Overview
Engineering Systems and Control develops the analytical and design methods required to model, analyze, and control dynamic engineering systems across mechanical, electrical, civil, and interdisciplinary applications. Students formulate differential-equation, transfer-function, state-space, and block-diagram models; linearize nonlinear systems; and interpret system behavior in both time and frequency domains.
The course examines feedback principles, stability, performance specifications, sensors, actuators, proportional-integral-derivative control, PID tuning, root-locus methods, Bode and Nyquist analysis, disturbance rejection, robustness, and introductory digital control. Practical work uses MATLAB, Simulink, Python, or equivalent computational tools to simulate and implement control strategies. Emphasis is placed on design trade-offs, technical communication, reliability, safety, cybersecurity, and appropriate human oversight in automated systems.
Learning Outcomes
- Formulate mathematical models of dynamic engineering systems using differential equations, transfer functions, and state-space representations.
- Analyze time-domain and frequency-domain responses to characterize system behavior and performance.
- Evaluate closed-loop stability using algebraic, root-locus, Bode, and Nyquist methods.
- Select and tune proportional, integral, derivative, and PID controllers to meet specified performance requirements.
- Implement and validate control strategies through simulation and introductory computer-based or digital control methods.
- Assess the effects of disturbances, uncertainty, sensor limitations, actuator constraints, and model variation on control-system robustness.
- Synthesize control-system designs by balancing performance, reliability, safety, cybersecurity, cost, and operational constraints.
- Communicate analytical results and design recommendations through clear technical reports, computational evidence, and professional presentations.
- Evaluate the ethical implications of automation, including reliability responsibilities, human oversight, and risks arising from inappropriate system deployment.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | Second term |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Analytical problem sets (3 × 5%). | 15.00% |
| Deliverable | Simulation laboratories (4 × 5%). | 20.00% |
| Test | Mid-semester control analysis test. | 15.00% |
| Capstone | Control-system design project. | 25.00% |
| Assignment | Technical report and design communication. | 10.00% |
| Exam | Final examination covering analysis and design. | 15.00% |
Prerequisites
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
