FUNDAMENTALS OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING + INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRONICS (UNIT 2)
Learning outcomes of the course unit
1) Knowledge and understanding
This module aims at providing students with basic knowledge and
understanding of:
- analysis techniques for first- and second-order systems in the frequency
domain
- transfer functions and frequency response functions
- characteristics and behavior of feedback systems
- methods for evaluating the stability of linear systems
- circuits for analog signal processing based on operational amplifiers
2) Applying knowledge and understanding
Students will be able to:
- analyze the behavior of linear systems, and in particular of first- and
second-oder systems, by frequency domain analysis
- analyze behavior and stability of feedback systems
- analyze the operation of simple circuits based on operational amplifiers
Prerequisites
Students must be familiar with the concepts and methods treated in the
mathematics and physics courses of the first two years of the degree
(Analisi matematica 1, Analisi matematica 2, Fisica generale 1, Fisica
generale 2).
Course contents summary
1) Mathematical models of mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical linear systems
2) Frequency domain analysis of linear systems
3) Basic concepts and applications of operational amplifiers
Course contents
1) Mathematical models of mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical linear systems
Examples of mathematical models of mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical linear systems. Linearity and linearization. Dynamic response of 1st and 2nd order systems. Under-damped 2nd order systems: parameters of the step response.
2) Frequency domain analysis of linear systems
Fourier and Laplace transform: examples and rules. Transfer functions. Step response of 1st and 2nd order systems. Series-connected systems. Feedback loops. Stability and the poles of the transfer function. Periodic regime: phasors and frequency response function. Bode plots. Bode stability criterion.
Recommended readings
W. Bolton, "Mechatronics - electronic control systems in mechanical and
electrical engineering", 4th ed., Pearson Educational, ISBN 978-0-13-
240763-2.
Teaching methods
Classroom lectures and exercises solved by the instructor and by
students.
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral exam. There is a single exam for the two modules making up the
integrated course. Students will have to demonstrate knowledge of the
techniques for the frequency-domain analysis of linear systems treated in
the lectures, and the ability to apply them. They are also expected to be
able to analyze the behavior of simple circuits based on operational
amplifiers. It is considered important that students be able to solve
simple quantitative exercises by hand calculation.
