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Acknowledgements
Quanser, Inc. would like to thank the following contributors:
Dr. Hakan Gurocak, Washington State University Vancouver, USA, for his help to include embedded outcomes assessment, and
Dr. K. J. Åström, Lund University, Lund, Sweden for his immense contributions to the curriculum content.
2 Sensor Properties 7
2.1 Resolution 7
2.2 Range 7
2.3 Absolute and Incremental 7
2.4 Analog Sensor Measurement 7
4 Pressure Sensor 16
4.1 Background 16
4.2 Pressure Virtual Instrument 17
4.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 18
4.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 20
4.5 Results 20
5 Piezo Sensor 21
5.1 Background 21
5.2 Lab 1: Data Analysis 21
5.3 Lab 2: Natural Frequency 22
6 Potentiometer 23
6.1 Background 23
6.2 Potentiometer Virtual Instrument 24
6.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 25
6.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 27
6.5 Results 27
7 Infrared 28
7.1 Background 28
7.2 Infrared Virtual Instrument 29
7.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 30
7.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 32
7.5 Results 32
8 Sonar 33
8.1 Background 33
8.2 Sonar Virtual Instrument 34
8.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 35
8.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 37
8.5 Results 37
9 Optical Position 38
9.1 Background 38
9.2 Optical Virtual Instrument 39
9.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 40
9.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 42
9.5 Results 42
11 Encoder 48
11.1 Background 48
11.2 Encoder Virtual Instrument 50
11.3 Lab 1: Analysis of A, B, and I Signals 50
11.4 Lab 2: Encoder Calibration 51
11.5 Results 52
12 Temperature Sensor 53
12.1 Background 53
12.2 Temperature Virtual Instrument 55
12.3 Lab 1: Collect Data 56
12.4 Lab 2: Calibrate Sensor 57
12.5 Results 59
14 Switch Debounce
Analysis 71
14.1 Background 71
14.2 Switches and LEDs Virtual Instrument 72
14.3 Lab 1: Running the Oscilloscope 73
14.4 Lab 2: Micro Switch 74
14.5 Lab 3: Push Button 75
14.6 Results 77
15 System Requirements 78
15.1 Overview of Files 78
15.2 Strain Gage with Flexible Link VI 79
15.3 Pressure Laboratory VI 81
15.4 Piezo VI 83
15.5 Potetiometer VI 85
15.6 Infrared Sensor Laboratory VI 87
15.7 Sonar Sensor VI 89
15.8 Optical Position Laboratory VI 91
15.9 Magnetic Field Laboratory VI 93
15.10 Encoder Laboratory VI 95
15.11 Temperature Laboratory VI 97
15.12 Switches and LEDs Laboratory VI 98
15.13 Switch Debounce Laboratory VI 101
The QNET mechatronics sensors (MECHKIT) trainer is shown in Figure 1.1. It has ten types of sensors, two types
of switches, a push button, and two LEDS. This QNET module can be used to teach the physical properties of most
sensors used today, and the techniques and limitations of their application.
There are 12 experiments: strain gage with flexible link, pressure sensor, piezo sensor, potentiometer, infrared,
sonar, optical position, magnetic field, encoder, temperature sensor, switches and LEDs, and switch debounce
analysis. The experiments can be performed independently.
Topics Covered
Prerequisites
In order to successfully carry out this laboratory, the user should be familiar with the following:
2.1 Resolution
The resolution of a sensor is the minimum change that can be detected in the quantity that is being measured. For
instance a sensor that measures angular position of a motor shaft may only be able to detect a 1 degree change.
Thus if the motor moves 0.5 degrees, it will not be detected by the sensor. Depending on the precision needed for
the application, this may be adequate.
2.2 Range
Range sensors can only take measurements of a target within a certain operating range. The operating range
specifies a maximum, and sometimes also a minimum, distance where the target can be from the sensor in order to
obtain an accurate measurement. Sensors with a small range are the magnetic field and optical position sensors.
Sensor with a relatively larger range are infrared and sonar.
Some of the different ways to characterize analog sensors is illustrated in Figure 2.1.
y = ax + b (2.1)
where a is the rate of change and b is the offset. Variable x is the sensor output signal and y is the measurement,
e.g. for the potentiometer x would be the voltage measured by the sensor and y would be the angular measurement
(in either degrees or radians). Other types of sensors need to be characterized by more complex relationship such
as polynomial
y = ax2 + bx + c (2.2)
or exponential
y = aebx (2.3)
Figure 3.1: Strain gage measuring deflection of flexible link on QNET mechatronic sensors trainer
Answer 3.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 3.5.
K-2 The response captured is shown in Figure 3.5.
2. Select the Calibrate Sensor tab and enter the slope and intercept obtained in Section 3.3 into the Calibration
Gain and Offset controls shown in Figure 3.3, below. When the link is moved, the slider indicator in the VI
should match up with the actual location of the flexible link on the QNET module.
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to determine the correct calibration gain of -0.25 cm/V with an
offset of 0.04 cm, the experimental procedure must be followed properly.
4. B-5, K-2 Enter natural frequency found and capture the resulting power spectrum response. Hint: You can
use the cursor to take measurements off the graph.
Answer 3.3
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 3.6.
K-1 The natural frequency detected is 59.1 Hz.
K-2 The power spectrum response of the flexible link is shown in Figure 3.6.
Pressure sensors can also be used to indirectly measure other values. For example, in the QNET mechatronics
board the position of the plunger head is measured. It can also be used to measure the amount of volume in a
reservoir or the altitude of an aerial vehicle.
2. Open and configure the QNET MECHKIT Pressure VI as described in Section 15.3. Make sure the correct
Device is chosen.
Important: Completely remove the plunger from the tube and re-insert it. This will ensure the chamber is
pressurized enough.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Pressure_Sensor.vi
4. Push the plunger up to the initial 1 ml mark on the tube and measure the resulting voltage using the Pressure
(V) scope (or the digital display).
5. Enter the result in the Sensor Measurement (V) array, as indicated in Figure 4.2.
6. Repeat for when the plunger is at 0.8 ml, 0.6 ml, 0.4 ml, 0.2 ml, and 0 ml. The pressure sensor is quadratic.
The coefficients for the second-order polynomial are generated and the fitted curve is automatically plotted.
