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Aims:

The aims of this module are to:

• Provide students with the enabling knowledge to understand and apply fundamental concepts in digital electronics as applied to simple robots with embedded processors.
• Support students to problem solve by analysing and decomposing problems in robotics into appropriate electronic, mechanical and control subsystems.
• Provide students with the tools to participate in critical analysis by assessing and reflecting on the operation and performance the electronic systems produced.
• Support students to develop a holistic understanding of the practical application of theory and foundational knowledge of AI–based robotic systems (project).
• Build students’ confidence when liaising with and presenting in future industrial contexts, working with peers and participating in AI–based robotics projects.Ìý

Intended learning outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, a student will be able to:

1. Design, decompose, plan and implement the electronic components of simple robotic systems.
2. Integrate these design components into a coherent whole, testing this to ensure operability.
3. Demonstrate and assess the performance of the system, improving it where appropriate.
4. Design and model these components, assessing likely performance and adapting the design appropriately, then make and integrate the appropriate subsystems.
5. Assess and reflect on the performance of the electronic systems produced.
6. Identify and demonstrate a critical understanding of the role that electronics knowledge plays in the development and build of AI-based robotic systems.
7. Demonstrate engagement with reflective and learning as key academic and professional skills.

Indicative content:

All robotic systems and many other embedded systems rely on electronic circuits to operate. This is a practical introductory module that encompasses fundamental concepts in electronics and the forms of hardware design and construction most applicable to the construction of robots, including the interfacing of such electronics to microcontrollers. The module assumes no prior knowledge of electronics.

The following are indicative of the topics the module will typically cover:

• Basic phenomena and definitions of electricity
• Discrete components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes)
• Circuit design principles, software and simulation.
• MCUs (GPIO, ADC, DAC, timers, PWM).
• Communication protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, USB, wireless).
• Sensors and signal conditioning electronics for typical sensors.
• Forms of noise, sensor calibration and signal processing.
• Actuators: electric motors (DC, stepper, linear actuators, shaft encoders, speed controllers).

Requisites:

To be eligible to select this module as optional or elective, a student must be registered on a programme and year of study for which it is formally available.