MEC3457 · Systems and control

Overview

This unit covers the nature and behaviour of simple components, processes and subsystems relevant to engineering control. Mechanical, electrical, fluid pressure devices and complete elementary control systems are included. Orientation is to predicting, examining and assessing system performance via the formation of mathematical models and solution of models. Laboratory experiments and hands-on instruction in the digital simulation package Matlab to solve models. A unified approach to mathematical modelling via the concepts of resistance, capacitance and inertia/inductance is emphasised. You learn to perform system modelling, develop solutions, assess a system response and analyse systems.

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement 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. Analyse the significance and relevance of systems and associated control in engineering.
2. Generate mathematical formulations for linear models (and linearised non-linear systems) through classical and state space modelling techniques for Single Input Single Output (SISO) and Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) systems.
3. Apply analytical and computer-based control techniques to evaluate system's response, dynamic analysis and stability criteria.
4. Appraise dynamic performance of systems in the time and frequency domains using the Bode plot, Root-locus and analyse through pictorial representations such as block diagrams, signal flow graphs and plots.

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.