Introductionto Autotronics
Introductionto Autotronics
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COURSE COMPACT
COLLEGE: ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
PROGRAMME: MECHATRONICS
COURSE COMPACT FOR: 2023/2024 ACADEMIC SESSION
Course
Course code: MCT 418
Course title (credit unit): Introduction to Autotronics/Avionics
Credit unit: 1
Course status: Compulsory
Lecturer Data
Lecturer’s name: ENGR. DR. P. ONU
Qualifications: B.Eng., M.Sc., Ph.D.
Unit: Mechatronics
Department: Mechanical
College: College of Engineering
E-mail: [email protected]
Office Location: Room A222 (Second college building)
Consultation Hours: Tuesday (10–12noon); Thursdays (3–4pm)
Course Justification
This course is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of autotronics
and avionics, bridging the gap between electrical engineering principles and their real-
world applications in automotive and aviation technologies. The integration of
theoretical concepts with hands-on practical experiences prepares students for diverse
professional opportunities in the automotive and aviation sectors. Understanding
autotronics and avionics is essential for students aspiring to excel in the fields of vehicle
engineering, aviation technology, and related industries where advanced electronics
and control systems are paramount.
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Course objectives
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
• Understand Electrical Fundamentals
• Comprehend Electronics and Semiconductors
• Explore Digital Systems and Microprocessors
• Delve into Control Systems and Automation
• Introduction to Automotive Engineering
• Have hands-on Practical Demonstration
Course Content
1. Fundamental units used in electrical systems: voltage, current, power, resistance.
2. Ohm’s Law, analyze simple circuits, series and parallel connections, and series-
parallel circuits.
3. Different power sources, including primary and secondary cells, and understand
power supply units (PSUs). Study capacitance and properties of capacitors, both
in series and parallel configurations.
4. Principles of electromagnetics and devices.
5. Introduction to semiconductors, PN Junction, and basic transistor operations.
Grasp sinusoidal quantities, average, peak, root mean square (rms), period, and
frequency concepts.
6. Number systems, standard logic gates, Boolean algebra, and counters in digital
systems.
7. Architecture of standard microprocessor systems, including memory, interfacing
to external devices, CPU, inputs and outputs, and programming concepts.
Introduce the concepts of open and closed-loop systems, along with their
principles and comparisons.
8. Feedback amplifiers and typical transducers for various parameters.
9. Typical actuators: DC motors, servomotors, and stepper motors, relays,
solenoids, and displays. Understand the fundamentals of engine operations,
including electronic engine controls and piston-engine operations.
10. Engine types, classifications, construction, valves, trains, measurement, and
performance analysis.
11. Fuel supply systems, cooling systems, traction, gear systems, steering, braking
systems, and automotive electrical systems.
12. Fault diagnosis methods in automotive systems (practical demonstrations).
Course Expectations:
S/N GRADING SCORE (%)
1. Continuous Assessments
• C.A. I 7%
• C.A. II (Mid-semester) 15%
• C.A. III 8%
2. Final Examination 70%
3. Total 100
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Course Delivery Strategies
Lecture and demonstration methods, one-on-one tutoring of the students and
PowerPoint presentation.
LECTURE CONTENT
Description:
First Hour:
• Introduction to Electrical Systems: Significance in modern technology and
everyday applications.
• Voltage (V): Definition, unit (volts), and its role in electrical circuits.
• Current (I): Definition, unit (amperes), and flow in conductors.
• Power (P): Definition, unit (watts), and its relation to voltage and current
(P = VI).
• Resistance (R): Definition, unit (ohms), and its impact on current flow
(Ohm’s Law).
• Ohm’s Law: Explaining the relationship between voltage, current, and
resistance (V = IR).
• Series and Parallel Connections: Analyzing circuits with resistors in series
and parallel configurations.
• Power Sources: Understanding different types of power sources, including
batteries and power supplies.
• Hands-on Activity: Building simple circuits to measure voltage, current,
and resistance.
• Real-life Examples: Applications of fundamental units in various electrical
devices and systems.
Study Questions:
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2. Explain Ohm’s Law and its significance in electrical circuits. Provide
examples of its application.
3. Differentiate between series and parallel connections of resistors. How
does the arrangement impact overall resistance and current flow?
4. Discuss the ethical considerations associated with the use of electrical
power in technology. How can engineers contribute to sustainable
practices?
5. Provide examples of real-world applications where a clear understanding
of voltage, current, power, and resistance led to efficient electrical system
design and implementation.
WEEK 2: Ohm’s Law, Simple Circuits, Series and Parallel Connections, and Series-
Parallel Circuits
Objectives: By the end of the lecture, students should be able to:
(i) Apply Ohm’s Law to solve complex electrical circuits.