7. B-5, K-2 Enter collected results and capture the Sensor Readings scope.
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 4.4.
K-2 The measured voltages entered are shown in Figure 4.4 by the black
plot with circled data points and the red trace is the curve fitting this
data.
Answer 4.2
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the correct coefficients of a = 0.06, b =
-0.56, and c = 1.42, the experimental procedure must be followed prop-
erly.
4.5 Results
4. Manually perturb the plastic band that is attached to the piezo sensor by flicking it and examine the response
in the Piezo (V) scope.
5. Grab the end of the plastic band and move it slowly up and down. Examine the response.
6. B-5, K-2, B-7 Based on these two tests, what does the Piezo sensor measure? How is this different then a
strain gage measurement? Capture a sample Piezo (V) scope response after it has been perturbed (by flicking
it).
Answer 5.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 5.2.
K-2 The typical piezo sensor response when the plastic band is flicked is
shown in Figure 5.2.
B-7 The Piezo sensor measures rate of change of deflection, i.e. vibration,
whereas the a strain gage measures the amount of deflection.
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 3.6.
K-1 The cursor tool indicates that the natural frequency is 29.4 Hz.
K-2 The power spectrum response of the flexible link is shown in Figure 5.3.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Potentiometer.vi
4. Rotate the arrowhead of the potentiometer to a certain position, e.g. 45 degrees.
5. Enter the position in the Pot Angle (deg) array, as indicated in Figure 6.2.
6. Enter corresponding measured sensor voltage in Sensor Measurement (V) array (shown in Figure 6.2).
7. Fill out table with an appropriate amount of data points. Notice that as the measured potentiometer readings
are entered, a curve is automatically generated to fit the data. The slope and intercept of this line is generated
as well.
8. B-5, K-2 Enter the collected data and capture the Sensor Reading chart.
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 6.4. Note that the results may vary depend-
ing on the alignment of the potentiometer relative to the board.
K-2 The response in Figure 6.4 illustrates typical potentiometer measure-
ments and the corresponding linear curve that is fitted.
Answer 6.2
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the correct calibration calibration gain of -
50.4 and offset of 220 deg, the experimental procedure must be followed
properly.
6.5 Results
Infrared-based distance sensors typically have a smaller maximum range than sonar but the resolution is better.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Infrared.vi
4. Turn ON the IR switch to enable the Infrared sensor. The IR ON LED should be lit bright red. Important:
Make sure you turn OFF the IR switch when the experiment is over. When active, the infrared sensor tends to
generate noise in other sensor measurements.
5. Get a target, such as a sturdy piece of cardboard, that is at least 10 by 10 cm2 with a reflective colour like white
or yellow.
6. Begin with the target close to the IR sensor and slowly move it away.
7. Once its range of operation is found, enter the distance between the target and the IR sensor in the Target
Range (cm) array, as shown in Figure 7.2.
8. Enter the corresponding measured voltage from the IR sensor in the Sensor Measurement (V) array, as shown
in Figure 7.2.
10. B-5, K-2 Record your distance and voltage observations and capture the corresponding Sensor Readings
scope.
Answer 7.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 7.4.
K-2 The response in Figure 7.4 illustrates typical IR measurements.
11. B-7 What did you notice when the target is close to the IR sensor? That is, did the behaviour of the sensor
change when the target was in close proximity as opposed to being further away?
Outcome Solution
B-7 The sensor has a certain range of operation. When the target goes
from 0 to 15 cm, the output voltage increases. After 15 cm, the voltage
decreases as the range increases in a nonlinear fashion.
Answer 7.3
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the polynomial coefficients of a = 8.09.
b = -54.1 and c = 104.3, the experimental procedure must be followed
properly.
7.5 Results
Sonar sensors are great for long-distance measurements. For example, the one mounted on mechatronic board
can go up to 21 feet. However, in general, these devices do not have good close-range measurements and their
resolution can be relatively coarse.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Sonar.vi
4. Get a target, such as a sturdy piece of cardboard, that is at least 10 by 10 cm2 with a reflective colour like white
or yellow.
5. Begin with the target close to the sonar sensor and slowly move it upwards.
6. Once its range of operation is found, enter the distance between the target and the sonar sensor in the Target
Range (cm) array, as shown in Figure 8.2.
7. Enter the corresponding measured voltage from the sonar sensor in the Sensor Measurement (V) array, as
shown in Figure 8.2.
8. Repeat for different target positions. The sonar sensor is linear. The slope and intercept are generated and
the fitted curve is automatically plotted.
Answer 8.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 8.4.
K-2 The response in Figure 8.4 illustrates typical sonar sensor measure-
ments.
10. K-1 What is the resolution and operating range of the sonar sensor? How does the resolution and range
compare with the IR sensor?
Outcome Solution
K-1 The resolution and range are 2.54 cm and > 15.24 cm respectively. The
sonar has a larger operating range then the infrared sensor, i.e. it can
detect a target from further away. However, its has a much coarser
resolution than the IR. The sonar is a great long-distance measurement
device as long as the precision is not important.
2. Select the Calibrate Sensor tab and enter Gain and Offset coefficients to correctly measure the distance of the
target. Make sure the coefficients are correct, e.g. when the target is 10.0 inches away then the Sonar (inch)
display should read 10.0 inches.
Answer 8.3
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the correct calibration gain of 68.58 cm/V
with an offset of 1.22 cm, the experimental procedure must be followed
properly.
8.5 Results
Figure 9.1: Optical position sensor (bottom) and target position knob (top) on QNET mechatronic sensors trainer
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Optical.vi
4. Gently turn the knob of the optical position sensor clockwise until the flat metal surface gently rests on top of
the tube. Then, rotate the knob slightly counter-clockwise so the 0 mark on the knob faces up. At this point,
the reflective target is very close to the optical sensor and will be the reference 0 inch position. Enter the 0
position in the first element of the Target Range (inch) array, shown in Figure 9.2.
5. Enter the voltage measured by the optical position sensor, when the target is 0 inches away, in the Sensor
Measurement (V) array, as indicated in Figure 9.2.
