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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2007 - 2008

Module Title Mobile Robotics
Module Code EE303
School School of Electronic Engineering

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Sean MarlowOffice NumberS337
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 completion of this module, the student will be able to · Work as a member of a small team, to complete a joint project. [PO5]· Design and construct a suitable hardware configuration, including mechanics, sensors, actuators, handware interfaces and the embedded microprocessor system. [PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5]· Design and construct a suitable, battery based, power supply system. [PO2, PO3, PO5]· Design and code all required control software. [PO2, PO3, PO5]· Integrate, test and debug all components to yield a functional mobile robot. [PO2, PO3, PO5]· Draft an agreed, joint, technical report on the project. [PO6]

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.
Assessment
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Indicative Reading List
Mobile Robots: Inspiration to Implementation. Joseph L. Jones, Anita M. Flynn. Massachusetts: A.K. Peters, 1993.

Contribution to Programme Areas

Science & Mathematics

Discipline - specific Technology

Information and Communications Technology

Design and Development

Engineering Practice

Social and Business Context

2

4

3

4

4

2

Contribution to Programme Outcomes:

Knowledge and Its Application:

The ability to derive and apply solutions from a knowledge of sciences, engineering sciences, technology and mathematics

Problem Solving:

The ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve engineering problems;

Design:

The ability to design a system, component or process to meet specified needs, to design and conduct experiments and to analyse and interpret data;

Ethical Practice:

An understanding of the need for high ethical standards in the practice of engineering, including the responsibilities of the engineering profession towards people and the environment

Effective Work and Learning:

The ability to work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary settings together with the capacity to undertake lifelong learning;

Effective Communication:

The ability to communicate effectively with the engineering community and with society at large

3

4

4

2

4

3

Teaching & Learning Strategies/Assessment Methodology:

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. 40% of marks are for a competitive demonstration of robot performance; 60% are for a joint technical report.

Programme or List of Programmes
BSSAStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAOStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
DMEB.Eng. in Digital Media Engineering
DMEIBEng in Digital Media Engineering Intern
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAOStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
EEBEng in Electronic Engineering
EEIBEng Electronic Engineering Internship
HMSAStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAOStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
MEB.Eng. in Mechatronic Engineering
SHSAStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAOStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
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