Module overview
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- The principles of some common transducer types, their strengths and weaknesses and their use in miniaturised sensors.
- The benefits of microsensor technology in relation to applications
- The basic principles of measurement systems
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Design interfaces for microsensors
- Appreciate the scaling effects arising from miniaturising systems
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Use industry-standard software to simulate sensor interfacing circuits.
- Construct an interface circuit and characterise the performance of a microsensor.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Structure and write a technical report
Syllabus
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Completion of assessment task | 11 |
| Supervised time in studio/workshop | 12 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Lecture | 28 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 18 |
| Wider reading or practice | 33 |
| Total study time | 142 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Gaura E and Newman R (2006). Smart MEMS and Sensor Systems, Imperial College Press. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/soton-ebooks/detail.action?docID=1681718.
Beeby SP, Ensell GJ, Kraft M and White NM (2004). MEMS Mechanical Sensors. Artech House.
Maluf N and Williams K (2004). An Introduction to Microelectromechanical Systems Engineering. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/soton-ebooks/detail.action?docID=227665.
Bentley JP (2005). Principles of measurement systems. Longman Scientific and Technical.
Kaajakari V (2009). Practical MEMS: Design of microsystems, accelerometers, gyroscopes, RF MEMS, optical MEMS, and microfluidic systems. Small Gear Publishing.
Brignell JE and White NM (1996). Intelligent sensor systems revised edition. IOP Publishing.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Laboratory sessions are scheduled in the labs on level 2 of the Zepler building Length of each session: 3 hours Number of sessions completed by each student: 3 Max number of students per session: unlimited Demonstrator:student ratio: 1:12 Preferred teaching weeks: 6 to 11Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Continuous Assessment | 30% |
| Final Assessment | 70% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External