6. Turn the knob counter-clockwise one rotation to move the target further from the sensor. The target moves
1-inch for every 20 turns. Enter the position the target has moved from the reference in the Target Range (inch)
array, which is shown in Figure 9.2.
7. Record the measured sensor voltage in the Sensor Measurement (V) array.
9. B-5, K-2 Enter the measured sensor data and capture the Sensor Readings response.
Answer 9.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 9.4.
K-2 The response in Figure 9.4 illustrates typical optical position measure-
ments.
2. Select the Calibrate Sensor tab, enter values for the Gain and Damping exponential function parameters, as
shown in Figure 9.3, to correctly measure the distance of the target, e.g. when target is 0.10 inches away then
display should read 0.10 inches.
3. B-5 Enter the Gain and Damping parameters used into Table 9.2.
Answer 9.2
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the correct calibration gain and damping
0.36 inches and -4.87 respectively, the experimental procedure must be
followed properly.
9.5 Results
2. Open and configure the QNET MECHKIT Magnetic Field VI as described in Section 15.9. Make sure the
correct Device is chosen.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Magnetic_Field.vi
4. Gently turn the knob of the magnetic field sensor clockwise until it is at its limit. Then, rotate the knob slightly
counter-clockwise so the 0 mark on the knob faces up. This will be reference 0 inches target position. Enter
this in the Target Range (inch) array, shown in Figure 10.2.
5. Enter the voltage measured from the magnetic field position sensor for the reference 0 inch position in the
Sensor Measurement (V) array. The array is indicated in Figure 10.2.
6. Turn the knob counter-clockwise one rotation to move the target further from the sensor. The target moves
1-inch for every 20 turns. Enter the position the target has moved from the reference in the Target Range (inch)
array.
7. Record the measured sensor voltage in the Sensor Measurement (V) array.
9. B-5, K-2 Enter the range and measured sensor voltages and capture the Sensor Readings scope.
Answer 10.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 10.4.
K-2 The response in Figure 10.4 illustrates typical optical position measure-
ments.
3. B-5 Record Gain and Damping parameters used for correct measurement.
Answer 10.2
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the calibration gain and damping of
2.29×10-8 in/V and 6.7 respectively, the experimental procedure must
be followed properly.
10.5 Results
The encoder has a coded disk that is marked with a radial pattern. As the disk rotates (with the shaft), the light
from an LED shines through the pattern and is picked up by a photo sensor. This effectively generates the A and B
signals shown in Figure 11.2. An index pulse is triggered once for every full rotation of the disk, which can be used
for calibration or �homing� a system.
The A and B signals that are generated as the shaft rotates are used in a decoder algorithm to generate a count. The
resolution of the encoder depends on the coding of the disk and the decoder. For example, an encoder with 1024
lines on the disk can generate a total of 1024 counts for every rotation of the encoder shaft. However, in a quadrature
decoder the number of counts quadruples, therefore the encoder would generate 4098 counts per revolution.
The encoder knob on the QNET mechatronic sensors trainer is pictured in Figure 11.3 and the corresponding A, B,
Figure 11.3: Encoder wheel on QNET mechatronic sensor Figure 11.4: Encoder LEDs on QNET mechatronic sensor
trainer trainer
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Encoder.vi
4. B-5, B-7 Turn the encoder knob clockwise and examine the response of the A and B signals. Note that the
signals are offset by 2.5 V for display purposes. Similarly, turn the encoder knob counter-clockwise and enter
your observation.
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to determine the correct encoder behaviour, the experimental
procedure must be followed properly.
B-7 When the knob is turned clockwise, A leads B. When turned counter-
clockwise, B leads A.
5. B-7 When is the index pulse triggered? What can this be used for?
Answer 11.2
Outcome Solution
B-7 The index pulse is triggered, i.e. goes to 5.0 V, at every full knob rotation.
This can be used to reset the encoder count.
7. B-5 Enter the Count per rev and the Reload Value values used for a calibrated measurement.
Answer 11.3
Outcome Solution
B-5 The experimental procedure must be followed properly in order to de-
termine the correct calibration values of 36 counts per revolution, with a
reload value of -8 counts (will vary).
8. B-7 Position the knob such that its 0 label is pointing upwards again. The Counts per rev and Angle (deg)
should both be reading 0. Rotate the knob in the CCW fashion one full rotation. Is Angle (deg) reading 0
degrees? Discuss why or why not.
Answer 11.4
Outcome Solution
B-8 The index pulse is triggered at a different angle depending in what di-
rection the knob is rotated, i.e. clockwise or counter-clockwise.
The thermistor is a resistor that changes value according to the temperature. As given in [4], the relationship between
the resistance of the thermistor and the temperature, T , can be described using the B-parameter equation
( )
1 1
B −
R = R0 e T T0 (12.1)
The resistance is R0 when the temperature is at T0 . For the thermistor on the mechatronic sensors trainer, the
sensor resistance is
R0 = 47000 Ω (12.2)
T0 = 298.15 K (12.3)
Thermistors are typically part of a circuit. In the QNET mechatronic sensors trainer, the thermistor is in the circuit
shown in Figure 12.2 and labeled by R.
Using the voltage divider rule, the voltage entering the negative terminal of the second operation amplifier, i.e. the
offset op amp, is
30(R + 10000)
vi = − 15 (12.4)
67000 + R
vo = Av (voff − vi ) (12.5)
where vo f f is the voltage adjusted using the Offset potentiometer and Av is the amplifier gain that can be changed
externally using the Gain potentiometer. The Gain and Offset potentiometers are on the QNET mechatronic sensor
trainer and shown in Figure 12.3.
Figure 12.3: Thermistor Gain and Offset potentiometers on QNET mechatronic sensors trainer
2. Open and configure the QNET MECHKIT Temperature VI as described in Section 15.11. Make sure the cor-
rect Device is chosen.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Temperature.vi
4. As discussed in Section 12.1, the thermistor is part of a circuit and the output voltage can be varied using
the Gain and Offset potentiometers on the QNET mechatronic sensors board. Rotate the Gain knob on the
counter-clockwise until it hits its limit.