(ii) Analyze simple electrical circuits, series and parallel connections, and
combinations of both.
(iii) Calculate voltage, current, resistance, and power in various circuit
configurations.
(iv) Design and evaluate basic electrical circuits using Ohm’s Law principles.
Description:
First Hour:
• Ohm’s Law Recap: Review of V = IR and its applications in various circuit
scenarios.
• Advanced Ohm’s Law Problems: Solving complex circuits involving
multiple resistors, voltage sources, and current paths.
• Voltage Divider Rule and Current Divider Rule: Application in dividing
voltage and current in complex circuits.
• Node and Mesh Analysis: Introduction to advanced techniques for circuit
analysis.
• Simple Circuit Analysis: Understanding basic circuits with resistors, voltage
sources, and currents.
• Series Connections: Analyzing circuits where components are connected
in series.
• Parallel Connections: Understanding circuits where components are
connected in parallel.
• Series-Parallel Combinations: Solving circuits with a mix of series and
parallel components. Circuit Design Exercises: Designing circuits to meet
specific voltage, current, or resistance requirements.
• Real-life Applications: Analyzing practical electrical circuits found in
appliances, electronics, and industrial systems.
• Troubleshooting: Identifying and solving common issues in electrical
circuits.
• Hands-on Activity: Building and testing simple circuits to reinforce
theoretical knowledge
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Study Questions:
Description:
First Hour:
• Introduction to non-rechargeable batteries, their chemistry, and common
applications.
• Secondary Cells: Understanding rechargeable batteries, their advantages,
and applications.
• Power Supply Units (PSUs): Exploring different types of PSUs, including
linear and switching power supplies.
• Capacitance: Definition, unit (farads), and its role in storing electrical
energy.
• Properties of Capacitors: Voltage rating, capacitance value, types of
capacitors (electrolytic, ceramic, etc.).
• Capacitors in Series and Parallel: Analyzing circuits with capacitors in
series and parallel configurations.
• Charging and Discharging of Capacitors: Understanding the transient
behavior of capacitors in circuits.
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Study Questions:
1. How do primary and secondary cells differ, and what are their respective
applications in various devices?
2. Explain the concept of capacitance and its significance in storing electrical
energy. Provide examples of capacitors used in practical applications.
3. How are capacitors rated, and what factors should be considered when
selecting capacitors for specific circuits?
4. Discuss the charging and discharging behavior of capacitors in electrical
circuits. How is this behavior utilized in timing circuits and energy storage
applications?
5. What safety precautions should be taken when working with capacitors
in electronic circuits? How can potential hazards be minimized?
Description:
First Hour:
• Introduction to Electromagnetic Fields: Understanding the concept of
electromagnetic fields and their representation.
• Magnetic Fields and Electric Fields: Exploring the relationship between
magnetic fields generated by currents and electric fields produced by
voltages.
• Ampere's Law and Faraday's Law: Understanding the mathematical
formulations and practical applications. Electromagnetic Induction:
Principles behind the generation of electromotive force (EMF) in
conductors due to magnetic fields.
• Inductors and Inductance: Understanding inductors as passive electronic
components and their behavior in circuits.
• Transformers: Exploring the operation and applications of transformers
in voltage transformation and isolation.
• Solenoids and Relays: Analyzing the construction and applications of
solenoids and relays in control systems.
Study Questions:
1. How are magnetic fields generated by currents, and what is their
interaction with electric fields?
2. Explain the principles of electromagnetic induction and its applications in
generators and transformers.
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3. What are the key components of inductors, and how do they behave in
electrical circuits? Provide examples of inductor applications.
4. How do transformers function, and what are their primary applications
in electrical engineering?
MODULE 3: SEMICONDUCTORS
Description:
First Hour:
• Introduction to Semiconductors: Understanding the properties and
behavior of semiconductor materials.
• PN Junction: Explanation of PN junction formation, depletion region,
and potential barrier.
• Semiconductor Diodes: Understanding diodes, their characteristics, and
rectification principles.
• Diode Applications: Analyzing diode applications in rectifiers, clippers,
and clampers.
Study:
• Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs): Introduction to NPN and PNP transistors and
their configurations.
• Transistor Operating Regions: Explanation of cutoff, active, and saturation
regions in transistors.
• Transistor as an Amplifier: Understanding transistor amplification and load line
analysis.
• Field-Effect Transistors (FETs): Introduction to JFETs and MOSFETs and their
basic operations.
Study Questions:
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MODULE 4: INSTRUMENTATION METHODS FOR DIMENSIONS, TIME,
WEIGHT, FREQUENCY, TEMPERATURE, AND PRESSURE
WEEK 6: Number Systems, Standard Logic Gates, Boolean Algebra, and Counters
in Digital Systems
Objectives: By the end of the lecture, students should be able to
(i) Understand different number systems and their conversions in digital
systems.
