Automation Camp

As a supplement to Robotics I, the Institute of Mechatronic Systems (imes) and the company voraus robotik GmbH offer a free programming course in automation and robotics technology every six months. During this four-day course (three days of programming in an industrial development environment and one day of practical training on site at voraus robotik’s test lab), we prepare students in small groups specifically for a final assessment.

The course provides hands-on instructions in modern software development for industrial automation, including robots, conveyor belts, sensors, etc. Participants learn how to program (in Python), simulate, and test automation applications in an advanced development suite (voraus.pioneer) with a specific focus on test-driven development and DevOps. This includes control of industrial robots and real-time fieldbus components (sensors and actors) as well as creating a digital twin of the complete automation cell for virtual testing and optimization purposes. Based on this, a packing-line application is programmed, tested, and optimized in simulation, and, thereafter, deployed to a real hardware setup at voraus robotik (see picture). Both simulation and test setup use the control platform voraus.core and allow for DevOps in an industrial context. Participation in the practical part requires passing an assessment on the taught content.

• Format: 4 days, including both theory and practical sessions
• Date: The next Automation Camp will be from May 26^th to May 29^nd 2026. Start is at 09:00.
• Location: Campus Maschinenbau Garbsen (first three days) and voraus robotik GmbH, Hannover - Badenstedt (last day)
• Bonus: In the degree programs Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Electrical Engineering, one excursion day can be recognized. At the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, 1 credit point (CP) can be awarded as a Studium Generale.

The number of participants is currently limited to 10 students. Registration and organization are handled via Stud.IP (course Automation Camp).

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge and experience in programming in Python are required for participation in the course. Completion of the lecture Robotics I is recommended beforehand.

Event Announcement

The course takes place during the first week of October (winter semester) and during the excursion week (summer semester, around Pentecost/Pfingsten). Registration is handled via Stud.IP. Information about registration will be announced several weeks in advance through the news section on the homepage.