Computer Systems Engineering with a Year in Industry - MEng

This module introduces students to main electric components (i.e. resistors, capacitors, inductors, and voltage and current sources) and to operational amplifiers, which are the basic building blocks of many circuits; how do they work and what properties do they have; what are their main usages in circuits and systems; and how to practically perform simple measurements and tests. Also, fundamentals of analysis of electric circuits and the main circuit laws are taught. The teaching of this module makes an extensive use of a computer-aided electronic circuit design and simulation tools to assist in and to amplify traditional lecture-based learning, in addition to worked example and practical sessions. It also includes a mini-project in which students gain practical laboratory experience, including design, physical construction and testing of an example operational amplifier circuit. The module requires some elementary mathematical skills.

This module is designed to provide experience in the practical and management aspects of project work. It is supported by a lecture course and weekly supervised laboratory sessions. After an initial hands-on introduction to use of bench equipment and the Computer Aided Design (CAD) and fabrication of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), the project consists of constructing a robot that incorporates an additional PCB of your own construction and the development of software of your own design to enable your robot to address a specific set of tasks.

This module provides an introduction to contemporary digital systems design. Starting with the fundamental building blocks of digital systems the module outlines both theoretical and practical issues for implementation. Practical work includes the use of digital simulation and analysis software for implementing real-world problems.

Mathematics is the fundamental language of engineering, allowing complex ideas to be formulated and developed. This course provides the sound basis of mathematical techniques and methods required by almost all other modules in the department's engineering courses. Topics covered include functions, set theory, complex numbers, calculus, linear algebra, statistics and probability. The lectures are supported by assessed examples classes, taken in small groups.

This module expands the introductory mathematics covered in EL318 and provides students with the appropriate mathematical tools necessary for the further study of electronic, mechanical and computer systems. The main emphasis of the course is in applied calculus, which isused to solve real-world engineering problems.. The lectures are supported by assessed examples classes, taken in small groups.

This module provides an introduction to object-oriented software development. Software pervades many aspects of most professional fields and sciences, and an understanding of the development of software applications is useful as a basis for many disciplines. This module covers the development of simple software systems. Students will gain an understanding of the software development process, and learn to design and implement applications in a popular object-oriented programming language. Fundamentals of classes and objects are introduced and key features of class descriptions: constructors, methods and fields. Method implementation through assignment, selection control structures, iterative control structures and other statements is introduced. Collection objects are also covered and the availability of library classes as building blocks. Throughout the course, the quality of class design and the need for a professional approach to software development is emphasised and forms part of the assessment criteria.

An introduction to databases and SQL, focussing on their use as a source for content for websites. Creating static content for websites using HTML(5) and controlling their appearance using CSS. Using PHP to integrate static and dynamic content for web sites. Securing dynamic websites. Using Javascript to improve interactivity and maintainability in web content.

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental behaviour and components (hardware and software) of a typical computer system, and how they collaborate to manage resources and provide services in scales from small embedded devices up to the global internet. The module has two strands: 'Computer Architecture' and ‘Operating Systems and Networks’. Both strands contain material which is of general interest to computer users; quite apart from their academic value, they will be useful to anyone using any modern computer system.

This module builds on the foundation of object-oriented design and implementation found in CO320 to provide both a broader and a deeper understanding of and facility with object-oriented program design and implementation. Reinforcement of foundational material is through its use in both understanding and working with a range of fundamental data structures and algorithms. More advanced features of object-orientation, such as interface inheritance, abstract classes, nested classes, functional abstractions and exceptions are covered. These allow an application-level view of design and implementation to be explored. Throughout the course, the quality of application design and the need for a professional approach to software development is emphasised.

This is a highly practical module that starts with a typical programming language environment suitable for microcontrollers, looks at software engineering issues, methods for the programming of an 32-bit microcontroller and concludes with the input/output of data using polling and interrupts. There are supporting practicals.

The module introduces fundamental techniques employed in image processing and pattern recognition providing an understanding of how practical pattern recognition systems may be developed able to address the inherent difficulties present in real world situations. The material is augmented with a study of biometric and security applications looking at the specific techniques employed to recognise biometric samples.

The module consists of a practical group project involving both hardware and software. Also included is a series of supporting lectures. Students work in groups of typically four. The project provides an opportunity for students to gain experience not only in technical areas such as PC based data acquisition, computer interfacing, visual programming and hardware design and construction but also in transferable skills including team working, project management, technical presentations and report writing.

