Introduction to Smart Things and Robotics

Code

COMP2064

School

Computer Science

Level

2

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

In this module, you will gain a broad overview of the fundamental theories and techniques of cyber-physical systems. You will explore the architecture of cyber physical systems as a network of interacting elements with physical input and output and intelligent mechanisms, and develop an understanding of how to increase their adaptability, autonomy, efficiency, reliability, safety, and usability in different contexts of use. 
You will explore the various potential applications of cyber-physical systems including autonomous automotive systems, assistive robots to support health and well-being, medical monitoring and process control systems.

This is an interdisciplinary subject area and as such you will gain knowledge and understanding of the following topics:
- Cyber-physical system architectures, standards and platforms (including design tools and methodologies that support scalability and complexity management through modularity)
- Internet-of-Things networks, sensors and smart devices (including understanding state-of-the art technologies that are being used in various application areas) 
- Sensor data processing, modelling and management 
(including an overview of methods and algorithms for real-time feedback systems)
- Pervasive computing and real-time automation and control (how sensor data can be used to generate control signals to actuators of the physical components of the cyber-physical system)
- Principles of cyber security (Overview of aspects such as resilience, privacy, malicious attacks, as well as issues relating to safety and hazard analysis)
- Application domains (e.g. Industry 4.0, Healthcare, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, including Assistive Robots and Autonomous Automotive Systems, Smart Homes and Building Energy Management).

Target Students

Available to Level 2 students in the School of Computer Science. This module is part of the Operating Systems, Networks and Security theme in the School of Computer Science.

Assessment

• 60% Coursework 1: Design and implementation of a Cyber-Physical System application (code and 400 words), this will be a group project which will include a presentation.
• 40% Exam 1 (1-hour): Examination covering the foundational concepts, theories, and methods of Cyber-Physical Systems.

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding:

• Students will acquire a broad understanding of the fundamental theories and techniques of cyber physical systems, including the various potential applications of cyber-physical systems in area such as healthcare, autonomous automotive systems, smart home and building automation and energy management. Students will also discuss and debate the ethical issues such as data privacy, security and safety.

Intellectual Skills:

• Students will learn to apply concepts, theories and techniques to critically and ethically evaluate and develop the various components of Cyber-Physical Systems.

Professional/Practical Skills:

• Students will learn practical design and implementation skills and techniques to develop working Cyber-Physical Systems, particularly gaining hands-on skills with integrating Internet of Things sensors and actuators in demonstrator applications.

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Programming, problem solving.

Conveners

• Dr Aly Magassouba
• Ms Liz Felton
• Professor Praminda Caleb-Solly