(ii) Analyze standard logic gates and their applications in digital circuits.
(iii) Grasp the fundamentals of Boolean algebra and apply it in logic design.
(iv) Understand the concept of counters and their applications in digital
systems.
Description:
First Hour:
• Decimal, Binary, Octal, and Hexadecimal Systems: Understanding
different number systems and conversions.
• Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) Representation: Explaining BCD and its
importance in digital applications.
• Gray Code: Introduction to Gray code and its applications in digital
systems. Basic Logic Gates: Exploring AND, OR, NOT gates and their truth
tables.
• Universal Gates: NAND and NOR gates, De Morgan’s Theorem, and their
applications.
• Introduction to Boolean Algebra: Laws and theorems of Boolean algebra.
• Boolean Expressions: Simplification techniques and Karnaugh maps for
logic circuit optimization.
Study Questions:
1. Explain the significance of different number systems in digital
representation. Provide examples of their applications.
2. What are the fundamental logic gates, and how are they represented in
truth tables? How are NAND and NOR gates universal gates in digital
circuits?
3. Describe the laws and theorems of Boolean algebra. How are Boolean
expressions simplified using Karnaugh maps?
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(iv) Apply knowledge of microprocessor systems and control theory in
practical engineering scenarios.
Description:
First Hour:
• Components of Microprocessor Systems: Memory, CPU, Input and
Output devices.
• Memory Hierarchy: RAM, ROM, Cache memory, and their roles in data
storage.
• Interfacing to External Devices: Input and Output interfaces, data
transfer protocols.
• Programming Concepts: Assembly language, high-level languages, and
software development tools. Applications of Microprocessor Systems:
Embedded systems, robotics, automation, and IoT devices.
• Applications of Microprocessor Systems: Embedded systems, robotics,
automation, and IoT devices.
Assignment: Explicate
Open-Loop Systems: Definition, components, and examples of open-loop control
systems.
Closed-Loop Systems: Principles of feedback control, sensors, actuators, and controllers.
Comparison of Open and Closed-Loop Systems: Advantages, limitations, and real-
world applications.
Control System Analysis: Stability, transient response, and steady-state response in
control systems.
Study Questions:
1. What are the key components of standard microprocessor systems, and
how do they interact with external devices?
2. Explain the principles of open-loop and closed-loop control systems.
Provide examples of both types of systems and their applications.
3. What are the advantages and limitations of open and closed-loop
systems? How do these systems differ in terms of stability and response
time?
4. How is memory hierarchy organized in microprocessor systems? What
are the roles of RAM, ROM, and cache memory?
5. Discuss real-world applications where microprocessor systems and
control systems are utilized. How do these systems enhance efficiency
and automation in various industries?
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(ii) Analyze the behavior and applications of typical transducers for
parameters such as position, velocity, force, temperature, pressure,
moisture, and fluid flow.
(iii) Evaluate the selection criteria for appropriate transducers based on
specific applications.
(iv) Apply knowledge of feedback amplifiers and transducers in practical
engineering scenarios.
Description:
First Hour:
• Feedback Concepts: Understanding positive and negative feedback,
effects on gain, bandwidth, and stability.
• Types of Feedback Amplifiers: Voltage feedback, current feedback, and
transconductance feedback amplifiers.
• Stability and Compensation: Analyzing stability criteria and
compensation techniques in feedback amplifiers.
• Practical Applications: Oscillators, filters, and amplifiers employing
feedback for improved performance. Position Transducers:
Potentiometers, encoders, and capacitive sensors.
• Velocity Transducers: Tachometers, electromagnetic sensors, and
Doppler effect sensors.
• Force Transducers: Strain gauges, load cells, and piezoelectric sensors.
• Temperature Transducers: Thermocouples, resistance temperature
detectors (RTDs), and thermistors.
• Pressure Transducers: Piezoresistive sensors, capacitive sensors, and
optical pressure sensors.
• Moisture and Fluid Flow Transducers: Humidity sensors, flow meters,
and vortex flow sensors.
Study Questions:
1. What are the different types of feedback amplifiers, and how do they
impact gain, bandwidth, and stability in electronic circuits?
2. Explain the working principles and applications of position, velocity,
force, temperature, pressure, moisture, and fluid flow transducers.
3. What factors should be considered when selecting transducers for
specific parameters? How does the choice of transducer impact the
accuracy and reliability of measurements?
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(iv) Apply knowledge of actuators and engine operations in practical
engineering scenarios.
Descriptions:
First Hour:
• DC Motors: Principles of operation, speed control, and applications in
robotics and automation.
