Module: Applied Control

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Applied Control
Module Code	EDS1013 (ITS: TN08002)
Faculty	DCU Institute of Education	School	STEM Ed, Innov, Global Studies
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

This module introduces the concept of a control system and its various elements (electrics, pneumatics and hydraulics as power sources) and examines technological system behaviour. Students will integrate these elements with programmable controllers to automate examples of control systems. The module will enable students to appreciate control functions and to integrate higher levels of control and automation into design solutions of future problem briefs.

Learning Outcomes

1. Use software to develop simulations for electronic control and calculate and define suitable output values.
2. Select suitable sensors and test their operation in a range of technological control systems.
3. Demonstrate the ability to synthesise fundamental control design concepts.
4. Use appropriate software for the design, simulation, testing and analysis of a control system design.
5. Use programming language to develop a sketch to control an Arduino microcontroller.
6. Use visual programming language software to control a micro:bit controller and associated motor driver boards.
7. Outline the principles of open and closed loop control.
8. Use a PLC to control an electromechanical robotic device to do specific tasks.
9. Define the principles of combinational and sequential logic.
10. Outline the advantages of micro-processor controlled systems and how they provide precision, programmable control and flexibility when compared with traditional systems.
11. Devise mathematical models of systems which relate outputs to inputs for calculating how a systems output will vary with time.
12. Describe measurement systems in terms of sensors, signal conditioners and displays.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Laboratory	24	Practical in Engineering Laboratory
Tutorial	24	Tutorial in Computer Laboratory
Independent Study	77	Independent Learning
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20009	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Paul Grimes	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Online Quiz - Mid Term (Closed Book Exam) Week 6	25%	n/a
Assignment	Online Quiz - End of Term (Closed Book Exam) - Week 12	25%	n/a
Assignment	Laboratory Reports ( Ongoing Written Reports)	20%	n/a
Assignment	Control Assignment	30%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

SI Units:
Fundamental quantities, basic units, multiples and sub-multiples in S.I. system. Derived quantities and their units.

Statics:
Representation of forces, Vector Diagrams, Polygon of Forces, Principle of Moments, Moments of area, Centroids.

Kinematics:
Linear & Angular velocity, velocity-time graph, projectiles, relationship between angular and linear motion.

Applications:
Applications of Mechanics within Junior and Senior cycle technology subject syllabi (theory and practice).

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Hughes, E., Hiley, J., Brown, K., Smith, I.,: 2008, Hughes Electrical and Electronic Technology. Pearson Education. ISBN 0132060116 ISBN-13 9780132060110,
Bolton, W.: 2018, Mechatronics. Pearson. ISBN 1292250976 ISBN-13 9781292250977,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None