5. Adjust the Offset knob such that the Temperature Sensor (V) scope reads 0 V. This is the voltage measured at
room temperature, T0 = 298 K. Note: For this step, assume your room is at 25.0 degrees Celsius (◦ C) even
though it's probably warmer or cooler.
6. B-5 Gently place your fingertip on the temperature sensor and examine the response in the Temperature
Sensor (V) scope. The surface temperature of the fingertip is approximately 32.0◦ C. Enter the voltage read at
room temperature and with the fingertip.
Note: The thermistor is very sensitive. Do not press down too hard on the sensor with your finger when taking
Answer 12.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to observe the proper room temperature response of 0 V, and
voltage with a finger of 0.8 V., the experimental procedure must be fol-
lowed correctly.
1. A-1 The voltage being measured on the QNET MECHKIT is the output voltage, vo , of the circuit discussed
Section 12.1. Using the circuit and its corresponding equations, derive the formula that can be used to find the
thermistor resistance from the output voltage of the circuit, R.
Answer 12.2
Outcome Solution
A-1 Combining the thermistor to input voltage equation with the input-output
voltage relationship given in Section 12.1, we obtain
30(R − 10000)
vo = + 15 (Ans.12.1)
67000 + R
The thermistor resistance with respect to the output voltage of the circuit
is therefore
1000(67vo − 705)
R=− (Ans.12.2)
vo + 15
2. A-2 Find the thermistor resistance at room temperature, R0 , and at the fingertip, R.
Answer 12.3
Outcome Solution
A-2 In Step 6 we determined that the voltages at room temperature and the
fingertip are v0 = 0 V and vf = 0.8 V. Therefore, substituting those values
into Equation Ans.12.2 yields a thermistor resistance at room tempera-
ture of 47000 Ω, and with a finger of 41223 Ω.
3. A-1, A-2 Derive the equation to find the exponential parameter, B, and compute it based on the obtained
results.
Outcome Solution
A-1 The thermister equation given in Equation 12.1 in Section 12.1 becomes
( )
R
ln T T0
R0
B= (Ans.12.3)
T0 − T
after solving for exponential parameter B.
A-2 Substituting the measured resistance and temperatures (in Kelvin) from
Table 12.2 into Ans.12.3 we get
B = 1702.7 (Ans.12.4)
2. B-5, K-2 Enter the B parameter that was found in Section 12.4.1 in the Temperature Sensor VI, as shown
in Figure 12.5. Place your fingertip on the sensor and capture the obtained response in Temperature Sensor
(deg C) scope.
Answer 12.5
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should be similar to Figure 12.6.
K-2 The measured temperature response when pressing the fingertip on the
sensor is depicted in Figure 12.6.
3. B-9 Based on the measured response in Step 2, is the temperature sensor reading correctly?
Outcome Solution
B-9 Yes. The temperature begins at room temperature, T0 = 25 ◦ C, and
increases towards the finger temperature, T = 32.0 ◦ C.
12.5 Results
13.1.1 Switches
Different applications call for different types of switches. For example, a micro switch may be used to detect mobile
robot hitting a wall whereas an optical switch could be used to detect an edge. The push button is the most common
type of switch mechanism. A switch that is active high means the output is high, e.g. 5.0 V, when the switch is
triggered (e.g. pressed down). Active low means the signal is high, e.g. 5.0 V, when the switch is not engaged (e.g.
not pressed down).
The different switches on the QNET mechatronic sensors trainer are introduced in this section followed by a discus-
sion about debouncing.
Micro Switch
The micro switch is an active low device and is shown in Figure 13.1.
Push Button
The push button on the QNET MECHKIT is pictured in Figure 13.2 and is active high.
Optical Switch
The optical switch, shown in Figure 13.3, is a photo-microsensor that includes transmissive and reflective compo-
nents. As opposed to the push button and micro switch, this is a non-contact triggering solution. It is triggered when
the reflective sensor does not detect any light, i.e. when an object is placed between the components. It goes low
when no object is detected.
A light-emitting diode, or LED, is a low-energy and robust indicator that is used in many applications. The LEDs on
the mechatronic sensors trainer, labeled LED7 and LED8, are pictured in Figure 13.4. They are connected to digital
output lines from which they can be turned on and off. As with switches, LEDs can be wired to be active high or
active low.
2. Open and configure the QNET MECHKIT Switches and LEDs VI as described in Section 15.12. Make sure
the correct Device is chosen.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Switches_and_LEDs.vi
4. Select the Opto Switch tab.
5. Take piece of paper and slide it up and down into the optical switch. Examine the raw responses in the Optical
Switch scope.
6. Adjust threshold, indicated in Figure 13.5, to obtain an on/off or 0/1 digital measurement in the Optical Switch
- Digital scope.
7. B-5, B-7 Record threshold used to get on/off measurement and paste the response of the Optical Switch and
Optical Switch - Digital scopes.
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should resemble Figure 13.9
B-7 Using a threshold of 0.15 V, the corresponding digital measurement is
shown in Figure 13.10.
2. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Switches_and_LEDs.vi
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should resemble Figure 13.11
B-7 Using a gain of -0.2, and an offset of 1, the corresponding digital mea-
surement is shown in Figure 13.12.
2. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Switches_and_LEDs.vi
3. Select the Push Button tab.
4. Press on the push button and examine its raw response in the Push Button scope.
5. Adjust the Gain and Offset, indicated in Figure 13.7, such that this signal goes from 0 to 1 in the Push Button
� Digital scope when the push button is pressed.
6. B-5, B-7 Record the Gain and Offset parameters used and capture representative Push Button and Push
Button - Digital responses.
Answer 13.3
Outcome Solution
B-5 If the experimental procedure was followed properly, the response
should resemble Figure 13.13
B-7 Using a gain of 0.2, and an offset of 0, the corresponding digital mea-
surement is shown in Figure 13.14.
7. B-7 Explain how the micro switch and push button behave differently.
Answer 13.4
Outcome Solution
B-7 Pushing down on the micro switch brings the signal down from 5 V to
0 V. When the push button is pressed, the signal goes from 0 V to 5 V.
The micro switch is active low whereas the push button is active high.
Outcome Solution
B-5 In order to properly determine the LED characteristics, the experimental
procedure must be followed properly.
