WM213-15 Control Theory and its Applications
Introductory description
This module provides fundamental concepts for the analysis of dynamical systems in any field of engineering (mechanical, electrical, electronics, ...).
Module aims
This module aims to develop an understanding of the main techniques for modelling, analysing and designing of continuous-time control systems. It covers the underlying concepts and applications of control theory to engineering systems, with particular emphasis on electromechanical systems.
The case studies underpin the usage of well-established analytical techniques for estimating the behaviour of single-input single-output systems under both steady-state and transient conditions.
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.
PART I. Analysis of feedback systems
-Basic concepts of feedback control
-Transfer functions, Bode diagrams, polar plots
-Stability of linear systems, Routh criterion, Nyquist criterion
-Response of linear systems to impulse, unit step and sinusoids
PART II. Synthesis of linear systems
-Design of controllers with Bode diagrams
-P, I, D, PI, PID controllers and their application
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Understand the necessity of control design for dynamical systems;
- Develop linear models and analyse the dynamic behaviour of electro/mechanical systems using Laplace transform.
- Predict the stability, steady-state behaviour and transient response of linear models;
- Design basic controllers to satisfy fundamental specifications of stability, precision, robustness;
- Compare the main characteristics of different control systems with respect to functionality and performance.
Indicative reading list
- N.S. Nise: “Control Systems Engineering” 6th Edition, (Wiley, 2015) ISBN: 9781118170519.
- K.Ogata: “Modern control engineering”, (Pearson, 2011) ISBN: 9780137133376.
- R.C.Dorf, R.H.Bishop: “Modern control systems” (Pearson, 2011) ISBN: 9780131383104.
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Analysis and synthesis of linear dynamical systems
Computer assisted design of controllers for linear systems
Transferable skills
Problem solving
Critical thinking
Team working
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 24 sessions of 1 hour (21%) |
| Seminars | 12 sessions of 1 hour (10%) |
| Other activity | 79 hours (69%) |
| Total | 115 hours |
Private study description
No private study requirements defined for this module.
Other activity description
Guided self-study including:
Problem sets released on Moodle
Exercises released on Moodle
Distance learning support using technology enhanced learning
Online forum for discussing queries with course peers and tutor
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group D2
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
|||
| Assignment 1 | 20% | 10 hours | Yes (extension) |
|
The assignment is related to modelling and control of a DC motor. |
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Assessment component |
|||
| Assignment 2 | 20% | 10 hours | Yes (extension) |
|
The assignment is related to tuning of a PID controller. |
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Assessment component |
|||
| Exam | 60% | 15 hours | No |
|
The exam relates to the analysis of dynamical control systems and design of controllers. |
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Feedback on assessment
Feedback given as appropriate to the assessment type:
- verbal feedback given during seminar/tutorial sessions,
- if necessary, written formative individual feedback on laboratory/simulation reports,
- written cohort-level summative feedback on the exam.
Courses
This module is Core for:
- Year 2 of DWMS-H7BH Undergraduate Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)
- Year 2 of UWMS-H7BH Undergraduate Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)