Sensor Systems & Applications (H8002)
Sensor Systems & Applications
Module H8002
Module details for 2017/18.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Pre-Requisite
Electronic Circuit & Systems Design
Systems Analysis and Control
Library
Principles of Measurement and Instrumentation, Morris A S, Prentice Hall, 3rd edition, 2001
Sensors and Transducers, Usher M J, Keating D A , MacMillan Press, 2nd edition, 1996
Module Outline
Sensor technologies are core to the future development of wearables, autonomous cars, increased energy efficiency, or smart fabrication processes for Industry 4.0. Sensor Systems & Applications gives an overview over current sensor technologies and the associated read-out suitable for mechanical and electrical engineering students.
The module discusses specific sensor technologies concerning their application to a range of areas including healthcare, security, control, materials characterisation or human computer interaction. Additionally, you will gain a systems-level understanding of various technologies and the knowledge and skills required to specify and design sensor systems. This also includes aspects such as conditioning circuits, signal quality and noise. Finally, you will design your own sensor system able to meet specific technological and economic needs, and write a concise report to present your design.
After completing this module you will have knowledge about the physical principles and the technology e.g. in the context of temperature, pressure, radiation, or magnetic field sensors, as well as the ability to use these sensors in wide range of applications.
Module Topics
An introduction to sensors and their applications, with subjects including:
· Physical principles behind sensors and actuators
· Signal quality: Internal and external noise
· Signal conditioning: Conditioning amplifiers, impedance, and low noise systems
· Bridge circuits
· Capacitive and piezoelectric sensors
· Temperature sensors: Resistive sensors, and thermocouples
· Magnetic field sensors: Hall, flux-gate, resistive, and induction magnetometers
· Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
· Radiation and light sensors
· Gas, chemical and biological sensors
AHEP3 Learning outcomes
SM1p SM2p SM1m SM3m SM4m EA1p EA2p EA3p EA4p EA5m EA6m D5p D5m D7m ET2p ET4p ET6p ET2m ET4m ET5m EP1p EP2p EP4p EP6p EP1m EP2m EP4m EP6m EP8m EP9m
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the principles underlying signal acquisition, relating to sensors
Specify appropriate sensor technologies for a broad range of measurements
Design and analyse low noise electronic systems
Demonstrate an appreciation of the limitations of designs in practical applications
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Semester 2 Assessment | 80.00% |
| Coursework | 20.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Report | T2 Week 10 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 111111110111 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 111111110111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Niko Munzenrieder
Assess convenor
/profiles/355347
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The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.

