ECE3133 · Control systems

Overview

This unit introduces the fundamental principles and techniques used in the analysis and design of control systems. Feedback is presented as a key mechanism for achieving predictable system behaviour that meets specified performance objectives. Specifically, the unit explores the modelling of dynamical systems using differential and difference equations, transfer functions, and state-space representations. Foundational concepts in control system analysis and design are developed, including poles and zeros, transient and steady-state behaviour, and reachability and observability. The notions of bounded-input bounded-output (BIBO), internal, and robust stability are introduced. You will gain an understanding of PID control, as well as state and output feedback techniques. Graphical methods such as root locus, Bode plots, and Nyquist plots are introduced as tools for analysing parameter variation, frequency response, and system stability. The unit also covers discrete-time (sampled-data) control systems and introduces emulation-based design methods.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Electrical and computer systems engineering E6011 Master of Professional Engineering - Specialisation: Electrical engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% Assessment in this unit includes competency hurdle assessment task/s. The consequence of not achieving a competency hurdle is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Construct mathematical descriptions of, and controllers for, closed-loop feedback systems using state-space, transfer function and differential/difference equation models.
2. Analyse the stability and dynamic performance of control systems in order to verify that they meet design specifications.
3. Draw upon literature to describe key developments and future directions in the theory or application of control systems.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.