Sensor and advanced measurement strategies

Course objectives
The aim of the course is to provide knowledge about sensing methodologies and conditioning electronics for sensors. In particular, basic principles of resistive, reactive and active sensing methodologies will be treated. Experimental laboratory sessions will be performed in order to provide students with useful skills on the use of instrumentaion 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 would porovide fundamentals on the design and the synthesis of sensors and sensor systems. Mian topics presented during the course are related to: sensor chracterization, sensing methodologies and sensors examples, conditioning electronics, smart multi-sensor systems and signal processing.

Applying knowledge and understanding 
At the end of the course students will be able:
- design a sensor system
- properly use signal processing methodologies 
- correctly provide results of a measuremnt session

The course is structured in theoretical lessons (35 hours, 5 CFU), and practical senssions (15 hours, 1 CFU).

In particular, the theoretical lectures are aimed to transfer theoretical concepts in the field of sensors and conditioning electronics, while practical sessions are aimed to apply the above-mentioned theoretical skills.

Above mentioned approach is in line with the course objectives which aim to implement the Transfer of Knowledge on sensors, conditioning electronics and systems of sensors.

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.

Useful: skills related to  basic measurement theory, for better access to the course content.

Basics on sensors

[Lectures: 3 hours]

Metrology

[Lectures: 6 hours]

Resistive sensors: potentiometers, Strain Gauges and RTD sensors.

[Lectures: 6 hours]

Conditioning electronics for resistive sensors

[Lectures: 5 hours]

Reactive sensors: capacitive, Inductive, LVDT

[Lectures: 5 hours]

Conditioning electronics for reactive sensors

[Lectures: 2 hours]

Active sensors: Thermocouples, Piezoelectric sensors and conditioning electronics

[Lectures: 8 hours]

Practic sessions on sensors

[Practic sessions: 15 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.

E. Doebelin: Mesurement systems, Mc Graw Hill;

Pallas-Areny J.G. Webster: Sensors and Signal Conditioning

Tutorial on Smart sensor systems and sensor networks

The examination consists in a colloquium aimed to assess competences on subjectes presented during the course. Usually, three questions are asked (addressing a sensing methodology, a conditioning electronic and metrological characteristics of sensors).

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.

Responsivity and resolution of sensors

Metrological characteristics odf sensors

Potentiometers

Strain Gauges

RTD sensors.

Conditioning electronics for resistive sensors

Capacitive sensors

Inductive sensors

LVDT

Conditioning electronics for reactive sensors

Thermocouples

Piezoelectric sensors