course-details-portlet

AIS4001

Cybernetics and Robotics

Credits 7.5
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2025
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English and norwegian
Location Ålesund
Examination arrangement Oral exam

About

About the course

Course content

The course contains a selection of the following topics, in the context of cybernetics and robotics:

  • Fundamentals of robotics engineering
  • Closed-loop control systems
  • Optimal control methods, e.g., linear quadratic regulators and estimators, MPC
  • Discrete Kalman filter
  • Analysis and control of digital dynamical systems
  • Parameter estimation and system identification
  • Nonlinearity and linearization
  • Possibly other relevant topics

More details about the curriculum will provided during the start of semester.

Learning outcome

Knowledge and skills

The candidate can

  • Explain and apply fundamental theory and methods within robotics.
  • Explain and apply closed loop control methods.
  • Explain and apply methods for state- and parameter estimation.
  • Assess and compare the theoretical background, principles, strengths and weaknesses of the introduced methods.
  • Identify problems, challenges, and systems which can be solved, estimated, or controlled using cybernetics and the introduced theory.

Competence

The candidate can

  • Use digital tools for modelling, analysis, control, simulation, and visualization of dynamical systems.
  • Use digital tools, simulations and physical lab equipment to demonstrate the introduced theory.
  • Present problems, solutions and results both orally and written in a professional and scientific manner.

Learning methods and activities

Learning activities generally include a mix of lectures, tutorials and practical lab/project work. There will be mandatory works, e.g. assignments and quizzes. A constructivist approach for learning is endorsed, with focus on problem solving and practical application of theory.

Compulsory assignments

  • Compulsory learning activities

Further on evaluation

Oral exam. The re-sit exam is an oral exam the following semester.

This course also contains compulsory assignments. The assignments may consist of the following:

  • simulations or software implementation of the theory
  • written reports, reflections or analyses
  • possibly other kinds of assignments
  • other work

Both individual and team assignments may be given. Assignments are designed to help students achieve specific course learning outcomes, and formative feedback is given during the semester.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Mechatronics and Automation (MSMECAUT)

Required previous knowledge

The course has no prerequisites. It is a requirement that students are either (a) enrolled in the study programme to which the course belongs, or (b) taking the course as an exchange student. Other exceptions may be made upon approval from the academic director of the study programme.

Course materials

An updated course overview, including curriculum is presented at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
IP501508 3.7 sp Autumn 2024
This course has academic overlap with the course in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

Contact information

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Oral exam
Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025

Oral exam (1)
Weighting 100/100 Examination aids Code C Date 2025-12-03 Time 08:00 Duration 20 minutes
  • Other comments
  • 1) The course coordinator will inform about time and place for the oral exam

Re-sit examination - Spring 2026

Oral exam
Weighting 100/100 Examination aids Code C Duration 20 minutes