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151-0593-00L 4 Credits DR , MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-INFK

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Embedded Control Systems

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. James Scott Freudenberg, Dr. Marianne Schmid Daners

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:55:05

Abstract

This course provides a comprehensive overview of embedded control systems. The concepts introduced are implemented and verified on a microprocessor-controlled haptic device.

Objective

Familiarize students with main architectural principles and concepts of embedded control systems.

Content

An embedded system is a microprocessor used as a component in another piece of technology, such as cell phones or automobiles. In this intensive two-week block course the students are presented the principles of embedded digital control systems using a haptic device as an example for a mechatronic system. A haptic interface allows for a human to interact with a computer through the sense of touch. Subjects covered in lectures and practical lab exercises include: - The application of C-programming on a microprocessor - Digital I/O and serial communication - Quadrature decoding for wheel position sensing - Queued analog-to-digital conversion to interface with the analog world - Pulse width modulation - Timer interrupts to create sampling time intervals - System dynamics and virtual worlds with haptic feedback - Introduction to rapid prototyping

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes, lab instructions, supplemental material

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DR , MSC

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Embedded Control Systems This two-week block course is offered every Autumn Semester but will take place daily (15-19.02.2021 & 22-26.02.2021) in Spring Semester 2021 as an exception.	15.02. - 19.02 Date 08:15-18:00 (ML H 41.1) 22.02. - 26.02 Date 08:15-18:00 (LEE E 308)	80 h semesterly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Robotics, Systems and Control (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor. .)
Micro- and Nanosystems Master
- Core Courses
  - Elective Core Courses
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Computers and Networks (The core courses and specialization courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialize in the area of "Computers and Networks", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialization Courses (These specialization courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Computers and Networks", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialization courses during the Master's Programme.)
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved form courses during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Computers and Networks
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
Robotics, Systems and Control Master
- Core Courses
Doctoral Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering (More Information at: )
- Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Courses