ME 135 Design of Microprocessor-Based Mechanical Systems (4 units)
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CATALOG DESCRIPTION
This course provides preparation for the conceptual design and prototyping
of mechanical systems that use microprocessors to control
machine activities, acquire and analyze data, and interact with operators.
The architecture of microprocessors is related to problems in mechanical
systems through study of systems, including electro-mechanical components,
thermal components and a variety of instruments. Laboratory exercises
lead through studies of different levels of software.
COURSE PREREQUISITES
Engineering 77
TEXTBOOK(S) AND/OR OTHER REQUIRED MATERIAL
COURSE OBJECTIVES
By the conclusion of the course,
students should have tackled a reasonably
complex mechanical system control problem.
They should have formulated project objectives,
identified key problems, articulated specifications,
used the task/state method to design the control system,
implemented it and tested performance against specifications.
They should have successfully demonstrated an ability to
work as part of a group in achieving these ends.
DESIRED COURSE OUTCOMES
Upon completion of the course, students shall be able to:
Assess the relative difficulty of a problem;
outline a solution to it;
estimate resources required to solve the problem;
develop and document a design for the control software;
identify critical safety issues;
implement a prototype solution;
test and evaluate the solution;
work as part of a team to accomplish these goals.
TOPICS COVERED
Overview of mechatronic systems:
Task/state design methodology;
basics of an appropriate computing language
(C, C++, and Java are used at various times);
concepts and realizations of time and its use in computing environments;
real time computing;
feedback control fundamentals;
operator interface requirements.
CLASS/LABORATORY SCHEDULE
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE COURSE TO MEETING
THE PROFESSIONAL COMPONENT
ME 135 has professional components associated with engineering teamwork, setting goals and objectives, estimating resources needed to complete a job, written communication, formal oral communication.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE COURSE TO ABET PROGRAM OUTCOMES
An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and
interpret data.
An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs.
An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams.
An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.
An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
An ability to communicate effectively.
A recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning.
A knowledge of contemporary issues.
An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary
for engineering practice.
ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT PROGRESS TOWARD COURSE OBJECTIVES
Students' progress is assessed through personal meetings in the lab, submission of weekly progress reports, submission of complete project reports for each of the four or five projects they undertake in the course of the semester, and through an oral presentation of their final project results.
