About this previous year paper
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.