Control Engineering (871H1)
Control Engineering
Module 871H1
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
This module covers two fundamental topics in control engineering: (i) the modelling, analysis and control of discrete-time systems, and (ii) the state-space analysis and control design of continuous and discrete systems. The module includes practical activities in which feedback controllers are designed with Matlab/Simulink for physical systems to achieve desired performance specifications.
This module aims to support the students for their further study in other subjects such as Industrial Automations Mechatronics, Robot Design and Implementation and provides the tools and methods for them to develop their own control systems during MSc projects.
Topics include:
• Modelling and control of linear systems including transfer functions, block diagrams, PID algorithm
• Modelling of discrete-time systems: discrete transforms
• Discrete systems analysis: Jury criterion, performances of discrete systems
• Synthesis of discrete controllers for continuous systems
• Analysis of system and control design using state-space (continuous and discrete): controllability, observability, stability, full state feedback, pole placement method.
• Nonlinear systems: linearized model of nonlinear systems around equilibrium points
• Introduction to modern control strategies: State estimator, optimal control (LQR)
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate understanding of the key aspects of systems analysis and control using state space and discrete control approaches
Identify and apply the appropriate methods to solve control engineering problems
Propose a linearized model of a nonlinear system to extend the use of state-space analysis and control tools.
Reflect on control strategies’ performances on real systems using Matlab/Simulink.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 50.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Test | T1 Week 6 (1 hour) | 40.00% |
| Group written submission | T1 Week 11 | 60.00% |
| Unseen Examination | Semester 1 Assessment | 50.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Laboratory | 2 hours | 00101010000 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 11010101001 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 11212121000 |
| Autumn Semester | Project | 2 hours | 00000001110 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Nicolas Herzig
Assess convenor
/profiles/525193
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