48570 Embedded Systems Studio B
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Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Undergraduate
Result type: Grade, no marksRequisite(s): 48434 Introductory Embedded Systems
Description
Embedded Systems are found in devices used in consumer, industrial, automotive, medical and other fields. They also underpin the Internet of Things. Embedded systems typically collect data from sensors and/or direct human inputs, transmit and aggregate the data within a central system and then take action or inform decision-making based on the data.
This studio subject provides an opportunity for students to design, build and evaluate an embedded system based around a microcontroller. Students work from concept stage to realisation of a final product with weekly milestones. Students identify their learning needs and undertake self-study to learn theory and practice needed to develop a deep understanding of the design of microcontroller-based embedded systems.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Analyse requirements for embedded systems development. (D.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Evaluate modular components such as microcontrollers, sensors and actuators using datasheets to inform technology choices. (D.1) |
| 3. | Design, implement and test an embedded system to meet user requirements. (C.1) |
| 4. | Reflect on technology choices, effect of collaboration, as well as challenges and achievements in view of improving design choices. (F.1) |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):
- Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design and decision-making methodologies to develop components, systems and processes to meet specified requirements. (C.1)
- Technically Proficient: FEIT graduates apply abstraction, mathematics and discipline fundamentals, software, tools and techniques to evaluate, implement and operate systems. (D.1)
- Reflective: FEIT graduates critically self-review their performance to improve themselves, their teams, and the broader community and society. (F.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies
This subject contributes to the development of the following Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies:
- 1.3. In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline.
- 2.1. Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
- 2.2. Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.
- 3.3. Creative, innovative and pro-active demeanour.
- 3.5. Orderly management of self, and professional conduct.
Teaching and learning strategies
This studio-based subject offers an active learning environment consisting of weekly studio/laboratory sessions working on developing an open-ended embedded system product. Students learn to make design choices about embedded systems components, and the design approach drives the collaborative product development. Students will form teams to design and develop an embedded system within provided parameters. Teams are aided and guided by teaching staff who will provide regular weekly feedback on progress. Responding to this feedback is integral to continuous improvement of the design.
Each week is a building block for the next stage of the project. Students are expected to work individually outside of class and each week and in class, present their individual progress on their agreed learning contract deliverables as well as reviewing the progress of their peers in class. Formal assessment of the project outcomes and deliverables occurs regularly throughout the session.
Content (topics)
- Embedded software toolchains and development environments
- Data acquisition, including sensor integration
- Data distribution and transfer
- Embedded and cloud processing resulting in device action
- Visualisation of collected data for providing insights and evaluations
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Individual learning contract
| Intent: | To provide an opportunity for guided self-learning of topics related to embedded systems. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1, D.1 and F.1 |
| Type: | Portfolio |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 30% |
Assessment task 2: Embedded systems project
| Intent: | To demonstrate the ability to design, implement, test and evaluate a product based around an embedded system. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1, D.1 and F.1 |
| Type: | Portfolio |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 50% |
Assessment task 3: Final report
| Intent: | To demonstrate professional written and oral communication skills in documenting and describing an embedded systems product. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2, 3 and 4 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): C.1, D.1 and F.1 |
| Type: | Report |
| Groupwork: | Group, group and individually assessed |
| Weight: | 20% |
Minimum requirements
To pass this subject, students must achieve an overall mark of 50% or greater.