Course content

The course gives an introduction to autonomous systems from an automation and cybernetics perspective. A selection of the following topics will be included:

• Introduction to autonomous systems
• Applications, including autonomous ships and unmanned robotics platforms (UXVs)
• State estimation for autonomous vehicles, including GNSS-aided inertial navigation
• Situational awareness in unstructured environments
• Path planning and collision avoidance algorithms
• Control systems for autonomous vehicles, including cascaded PID and model predictive control (MPC)
• Software frameworks for autonomous systems, including ArduPilot, PX4, ROS2
• Modeling and simulation of autonomous systems, system identification and digital twins
• Artificial intelligence (AI) for autonomy
• Operations, regulations and assurance of autonomous systems
• Possibly other relevant topics

More details on the curriculum will be provided at the start of the semester.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

• The candidate can explain and compare theory, principles, applications, strengths and weaknesses of methods presented in the course

Skills

• The candidate can demonstrate the use of methods presented in the course, both through digital tools and simulation

General competence

• The candidate can use digital tools for implementation of autonomous systems
• The candidate can explain the value of autonomous systems for sustainable processes, services, or systems
• The candidate can present problems and relevant solution methods in a professional and scientific manner
• The candidate can discuss ethical challenges of autonomy

Learning methods and activities

Learning activities generally include a mix of lectures, tutorials and practical lab/project work. A constructivist approach for learning is endorsed, with focus on problem solving and practical application of theory.

Compulsory assignments

• Approval of selected exercises

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

• AIS2002 Reguleringsteknikk
• AIS2102 Dynamiske systemer
• AIS2105 Mekatronikk og robotikk

Required previous knowledge

The course has no prerequisites. It is a requirement that students are enrolled in the study programme to which the course belongs. Permission to take the course can be allowed for engineering students at NTNU or from abroad (exchange students) at the discretion of the academic director of the study programme.

Course materials

An updated course overview, including curriculum, is presented at the start of the semester and will typically also include English material.