K-1 The digital output switch positions are up for DO 1 LED ON, and down
for DO 1 LED OFF.
When implemented digitally, debounce is a type of signal conditioning algorithm that ensures the switch, button, or
sensor does not trigger anything due to unexpected conditions.
For example, consider a high-powered cart that is mounted on a track. Proximity sensors are installed that detect
when the cart goes beyond a safety limit, in which case the amplifier is deactivated. However due to the high-
frequency switching in the motor leads, the proximity switches are sometimes unexpectedly triggered � even when
the cart is in the safe zone. The raw signal from the proximity sensor is shown in the top plot of Figure 14.1. To
avoid this, the output signal from the sensor is passed though a debounce switch and the resulting signal is shown
in the bottom plot of Figure 14.1.
4. To read the micro switch, set the Source control in Channel 0 Settings to AI 1 (i.e. analog input channel #1).
The response obtained should be similar as shown in Figure 14.2.
5. Press on the micro switch and ensure you are getting the expected signal. Since the Acquisition Mode is set
to continuous, the instrument keeps on running and the signal can be observed in real-time.
6. To examine the behaviour of the micro switch when it is engaged, configure the Trigger section to stop. Note:
If preferred, you can change the Acquisition Mode to Run Once so the oscilloscope stops when the trigger is
engaged.
7. If the trigger has been setup correctly, then the oscilloscope screen should capture a closeup view of the micro
switch signal as it goes from 5 V to 0 V.
9. When you are done, stop and close down the Oscilloscope instrument.
Caution: Make sure any ELVISmx instrument, e.g. the oscilloscope, is closed before running any ELVIS II
based VIs. Otherwise the VI will not be able to run.
2. The QNET MECHKIT Debounce VI, which is shown in Figure 14.3, has the same functionality as the Os-
cilloscope tool used in Section 14.3. It is already setup with a trigger and does not run continuously as the
oscilloscope instrument does. The Debounce VI is described in more detail in Section 15.13.
3. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Debounce.vi
4. B-5, K-1 Setup the Trigger for the Micro Switch (Ch #0).
Answer 14.1
Outcome Solution
B-5 The experimental procedure must be followed in order to determine the
proper settings.
K-1 The settings used to trigger the micro switch are Type: Edge, Slope:
Negative, Source: Ch 0, and Level: 3 V.
5. Press the micro switch. The VI should stop and a response displayed on both graphs.
6. K-2, B-7 Capture the Micro Switch scope. What do you notice about the output signal from the micro
switch?
Answer 14.2
Outcome Solution
K-2 The response should resemble Figure 14.4
B-7 The behaviour of the micro switch when it is push down is shown in
Figure 14.4. When the switch is closed (engaged), the signal actually
flips between 0 V and 5 V many times.
2. Run QNET_MECHKIT_Debounce.vi
3. K-1 Setup the Trigger for the Push Button (CH #1) and enter the settings in Table 14.1.
Answer 14.3
Outcome Solution
K-1 The settings used to trigger the push button are Type: Edge, Slope:
Positive, Source: Ch 1, and Level: 3 V.
4. Press the push button. The VI should stop and a response displayed on both graphs.
5. K-2, B-7 Capture the Push Button scope. What do you notice about the push button signal?
Answer 14.4
Outcome Solution
K-2 The response should resemble Figure 14.5
B-7 In Figure 14.5, the behaviour of the signal when the push button is
pressed is shown. As expected, the signal initially goes up to 5.0 V
but after 100 us it goes back down to 0 V (for about 50 us) and return to
5.0 V.
6. B-7 Which control would require debounce more � micro switch or push button? Explain.
Answer 14.5
Outcome Solution
B-7 By comparing the micro switch response in Figure 14.4 with the push
button behaviour in Figure 14.5, it is clear that the micro switch has more
noise when engaged and would therefore require more debounce.
7. K-2, B-8 When triggering on one channel, notice that there is a signal on the other channel (e.g. when
pressing the micro switch observe the Ch1 scope). Capture representative plots and explain why this occurs.
Answer 14.6
Outcome Solution
K-2 The signals measured when the micro switch is pressed are shown in
Figure 14.6 and Figure 14.7.
B-8 There is some crosstalk between the channels. This is on analog input
channel #1. The high-frequency components of this signal induces a
signal on analog input channel #2, i.e. the push button channel, and
results in the signal shown in Figure 14.7.
14.6 Results
• NI ELVIS II
• Quanser QNET Mechatronic Sensors Trainer. See QNET MECHKIT User Manual ([2]).
Required Software
Caution: If these are not all installed then the VI will not be able to run! Please make sure all the software
and hardware components are installed. If an issue arises, then see the troubleshooting section in the QNET VTOL
User Manual ([2]).
Table 15.1: Instructor design files supplied with the QNET MECHKIT Laboratory.
15.4 Piezo VI
The QNET Piezo VI is used to view the piezo sensor readings as the plastic strip on the QNET MECHKIT is perturbed.
The components of the VI are listed in Table 15.4, and identified in Figure 15.6 and Figure 15.7.
15.5 Potetiometer VI
This VI can be used to view the potentiometer measurements when moving the potentiometer knob on the QNET
mechatronic sensors trainer. Table 15.5 lists and describes the main elements of the QNET Potentiometer VI and
every element is uniquely identified by an ID number in Figure 15.8 and Figure 15.9.
Figure 15.16: QNET MECHKIT Magnetic Field VI: Collect Data tab
Figure 15.20: QNET MECHKIT Switches and LEDs VI: Opto Switch tab
Figure 15.22: QNET MECHKIT Switches and LEDs VI: Push Button tab
1. Flexgage,
2. Pressure Sensor,
5. Infrared Sensor,
6. Sonar Sensor,
7. Optical Position,
8. Magnetic Field,
9. Encoder,
10. Temperature,
For each experiment, follow the outline corresponding to that experiment to build the content of your report. Also,
in Section 16.13 you can find some basic tips for the format of your report.
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experimental procedure in Step 7 in Section 3.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experimental procedure in Step 3 in Section 3.4.
3. Natural Frequency
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experimental procedure in Step 4 in Section 3.5.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 7 in Section 4.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 4.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
1. Data Analysis
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 6 in Section 5.2.
