CONTROL ENGINEERING AND VIBRATION - 2025/6

Module Overview

This module offers an introductory exploration of the fundamental theory of control systems engineering, supplemented with practical examples of its applications. In addition, it provides students with a comprehensive overview of vibration system analysis methods and strategies for mitigating vibrations.

Module provider

Mechanical Engineering Sciences

Module Leader

GRUBER Patrick (Mech Eng Sci)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 6

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 2

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

N/A

Module content

Indicative content includes:

Control engineering
•    System dynamic performance analysis and control system design
•    Control system simulation using Matlab-Simulink
•    Fundamentals of state-space control
•    State-space modelling of dynamic systems

Vibration of discrete systems
•    Undamped free and forced vibration of a two-degree of freedom system
•    Damped and undamped vibration absorbers

Vibration of continuous systems
•    Lateral vibration of a string
•    Longitudinal vibration of a bar
•    Lateral vibration of a beam
•    Whirling of shafts

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to showcase their understanding of scientific principles, methodologies and mathematical methods as well as their proficiency in describing particular systems and processes in the final examination. The coursework component tests the students’ capacity to independently develop solutions to complex problems, while also providing them with an opportunity to demonstrate their research abilities and report writing skills.

Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of:
•    Technical report [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 5]
•    Examination [Learning outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5, 6]

Formative assessment and feedback
Formative verbal feedback is given via weekly supported tutorial work. Written feedback is given on the technical report submissions.
 

Module aims

• To provide students with a working knowledge of classical linear feedback control that extends to systems design concepts.
• To develop students' systematic understanding and critical awareness of free and forced vibration of two-degree of freedom systems.
• To foster an understanding and awareness of vibration absorbers and their use in real structures.
• To provide students with the knowledge of the analytical methods of investigating vibration of continuous systems.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to familiarise students with the principles of control system design and analysis, as well the investigation of vibration of discrete and continuous systems. This is achieved through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical application using worked examples. The primary delivery methods for this strategy include lectures (supported by captured content) and tutorial classes. Additionally, students will engage in an independent assignment that involves control design and vibration system analysis.

The learning and teaching methods include:

•    Lectures (supported by captured content) to introduce, develop and facilitate discussion on fundamental topics and theories
•    Tutorials to offer an opportunity for students to revisit and reinforce the essential learning points covered in lectures. Through collaborative work in groups, students can actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the material.
•    Technical report to encourage active application of key learning concepts. It allows students to delve deeper into the subject matter, applying their knowledge to practical scenarios and/or problem solving activities.
 

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: ENG3214

Other information

The School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Employability, Digital Capabilities, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Sustainability, and Resourcefulness and Resilience. This module is designed to allow students to develop knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the following areas:

Digital Capabilities: During the tutorial sessions and coursework element, students will receive instruction on how to use industry-relevant software for the analysis of control engineering problems. This practical application of software tools aims to enhance their proficiency in solving real-world challenges. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to enhance their digital capabilities through the writing of technical reports using relevant word processing software. This includes tasks such as generating figures, tables, and other visual aids, as well as employing appropriate referencing styles to ensure academic integrity.

Employability: The module provides students with knowledge and expertise in solving problems in control engineering and vibration, which are relevant across many engineering fields. The assessment methodology is designed to support lifelong learning, research skills, and the ability to construct compelling narrative arguments. These skills are crucial for success in professional engineering careers.

Resourcefulness & Resilience: During the module, students will cultivate resourcefulness in addressing problem-based questions while expanding their knowledge through references and external sources. Engaging in tutorials, they will actively share ideas and problem-solving techniques, fostering both confidence and collaborative skills in pursuit of successful outcomes.  
 

Programmes this module appears in

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2025/6 academic year.