The descriptions are for modules currently being taught. They should be viewed as an example of the modules we provide. All modules are subject to change for later academic years.

Sensors & Effectors (SAE) 2009/0

Workload - Private Study - Assessment - Description - Learning Outcomes - Content - Teaching Materials - Recommended Books

Module Code 0640527
Lecturers vis
Taken By SCSE
Number of Credits 10
Part B
Teaching Sum/5
Closed Assessment [100%] TBA

Workload

  • Lectures: 30 x 1hr
  • Labs: 5 x 1hr
  • Private Study: 30hrs
  • Assessment: 35hrs

The teaching for this module combines traditional lectures with a number of exercises and case studies which will be tackled in small groups with a lecturer leading each group.

Private Study

Students are expected to read around the subject. Background information relating to examples which will be studied on the module may be posted on the course web page; students will be expected to have read this material. Many of the exercises and case studies contain more material than can be completed in the group sessions, and students are expected to continue working on these in private study time.

Assessment

Closed Assessment

  • , hours

Description

This module addresses sensors and effectors from a control perspective, including software for controlling and managing sensors and effectors. It also addresses developments in sensor technology.This module aims to provide an understanding of:

  • The types of sensor materials and sensors available, and how they can be controlled;
  • Failure characteristics of sensors, and fault accommodation strategies;
  • Sampling theory and management of data from sensors;
  • Types of actuator and actuator control principles.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students will be able to:

  • Know how to select suitable sensor sets for given applications;
  • Understand how to interface to sensors to produce reliable sensed values, or to signal failures;
  • Know how to select suitable actuators for given applications;
  • Understand how to interface to actuators.

Content

  • Sensing and sensor types (Sensed quantities; Sensor materials; Sensor types and principles; Uses of sensors;p Typical engine sensing schemes)
  • Sensor management (Difficulties of sensing; Sensor control; Sensor systems; Smart sensors)
  • Actuation (Hydraulic systems; Pneumatic systems; Electrical systems; Use of advanced materials; Choice of actuation system; Open and closed loop actuator control)
  • Sampling theory;
  • Fault management (FMEA – reprise of basic principles; Failure characteristics of common sensors and actuators; Fault accommodation schemes)
  • Optimisation and control (Minimisation of sensor sets;Co-design of sensor/effector systems and control systems)

Teaching Materials

Copies of all lecture slides, case studies and exercises will be provided.

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Last updated: 26th May 2011