2. Natural Frequency
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 5.3.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 8 in Section 6.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 6.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 10 in Section 7.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 7.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 9 in Section 8.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 8.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 9 in Section 9.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 9.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 9 in Section 10.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 3 in Section 10.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
2. Encoder Calibration
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 7 in Section 11.4.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
1. Provide applicable data collected in this laboratory from Table 11.1 and Table 11.2.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
1. Collect Data
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 6 in Section 12.3.
2. Calibrate Sensor
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 2 in Section 12.4.2.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
IV. CONCLUSIONS
Interpret your results to arrive at logical conclusions for the following:
1. Optical Switch
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 7 in Section 13.3.
2. Micro Switch
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 6 in Section 13.4.
3. Push Button
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 6 in Section 13.5.
4. LEDs
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experiment procedure in Step 4 in Section 13.6.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
2. Micro Switch
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experimental procedure in Step 4 in Section 14.4.
3. Push Button
• Briefly describe the main goal of the experiment.
• Briefly describe the experimental setup in Step 3 in Section 14.5.
II. RESULTS
Do not interpret or analyze the data in this section. Just provide the results.
III. ANALYSIS
Provide details of your calculations (methods used) for analysis for each of the following:
• Has cover page with all necessary details (title, course, student name(s), etc.)
• Each of the required sections is completed (Procedure, Results, Analysis and Conclusions).
• Typed.
• Tables are numbered, they include labels, each table has a descriptive caption.
• Data are presented in a useful format (graphs, numerical, table, charts, diagrams).
• No hand drawn sketches/diagrams.
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
I.3. Natural Frequency
3
II. RESULTS
1
2
3
III. ANALYSIS
1
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Data Analysis
1
I.2. Natural Frequency
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-7 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Data Analysis
1
I.2. Natural Frequency
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
III. ANALYSIS
1
2
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-7 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
III. ANALYSIS
1
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
III. ANALYSIS
1
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-7 B-8 GS-1
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
III. ANALYSIS
1
2
3
Total
Student Name :
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-9 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
III. CONCLUSIONS
1
Total
1 This scoring sheet is for the Temperature Sensor Calibration Pre-Lab questions in Section 12.4.1
1 This scoring sheet corresponds to the report template in Section 16.10.
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-6 B-7 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Optical Switch
1
I.2. Micro Switch
2
I.3. Push Button
3
I.4. LEDs
4
II. RESULTS
1
III. ANALYSIS
1
2
3
4
5
Total
Student Name:
CONTENT FORMAT
Item1 K-1 K-2 K-3 B-5 B-7 B-8 GS-1 GS-2
I. PROCEDURE
I.1. Collect Data
1
I.2. Calibrate Sensor
2
II. RESULTS
1
2
3
III. ANALYSIS
1
2
3
4
5
6
Total
Background section provides all the necessary theoretical background for the experiments. Students should read
this section first to prepare for the Pre-Lab questions and for the actual lab experiments.
Virtual Instrument introduces the LabVIEWr Virtual Instrument that is to be used for the lab experiment.
Lab Experiments section provides step-by-step instructions to conduct the lab experiments and to record the col-
lected data. The lab may also include a set of pre-lab questions that need to be done prior to the lab experiments.
System Requirements section describes all the details of how to configure the hardware and software to conduct
the experiments. It is assumed that the hardware and software configuration have been completed by the instructor
or the teaching assistant prior to the lab sessions. However, if the instructor chooses to, the students can also
configure the systems by following the instructions given in this section.
Assessment of ABET outcomes is incorporated into this manual as shown by indicators such as A-1, A-2 . These
indicators correspond to specific performance criteria for an outcome.
All or some of the questions in the Pre-Lab Questions sections can be assigned to students as homework. One
possibility is to assign them as a homework one week prior to the actual lab session and ask the students to bring
their assignment to the lab session. This would help them get ready for the lab session. You should encourage
them to study the background section of the chapter prior to attempting the pre-lab questions. Note that solutions
for some of the Pre-Lab questions are parameters needed for the experiments in the lab session.
Another possibility is to go over some of these questions either in class or in the lab session together with the
students. This could generate an interactive learning opportunity for them prior to the lab.
Finally, it is possible to use some of the pre-lab questions in your mid-term or final exams. This would reinforce the
concepts covered in the labs; connections between the abstract theory and the real hardware; and would give you
an option to integrate some of the work done in the lab sessions into your exams.
This manual is organized into several laboratory sections. Each section contains several experiments which are,
for the most part, independent of each other. Therefore, one possible way to use this material is to conduct the
individual experiments in your weekly lab sessions. Another possibility is to divide the class into teams and have
each team conduct an experiment given in a section.
It is the responsibility of the program seeking accreditation to demonstrate clearly that the program meets a set of
criteria. One of these criteria is the ``Criterion 3: Program Outcomes''. Engineering programs must demonstrate
that their students attain program outcomes (a) through (k). Much more information about this can be found in the
``Criteria for Engineering Accreditation'' document ABET publishes on its website annually (http://www.abet.org).
For fulfillment of Criterion 3, a program must show that there is an assessment and evaluation process in place that
periodically documents and demonstrates the degree to which the program outcomes are attained by their students.
Most programs do this by mapping the outcomes (a) through (k) to the courses in the curriculum1 . Then, these
outcomes are assessed in the courses. Finally, the assessment results are collected from the courses and compiled
into program-level data to demonstrate the ``degree to which the program outcomes are attained by their students''.
If your course is part of a similar assessment effort in your program, you probably need to assess the following
outcomes in your course:
These outcomes can be assessed in your course using various assessment tools, such as student surveys and
assignments or questions targeting specific outcomes. To measure achievement of an outcome (such as outcome
``A'' in the list above), typically some performance criteria are defined for the outcome. The performance criteria
are a set of measurable statements to define each learning outcome. They identify the specific knowledge, skills,
attitudes, and/or behavior students must demonstrate as indicators of achieving the outcome.