This module consists of a series of coherent lectures, laboratory sessions and examples classes. Technical topics covered in the module include basic error analysis, general principles of measurement and instrumentation, sensors and transducers, signal conditioning and data presentation elements, power supplies, and noise and screening. The students are taught to understand the role of the various elements of a measurement system and to specify and evaluate a measurement system for a given application. In practical laboratory sessions the students construct and test basic measurement systems using common sensors and electronic components. There is also a practical laboratory session on power supplies. Real-world case studies are provided to illustrate the applications and significance of measurement systems in industry.

This module provides an overview of modern digital system implementation. It includes an introduction to CMOS circuit design, fabrication technologies, memory technologies, memory interfacing and an introduction to VHDL/Xilinx.

This module introduces basic concepts and techniques for describing and analysing continuous and discrete time signals and systems. It also introduces the fundamentals of feedback control systems, covering techniques for the analysis and design of such systems.

This module introduces fundamental concepts of communication systems and communications networks, including baseband signals and noise, analogue modulation/demodulation, sampling and digitisation, digital modulation/demodulation, network architecture and topologies, link layer, local area network and Internet protocols. Extensive practical work is included. Examples classes also support student learning.

Students spend a year (minimum 30 weeks) working in an industrial or commercial setting, applying and enhancing the skills and techniques they have developed and studied in the earlier stages of their degree programme. The work they do is entirely under the direction of their industrial supervisor, but support is provided via a dedicated Placement Support Officer and Placement Tutor within the School. This support includes ensuring that the work they are being expected to do is such that they can meet the learning outcomes of the module.

Note that participation in this module is dependent on students obtaining an appropriate placement, for which guidance is provided through the School in the years leading up to the placement. Students who do not obtain a placement will be required to transfer to the appropriate programme without a Year in Industry.

Students spend a year (minimum 30 weeks) working in an industrial or commercial setting, applying and enhancing the skills and techniques they have developed and studied in the earlier stages of their degree programme. The work they do is entirely under the direction of their industrial supervisor, but support is provided via a dedicated Placement Support Officer and Placement Tutor within the School. This support includes ensuring that the work they are being expected to do is such that they can meet the learning outcomes of the module.

Note that participation in this module is dependent on students obtaining an appropriate placement, for which guidance is provided through the School in the years leading up to the placement. Students who do not obtain a placement will be required to transfer to the appropriate programme without a Year in Industry.

Introduction to the project, research techniques, poster design, report structure and writing.

This module introduces the theory and practice of employing computers as the control and organisational centre of an electronic or mechanical system, and examines issues related to time critical systems. It also provides exposure to practical embedded systems design through practical work, with one assignment exploring the ideas of real-time operating systems introduced in the lectures and a second using a microcomputer programmed in 'C' to control the ignition timing of a simulated petrol engine.

This module introduces the issues relating to the development of commercial electronic products. Topics include design, production techniques, the commercial background of a company, quality, safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards, electromagnetic compatibility issues and product reliability, ethical and environmental issues.

This module looks at the methodology of designing and implementing large digital systems. Students taking this module will learn how to design reliable digital systems using synchronous design techniques, will learn how to design digital systems which are easily testable and will be able to use a range of software tools which synthesize digital systems using VHDL.

This module continues the study of classical control and signal processing and further takes the classical control and signal processing developed in module EL569 into the digital domain. Tools are developed for analysis in the digital environment and there is a strong emphasis on design and evaluation.

The module starts with a comprehensive and detailed study of current computer networks and communications technologies. It includes: a review of network techniques, switching and multiple access; high speed local area networks; network protocols, including data link, network, transport and application layers. A selection of key topics are looked at in greater depth to reveal the state-of-the-art and issues (problems) that remain to be solved.

Security has always been an important aspect of computing systems but its importance has increased greatly in recent years. In this module you learn about areas where security is of major importance and the techniques used to secure them. The areas you look at include computer operating systems (and increasingly, distributed operating systems), distributed applications (such as electronic commerce over the Internet) and embedded systems (ranging from smart cards and pay-TV to large industrial plant and telecommunications systems).

The scope of the module is outlined below. Note that topics will not necessarily be delivered in this order:

Professional issues and professional organisations.

Data privacy legislation, and other UK laws relating to the professional use of computer systems.

Criminal law relating to networked computer use, including new Anti-Terrorism legislation; and their application

Intellectual Property Rights, including Copyright, Patent and Contract Law.

Health & Safety issues.

