(SEM IV) THEORY EXAMINATION 2024-25 AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS

This document provides the complete B.Tech (Semester IV) Theory Examination 2024–25 question paper for Automation and Robotics (BOE402). The exam spans three printed pages, carries 70 marks, and thoroughly evaluates a student’s understanding of automation levels, industrial robotics, sensors, actuators, PLCs, CIM, Industry 4.0, kinematics, and real-world applications of robotics and automation.
 

Section A – Short Conceptual Questions (14 Marks)

Section A contains seven 2-mark questions, checking foundation-level knowledge of automation and robotics. As seen on Page 1, it covers:

Levels of automation (fixed, programmable, flexible, intelligent)

Benefits of industrial automation such as productivity, accuracy, and consistency

Laws of Robotics (Asimov’s Three Laws)

Degree of Freedom (DOF) in robotic manipulators

Difference between analog and digital sensors

Components of FMS (Flexible Manufacturing System) like CNC machines, AGVs, material handling

Medical applications of robotics, such as surgical robots and rehabilitation devices

These questions test a student’s basic conceptual understanding of robotics and automation frameworks.

Section B – Analytical & Application-Oriented Questions (21 Marks)

Students attempt any three of five descriptive questions. These questions, shown on Page 1, focus on detailed analysis:

Open-loop vs Closed-loop Systems

Limitations of open-loop systems, benefits of closed-loop control, and examples from process automation.

Forward & Inverse Kinematics

Concepts used in robot motion planning, with examples from robotic arms.

PLC Working & Industrial Applications

Basic architecture, input–output modules, ladder logic, and its role in modern industrial automation.

Group Technology & Flexible Manufacturing System

Principles of GT and FMS, including part families, coding systems, and flexible production modules.

Material Handling Automation

Industrial use of automation and robotics in conveyers, robotic arms, AGVs, and warehousing.

These questions evaluate understanding of real-world automation processes.

Section C – Long, Higher-Order Questions (35 Marks)

Each question contains two alternatives, and students must attempt one part. These appear on Pages 2–3 of the question paper.

Q3 – Disturbances in Control Systems / Industry 4.0 Impact

Behaviour of open-loop vs closed-loop systems when disturbances occur, supported by diagrams
OR

Impact of automation on industrial processes under Industry 4.0, including cyber-physical systems & smart factories

Q4 – Ethical Issues in Robotics / Robot Components

Ethical implications: job displacement, responsibility, safety, transparency
OR

Basic robot components: joints, links, actuators, sensors, and end-effectors, with explanation of manipulators

Q5 – Sensor Classification / Actuator Comparison

Working and applications of industrial sensors
OR

Comparison of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators with industrial uses

Q6 – CIM Fundamentals / Types of Automation

Functioning of Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) with examples
OR

Classification of automation in production: fixed, programmable, flexible, hard, & soft automation

Q7 – Robotics in Mining / Robotics in Defense

Role of robots in mining: safety, reduced human risk, automation of drilling & transport
OR

Robotics in defense: surveillance drones, bomb disposal robots, unmanned ground & aerial vehicles

These questions test high-level thinking, system design, and real-world integration of robotics and automation.

Summary

The Automation and Robotics (BOE402) exam paper thoroughly covers:

Automation levels, benefits & classification

Robot anatomy, DOF, kinematics & manipulators

PLC working principles

Sensors & actuators

FMS, GT, CIM & industrial automation

Industry 4.0 concepts

Ethical and practical use of robotics

Automation applications in mining, defense & material handling

Control systems: open-loop vs closed-loop

This paper is a complete academic resource for students studying robotics, industrial automation, and intelligent manufacturing systems.