Prerequisite/Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Purpose
Most mechatronic systems include dedicated computers that handles the ”intelligent” tasks of guidance, monitoring and control. Typically, such a dedicated computer is connected to/equipped with sensors that allow it to measure important information about current system status and (in some cases) its surroundings. Using these measurements, the dedicated computer executes various algorithms that enable it to determine how to operate the mechatronic system's actuators in response to the immediate situation. Building on the knowledge gained in the 2nd semester, this course aims to provide the students with theories and methods that enable them to design and implement programs for such dedicated computers and use them in a practical system context.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

• Shall have understanding of basic real-time aspects of single-processor system operation, including clock frequency, sampling rate, algorithm processing time etc., as well as how these aspects affect each other
• Must have insight into common micro-processor architecture elements, such as RAM, ALU, registers, buses, etc., as well as how these components interact
• Shall have insight into number representation on digital computers
• Must have basic insight into simple digital filtering functionality
• Must be able to use relevant tools to find a digital implementation of a continuous-time differential equation

Skills

• Must be able to design algorithms for a chosen micro-processor that satisfy specified timing constraints
• Must be able to use a relevant programming language, along with relevant compilers and linkers, to implement and test said algorithms on said micro-processor
• Must be able to design and implement relevant circuitry to enable a micro-processor to become an integrated part of a mechatronic system

Competences

• Are able to design and implement simple, micro-processor-based systems that can be integrated in mechatronic systems and handle fundamental monitoring and control tasks.

Type of instruction

The programme is based on a combination of academic, problem-oriented and interdisciplinary approaches and organised based on the following work and evaluation methods that combine skills and reflection:

• Lectures
• Classroom instruction
• Project work
• Workshops
• Exercises (individually and in groups)
• Teacher feedback
• Reflection
• Portfolio work

Extent and expected workload

Since it is a 5 ECTS course module, the work load is expected to be 150 hours for the student

Exam

Exams