Instrumentation

Code: EME00511L

6 ECTS

Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours

Scientific Area: Electrotechnical Engineering

Teaching languages: Portuguese

Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese, English

Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Sustainable Development Goals

Educação de qualidade - Assegurar a educação inclusiva, e equitativa e de qualidade, e promover oportunidades de aprendizagem ao longo da vida para todos.

Learning Goals

Understand the basic concepts and terminology of metrology. Know the operation, applications, and limitations of various analog and digital measuring instruments. Be aware of the high number of transducers available in the market and the signal conditioning necessary to use these transducers. Acquire skills in automatic measurement systems.

1- Introduction to Metrology
Measurement and Error. Definitions and Statistical Analysis.
Systems of Measurement Units.

2- Measuring Instruments
Electromechanical. Galvanometer, voltmeter, ammeter; ohmmeter, etc.
Electronic (Analog/Digital). Voltmeter, multimeter, etc.
Oscilloscope.

3- Transducers
Introduction. Temperature. Force. Position. Pressure, Vacuum and Sound. Humidity. Light Intensity. Thermal, mechanical, optical sensors, etc.

4- Signal Conditioning
Signal Generation and Analysis.
Analog Systems.
Principles. Passive Circuits. Bridge Circuits: Wheatstone Bridge; AC Bridges.

5-Operational Amplifier: Review of concepts. Instrumentation Amplifier.
Digital Systems. Principles. D/A and A/D Converters. Data Acquisition Systems.

6- Spectral análisis: DFT, FFT, Filters.

Teaching Methods

The teaching and learning methodologies of this Metrology and Instrumentation curricular unit are articulated to provide a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects. Theoretical classes focus on exposing the fundamental principles of metrology, instrument operation, and data acquisition systems theory. These sessions use presentations, discussions, and examples to solidify concepts.
Laboratory classes complement the theory, offering hands-on experience with instruments such as oscilloscopes, RLC meters, and multimeters. Students practice data acquisition using commercial boards and LabView software, applying concepts such as the sampling theorem and avoiding spectral leakage.
The pedagogical model emphasizes active and autonomous learning. Students are encouraged to explore instruments, perform measurements, and analyze data independently. Practical assignments and laboratory reports reinforce understanding of the subject matter.

Assessment

Assessment Components
Theoretical Component:
Option A: Exam (Grade E)
Option B: Tests (Grades F1 and F2)
Laboratory Component:
6 reports (Grades R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6)
Final Grade Calculation
Continuous Assessment (Tests)
Condition: F1 and F2 must be greater than 8
Formula: Final Grade = (0.3 * Average of Reports + 0.7 * Average of Tests) / 2
Detailed: Final Grade = (0.3 * (R1+R2+R3+R4+R5+R6)/6 + 0.7 * (F1+F2)/2) / 2
Exam Assessment
Condition: Minimum exam grade (E) must be greater than 10
Formula: Final Grade = (0.3 * Average of Reports + 0.7 * Exam Grade) / 2
Detailed: Final Grade = (0.3 * (R1+R2+R3+R4+R5+R6)/6 + 0.7 * E) / 2
This system allows students to choose between continuous assessment (through tests) or final exam assessment, maintaining in both cases a laboratory assessment component based on the reports.