Sensors represent one of the core blocks of an electronic system, as they allow the system to collect information. Such information will be provided to further modules depending on the specific purpose: display, storage, transmission, actuation, closed-loop control, etc. Drones, robots, IoT devices are only a few examples of technologies that rely on sensors and measuring systems. Accordingly, this course aims to introduce the basic elements of sensors and measuring systems.
Basic notions in sensing, design of a sensing system, measurement.
After completing the course a student
- should be familiar with the quantities and parameters that characterize a sensor and a measuring system
- should know the basic principles behind common sensors
- should be able to implement simple measuring systems involving a microprocessor and one or more sensors
Lectures and laboratory acitivites
Sensor as a device in a measuring system: range, full scale output, static response curve, sensitivity, resolution, dynamic characteristics
Measurement and measuring systems: probabilistic approach to measurement, uncertainty, calibration, accuracy
Resistive sensors: potentiometer, touch screen, temperature sensors (RTD, NTC, PTC), piezoresistive sensors (load cells, pressure sensors, accelerometers)
Capacitive sensors: distance/displacement sensors, pressure sensors, accelerometers, proximity switches
Piezolectric sensors: pressure sensors, accelerometers, ultrasound sensors
Magnetometers: Hall sensors, AMR sensors
R. Pallás-Areny, J. G. Webster, Sensors and Signal Conditioning, Second Edition, John Wiley and Sons, 2001
J. Fraden, Handbook of modern sensors : physics, designs, and applications, Third Edition, AIP Press, 2004
Ricevimento: Phone: 010 3532268 email: paolo.gastaldo@unige.it
PAOLO GASTALDO (President)
ERMANNO DI ZITTI
CHRISTIAN GIANOGLIO
EDOARDO RAGUSA
RODOLFO ZUNINO
Written exam with ÷multiple-choice tests
Laboratory assignments
Final exam
