EEL 220

Introduction to Robotics (3 Cr.)

Prerequisites: CS 105, GAM 150

Concurrent Course: EE 210

Description: Continuing the concepts learned in CS 105, students will build a robot that uses an embedded microprocessor system. They will document the design, production, and service of their device. Additionally, students will learn mechanical design using gears and grippers. This course introduces concepts of software engineering and process documentation and will emphasize system level design so that students can build an initial prototype and then revise key components to be cost-competitive. Students may enter their finished robot in a competition.

EEL 270

Real-Time Operating Systems (3 Cr.)

Prerequisites: GAM 150, CS 315

Description: Students will build a prototype of a consumer or industrial device or a collection of devices that use an embedded microprocessor system and a commercial real-time operating system (RTOS). After completing their prototype, students will understand what a RTOS does, decide when one is needed, and know how to use it. This class covers multitasking, interrupt handling, threads, synchronization, preemption, resources, and messaging. It will also emphasize secure communications between devices, an important function since more embedded devices contain wireless and are more vulnerable than previously. Additionally, students will examine techniques for fault tolerance, availability and reliability.

EEL 310

EEL 360

Project III Hand-Held Gaming Device (5 Cr. Each)

Prerequisites: CS 315

Concurrent Course: EE 300

Description: In this course, students will work in small teams to design, build, program, and test a device similar to the Color Game Boy studied previously. Students will assemble a microprocessor with storage, input, and display devices into a hand-held game platform. This project makes use of microprocessor and operating system concepts studied earlier. Additionally, students will program a game to run on the system. By this point students have acquired much of the knowledge needed to make a whole system. This class allows them to pull together basic principles into a sophisticated system.

EEL 410

EEL 460

Project IV Robots (5 Cr. Each)

Prerequisites: EEL 360

Concurrent Course: EE 400, ART 410

Description: In this course, students will build an electronic device of their own design. Some possibilities are mobile or entertainment robots or an advanced hand-held gaming device. The project includes specification and construction of mechanical and electrical subsystems. A CAD system will be used to design mechanical parts. The team may interact with students from RTIS or the Fine Arts Program. This is the capstone class of the Computer Engineering program. By this point, students have acquired the skills needed to design and build an embedded device. This course lets them apply their abilities on a substantial project and prepares them for industrial employment.