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Aims:

The aims of this module are to:Ìý

• Provide students with enabling knowledge in fundamental concepts in mechanical design with the goal of applying this to complex problems in the field of robotics.
• Offer a solid understanding of mechanical systems to frame problems in robotics using appropriate mathematical models, solving them through the application of theoretical knowledge and using computational tools.
• Provide students will tools to carry out relevant critical analysis to assess and reflect on the performance the robotic systems produced.

Intended learning outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, a student will be able to:

1. Select and then apply mathematical techniques in the solution of mechanical problems in the domain of robotics.Ìý
2. Describe and apply fundamental concepts in mechanical design as applied to simple robots with embedded processors.
3. Design and model these components, assessing likely performance and adapting the design appropriately, then make and integrate the appropriate subsystems.
4. Design, decompose, plan and implement the mechanical components of simple robotic systems.
5. Integrate these design components into a coherent whole, testing this to ensure operability.

Indicative content:

Robots are physical entities that move; to do so efficiently and effectively, it is necessary to design the robot's physical structure and integrate this with joints, gears, etc., coupled to actuators. This module covers both the basic mechanical concepts that underpin even complex mechanical systems, the fundamental mathematics that allows us to describe and reason about such systems, material properties and computer-based analysis and simulation.

The following are indicative of the topics the module will typically cover:

• Fundamental mechanical systems: levers, wheels, springs and pulleys.Ìý
• Kinematics of linear and angular motion.
• Forces.
• Energy.
• Momentum.
• Friction.
• Oscillation.
• Alternative perspectives: a brief introduction to Lagrangian mechanics.

Requisites:

To be eligible to select this module as optional or elective, a student must be registered on a programme and year of study for which it is formally available.