KL6069 - Smart Energy System

What will I learn on this module?

This module provides a lab-based group project to develop more design and practical skills for a final year of an undergraduate degree programme in electrical and electronic discipline. You will learn a wide range of extensive knowledge of electronic engineering subjects through undertaking the project, including on the microprocessor-based control system, internet of things (IoT), power conversion, and battery energy storage. You will be motivated to explore problems in real-world applications of electronics and address challenges using the developed skills.

This module will build on the skills acquired through previous study and gain some new knowledge to extend the practical experience of the students into the following areas:

• IoT cloud - based structure using microprocessors
• Modelling, Design and control of simple power DC-DC converter
• Battery charging/discharging and management techniques (e.g. state-of-charge and state-of-health estimation)
• Solar electric power generation
• Maximum power point tracking techniques
• DC motor drive and control
• Advanced programming

How will I learn on this module?

This is a lab-based research project with a significant proportion of self-directed independent learning and group collaboration within the framework of the project. The module will be delivered via a combination of introductory lectures, tutorials, progress review meetings, group discussion, experiments and tests, as well as independent research activities.

You will assign an energy system related project of using microcontroller and developing control and optimization algorithms to management single or multiple power devices such as PV solar panel, DC motors, LCD touchable screen and battery. You will receive advice and guidance on broad aspects of project management and report writing abilities throughout the introductory sessions. The basis simulation and analysis will be carried out to understand the operation principle of power conversion and control system. Also, the fundamental knowledge on the hardware and practical skills will be obtained through circuit design, test and validation. In addition, the knowledge on the programming will be developed through using the microprocessor’s Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and controller employing the microprocessor.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Lectures and tutorials are provided to the students with the basis of project and key knowledges on both hardware and software. To steer the right direction and complete the project successfully, regular meetings are scheduled that the students can communicate with the module tutor to report the progress. Also, students can receive the formative feedback and guidance from the module tutor. In addition, technicians and lab demonstrators will also assist the students to solve the practical problems during their lab time.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
• Demonstrate the application of knowledge and develop practical skills in energy electronic systems.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Apply existing and newly acquired knowledge of mathematics and engineering principles to a real-world smart energy systems (C1)
• Analyse and simulate a power conversion system to meet a given specification using analytical techniques and appropriate simulation tools (C3)
• Design, build and test a microprocessor-based energy system using IDE software (C6, M6)
• Evaluate the performances of energy systems through data measurement, collection and analysis using mathematical and engineering principles (C2)

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
Maintain and develop a professional engineering attitude. Develop an awareness of safety in the experimental environment; Show respect and tolerance for others in the group (AHEP4: C17)

How will I be assessed?

The assessment consists of three sections:

1. coursework (CW): Individual reflective report (weighting 60%) (4000 Words limits)

This report must include the basis of the developed electronic system, project planning, key progress on the practical work, simulation analysis, results and discussion, as well as conclusion. It also should highlight the key knowledge and skills learnt and specify the conducted work in the project.

2. Presentation (PRE): Group Oral Presentation and demonstration (weighting 40%)

This 20-min presentation should include, circuit design. simulation analysis, challenges identified, key results and discussion. Also, the presentation is expected to show how to solve the problems and demonstrate the functional circuit as required.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module aims to provide a lab-based group project for a final year of an undergraduate degree program in electrical and electronic discipline to gain greater design and practical abilities. Students are motivated to gain practical skills in electronic circuit design as well as a deeper understanding of embedded electronic systems, internet of things (IoT), power conversion, and battery systems after completing the project. Also, students will investigate problems in real-world applications of electronics and use their newly-acquired abilities to solve problems. The module is designed to

• Offer you a wider understanding and extensive knowledge of electronic engineering subjects
• Enable you to conduct and complete a major piece of independent and collaborative research work on a practical project at a level appropriate to a bachelor’s degree;
• Develop you to tackle complicated engineering issues in electronic and energy systems by applying knowledge and understanding with more confidence.
• Provide a collaborative learning environment to build up teamwork spirit
• Establish effective communication and interpersonal skills required for engineers at the undergraduate level;

Course info

UCAS Code H605

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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