For the purpose of this laboratory curriculum, we defined a set of performance criteria for each outcome. These
criteria are labeled as ``A-1, A-2, B-3, ..., K-3'' as indicated in the rubrics in Section A.3 below. We also embedded
these performance criteria in the curriculum shown by indicators such as A-1, A-2 .
Assessment of outcomes is different than grading. A course grade (or a grade on an assignment or exam), is a
composite indicator. For example, if a student receives "B" as a grade in your course, it is probably difficult to tell
his/her level of achievement in outcome "A" versus "G". One of the purposes of assessment is to "measure" the level
of achievement of these specific skills and knowledge so that improvements can be made in the future offerings of
the course.
So, how should you introduce outcomes assessment into your course? The outcomes assessment approach
described here can be applied to each pre-lab homework assignment and lab report of each student throughout the
semester. This may or may not be feasible depending on your class size. In general, a representative sample of
student work is assessed.
You can continue to give assignments/exams and grade them in the traditional way. To introduce assessment into
your course, you can pick a representative sample of student work and "score" their work using the scoring sheets
and rubrics given in this manual. This is a good way to start introducing assessment into your course.
1 Disclaimer: The opionions expressed or the assessment techniques described here have not been endorsed by ABET in any way.
If you choose to assign the pre-lab questions as homework, then the outcome targetted by these questions can be
assessed using the student work. The pre-lab questions require students to ``apply'' their math and engineering
science knowledge through calculations and problem solving strategies. Therefore, outcome ``A'' was mapped to
the pre-lab questions through its performance criteria.
If you assign the pre-lab questions as homework, you can ``score'' the returned homeworks using the rubric for
outcome ``A'' given in Section A.3 and the scoring sheet provided for that pre-lab in that chapter.
1. Print the scoring sheet for the Pre-Lab Questions section you assigned as homework. One sheet is used per
student.
2. Use the rubric for ``Outcome A'' (Section A.3) to assign a score for each question. The rubric gives the descrip-
tion of ``levels of achievement'' (4 = exemplary, 3 = proficient, 2 = developing and 1 = beginning/incomplete)
for each criterion. As an example, below is a completed sample scoring sheet after evaluating the homework
of one student.
3. You can then enter the ``Total'' for each performance criterion into the assessment workbook [1] as shown in
Figure A.1.
As mentioned earlier in Section A.1.2, there are various ways in which you can use the material provided in this
manual. In any case, the outcomes targetted by the lab experiments can be assessed from the lab reports submitted
by the students. These reports should follow the specific template for content given at the end of each laboratory
chapter. This will provide a basis to assess the outcomes easily.
The lab activities correspond to the ``applied'' part of engineering. Therefore, outcomes ``B'' and ``K'' were mapped
to the lab activities through their performance criteria. The lab reports themselves match outcome ``G'' on effective
communication skills.
If you choose to do an individual experiment in your weekly lab sessio then you can ask the students to submit a lab
report using the report template provided for this experiment. The template contains the main ``content'' sections you
would expect in a typical lab report (procedure, results, analysis, conclusions). Each section of the report template
ties back to the activities in the lab and the corresponding assessment indicators. It also contains performance
criteria related to the ``format'' of the report.
You can score the lab reports using the rubric for outcome ``G'' given in Section A.3 and the scoring sheet provided for
the experiment in that section. Note that each lab report scoring sheet directly corresponds to the lab report content
template for that experiment. Also, note that the rubric for outcome ``G'' already contains rubrics for outcomes ``B''
and ``K'' since these outcomes appear as an integral part of the report.
1. Print the scoring sheet for the Lab Report for the experiment they conducted in the lab. One sheet is used per
student.
2. Use the ``Content'' rubric (Section A.3) to assign a score for each entry in the scoring sheet. The rubric
gives the description of ``levels of achievement'' (4 = exemplary, 3 = proficient, 2 = developing and 1 = begin-
ning/incomplete) for each criterion. As an example, below is a completed scoring sheet after evaluating the
lab report of one student.
3. Use the ``Format'' rubric (Section A.3) for the ``GS-1 and GS-2'' criteria to score the formatting of the report
on the same scoring sheet.
4. You can then enter the ``Total'' for each performance criterion into the assessment workbook [1] as show in
Figure A.2.
Figure A.2: Lab report score entries in the workbook for one student.
As explained earlier, the performance criteria, such as A-1, A-2, A-3, are used to describe a set of measurable
statements to define each learning outcome. Up to this point, we explained how to assess each performance
criterion using the pre-labs, the lab reports and the scoring sheets.
A single score for each outcome can be computed to indicate the level of attainment of that outcome by the entire
class. One approach is to simply average the scores for the performance criteria for that outcome. For example, in
case of outcome ``A'', you can use:
SCOREA−1 + SCOREA−2 + SCOREA−3
SCOREA = (A.1)
3
Another possibility is to use a weighted-average where some of the performance criteria are considered to be more
important than the others. In case of outcome ``A'', you can use:
The assessment workbook [1] incorporates the simple average approach as shown in Figure A.3.
Figure A.3: Computation of single score for outcome ``A'' in the assessment workbook.
Similarly, the simple average approach is also used for outcomes B, K and G. Referring to the rubrics in Section A.3,
it should be noted that outcome ``G'' contains performance criteria for both ``B'' and ``K'' to assess the content of
the report. In addition, there are two performance criteria, GS-1 and GS-2, to assess the format of the report. The
scores for all of these performance criteria are averaged to arrive at the single score for outcome G. For example,
the single score for outcome G in Figure A.4 for the Modelling experiment was calculated using:
SCOREG = AV ERAGE(SK−1 + SK−2 + SB−5 + SB−6 + SB−7 + SB−9 + SGS−1 + SGS−2 ) (A.3)
where SK−1 · · · SGS−2 are the scaled average scores for K-1 through GS-2 in the workbook.
Figure A.4: Computation of single score for outcome ``G'' in the assessment workbook.
The assessment workbook [1] was developed using Microsoft Excelr . It is intented to give a general idea for how
the assessment scores can be tracked and brought together. On purpose we designed the workbook to have no
automatic features. You can use it as is or customize it in any way you like.
