Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2004 - 2005

Module Title	Mobile Robotics
Module Code	EE303
School	School of Electronic Engineering
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr Sean Marlow	Office Number	S337
Level	3	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None

Module Aims

The aim of this module is to expose students to the practical engineering tools and techniques involved in developing a complete, functional, microprocessor based system or product. This is achieved via a team-based module, in which eah team must design, construct, demonstrate and document a microprocessor based mobile robot.

Learning Outcomes

On completeion each student should have demonstrated the ability to: Work as a member of a small team, to complete a joint project. Design and construct a suitable hardware configuration, including mechanics, sensors, actuators, handware interfaces and the embedded microprocessor system. Design and construct a suitable, battery based, power supply system. Design and code all required control software. Integrate, test and debug all components to yield a functional mobile robot. Draft an agreed, joint, technical report on the project.

Indicative Time Allowances
	Hours
Lectures	0
Tutorials	6
Laboratories	36
Seminars	0
Independent Learning Time	33

Total	75
Placements
Assignments

NOTE

Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus

System Analysis and Design: Decomposition into Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic and Software subsystems. Mechanical Prototyping: wheel arrangements; kinematics; prototype construction systems. Software Prototyping: assembly, compilation, linkage, interpretation; cross-development; debug tools and techniques. Power Supply: battery types and characteristics; recharging; voltage regulation; ground return layout, decoupling and isolation. Sensors: hardware and software interfacing; proximity detectors; microswitches; shaft encoders battery level detection. Motors: DC motor chaaracteristics; hardware and software interfacing; Pulse Width Modulation; closed loop control. System Integration: module level test; integration test and debug. Documentation: types, organisation and objectives of documentation; specification and implementation; graphical techniques; computer aided tools.