Control Systems unit (ENG331)

Hobart

Introduction

This unit introduces the fundamental principles in the modelling and control of linear time-invariant systems. On completion of this unit you will be able to design a feedback controller. The unit begins with an introduction to feedback control systems with analogy to mechanical and electronic systems. These dynamic systems are described by deriving mathematical models in both the frequency domain and time domain. This leads to deriving characteristic equations for high-order systems which are illustrated using both system diagrams and signal flow graphs. Transformation techniques will be explored to convert system representations to controller design domains. System stability and steady state errors will be derived for various order inputs, while considering the effects of disturbances. This is followed by exploring parameter sensitivity to identify critical parts in the system. Once completed, the effects of adding feedback will be investigated using a root locus. The unit concludes with designing an active and passive PID controller using a root locus to meet specified output responses. These are fundamental control theory topics required for advanced automation and control systems, and embedded systems, which are studied later in the degree.

Summary

Unit name	Control Systems
Unit code	ENG331
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Engineering
Discipline	Engineering
Coordinator	Doctor Andrew Marshall
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Model electrical and mechanical systems using differential equations and state-space representations.
• Predict characteristics of uncompensated third order and higher linear time-invariant systems.
• Design a feedback controller using a root locus to correct the transient and steady-state performance of a system to given specifications.
• Communicate the design process of a control system using system block diagrams and signal flow graphs.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
039999	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$3,401.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

ENG234 Analog Electronics (2023 and 2024 only) or ENG204 Signals and Linear s=Systems (from 2025) or ENG211 Dynamics and Vibrations|KMA252 and KAA111

Teaching

Assessment	Assignments (20%)|Design report (20%)|Practical laboratory (20%)|Final exam (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.
Recommended	Nise N (2019) Control Systems Engineering, 8th edn, Wiley

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.