Course detail

Pneumotion

FSI-0ZP Acad. year: 2026/2027 Winter semester

The course offers an interactive and hands-on introduction to the world of pneumatic drives and mechanisms. Students will learn about the principles of pneumatic systems, their unique characteristics, and their wide range of applications in both technical and bio-inspired fields – from racing Pneumobiles and manipulators to exoskeletons and artificial limbs. Teaching is designed in a practical format: students will have the opportunity to design and assemble their own models, such as a simplified pneumatic hand or a wheel-drive mechanism. The project also includes motion control using microcontrollers. Emphasis is placed on creativity, the ecological and safe nature of pneumatic systems, and their distinction from other forms of energy. The course is organized in cooperation with the industrial partner SMC Industrial Automation CZ s.r.o. and provides opportunities for students to develop and realize their potential in the field of engineering.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

3

Supervisor

Ing. Matúš Ranuša, Ph.D.

Department

Institute of Machine and Industrial Design

Entry knowledge

Interest in technology, a creative approach, and a willingness to learn new skills. Basic knowledge of physics and working with computers is an advantage, but not a prerequisite. All necessary principles of pneumatic systems, microcontroller control, and the basics of CAD modeling will be explained during the course.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

The students will be evaluated based on regular active participation in exercises and according to the fulfilment of a semester project in laboratory exercises.

 

Participation in seminars is mandatory. Two absences are allowed in the exercises. A longer absence is replaced by a special assignment according to the instructions of the teacher.

Aims

The aim of the course is to familiarize students with the principles, characteristics, and applications of pneumatic systems in modern engineering as well as in biologically inspired technologies. Students will gain hands-on experience in the design, construction, and control of pneumatic mechanisms through interactive workshops and team projects. Upon successful completion of the course, students are expected to:

  • understand the basic principles of pneumatic circuits and the functions of their main components,
  • be able to design and build a simple pneumatic mechanism (e.g., a manipulator, pneumatic hand, or wheel drive),
  • be capable of controlling a pneumatic system using a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino),
  • be able to apply CAD modeling and 3D printing tools in the design of structural components.

Study aids

SHIGLEY, Joseph E., Charles R. MISCHKE a Richard G. BUDYNAS, 2020. Shigley's mechanical engineering design. 11th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education. ISBN 978-1260408722. (EN)

KOPÁČEK, Jaroslav. Pneumatické mechanizmy. Díl I., Pneumatické prvky a systémy. Ostrava: VŠB – Technická univerzita Ostrava, 1998, 265 s. ISBN 80-7078-306-0. (CS)

The study programmes with the given course

Programme B-ZSI-P: Fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor's
specialization MTI: Materials Engineering, elective

Programme B-ZSI-P: Fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor's
specialization STI: Fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering, elective

Type of course unit

 

Laboratory exercise

26 hours, compulsory

Syllabus


  1. Introduction to the Course – overview of objectives, content, and course organization.

  2. Basic Principles of Pneumatic Circuits – functions, physical principles, and fundamental schematics.

  3. Pneumatic Components and Their Properties – cylinders, valves, sensors, measurement, and circuit diagnostics.

  4. Design and Implementation of Simple Pneumatic Systems – small-scale practical exercises.

  5. From Pneumatics to Mechanics – integrating pneumatic drives with motion mechanisms.

  6. Prototyping and 3D Printing – creating structural parts for individual projects.

  7. Control of Pneumatic Systems Using Microcontrollers – basics of programming and automation.

  8. Design of a Custom Pneumatic Mechanism – team exercise including sketching, CAD modeling, and prototype planning.

  9. Fabrication of Structural Components – production of parts for the final model.

  10. Testing and Tuning the Prototype – verifying the function of individual components and troubleshooting issues.

  11. Final Adjustments of the Prototype – preparation for presentation and full system testing.

  12. Presentation of Final Prototypes – demonstration of functionality, discussion of results, and project evaluation.

Exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Syllabus


  1. Analysis of Pneumatic Prototypes – review of real-world examples and discussion of operating principles.

  2. Basic Principles of Pneumatic Circuits – linking theoretical concepts with practical demonstrations.

  3. Pneumatic Components and Their Properties – working with cylinders, valves, and sensors; measurement and observation of system behavior.

  4. Design and Implementation of Simple Pneumatic Circuits – small-scale hands-on exercise.

  5. Mechanical Mechanisms and Transmissions – assembly and testing of basic gear systems.

  6. Prototyping and 3D Printing – preparation and printing of structural components.

  7. Control of Pneumatic Systems Using Microcontrollers (Arduino) – practical motion control and automation.

  8. Design of a Custom Pneumatic Mechanism – team exercise including sketching, CAD modeling, and prototype planning.

  9. Fabrication and Assembly of Prototype Components – working with pneumatic elements and integrating control systems.

  10. Testing and Tuning the Prototype – verifying functionality, identifying and troubleshooting issues.

  11. Final Adjustments of the Prototype – completion and preparation for final presentation.

  12. Presentation of Final Prototypes – functionality testing, discussion of results, and final evaluation.