Computer-based Projects, including the vendor-client relationship and professional responsibilities.

Lecture Syllabus

PROJECT PLANNING AND THE PROPOSAL

An introduction to the use of tools such as MS Project. An introduction to group working and managing group projects. An explanation of the requirements for the project proposal.

FINAL REPORT WRITING AND PRESENTATION

An explanation of the requirements for the final report, presentation and demonstration, and poster.

Coursework

MENG PROJECT

This is a significant group project. Team members have their own individual contributions as well as shared c ontributions. For the individual contributions it is essential that good management and control practices are followed to ensure the interfacing of the contributions. The project has the following features:-

(1) Each group is supervised by a team of academic staff who provide a brief description of what is required for the project. These initial project descriptions are moderated by the module team to ensure the engineering challenge is sufficient and that module learning outcomes can be attained.

(2) The group responds to the brief by producing a written proposal for the work required, which is also presented. The proposal will clearly indicate the component parts of the system required in the project and attribute responsibilities to the group members.

(3) Project support is provided by weekly meetings with academic members of staff (the staff members present depending on t he progress of the work); interaction with external industrial/professional advisers will also occur on a regular timetabled basis.

(4) Project assessment includes the following components:

- a written proposal for the project combining an explanation of technical approach with that of project management (Term 1)

- a group presentation of the above (Term 1)

- an interim presentation of the project progress (Term 1/Term 2)

- a final report on the project (end of Term 2)

- a poster on the project results, made in the style of the School (Term 2)

- a presentation and demonstration of the project results (Term 3)

- logbooks and performance in supervisions are assessed by the project supervisor when assessing the project final report

- personal development planning: individual self-assessment (end of Term 2)

- peer assessment: students are asked to meet, agree and report on the performance of each term member.

SUPERVISIONS

Type: 25 weekly project group supervisions in Terms 1, 2 and 3 with academic supervisors.

There will also be ad-hoc supervisions with visiting staff acting as advisors, also in Terms 1 and 2.

The supervisions with academic supervisors will provide the main technical direction for the work. The supervisions with visiting staff will provide guidance on the project organisation and management, and the interfacing between the component parts of the project; technical guidance on particular aspects of the project work may also be provided in consultation with the academic supervisor.

WORKSHOPS

Three workshops with Visiting Staff on Systems Project Management:

1. Introduction to Systems Engineering: Engineering Systems in the Real (Messy) World.

2. Project Management and "Level 2" Systems Engineering.

3. User Centred Design and "Level 3" Systems Engineering.

One 2-hour laboratory session introducing and practising the use of MS project.

The strategy module has two main learning components:

• Acquiring theory and concepts in strategy and strategic management.

• Application of theory and concepts to the analysis of organisations.

The aim is to critically examine and provide insights into the practice and process of strategic management within a variety of private and public sector organisations.

What actions can employees pursue in order to attain superior performance for their organisation relative to their competitors? This course is designed to allow students to develop their skills of strategic analysis and their ability to think about the selection and implementation of appropriate strategies in different industry contexts and in different types and styles of organisations, including non-profit and public sector organisations.

Indicative topics include:

• What is Strategy, and Why is it Important?

• The Context of Strategy

• Competitive Strategy and Strategic Choices

• Resource Based Strategy

• Managing Strategic Change

• Corporate Social Responsibility

• Strategy in the Food sector

Embedded real time operating systems (rtos)

Operating Systems (OS) and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS). Embedded RTOS. Software development methods and tools: Run-time libraries. Writing a library. Porting kernels. Concurrent Programming and Concurrent Programming Constructs. Task Scheduling and Task Interaction. Basic Scheduling methods, scheduling algorithms. Tasks, threads and processes. Context switching. Multitasking. Communication, Synchronisation. Semaphores and critical sections. Example RTOS systems. (E.g. Embedded Linux, Windows CE, Micrium, VxWorks etc.). Programming and debugging Embedded Systems. Practical examples and case studies.

Hardware/software co-design

Embedded Processors; Hard and Soft Processor Macros (e.g. Altera Nios and Xilinx Microblaze, ARM). A brief overview of peripherals. Architectural Models. HW/SW Partitioning and partitioning algorithms. Distributed systems. Memory architectures, architectures for control-dominated systems. Architectures for data-dominated systems. Compilation techniques for embedded processor architectures. Modern embedded architectures. Architecture examples in multimedia, wireless and telecommunications. Examples of emerging architectures. Multiprocessor and multicore systems.

