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 measurement session

The course is structured in theoretical lessons and experimental sessions aimed to use knowledge on the use of sensors and sensing systems in real scenario. The experimental sessions will be organized in the form of work groups.

Above mentioned 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.

Detailed Course Content

• Introduction to sensors (lectures: 3 h)
• Resistive sensors: potentiometers, strain gauges, RTDs (lectures: 3 h)
• Signal conditioning electronics for resistive sensors (lectures: 3 h)
• Reactive sensors: capacitive and inductive sensors (lectures: 5 h)
• Signal conditioning electronics for reactive sensors (lectures: 2 h)
• Active sensors: thermocouples and piezoelectric sensors (lectures: 4 h)
• Signal conditioning electronics for active sensors (lectures: 2 h)
• Automated Measurement Systems (lectures: 2 h)
• Intelligent Multisensor Systems (lectures: 2 h)
• Practical exercises on sensors and intelligent sensor systems (practical sessions: 15 h)

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.

Learning Assessment

The examination consists in a colloquium aimed to assess competences on subjects presented during the course.

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

• Resistive sensors
• Capacitive sensors
• Inductive sensors
• Active sensors (Thermocouples, piezoelectric sensors)
• Conditioning electronics