COMP20170 Introduction to Robotics

Academic Year 2020/2021

*** Not available in the academic year indicated above ***

This module is suitable for students interested in software programming and the development of robots. Autonomous robotic systems are becoming increasingly important thanks to a wide range of feasible applications, such as service and toy robots, and also as a vital component of the next generation of automation and transport industries, smart distributed environments and wireless sensor networks. This is a module for all students with basic programming skills interested in understanding key robotics and software engineering concepts related to the design, implementation, and the operation of these systems. This module will provide key theoretical foundations underpinning robots' autonomous operations, embracing both AI and Software Engineering aspects. These foundations will be grounded through a hands-on approach to learning. Students will practice with LEGO EV3 hardware, will be introduced to the ROBOTC programming language and ROS (Robotic Operating System). The students will learn the fundamentals behind robots' sensors and actuators (how to build and operate their first robot; how to program with sensors – touch, sound, light, ultrasonic and encoder; how to incorporate remote control into their programming; how to use advanced programming concepts for obstacle avoidance and navigation and familiarize with the area of human-robot interaction).

Show/hide contentOpenClose All

Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module the students will be able to understand current and future trends in robotics and how they operate. They will be able to write and debug simple programs that move a robot around an environment while avoiding objects that block its path. The students will learn ways to make a robot follow a line on the floor; follow a wall or stay away from a drop-off such as stairway. The students will have an up-to-date knowledge of important robotics and simulation systems as well as critically assess theory and applications in the area.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

12
Practical

14
Autonomous Student Learning

79
Total

105
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
active/task-based learning;
reflective learning;
problem-based learning 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Continuous assessment throughout the semester Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

100

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be provided through the VLE post assessment and through discussions during the project activities.