Sensors, Actuators, and Interfaces

Catalog description

This course introduces sensors, actuators, and their interfaces with emphasis on their biomedical applications. Specific topics covered include general characteristics of sensors and actuators, temperature sensors, magnetic sensors (including Hall effect sensors), and actuators (solenoids, mechanical relays, servos, motors), mechanical sensors (speed sensing, strain gauges, accelerometers, MEMS, gyros, and pressure sensors), and acoustic sensors and actuators (microphones, speakers, and ultrasonic sensors and actuators). The analog and digital interfacing to sensors and actuators is also covered, including the theory and applications of field effect transistors (FETs). Practical system integration and control topics are also covered, but sophisticated control theory topics are deferred to later controls-focused courses. Laboratory experiences reinforce basic concepts, while a term project will give students an opportunity to exhibit curiosity by investigating open-ended problem of their choosing related to electrical power supplies and/or device power consumption.