Availabilities:

2021 unit offering information will be available in November 2020

Unit description

Builds on the unit, Electro-Mechanical and Robotics Technology, and introduces students to the theory, tools and methodologies that underpin modelling, analysis and design in control systems engineering. Techniques include the use of differential equations, block diagrams, frequency domain methods, Root Locus and Bode plots. MATLAB is used as a simulation environment. Programmable logic controllers for industrial automation are addressed.

Unit content

Introduction to control system design

System modelling for electrical and mechanical systems

The Laplace transform

Block diagram modelling

Open and closed loop control, role of feedback

Transient and steady state performance

Root locus

Frequency response analysis

Compensator design, practical issues

Industrial PLCs

Learning outcomes

Unit Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a unit. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes. The unit learning outcomes and graduate attributes are also the basis of evaluating prior learning.

GA1: Intellectual rigour, GA2: Creativity, GA3: Ethical practice, GA4: Knowledge of a discipline, GA5: Lifelong learning, GA6: Communication and social skills, GA7: Cultural competence
On completion of this unit, students should be able to:GA1GA2GA3GA4GA5GA6GA7
1interpret the significance and relevance of systems and associated control in mechanical engineeringIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
2understand the concept of stability and its importance in systems analysis and controlIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
3form systems models of basic mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systemsIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
4analyse these system models for steady-state and transient performance and stabilityIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
5employ classical control system design methods in the design of feedback loops to achieve a specified dynamic behaviour from a systemIntellectual rigourKnowledge of a discipline
6develop skills in effectively and safely using laboratory equipment in a team environment, and in reporting findingsKnowledge of a disciplineCommunication and social skills
7understand the application of control and automation in mechanical engineering professional practice.Communication and social skills

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  1. interpret the significance and relevance of systems and associated control in mechanical engineering
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  2. understand the concept of stability and its importance in systems analysis and control
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  3. form systems models of basic mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  4. analyse these system models for steady-state and transient performance and stability
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  5. employ classical control system design methods in the design of feedback loops to achieve a specified dynamic behaviour from a system
    • GA1: Intellectual rigour
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
  6. develop skills in effectively and safely using laboratory equipment in a team environment, and in reporting findings
    • GA4: Knowledge of a discipline
    • GA6: Communication and social skills
  7. understand the application of control and automation in mechanical engineering professional practice.
    • GA6: Communication and social skills

Prescribed texts

  • Prescribed text information is not currently available.
Prescribed texts may change in future study periods.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching method
Structured online learning 2 hours (12 weeks)
Tutorial on-site 2 hour (12 weeks)
Assessment
Project report15%
Laboratory Report35%
Exam: open book50%
Notice

Intensive offerings may or may not be scheduled in every session. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Southern Cross University employs different teaching methods within units to provide students with the flexibility to choose the mode of learning that best suits them. SCU academics strive to use the latest approaches and, as a result, the learning modes and materials may change. The most current information regarding a unit will be provided to enrolled students at the beginning of the study session.

Fee information

Domestic

Commonwealth Supported courses
For information regarding Student Contribution Amounts please visit the Student Contribution Amounts.
Commencing 2021 Commonwealth Supported only. Student contribution band: 2

Fee paying courses
For POSTGRADUATE or UNDERGRADUATE full fee paying courses please check Domestic Postgraduate Fees OR Domestic Undergraduate Fees

International

Please check the international course and fee list to determine the relevant fees.

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