Duration
20h Th, 20h Pr
Number of credits
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
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.
We discuss the main features of the LabVIEW software or the use of Python, two tools commonly employed to control experimental setups. The choice between LabVIEW and Python will be made in consultation with the students and according to potential needs related to their work (internships, practical work, Master's theses, doctoral theses, etc.).
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 or python 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
See french version
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Course materials and recommended or required readings
Exam(s) in session
Any session
- In-person
written exam AND oral exam
Work placement(s)
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
The course is held during the second semester. It is important to make every effort to complete the project during this semester and present it in June. The course schedule and organization are designed with this objective in mind. Completing the project in July or August is more difficult because access to the laboratories and PhyFab is limited during that period.
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
Association of one or more MOOCs
Items online
notes du cours
Les transparents du cours et les informations complémentaires sont sur eCampus.