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ME40051: Advanced control

[Page last updated: 04 August 2021]

Academic Year: 2021/2
Owning Department/School: Department of Mechanical Engineering
Credits: 6 [equivalent to 12 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 120
Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Period:
Semester 1
Assessment Summary: EX 100%
Assessment Detail:
  • Examination (EX 100%)
Supplementary Assessment:
ME40051 Reassessment Examination (where allowed by programme regulations)
Requisites: Before taking this module you must take ME30029 OR take EE30041 OR take ME30041
Description: Aims:
To give an understanding of sampled data system theory with reference to the digital control of dynamical systems.
To provide an introduction to modern control theory and to explore the links between this and classical control.
To show how modern control techniques can be used to control physical systems.

Learning Outcomes:
After taking this unit the student should be able to:
* Evaluate the behaviour of single input/single output digital control systems and determine system stability.
* Understand the problems associated with sampling signals.
* Select appropriate methods to improve control systems performance. Represent and analyse both continuous-time and discrete-time systems described in state variable forms.
* Understand the key features of neural and fuzzy controllers.

Skills:
Problem solving; numeracy; working independently.

Content:
Nature of sampled signals; selection of sample rate; aliasing; prefiltering. The Z transform. Open-loop and closed-loop digital control; stability of closed-loop digital systems. Root locus; estimation of the transient response using the Z-plane. Frequency response of discrete-time systems. Digital design techniques; approximation methods; digital PID controllers. Adaptive control. State representation of physical systems; non-uniqueness of states. Controllability and observability. Time response of continuous- and discrete-time systems. Observers and state feedback; modal control. Parameter estimation. Introduction to neural networks and fuzzy control. Topics for self study that could be examined.

Programme availability:

ME40051 is Optional on the following programmes:

Department of Computer Science
  • RSCM-AFM51 : Integrated PhD Accountable, Responsible and Transparent Artificial Intelligence
  • TSCM-AFM51 : MRes Accountable, Responsible and Transparent Artificial Intelligence
  • TSCM-AFM52 : MSc Accountable, Responsible and Transparent Artificial Intelligence
Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering
  • UEXX-AFM02 : MEng(Hons) Integrated Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (Year 4)
  • UEXX-AKM02 : MEng(Hons) Integrated Mechanical and Electrical Engineering with Year long work placement (Year 5)
  • UEEE-AFM16 : MEng(Hons) Robotics Engineering (Year 4)
Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • UEME-AFM04 : MEng(Hons) Aerospace Engineering (Year 4)
  • UEME-AKM04 : MEng(Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Year long work placement (Year 5)
  • UEME-AFM16 : MEng(Hons) Mechanical Engineering (Year 4)
  • UEME-AKM16 : MEng(Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Year long work placement (Year 5)
  • UEME-AFM47 : MEng(Hons) Mechanical with Automotive Engineering (Year 4)
  • UEME-AKM47 : MEng(Hons) Mechanical with Automotive Engineering with Year long work placement (Year 5)

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2021/22 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2022/23 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2021/22.
  • Programmes and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
  • Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.
  • Find out more about these and other important University terms and conditions here.