Detailed module information
Module information on this degree can be found below, separated by year of study.
The module information below applies for the current academic year. The academic year runs from August to July; the 'current year' switches over at the end of July.
Students select optional courses subject to rules specified in the Mechanical Engineering Student Handbook, for example at most three Design and Business courses. Please note that numbers are limited on some optional courses and selection criteria will apply.
Mechatronics 1
Module aims
The aim of this module is to introduce Mechatronics as a fundamental concept for modelling and designing machine systems, and to encourage electrical systems to be modelled in a manner compatible with mechanical systems using 'system' concepts; to develop an ability to design, and select components for simple electromechanical systems; to develop mastery of modelling concepts which have direct equivalents in mechanical systems theory, e.g. equivalent characteristics, operating diagrams, complex impedance.
ECTS units: 5
Learning outcomes
On successfully completing this module, students will be able to:
1. Explain the principal characteristics of common electrical components, networks, logic gates, sensors and actuators
2. Explain the basis on which information is represented and processed electronically in analogue or binary form
3. Analyse simple electrical networks using Kirchhoff's laws to determine voltage, currents and energy exchanges under d.c. and a.c. excitation
4. Model a network of sources and impedances as a Thévenin source
5. Derive, in the form of a truth table, the input-output behaviour of a given network of basic logic gates
6. Express the structure of a simple analogue or digital network as a circuit diagram, using standard symbols
Module syllabus
Introduction
Circuit elements
Waveforms and signals
Logic
Sensors and transducers
DC networks
Transients
Diodes and rectifiers
AC networks I
Electromagnetic actuators
Induction and transformers
AC networks II
Pre-requisites
Teaching methods
Students will be introduced to the main topics through lectures, supported by technology (PowerPoint, Panapto and Blackboard). Short activities (using interactive pedagogies) will occasionally be introduced in the classroom setting to reinforce learning, for example through mentimeter and the like. You will be provided with problem solving sheets and should complete these as part of your independent study. Tutorials sessions will provide small group interaction with teaching staff where you are expected to engage in discussion on specific problems.
Assessments
| Assessment details | |||||
| Pass mark | |||||
| Grading method | Numeric | 40% | |||
| Assessments | |||||
| Assessment type | Assessment description | Weighting | Pass mark | Must pass? | |
| Examination | 1.5 Hour exam | 95% | 40% | Y | |
| Examination | Progress test | 5% | 40% | N | |