You will be required to complete two elements of summative assessment as follows:

A 3000-word report on research and laboratory-based work to design and implement an embedded system-based solution, weighting 60% covering Learning Outcomes 1 and 2. Meeting AHEP 4 outcomes B4, B5, B6

A 2000-word report on the use of a Hardware Description Language simulation tool to solve problems, weighting 40% covering Learning Outcomes 3 and 4. Meeting AHEP 4 outcomes B1, B3

Formative assessment, guidance and feedback will be provided throughout the module.

This module develops the skills required to design and implement embedded systems using C programming language. Content includes hardware considerations for embedded systems, debugging methods, and use of C for embedded system design, supported by a study of the architecture of an industry-standard processor. A highly practical approach is adopted, enabling the development of solutions for a range of engineering problems.

The module also explores Digital Signal Processing (DSP) techniques and their implementation within embedded systems. Topics include analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion, convolution, and digital filtering, with an emphasis on applying these methods to real-world problem solving.

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the hardware and software components of embedded systems, and a critical awareness of current research, emerging challenges, and new insights driving innovation in this field. (AHEP 4: B4)

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry, Learning

2. Critically evaluate and address embedded system design problems using systematic and creative approaches, exercising sound judgement and effective decision-making to produce practical and reliable embedded system-based solutions. (AHEP 4: B5, B6)

University Learning Outcome: Analysis, Problem Solving, Application

3. Design complex digital electronic systems using a variety of advanced techniques. (AHEP 4: B1)

University Learning Outcome: Problem Solving

4. Develop HDL-based solutions and implement using an appropriate software tool to provide critical analysis of the results. (AHEP 4: B3)

University Learning Outcome: Application, Analysis

This module will enable students to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including problem-based lectures, tutorials, laboratories and independent study.

Laboratory hardware and software, including: a Suitable Microcontroller Interface Development Environment (IDE), a Suitable Microcontroller, MATLAB/Simulink, and standard laboratory equipment such as scopes, and signal generators.

Software tools to simulate and analyse HDL designs.

Must be registered on BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Systems Engineering provision at Riverside College.

Beuchat, R., Depraz, F., Guerrieri, A. and Kashani, S. (2021). Fundamentals of System-on-Chip Design on ARM Cortex-M Microcontrollers. Arm Education Media.
Chattopadhyay, S. (2023). Embedded System Design. PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd.
Hajji, B., Mellit, A., and Bouselham, L., (2022) A Practical Guide for Simulation and FPGA Implementation of Digital Design. Springer.
Ingle, V.K. and Proakis, J.G. (2016) Digital Signal Processing Using MATLAB: A Problem Solving Companion. Cengage Learning.
LaMeres, B. J., (2023) Introduction to Logic Circuits & Logic Design with VHDL. Springer.
Martin, T. (2022). The Designer's Guide to the Cortex-M Processor Family. Newnes.
Roth Jr, C. H., and John, L. K., (2018) Digital Systems Design Using VHDL. Cengage Learning.
Ünsalan, C., Gürhan, H.D. and Yücel, M.E. (2022). Embedded System Design with ARM Cortex-M Microcontrollers. Springer International Publishing.
Zhu, Y. (2017) Embedded Systems with ARM Cortex-M Microcontrollers in Assembly Language and C. E-Man Press Llc.

Embedded Systems are used to solve problems in a wide variety of real-world applications, such as smart homes, autonomous vehicles, Internet of Things, industrial automation etc. This module will develop skills required to implement embedded systems using industry standard hardware and software. The highly practical approach used in this module will also develop testing and debugging skills. This module will also cover advanced techniques for the design and analysis of digital systems.