List of Chapters
Chapter 1: Introduction to Fluid Power Systems and AI
- Overview of fluid power systems: HVAC, compressed air, hydraulics, etc.
- Basics of fluids (water, oil, air) and system components
- Introduction to AI, controls, and data collection in modern systems
- AI & Tech Focus: How AI uses historical data to predict issues and optimize labor
- Lab: Explore a fluid power system and a demo AI dashboard (e.g., system monitoring app)
Chapter 2: System Components and Smart Controls
- Pumps, fans, compressors, valves, and filters: function and maintenance
- Introduction to smart controls (e.g., PLCs, IoT sensors)
- AI & Tech Focus: Using sensors to collect real-time data on component health
- Lab: Disassemble a pump, connect a sensor, and view data on a tablet/app
Chapter 3: HVAC Systems with AI Optimization
- Basics of HVAC: airflow, cooling, and heating
- Maintaining filters, coils, and ducts
- AI & Tech Focus: AI-driven HVAC control for energy efficiency; software for load balancing
- Sustainability: Reducing energy use with smart thermostats
- Lab: Service an HVAC unit and use an AI tool to adjust settings
Chapter 4: Vacuum Systems and Data-Driven Maintenance
- Vacuum pumps and their industrial uses
- Checking seals and fixing leaks
- AI & Tech Focus: AI analyzing vacuum pressure data to schedule maintenance
- Sustainability: Minimizing power use in vacuum systems
- Lab: Test a vacuum system and interpret AI-generated maintenance alerts
Chapter 5: Compressed Air Systems and Efficiency
- Compressor setup, air line maintenance, and leak detection
- Using controls to regulate air pressure
- AI & Tech Focus: AI detecting leaks via sensor data; software for labor-efficient repairs
- Sustainability: Reducing compressed air waste
- Lab: Troubleshoot an air system with an AI diagnostic tool
Chapter 6: Cooling Water Systems and Smart Monitoring
- Cooling towers and pumps: inspection and cleaning
- Preventing corrosion and scaling
- AI & Tech Focus: IoT sensors tracking water quality; AI predicting pump failures
- Sustainability: Water recycling and energy-efficient cooling
- Lab: Inspect a cooling system and use software to analyze water data
Chapter 7: Dust Collection Systems and Automation
- Dust collectors: fans, filters, and airflow maintenance
- Safety for combustible dust
- AI & Tech Focus: Automated filter cleaning via AI; data collection for airflow optimization
- Sustainability: Lowering fan energy use with AI controls
- Lab: Service a dust collector and adjust settings via a control panel
Chapter 8: Hydraulic Systems and Predictive Maintenance
- Hydraulic fluid checks, pump maintenance, and leak repairs
- Introduction to hydraulic control systems
- AI & Tech Focus: AI predicting seal wear using historical data; software for maintenance scheduling
- Sustainability: Using eco-friendly hydraulic fluids
- Lab: Service a hydraulic cylinder and review AI maintenance logs
Chapter 9: Pumping Systems and Real-Time Controls
- Water pump installation and troubleshooting
- Handling cavitation and performance issues
- AI & Tech Focus: Real-time pump monitoring with IoT; AI optimizing pump speed
- Sustainability: Energy-efficient pump operation
- Lab: Install a pump and use a control app to adjust flow
Chapter 10: Fan Systems and Smart Integration
- Fan maintenance: belts, blades, and vibration control
- Noise reduction techniques
- AI & Tech Focus: AI analyzing vibration data; automated fan balancing via controls
- Sustainability: Reducing fan power consumption
- Lab: Balance a fan and use software to monitor performance
Chapter 11: System Optimization and Software Deployment
- Practical optimization: fixing leaks, adjusting controls
- Deploying software for system monitoring (e.g., SCADA, CMMS)
- AI & Tech Focus: AI combining historical and live data to minimize labor and energy use
- Sustainability: Lifecycle analysis for eco-friendly upgrades
- Lab: Optimize a mixed system (e.g., HVAC + fan) using AI software and controls
Chapter 12: Safety, Standards, Sustainability, and Final Project
- Safety: handling high-pressure systems, noise, and chemicals
- Industry standards (e.g., OSHA, ASHRAE) and green certifications
- AI & Tech Focus: AI ensuring compliance and tracking sustainability metrics
- Final Project: Design and optimize a fluid power system using AI tools, controls, and data collection; present labor and sustainability benefits
- Course wrap-up: Career paths in smart systems