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Biometrics and biometrics systems; Biometric modalities; Components of a biometric system; Biometrics sample acquisition, transformation, & normalisation; Errors, error sources, and error handling in identification systems; Concept of multimodal systems: accuracy, flexibility, usability, inclusion and exception handling. Characterising human behaviour in biometrics-based systems. .

Implementation of biometric systems. Examples of systems using the major modalities such as face recognition, iris recognition, handwritten signature verification, fingerprint processing, etc. Analysis of modality specific techniques: segmentation, feature extraction, selection and classification strategies. State of the art in sensor technologies; Spoofing and counter-measures.

Signals:

Introduction to signals and signal analysis. Frequency and time domain representations of signals. A review of the Fourier Series, Fourier Transform and Laplace Transforms. Noise: definitions and sources of noise in signal analysis.

Digital Signal Processing:

The sampling theorem, Aliasing, Anti-Aliasing and Anti-Imaging Filters, ADCs and DACs. The Fourier Transform (FT). The Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT).The Z-transform. Pole-Zero placement methods for signal analysis. Transfer functions in S and Z domains. Theory, design and performance of Finite Impulse-Response (FIR) and Infinite-Impulse-Response (IIR) Filters. Multirate DSP. Architectures and devices for digital signal processing. Effects of Finite Precision.

Applications of DSP:

Processing and filtering of signals for Instrumentation and measurement, Processing and filtering of images: DSP in modern communication systems.

An Introduction to reconfigurable systems. PLDs, PLAs, FPGAs. Fine grain architectures, Coarse grain architectures, Heterogeneous device Architectures. Case studies. Configuration of FPGA's. Run-time configuration, partial configuration, dynamic reconfiguration. Partitioning systems onto a reconfigurable fabric. Synthesis tools. Timing issues. Verification and Test strategies.

An introduction to Hardware Description Languages. VHDL will be used to illustrate a typical HDL (but this may change to or include Verilog in future). The lectures will define the architectural aspects of a VHDL : entity, architecture, process, package, types, operators, libraries, hierarchy, test benches and synthesisable VHDL. Workshops and laboratories will be used to illustrate how VHDL code is synthesised on to physical hardware devices and a number of challenging practical design examples will be used to illustrate the process.

Basic computer arithmetic and its implementation on reconfigurable logic architectures. Fixed-point and Floating point number representations. The IEEE-754 FP standard. Redundant Number Systems. Residue Number Systems. Methods for Addition and Subtraction. Fast adder architectures. Multi-operand addition. Multiplication: Multiplier architectures; Constant coefficient multipliers; Distributed arithmetic; LUT methods. Special methods: division, square root, the CORDIC algorithm. High-throughput arithmetic. Low-power arithmetic.

This module focuses on the basic principles of modern computer architecture and how they are mapped onto modern (32-bit) microcontrollers. The course uses the ARM processor core as an exemplar of a modern processor architecture that is now ubiquitous in embedded systems. The course will cover classic topics in architecture (CPU and ALU structure, Instruction sets, memory and memory) and performance metrics for evaluating the relative performance of different architectures such as RISC vs CISC and also VLIW, SIMD, MIMD, ASSP and DSP devices.

The NXP 1786 (mbed) microcontroller is used as an example microcontroller development platform and industry standard IDE's from Keil/IAR are used to program, test and debug them. The course includes a comprehensive presentation of typical microcontroller peripherals: ADCs and DACs, Timers and Input Capture, communication using IIC, SPI, UART. Displays. Interrupts and Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs).

The course also provides an introduction to the C and C++ programming languages and their use with microcontroller based systems. This material will include: Variables, data-types and arithmetic expressions. Strings, Loops, Arrays. Functions, Structures, Pointers, bit operators. The pre-processor. I/O operations in C. Debugging Programs. Object-Oriented Programming. The Standard C Library.

Issues such as software testing and testing strategies are discussed. Compiling and downloading code onto the mbed using commercial Integrated Development Environments such as Keil® and IAR®. GNU based toolchains for Microcontroller development.

Local area networks: Ethernet technologies and standards; switched Ethernet and STP; virtual LANs; wireless LANs and WiFi. Personal area network technologies and standards for the Internet of Things: Bluetooth, ZigBee, LoWPAN.

IP Networks: IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, operation; routing protocols; Mobile IP; transport layer (TCP/UDP) and application layer protocols, including real-time protocols.

Network security and encryption mechanisms: IPSec and other security protocols. Network performance analysis, queuing theory, and network simulation.