• Servomotors: Precision control, feedback mechanisms, and applications
in positioning systems.
• Stepper Motors: Step-wise rotation, microstepping, and applications in
precise motion control.
• Relays and Solenoids: Electromagnetic switches, applications in
automation and control circuits.
• Displays: LED displays, LCDs, and other visual output devices in
electronic systems.
• Actuator Integration: Techniques for integrating actuators into
mechanical systems for precise control.
Study Questions:
1. What are the key principles of operation for DC motors, servomotors,
stepper motors, relays, solenoids, and displays? Provide examples of their
applications in various engineering fields.
Descriptions:
First Hour:
• Basics of Engine Operations: Understanding the combustion cycle,
intake, compression, power, and exhaust strokes.
• Electronic Engine Controls: Introduction to engine control units
(ECUs), sensors, and actuators in modern vehicles.
• Piston-Engine Operations: Behavior of pistons, crankshafts, valves, and
camshafts during engine cycles.
• Fuel Supply Systems: Carburetion, fuel injection systems, electronic fuel
injection (EFI), and common rail systems. Types of Engines: Exploring
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internal combustion engines, including gasoline, diesel, and rotary
engines.
• Engine Classifications: Inline, V-shaped, horizontally opposed, and
radial engine configurations.
• Engine Construction: Materials used, engine blocks, pistons, cylinder
heads, and crankshafts.
• Valves and Trains: Understanding intake and exhaust valves, camshafts,
timing belts/chains, and valvetrain design. Engine Measurement
Techniques: Analyzing engine speed, torque, power output, fuel
consumption, and emissions.
• Performance Analysis: Calculations involving brake horsepower,
indicated horsepower, mechanical efficiency, and thermal efficiency.
• Hands-on Activity: Engine performance measurement using
dynamometers and engine diagnostic tools.
Study Questions:
1. What are the fundamental strokes in the combustion cycle of a piston
engine, and how do pistons, valves, and camshafts behave during these
strokes?
2. How do engine control units (ECUs) function in modern vehicles?
Explain the role of sensors and actuators in electronic engine controls.
3. What are the main types of internal combustion engines, and how are
they classified based on configurations and layouts?
4. What are the key components of engine construction, including
materials, engine blocks, pistons, cylinder heads, and crankshafts?
5. How are engine performance parameters measured and analyzed?
Discuss the calculations involved in determining horsepower,
efficiency, and emissions.
Description:
First Hour:
• Fuel Supply Systems: Carburetion, fuel injection, electronic fuel
injection (EFI), and common rail systems.
• Cooling Systems: Liquid cooling, air cooling, radiators, water pumps,
and temperature regulation.
• Traction and Gear Systems: Differential, gear types, manual and
automatic transmissions, and torque converters. Steering Systems:
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Rack-and-pinion, recirculating ball, power steering, and electronic
steering assist.
• Braking Systems: Disc brakes, drum brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking
System), and electronic brake-force distribution.
• Automotive Electrical Systems: Sensors, actuators, control units, wiring,
and multiplexing.
Practical Applications
Hands-on Activity: Vehicle systems demonstration and analysis, including fuel injection,
cooling, and braking systems.
Case Studies: Real-world examples showcasing the integration of vehicle systems and
electrical components in automotive engineering.
Troubleshooting Exercises: Diagnosing common issues in vehicle systems and electrical
components.
Study Questions:
1. How do different fuel supply systems operate, and what are the
advantages of electronic fuel injection (EFI) over traditional
carburetion systems?
2. What are the main components of cooling systems, and how are
engines kept within optimal temperature ranges?
3. Describe the various types of steering and braking systems used in
vehicles. How do these systems enhance safety and maneuverability?
4. What are the key elements of automotive electrical systems, including
sensors, actuators, and control units? How are these components
integrated into modern vehicles?
5. How are vehicle systems and electrical components diagnosed and
troubleshot in case of malfunctions? Discuss common troubleshooting
techniques and tools used in automotive engineering.
Description:
First Hour:
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• Types of Faults: Mechanical, electrical, electronic, and sensor-related
faults in automotive systems.
• Diagnostic Tools: Introduction to OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics)
systems, scan tools, multimeters, and oscilloscopes.
Study Questions:
1. How are fault diagnosis methods essential in ensuring the proper
functioning of automotive systems? Provide examples of scenarios
where fault diagnosis led to successful repairs.
2. What are the common diagnostic tools used in automotive
engineering, and how do they assist in identifying faults? Explain the
working principles of OBD-II systems, scan tools, and multimeters.
3. How are fault codes interpreted from vehicle ECUs, and what
information do these codes provide about potential issues in the
vehicle?
Reading List:
1. Lecturer’s lecture notes.
2.
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