Instrumentation and Control Engineering

You are introduced to the necessary skills and principles which underpin a range of control systems. The module encompasses control systems from different engineering disciplines and deals with the control concepts used in system design and maintenance. The approach is broad-based, to reflect the fact that control systems are, by their nature, multidisciplinary and not confined to a single specialised discipline. You are encouraged to recognise a system, not as an interconnection of different parts, but as an integrated module. 

You cover the basics of electrical theory from first principles to the stage where you can solve complex circuits. It covers AC theory and the issues arising from this common type of electric power. Digital and analogue circuits are covered and the issues arising from each type of control. You are equipped with the tools to analyse and solve complex electrical circuits. Electronics is introduced with simple descriptions of fundamental electronic devices, such as diodes and transistors.

You gain experience of carrying out a design project, giving you an appreciation of how design involves harmonising key parameters and blending them into the design solution, and to produce a design report. You cover each stage of the process, including: client brief, planning, design specification, design report and evaluation.

You develop the fundamental analytical knowledge and techniques needed to successfully complete the core modules of Higher National Engineering programmes. We provide you with the knowledge needed for further study of analytical methods and mathematics, required for more advanced option modules. You explore fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, for the analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems at Higher National level.

You are introduced to the fundamental laws and applications of the physical sciences within engineering and how to apply this knowledge to find solutions to a variety of engineering problems.

You study international system of units, interpreting data, static and dynamic forces, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, material properties and failure, and AC/DC circuit theories.

You are introduced to the techniques and best practices required to successfully manage an engineering project - from identifying a problem, through to finding a solution. You consider the role and function of engineering in our society, the professional duties and responsibilities expected of engineers together with the behaviours that accompany their actions.

You cover: roles, responsibilities and behaviours of a professional engineer, planning a project, project management stages, devising solutions, theories and calculations, management using a Gantt chart, evaluation techniques, communication skills, and the creation and presentation of a project report.

We provide you with the knowledge and understanding of fluid power systems in modern industry by investigating pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, examining the characteristics of components and equipment, and evaluating the applications of pneumatics and hydraulics.

This module provides you with an understanding of microprocessor-based systems and their use in instrumentation, control and communication systems. You study the practical aspects of device selection, programming and the interfacing of external peripheral devices. The module also introduces you to the development cycle of specify, design, build, program, test and evaluate.  

This module investigates programmable logic controller (PLC) concepts and their applications in engineering. It focuses on the design characteristics and internal architecture of PLC systems, the signals which are used and the programming techniques. You produce and demonstrate a programme for a programmable logic device.

This module develops your understanding of the underlying technology involved in using electrical energy. It combines the underpinning knowledge of equipment which is found in a variety of applications with the design and calculation methodologies that are adopted by professionals in these areas.