The module will cover the following topics:

Coordinate transformation
Kinematics and dynamics of robot manipulators in relation to their corresponding applications.

Complex computation techniques such as:

Lagrange mechanics
Jacobian matrix calculation will be studied to uncover characteristics of a robot manipulator.
Trajectory generation and optimisation as well as advanced control techniques will be considered.
In-depth study of PCB design processes
PCB prototype methods
PCB manufacture techniques.

1. An individual report encompassing the design and evaluation of a control system problem completed independently and manufacturing of a PCB-based solution for a robot completed in collaboration within a group. The design and evaluation parts should be completed independently whereas the manufacturing of a PCB-based solution should be completed in collaboration within a group. The report must also include ethical, environmental, and security aspects of the designed solution. Assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes M3, M5, M16, and M17.

2. A closed-book exam, assessing AHEP 4 Outcomes M1 and M3. The exam will include questions assessing a mix of theoretical concepts of advanced robotic systems and analysis of a range of real-world robotic systems.

Formative assessment and feedback will be undertaken during the module to assess and develop your learning to achieve the skills, knowledge and application required to both independently and collaboratively complete the summative assessments.

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 50% is required to pass the module, with a minimum mark of 40% on a component.

To enable you to gain deep knowledge and understanding of the topics and to equip them with the ability to analyse and apply concepts related to robotic systems design following learning strategies are used:

Taught Lectures: To provide a comprehensive understanding of advanced concepts related to robotic systems, analysis techniques, and design problems.
Laboratory Sessions: Hands-on practical work using industry-relevant hardware and software tools to design, manufacture and test elements of robotics based systems.
Group Project Work: Collaborative design and manufacture of a PCB-based solution to a robotics problem, simulating real-world engineering practice and encouraging teamwork, project management, and innovation.

Formative opportunities for informal assessment and feedback will be provided throughout the module to support learning, monitor progress, and aid the development of technical and professional skills.

Independent study (including reading, information gathering, discussion and debate, exploring digital resources, practice questions and coursework preparation)

1. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of advanced concepts related to robotic systems. (AHEP 4: M1)

Knowledge & Understanding

2. Analyse and compute kinematics and dynamics of a range of real-world robotic systems. (AHEP 4: M1, M3)

Application & Problem-Solving

3. Design and evaluate control systems for real-world robotic applications. (AHEP M3)

Application & Problem-Solving
Digital Literacy

4. Design and manufacture a PCB-based solution for a robot in collaboration with peers, considering ethical, environmental, and security implications. (AHEP 4: M5, M16, M17)

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

PCs running MATLAB or equivalent software with Control Toolbox and Robotics Toolbox
PCB Design Software
PCB manufacturing CNC machine
Software for the simulation of electrical, and electronic circuits and systems

Corke, P. (2023). Robotics, Vision and Control: Fundamental Algorithms in Python (Vol. 146). Springer Nature.

Niku, S. B. (2020). Introduction to robotics: analysis, control, applications. John Wiley & Sons.

Dorf, R. C and Bishop, R. H. (2021) Modern Control Systems. 14th Ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Nise, N. S. (2020) Control Systems Engineering. 6th Ed. Asia: John Wiley & Sons.

Coombs Jr, C. F., & Holden, H. T. (2016). VISUAL INSPECTION. Printed Circuits Handbook, Seventh Edition. (This is the most recent prominent text in this area)

This module will cover some exciting applications of robotic systems and principles that are applied at different design stages of advanced robots. It will also discuss complex computation methods and tools required to perform these computations in a systematic manner. It will also allow participants to explore recent research and be informed of latest actuation methods and be able to evaluate performance of modern actuators.

As many robotic products use a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), this module will also provide practical experience of how to design and assemble PCBs. You will work as team on robotic related PCB design projects, which will involve defining the problem, identifying appropriate hardware and software, and implementing the entire system.