Sensors and advanced measurement systems: theory and laboratory sessionsModule Mod. Laboratory of sensors and sensor systems
Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: BRUNO ANDO'Expected Learning Outcomes
Course objectives
The aim of the course is to provide knowledge about advanced sensing methodologies, technologies for sensors development, automatic test equipment and energy harvesting. In particular, sensors with digital output, radiation thermometry, rapid prototyping techniques and vibration energy harvesting solutions will be treated.
A relevant part of the course is dedicated to experimental laboratory sessions will be performed in order to provide students with useful skills on the use of instrumentation and sensors. Such practical sessions will be strategic to learn about soft-skills usually linked to experimental activities. Moreover, the student will participate to group activities, supported by a qualified tutor.
Knowledge and understanding
The course will introduce students to the use of sensors, sensing systems for the realization and characterization of measurement systems. Morever, solutions will be presented for the development of multi-sensor systems and signal processing.
Applying knowledge and understanding
At the end of the course students will be able:
- develop a measurement session with the aim of sensor characterization
- implement measurement sessions exploiting sensors and conditioning electronics
- properly use signal processing methodologies and interpretation of a measurement session outcome
Course Structure
The course is structured in theoretical lessons (28 hours, 4 CFU), and practical senssions (30 hours, 2 CFU).
In particular, the theoretical lectures are aimed to transfer theoretical concepts in the field of advanced sensors and technologies, solutions for energy harvesting and automatic test equipment, while practical sessions are aimed to apply the above-mentioned theoretical skills.
Above mentioened approach is in line with the course objectives which aim to implement the Transfer of Knowledge on sensors and sensing systems application.
If the course is delivered in blended or remote mode, appropriate adjustments may be made to the above, in order to ensure consistency with the syllabus.
Required Prerequisites
Useful: skills related to basic measurement theory and fundamentals of transduction mechanisms are useful for better access to the course content.
Attendance of Lessons
Detailed Course Content
Basics on sensors and metrology
[Lecures: 3 hours]
Ultrasound sensors and encoders
[Lecures: 5 hours]
Radiation thermometry
[Lecures: 2 hours]
Automatic Measurement Systems and signal processing
[Lecures: 5 hours]
Rapid prototyping of sensors
[Lecures: 5 hours]
Sensors exploiting smart materials
[Lecures: 5 hours]
Energy-Harvesting
[Lecures: 3 hours]
Experimental sessions for the implementation of (Smart)sensing systems
[Practical sessions: 30 hours]
Contribution of the course to the Goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
The topics covered in the course and the acquired knowledge are directly or indirectly aimed at the development of sustainable technological solutions, as well as contributing to a high quality education, in accordance with Goals 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Textbook Information
E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill;
Pallas-Areny J.G. Webster: Sensors and Signal Conditioning
Tutorial on Smart sensor systems and sensor networks
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basics on sensors | Tutorial |
| 2 | Ultrasound sensors and encoders | E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill; |
| 3 | Radiation Thermometry | E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill; |
| 4 | Automatic Measurement Systems | Tutorial |
| 5 | Smart sensors | Tutorial |
| 6 | Rapid prototyping of sensors | Tutorial |
| 7 | Sensors exploiting smart materials | Tutorial |
| 8 | Energy-Harvesting | Tutorial |
| 9 | Signal processing for sensing systems | E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill; tools tutorial |
| 10 | Application of sensors and sensing systems | Tutorial - E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill; |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The examination consists in a colloquium aimed to assess competences on subjectes presented during the course. Usually, three questions are asked (as an example addressing a sensing methodology, multi-sensor systems and automatic test equipment and technologies for sensors realization). The final mark will take into account performances demonstrated during the experimental sessions.
To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, interested students may request a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures based on educational objectives and specific needs. Students can also contact the CInAP (Centro per l’integrazione Attiva e Partecipata — Servizi per le Disabilità e/o i DSA) referring teacher within their department (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti).
Learning assessment may also be carried out on line, should the conditions require it.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
- Development of sensing systems
- Ultrasound sensors and encoders
- Radiation thermometry
- Automatic Measurement Systems
- Smart sensors
- Rapid prototyping of sensors
- Sensors exploiting smart materials
- Energy-Harvesting
- Signal processing for sensing systems