The assessment workbook has a tab for the Pre-Lab Questions and a tab for each of the laboratory chapters. Only
10 students were listed assuming you would use samples of student work and not the entire class. If you want to
add more students, you can insert rows into the spreadsheets. Note: If you insert new rows, make sure that the
formula ranges in the cells with calculations are correct.
At the bottom of each pre-lab section, there is a row entitled ``Total Possible''. To count a pre-lab assignment in
the calculation of the overall scores, you need to enter the correct totals here. For example, to count the Pre-Lab
for modeling, you need to enter 12, 44 and 8 (Figure A.1). If you want to exclude an assignment from the overall
calculation, enter ``0'' as shown in Figure A.5. Of course, if you are excluding a pre-lab, then do not enter any scores
for the students under those columns.
Figure A.5: Enter ``0'' to exclude or ``correct totals'' to include a Pre-Lab assignment in the calculation of the overall
scores.
4 3 2 1
Code Perf. Criteria Exemplary Proficient Developing Beginning or
incomplete
A-1 Has strategies Uses a Uses an Has a strategy Uses a wrong
to solve the sophisticated appropriate for solution but strategy or there
problem strategy. strategy for content is no evidence
Employs refined solution. knowledge has of a strategy.
Apply math, science and engineering
Table A.1: OUTCOME A: An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
B-2 Identifies inde- All variables All variables Most variables None or only a
pendent and are identified are identified are identified few variables
dependent correctly, expla- correctly correctly are identified
variables nations about correctly
their relations
are provided
B-3 Lists assump- All assumptions All assumptions Assumptions No assumptions
tions made and their rea- are listed are listed but listed or most of
sons are clearly some are miss- them are miss-
listed ing ing
B-4 Formulates ex- Developed a Developed cor- Attempted but Could not
perimental plan sophisticated rect experimen- could not com- develop an
to investigate a experimen- tal procedure to pletely develop accurate ex-
phenomenon tal procedure test the hypoth- an experimental perimental
complete with esis procedure to procedure
details of every test the hypoth-
step to test the esis
hypothesis
(Continued on the next page)
respect to the rate explana- tions and logical clusions but with are provided or
original hypoth- tions, including conclusions some errors they are wrong
esis trends, and based on data
arrives at logical and results
conclusions
based on data
and results
Table A.2: OUTCOME B: An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
variables provided
B-3 Lists as- All assumptions and All assumptions are Assumptions are No assumptions
sumptions their reasons are listed listed but some are listed or most of
made clearly listed missing them are missing
B-4 Formulates Developed a sophis- Developed correct Attempted but could
experimen- ticated experimental experimental pro- not completely
tal plan to procedure complete cedure to test the develop an experi-
investigate with details of every hypothesis mental procedure to
a phe- step to test the hy- test the hypothesis
nomenon pothesis Could not develop
an accurate experi-
mental procedure
B-5 Follows ex- Follows experi- Follows experimen- Follows experimen- Follows experimen-
perimental mental procedures tal procedures lead- tal procedures with tal procedures with
procedures carefully with great ing to correct mea- some mistakes lead- many mistakes lead-
attention to detail. surements ing to mostly correct ing to mostly wrong
Makes precise measurements measurements
measurements
(Continued on the next page)
ware tools software tools and tools correctly for tools for data pre- ware tools for data
to present their advanced fea- data presentation sentation with only a presentation or
data in use- tures correctly for few mistakes attempts to use
ful format data presentation them but with many
(graphs, mistakes (missing
numeri- labels, etc.)
cal, table,
charts,
diagrams)
K-3 Uses soft- Can use software Can use software Can use software Cannot use software
ware tools tools and their ad- tools correctly for tools for simulation tools for simulation
to simulate vanced features simulation with only a few or attempts to use
physical correctly for simula- mistakes them but with many
systems tion mistakes
B-7 Uses appro- Excellent, in-depth Appropriate level of Some data analysis No analysis or at-
priate meth- analysis of the data analysis of data us- but incomplete tempts to analyze
ods to ana- using appropriate ing correct methods with wrong methods
lyze data methods
B-8 Accounts Is aware of all poten- Is aware of all poten- Is aware of some of Is unaware of any
for exper- tial experimental er- tial experimental er- the potential experi- experimental errors
Analysis
respect to explanations, in- logical conclusions sions but with some vided or they are
the original cluding trends, and based on data and errors wrong
hypothesis arrives at logical results
conclusions based
on data and results
Table A.3: OUTCOME G: Ability to communicate effectively. (for Lab Report - CONTENT)
GS-2 Professional • Has cover page with all neces- Two of the Four of the Five or more
appear- sary details (title, course, student conditions conditions of the condi-
ance name(s), etc.) for the "ex- for the "ex- tions for the
• Typed emplary" emplary" "exemplary"
• Report layout is neat category category category
• Does not exceed specified maxi- were not met were not met were not met
mum page limit
• Pages are numbered
• Equations are consecutively num-
bered
• Figures are numbered, axes have
labels, each figure has a descriptive
caption
• Tables are numbered, they include
labels, each table has a descriptive
caption
• No hand drawn sketches/diagrams
• References are cited using correct
format
Table A.4: OUTCOME G: Ability to communicate effectively. (for Lab Report - FORMAT)
K-1 Uses software Can use various Can use software Can use software Cannot use
tools for analysis software tools tools correctly for tools for analysis software tools for
and their analysis with only a few analysis or
advanced mistakes attempts to use
features correctly them but with
for analysis many mistakes
K-2 Uses software Can use various Can use software Can use software Cannot use
tools to present software tools tools correctly for tools for data software tools for
data in useful and their data presentation presentation with data presentation
format (graphs, advanced only a few or attempts to
numerical, table, features correctly mistakes use them but with
charts, diagrams) for data many mistakes
presentation (missing labels,
etc.)
K-3 Uses software Can use software Can use software Can use software Cannot use
tools to simulate tools and their tools correctly for tools for software tools for
physical systems advanced simulation simulation with simulation or
features correctly only a few attempts to use
for simulation mistakes them but with
many mistakes
Table A.5: OUTCOME K: An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engi-
neering practice
[2] Quanser Inc. QNET Mechatronic Sensors Trainer User Manual, 2011.
[3] Agilent Technologies. Practical Temperature Measurements (Application Note 290), 2008.
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