Sensors and advanced measurement systems: theory and laboratory sessions

Module Mod. Laboratory of sensors and sensor systems

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.

 Moreover, 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:

- design a sensor system

- properly use signal processing methodologies 

- correctly provide results of a measuremnt session

- 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

The course is structured in theoretical lessons aimed to transfer theoretical concepts in the field of sensors and sensing systems.

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.

·Basics on sensors

·Resistive sensors: potentiometers, Strain Gauges and RTD sensors.

·Conditioning electronics for resistive sensors

·Reactive sensors: capacitive, Inductive, LVDT

·Conditioning electronics for reactive sensors

·Active sensors: Thermocouples, Piezoelectric and Ferroelectric sensors

·Charge amplifier and measurement amplifier

·Absolute sensors (displacement, velocity, acceleration)

·Other sensors (Force, pressure, flux, etc.)

·Digital sensors and ultrasound sensor

- Automatic Measurement Systems

- Smart sensors

- Rapid prototyping of sensors

- Sensors exploiting smart materials

- Non Linear Energy-Harvesting

- Signal processing for sensing systems

- Application of sensors: Assistive Technology, Environmental monitoring

- Experimental sessions for the implementation of (Smart)sensing systems

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.

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.”

Learning assessment may also be carried out on line, should the conditions require it.

Resistive sensors 

Capaciive sensors

Inductive sensors

 Active sensors (Thermocouples, piezoelectric sensors)

Conditioning electronics

Smart sensors 

Development of measurment systems based on above sensing solutions.