programming and model-based programming of PLCs, they are able to structure and efficiently design control projects. 

Literature

  • Wellenreuther, Günther / Zastrow, Dieter: ?Automatisieren mit SPS – Theorie und Praxis“, Vieweg/Teubner, 2015
  • Seitz, Matthias: ?Speicherprogrammierbare Steuerungen in der Industrie 4.0“, Hanser, 2021
  • Wei?, Torsten / Habermann, Matthias: "STEP7-Workbook für S7-1200/1500 und TIA Portal", MHJ-Software GmbH & Co KG, 2019
  • Aspern, Jens von: "SPS Grundlagen", VDE Verlag, 2021
  • Schnell, Gerhard / Wiedemann, Bernhard: "Bussysteme in der Automatisierungs- und Prozesstechnik", Springer Vieweg, 2019
  • Hesse, Stefan: "Grundlagen der Handhabungstechnik", Hanser, 2020
  • B?rcs?k, Josef: "Funktionale Sicherheit", VDE Verlag, 2021 
  • Verl, Alexander / R?ck, Sascha / Scheifele, Christian: "Echtzeitsimulation in der Produktionsautomatisierung", Springer Vieweg, 2024

Applicability in study programs

  • Electrical Engineering in Practical Networks (dual)
    • Electrical Engineering in Practical Networks (dual) B.Sc. (01.03.2026)

  • Mechatronics
    • Mechatronics B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Electrical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Lampe, Siegmar
    Teachers
    • Lampe, Siegmar