In this module, you will learn the principles of operation of different types of sensors and actuators. You will learn methods of selection of magnetic materials used in magnetic devices, as well as you will learn characterisation and evaluation of magnetic material used in sensors / actuator applications. Also, you will learn basic topologies, principles, advantages/disadvantages and design process of magnetic devices. Guidance will be provided for you to submit an individual course work in IEEE style 4-page scientific paper on selected topics as well as you will build up your presentation skill.  

• MLO1.  Assess some of the various applications of materials in energy conversion devices (transducers), sensors and actuators.  

• MLO2. Identify material properties of interest for various applications and choice of suitable materials.  

• MLO3.  Convey magnetic sensor selection factors based on their applications. Examine, classify, and identify magnetic transducers and explain how they work.  

• MLO4.  Relate the implications of the relations for satisfactory actuator and supply operating   conditions.  

• MLO5.   Identify material properties for actuators applications.  

• MLO6.  Know the design features in nine types of actuator schemes providing constant forces.  

The module will be delivered through a blend of on-campus face-to-face classes (tutorials, feedback sessions), online learning material, and guided study. All the learning material delivered by the module staff including the links to the lecture recordings will be available on the Learning Central. 

These skills link with the graduate attributes of ‘independent and critical thinkers’ and ‘effective communicators’. 

• Evaluate the magnetic properties of materials used in sensors and actuators.  

• Select magnetic materials used in devices (electrical machines, electronic systems, actuators and transformers).  

Report on the implementation of magnetic transducers in industrial, medical, and computing applications including position sensors, current sensors, temperature sensors, torque sensors, security systems and non-destructive testing.  

This module is assessed by three components: two 20% coursework, and a 60% end of semester examination.  

Graduate attributes of Problem solving, Critical Thinking, Reflection and Communication are developed here.  

Feedback on the summative exam will be provided in the form of generic cohort feedback and your individual grade.  

Formative opportunities will cover be provided through class quizzes and tutorials.  

Feedback on formative work will be verbal in class. 

End-of-Semester Examination (60%): 

• Focus: This summative assessment primarily addresses MLO2 (Identification of material properties), MLO3 (Magnetic sensor selection factors), with partial coverage of MLO1 (Applications of materials in energy conversion devices), MLO4 (Examine, classify and identify magnetic transducers and explain how they work) and MLO5 (Relate the implications of the relations for satisfactory actuator and supply operating conditions. Identify material properties for actuators applications. 

• Format: Students are required to engage in both discussion-based and numerical problem-solving questions, ensuring a balanced evaluation of theoretical understanding and practical application. 

Group Presentation (20%): 

• Focus: This assessment covers MLO1 through MLO6, emphasizing the practical applications and material properties in magnetic devices. 

• Format: Students will work in groups of 3-4 to deliver a presentation. Each group member contributes equally to the presentation. 

• Evaluation: The total marks consist of a group component (75%), assessing the collective effort and quality of the presentation, and an individual component (25%), focusing on personal contribution and engagement. 

• Feedback: Formative verbal feedback is provided post-presentation, with written feedback on the group’s overall performance. 

Individual Report (20%): 

• Focus: The individual report is designed to assess students' comprehensive understanding of MLO1 through MLO6, focusing on the depth of knowledge in magnetic devices. 

• Format: The report should in IEEE-style paper showcasing the quality of research, originality, and clarity in presentation. 

• Evaluation: Marks are allocated based on quality (45%), originality (30%), structure (15%) and presentation (10%). 

• Feedback: Each student will receive formative written or audio feedback, offering guidance for future improvement. 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE: 

The resit opportunity for this module will be at the component level where each component would be capped at 40%.   
The 60 % exam component will be reassessed in the Resit Examination period, before the start of the following academic session and will follow the same format as the original assessment. 

Opportunities for re-assessment is only permitted provided you have not failed more credit than in the resit rule adopted by your programme.  If the amount of credit you have failed is more than permitted by the relevant resit rule, you may be permitted to repeat study if you are within the threshold set for the Repeat rule adopted by your programme.  You will be notified of your eligibility to resit/repeat any modules after the Examining Board in the Summer period. 

All resit assessments will be held in the Resit Examination period, prior to the start of the following academic session.

• Basics of transducers.  

• Physical principles of magnetic transducers.  

• Classification of magnetic sensors.  

• Types of magnetic field sensors including Hall-effect, Magnetoresistive, Fluxgate, inductive, Induction coil and SQUID.  

• Magnetic properties of magnetoresistive materials used in sensors.  

• Magnetic properties of magnetostrictive materials used in actuators.  

• Factors considered in selection of sensors.  

• Magnetic material evaluation.  

• Design considerations.  

• Transducer performance and applications.  

• Actuator materials selection criteria.  

• Design of actuators.