Computer Engineering for Robotics - BEng

Program Overview

This three-year BEng program in Computer Engineering for Robotics provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to design, develop, and install hardware and software for robotic systems. Through a combination of lectures, labs, and projects, students gain expertise in programming, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics, preparing them for dynamic careers in robotics research, automation engineering, and autonomous vehicle development. The program is accredited by Engineers Ireland and offers comprehensive support for students, including specialized tutorials and peer learning schemes.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program provides students with the education and training necessary for a career in the computer, software, and electronics industry, with a specific focus on robotics. It equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to design, develop, and install hardware and software for robotic systems.

Objectives:

• Develop theoretical knowledge in areas crucial to computer engineering.
• Acquire skills in computer systems administration and problem-solving.
• Gain practical experience in developing intelligent systems that can perceive, reason, and act autonomously.
• Master programming, artificial intelligence, and machine learning skills.
• Prepare for dynamic career opportunities in robotics research, automation engineering, and autonomous vehicle development.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years, with each year divided into two semesters.

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Mathematics 1.1:
Provides a foundation in mathematics for electronics, computer networks, and computer engineering.
• Software Development 1.1: Introduces programming using the Java language.
• Network Infrastructure 1.1: Covers the architecture, models, protocols, and elements of modern computer networks.
• Electronic Systems 1.1: Introduces electronics principles and practical skills in component identification, soldering, circuit debugging, and testing.
• Computer Systems 1: Covers the fundamentals of computer hardware and software, security, networking, and ICT professional responsibilities.
• Semester 2:
• Mathematics 1.2:
Continues building mathematical skills relevant to the program.
• Software Development 1.2: Further develops Java programming skills.
• Network Infrastructure 1.2: Expands on network architecture, models, protocols, and elements, including building and configuring small LANs.
• Electronic Systems 1.2: Focuses on electronics principles used in the interface between computers and real-world applications.
• Telecommunications 1: Introduces the basic principles of telecommunications.

Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Linear Algebra and Probability 2:
Introduces matrix algebra, numerical methods, probability laws, and probability density functions.
• Engineering Economics 2: Covers financial statements, project appraisal, cost reduction, and ethical issues in financial management.
• Computer Systems Administration 2.1: Introduces administration of computer systems, including installation, configuration, and maintenance, with a focus on UNIX and GNU/Linux.
• Software Development 2.1: Introduces object-oriented programming using Java, including creating and using classes, arrays, loops, and conditional constructs.
• Electronic Systems 2.1: Covers electronics techniques, components, and systems, including op-amp circuits, 555 timer, oscillators, and transistor circuits.
• Semester 2:
• Advanced Calculus 2:
Covers Fourier series, differential equations, Laplace transforms, and partial differentiation.
• Wireless LAN’s 2: Covers the principles, theory, and technology of Wireless Local Area Networks, exploring IEEE 802.11 standards and other wireless technologies.
• Computer Systems Administration 2.2: Focuses on the administration of network services, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and security.
• Software Development 2.2: Develops software applications on a Windows platform using Java, Object-Oriented techniques, Java Swing for GUI applications, and UML for design.
• Electronic Systems 2.2: Covers digital electronics techniques, components, and systems, including digital computer systems.
• Computer Engineering Project 2: Provides experience in developing a hardware and software integrated project based on a microcontroller embedded system environment.

Year 3:

• Semester 1:
• Discrete Mathematics 3:
Introduces problem-solving using Linear Programming, Markov processes, Queueing theory, Fuzzy logic, and algorithms for network analysis.
• Software Development 3: Builds on Java programming fundamentals and introduces higher levels of abstraction.
• Embedded Systems 3: Develops practical design skills in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world problems in electronic/software engineering.
• Data Communications and Networks 3: Introduces the principles of real-time IP communication networks and Quality of Service requirements for applications using the Internet.
• Agile Software Design 3: Introduces agile methodologies, focusing on requirements, pair programming, test-driven development, and version control.
• Data Analysis and Visualisation 3: Covers sourcing, integrating, and evaluating real-time data sets from connected devices, focusing on data visualization techniques for the Internet of Things (IoT).
• Placement Preparation 3: Prepares students for graduate and other job opportunities, developing tools and skills for securing roles.
• Semester 2:

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a combination of lectures, practical labs, and project work.
• Faculty: Lecturers have extensive industry experience, enriching their teaching skills and competencies.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with a focus on practical skills development.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in robotics manufacturing, automation, artificial intelligence, software development, autonomous vehicles, and more.
• Opportunities: Potential roles include robotics engineer, software developer, embedded systems architect, and automation specialist.
• Outcomes: The program equips students with the knowledge and expertise to thrive in the rapidly evolving landscape of robotics and software engineering.

Further Study:

Graduates may pursue further studies in areas such as:

• Master's degrees in Robotics, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related fields.
• PhD programs in Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, or other relevant areas.

Other:

• Accreditation: The program is accredited by Engineers Ireland.
• Facilities: The Faculty of Engineering and Informatics is housed in a modern and well-equipped facility.
• PAL Support Scheme: The program offers specialized tutorials in Mathematics and Software Engineering, as well as PASS (Peer Assisted Learning Support) to help first-year students adjust to university life.