Study information

Robotics and Automation - 2024 entry

MODULE TITLERobotics and Automation CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODEENGM020 MODULE CONVENERProf Prathyush P Menon (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 11
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated)
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

The use of robotics in society is increasing, with applications ranging from agriculture to manufacturing, with a growing interest in autonomous systems. This module will introduce you to the fundamentals of robotic systems, including kinematics and dynamics, as applied to manipulators and mobile robots. The module will also review the actuators and sensors supporting robotic systems and their motion control. In addition, this module will cover various aspects of automation and the application of robotic platforms, in industry, particularly for mobile sensing. 
 
Prerequisite module: ENG1009, ENG2009, ENG3012, and ENG3018  

AIMS - intentions of the module

This module aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of robotics and automation. The module will provide you with an appreciation of the basic concepts of robotics, simulation and modelling techniques and critical components of such complex robotic systems. You will also learn planning tasks and design new automated systems with control and optimisation strategies. Scheduled tutorials and laboratory sessions aim to enhance your understanding of robotics and automation systems, their capability, planning/control, and fundamentals of robotic operating systems.

 

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

The following Engineering Council AHEP4 Learning Outcomes are taught and assessed on this module: 

 

1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science, and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering. (M1) 

2. Select and apply computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing limitation of the techniques employed (M3) 

3. Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems (M4) 

4. Apply an integrated or systems approach to the solution of complex problems (M6)  

5.  Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences (M17) 

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

This module will include but not limited to the following topics: 

  

Part 1: ROBOTICS  

- Introduction to robots (industrial) 

- Robotic kinematics  

- Programming of robots  

- Robot simulation and modelling techniques 

- Sensors and actuators  

- Machine vision  

  

Part 2: AUTOMATION AND CONTROL  

- Motion planning 

- Motion control 

- Robotic Operating System fundamentals- Mobile sensing 

- Design and operation of uncrewed systems 

- human machine interfaces 

 

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 41 Guided Independent Study 109 Placement / Study Abroad
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled Learning and Teaching  22 Lectures
Scheduled Learning and Teaching  11 Tutorials
Scheduled Learning and Teaching  8 Laboratories
Guided Independent Study 109 Lecture and assessment preparation; wider reading

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Lab tasks  8 hours All Verbal feedback
       
       
       
       

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 40 Written Exams 60 Practical Exams
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Written exam - closed book 60 2 hours  1,2 Exam mark
Coursework - Robotics Lab assignment 20 2-6 A4 sides All Written 
Coursework - Automation Lab assignment 20 2-6 A4 sides All Written 

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-reassessment
All above Written exam (100% - 2 hours) All Referral/deferral period

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

Deferral – if you have been deferred for any assessment you will be expected to submit the relevant assessment. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of deferral will not be capped and will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment.

Referral – if you have failed the module overall (i.e. a final overall module mark of less than 50%) you will be expected to submit the relevant assessment.. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of referral will be capped at 50%.

Where there are practical reasons why the original form of assessment on a module cannot be replicated for referral or deferral purposes, an alternative form of assessment must be used. Examples of when this approach is justified include where the original assessment relied on fieldwork, group work, access to specialist equipment, or input from visiting staff; or where the process of assessment throughout the module was intricate, involving many assessments. The method of reassessment should address as many of the module’s intended learning outcomes as is possible.

 

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener
  • R. M. Murray et al. A Mathematical Introduction to Robotic Manipulation 1st edition Routledge 1994 0849379814
  • K. M. Lynch and F.C.Park, Modern Robotics: Mechanics, Planning, and Control 1st edition Cambridge University Press 2017 1107156300
  • B. S.Robotics: Modelling, Planning and Control 1st edition Springer2008 1846286417
  • P.Corke Robotics, Vision and Control 2nd edition Springer 2017 3319544128
  • Jazar, R. N. Theory of Applied Robotics: Kinematics, Dynamics and Control 2nd editionSpringer 2010 1441917497
  • Jaulin L, Automation for Robotics ,Wiley, 2015 9781848217980

Additional Reading:

  • F.M.Rico, A Concise Introduction to Robot Programming with ROS2, 1st edition, Chapman and Hall/CRC, 2022, 1032264659
Web-based and electronic resources: 
 

Reading list for this module:

There are currently no reading list entries found for this module.

CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES None
CO-REQUISITE MODULES None
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 7 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Tuesday 19th March 2024 LAST REVISION DATE Monday 25th March 2024
KEY WORDS SEARCH Automation, robotics

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.