Agricultural Measurements and Control Systems

Catalog description

Principles of measurements, instruments, controls, and data acquisition systems, with emphasis on agricultural applications. B E 305 Agricultural Measurements and Control Systems (3)Engineers and scientists are routinely required to measure or control parameters of physical systems. Frequently, these parameters are quantified electronically. This course prepares the student to solve fundamental engineering instrumentation and control problems with emphasis on agricultural and biological systems. Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to: select and apply electronic devices to solve basic engineering measurement and control problems; apply interference (noise) reduction techniques using sound engineering principles; demonstrate correct use of common electronic measurement tools including multimeters, oscilloscopes and others; demonstrate electrical construction techniques including cable preparation, soldering, crimping, circuit board fabrication, and others; explain simple measurement and control circuits represented by schematics or ladder diagrams; demonstrate the application of dataloggers, microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers, and computer software to collect data and/or control basic processes; explain the function of common circuit components such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors, op-amps, and transformers in simple circuits. Students are evaluated on homework and lab worksheets, quizzes, an oral presentation, and a final project.