Techniques of experimental physics

Duration

20h Th, 20h Pr

Number of credits

Lecturer

Geoffroy Lumay

Language(s) of instruction

French language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the first semester, examination in June

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

The experimental research works in physics are performed with electronics, mechanics et informatics tools. Therefore, a good technical knowledge is required to avoid artifacts and measurement errors. The aim of this course is to familiarize the students with the usual techniques used in physics laboratories.
 
In particular, we analyze the three elements forming a measurement chain:
 
1. the sensors (thermocouples, position sensors, accelerometers, stain gauge, cameras, ...) and the actuators (Peltier cells, motors, piezo-electric actuators, vibrators, pumps, ...),
2. the acquisition devices making the interface between the sensors, the actuators and a computer,
3. the software controlling all the experimental device.
 
The main functionalities of the software LabView, which is commonly used in physics labs, are discussed and illustrated with examples.
 
Finally, we will see how an embedded system can be used to control an experimental device. An embedded system is an electronics and informatics autonomous device that realize a particular task in real time. In particular, we will use the Arduino Open Source platform.

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

After this course, the student will be able
- to select the sensors and the actuators to build an experimental device,
- to use the usual acquisition devices (programmable oscilloscopes and multimeters, DAC/ADC, ...),
- to use the main functionalities of Labview to automatize a measurement,
- to program an embedded system based on the Arduino Open Source platform.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

The prerequisites are basic knowledge in electronics and programming.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Theoretical courses (20h), sessions of practical work and realization of a project (20h).

Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning)

Recommended or required readings

Assessment methods and criteria

The student realizes a project and will present it to the other students. The professor and possibly invited experts will ask questions in relation with the course.

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

Contacts

Professor: Geoffroy Lumay
Office 3/53, Building B5
Phone: 04/366 44 21
Email: Geoffroy.Lumay@ulg.ac.be
 
Secretary: A. Ortega Millan
Building B5
Phone: 04/366 90 74
Email: a.ortega@ulg.ac.be

Items online