436-459 Advanced Control and Automation

Students will be expected to be familiar with material covered in 436-470 Control Systems 2. (Prior to 2005, 436-433 Mechanical Systems)

This subject is concerned with multivariable and nonlinear control theory, and applications of control theory in a variety of complex automated systems. On completion, students should have sufficient knowledge and understanding to make effective use of the relevant research literature, have gained practical experience in the design and implementation of advanced control systems using state-of-the-art development tools, and be familiar with a number of industrial applications.

Advanced control topics will be selected from linear quadratic optimal control and estimation, loop shaping methods, feedback linearisation, backstepping, sliding mode and adaptive control, and fuzzy/neural systems. Applications will be drawn from industrial, medical and transport automation (e.g., robots, machine tools, production machines, laboratory automation, automotive and aerospace by-wire systems).

One 3-hour end of semester examination (50%) and three assignments of up to 5000 words each (50%) due throughout the semester.