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Digital control system design

Course Description: A comprehensive review of continuous control systems (analog systems), followed by an introduction to digital control to prepare for the transition to this field. Subsequently, the focus shifts to analyzing discrete-time systems and understanding the nature of sampled-data systems, as well as how to find digital equivalents for systems. In terms of applications, the curriculum covers design using transform techniques (such as the Z-Transform) and design using state-space methods. The course concludes with a comprehensive practical application through a real-world case study of designing a digital servo control system responsible for moving and positioning the read/write head in computer disk drives.

Credit hours: 3

Objectives of the course :

Equipping the student with the mathematical understanding of discrete-time systems, including: z-transforms, pulse-train functions, and how to convert from continuous-time to discrete-time.
Enable the student to apply the basic analysis and design techniques (previously studied in the course of control systems for mechanical engineering applications) and apply them directly to digital control systems.
To equip students to analyze discrete-time state-space systems (both time-invariant and time-varying), including: Lyapunov stability assessment, controllability and observability assessment, and transformation between different state-space canonical forms.

Course outputs :

Knowledge and Understanding
These outputs focus on the theoretical and mathematical comprehension of basic concepts.

1.1 Understanding and Comprehending the Z-transform Analysis of Sampled Data Feedback Loops.

1.2 Understanding Stability Theorems and Root Locus Techniques.

1.3 Review and explanation of different techniques used in digital controller design.

Teaching and assessment strategies for the field of knowledge:
Teaching methods: Live lectures, self-directed learning, and tutorials.

Direct assessment tools: Quizzes, assignments, midterms and finals, and the semester project.

Indirect assessment tools: Student course exit surveys.

2. Skills:
These outputs cover the applied, analytical, and software aspects, in addition to engineering communication skills.

Application and engineering solution:
2.1 Applying digital control concepts and logic in mechanical engineering applications.

2.2 Solving real-world engineering problems as practical training for the design of a linear digital controller.

2.3 Solving Digital Control Problems Using the “Z-Transform” and Appropriate Design Methodologies.

2.4 Selecting appropriate performance analysis tools.

b) Simulation and Advanced Applications:
2.5 Applying different control schemes to robots and selecting the most suitable scheme.

2.6 Formulation of a digital control problem, designing a solution, and testing the results through simulation using MATLAB.

c) Communication Skills:
2.7 Communicating in various forms to disseminate knowledge, skills, research findings, and innovations related to digital control systems.

Teaching and Assessment Strategies for Skills Domain:
Teaching methods: Lectures and tutorials.

Direct assessment tools: quizzes, assignments, midterms and finals, and the semester project.

Indirect Assessment Tools: Student Surveys.

3. Values, Independence, and Responsibility:
Focus on soft skills and professional work management.

3.1 Ability to work in a team and possess time management skills.

Teaching and assessment strategies for the values domain:
Teaching Methods: Working on the Term Project.

Direct assessment tools: Oral presentations, mini-project reports, and rubrics.

Indirect Assessment Tools: Student Surveys.

Additional information:

Course Content and Hour Distribution
This course consists of 42 accredited credit hours distributed over eight main topics. The curriculum begins with a review of continuous control (3 hours), followed by an introduction to digital control (3 hours). Subsequently, the largest portion is dedicated to the analysis of discrete-time systems (9 hours), followed by the study of sampled-data systems (6 hours), and an introduction to digital equivalents (3 hours). On the practical side, the focus is on design using transform techniques (9 hours) and design using state-space methods (6 hours). The curriculum concludes with a practical case study on designing a servo system for a disk drive (3 hours).

Student assessment activities
Grades for the course are distributed to ensure continuous assessment of students throughout the semester; 15% is allocated to weekly assignments and quizzes. This is followed by the midterm exam in the seventh week, which accounts for 25% of the grade. In the fifteenth week, students are assessed on the term project, which accounts for 10% of the total grade, while the largest portion is allocated to the final exam in the sixteenth week, accounting for 50% of the total grade.

References and learning resources
The course relies on two main references: the book "Digital Control System Analysis and Design" by Phillips and Nagle, and the book "Digital Control Systems" by Benjamin C. Kuo. Students can also refer to the widely used supporting text "Digital Control of Dynamic Systems" by Franklin et al. To facilitate research and reference, students can utilize the course website, which includes updates and assignments.

Last update: 2026-05-18