WM299-15 Robot Power and Intelligent Control
Introductory description
Building on material in 'Electrical Power and Motors' in first year, expanding on the complexity of electro-mechanical systems and introducing further actuation methods, and the integration of intelligent control with sensors and microcontrollers for robotic systems.
Module aims
The aim of this module is to learn the working principles and capabilities of a more powerful and more intelligent electromechanical systems to design appropriate control strategies for optimal performance. On completion of this module, the students will be able to propose how to control a typical robotic system.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
- Laplace Transforms, tranfers functions, introduction to Fourier Series.
- Control systems (open-loop, closed-loop, PID) and controller tuning.
- Introduction to signal processing in control.(Sampling Rate, Filtering and Data Acquisition Boards)
- Introduction to different methods of control (intelligent, adaptive, sliding, fuzzy logic, etc.)
- Motor drives including H-bridge. Intelligent control of drive systems.
- Actuator control characteristics and thermal and mechanical considerations of actuators.
Example of the design of a robot: modelling, control and system structure.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Design appropriate control strategies for real-time applications [AHEP:4-C1, C2].
- Identify actuators for robotic systems [AHEP:4-C13].
- Analyse the performance of simulated motor control systems [AHEP:4-C3].
- Implement the main concepts of intelligent control to tune motion control systems [AHEP:4-C6].
Indicative reading list
Reading lists can be found in Talis
Subject specific skills
Maths content : Laplace Transforms, Introduce Fourier Series
Evaluate the pros and cons of different actuators and control strategies.
Develop an understanding of the characteristics of the different control systems and actuators present in electromechanical systems.
Transferable skills
This module will contribute to the development of the following from the Warwick Core Skills framework:
Communication: Professional writing
Critical Thinking: Interpreting, analysing
Digital literacy: IT skills
Problem Solving: Problem creation, logical reasoning
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Seminars | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Practical classes | 6 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Private study | 30 hours (20%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Online learning (independent): Engagement with provided study materials and signposted resources - review, interpretation and application to example problems and case studies.
Private study: Creation of own study materials - e.g. notes, flashcards, summaries, etc.
Engagement with self-identified materials - industry reports, technical videos, podcasts, journal articles, etc.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
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| Assessment 1 | 30% | 18 hours | No |
|
Computer-based exam covering mathematical principles, control systems theory and actuator selection. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Assessment component |
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| Assessment 2 | 70% | 42 hours | Yes (extension) |
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Individual report on the design and simulation of an industry-relevant motion control system. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Assessment 2 reassessment | No | ||
|
Individual report on the design and simulation of an industry-relevant motion control system. |
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Feedback on assessment
Formative: Verbal feedback during interactive class sessions and practical sessions; (Automated) individual feedback for computer-based tests; Verbal feedback during ad hoc meetings.
Summative: Cohort level summary feedback for formal tests / exams; Written feedback and marks aligned with University 20 point marking scale.
There is currently no information about the courses for which this module is core or optional.