Undergraduate Teaching 2025-26

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Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B21: Analogue Integrated Circuits, 2017-18

Module Leader

Dr S Sambandan

Lab Leader

Dr S Sambandan

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including examples classes and case studies). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B1, 3B2, 3B5 assumed; 3B3, 3B6 useful

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • provide a firm foundation and problem-solving skills for students to design and analyze complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) analog circuits.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • understand the design process for bipolar and MOS, including CMOS, integrated circuits.
  • have developed an awareness of the requirements in designing circuits in IC technology.
  • understand how CMOS scaling affects analogue circuit design.
  • design current sources and biasing stages of multi-stage amplifier circuits.
  • demonstrate a knowledge of the factors limiting high frequency behaviour of circuits.
  • design and analyse integrated operational amplifier circuits.
  • understand noise sources in circuits and compute signal to noise ratio and equivalent input noise.
  • demonstrate knowledge of the effect of feedback on circuit operation and stability.

Content

The purpose of this module is to provide firm foundation and problem-solving skills for students to design and analyze complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) analog circuits. It will cover the major aspects of the design and fabrication of analogue integrated circuits and is intended to make graduates become more competitive to a large industrial segment looking for circuit designers, especially those skilled in analog and mixed signal circuit design.

This course will cover the major aspects of the design and fabrication of analogue integrated circuits. Topics addressed will include:

  • Integrated Circuit BJT and MOSFET Modeling (1L)
  • biasing and operating regimes, small signal models of BJTs and MOSFETs, short channel effects and scaling, and its impact on small signal parameters
  • Single and Multistage Amplifiers (2 L)
  • small signal single stage amplifier configurations and properties, multistage amplifier stages such as Darlington and cascade configurations, differential amplifiers
  • Current Sources, Loads, and Output Stages (2 L)
  • current mirror configurations, low current biasing sources, current matching considerations, temperature compensation, active load configurations, CMOS integrated amplifiers, emitter and source followers, push-pull stages, CMOS class AB output stages
  • Operational Amplifiers (2 L)
  • input bias current, offset voltage, common-mode rejection ratio, power supply rejection ratio, analysis of the simple op amp, design considerations of integrated op-amps
  • Frequency Response of Analogue Integrated Circuits (2 L)
  • single stage amplifiers, Miller effect, voltage buffers, current buffers, multistage amplifiers, operational amplifiers
  • Feedback and Stability (2 L)
  • feedback configurations, properties, gain-bandwidth product, instability Nyquist criteria, compensation, root locus, slew rate
  • Noise in Integrated Circuits (2 L)
  • noise sources, models, circuit noise, effect of feedback, noise in op-amps, noise figure and noise temperature
  • Nonlinear Analogue Circuits (2 L)
  • oscillators, multipliers and phase-locked loops
  • Application Examples (1 L)

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group B Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 12/02/2018 08:19

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2025-26

Module Leader

Prof H Joyce

Lecturers

Prof. H J Joyce; Dr S Goetz

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures. Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B5 (desirable), 3B6 (desirable)

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr S. Goetz)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr S. Goetz)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr S. Goetz)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (8L, Prof. H. J. Joyce)

  • The sun as a source of energy
  • Semiconductor fundamentals and the p-n junction (3B5 revision)
  • Photocurrent generation and charge carrier collection in solar cells
  • Optimising solar cell efficiency
  • Solar cell fabrication
  • Grid integration

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr S. Goetz)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr S. Goetz)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 01/10/2025 22:22

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2024-25

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Dr T J Flack, Prof. H J Joyce

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof. T A Coombs

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof. T A Coombs

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 12/11/2024 13:55

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2023-24

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Dr T J Flack and Prof. T A Coombs

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof. T A Coombs

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof. T A Coombs

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 13/07/2023 14:38

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2021-22

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Dr T J Flack, Prof G A J Amaratunga

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the entroduce the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 20/05/2021 07:42

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2020-21

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Prof G A J Amaratunga

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the entroduce the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 01/09/2020 10:27

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2019-20

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Prof G A J Amaratunga and Mr S Ghosh

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the entroduce the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group B Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 23/05/2019 16:03

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2018-19

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Dr T Flack and Prof G A J Amaratunga

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the entroduce the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group B Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 17/05/2018 13:49

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B19: Renewable Electrical Power, 2017-18

Module Leader

Dr T J Flack

Lecturers

Dr T Flack and Prof G A J Amaratunga

Timing and Structure

Michaelmas term. 16 lectures (including one examples class and one guest lecture). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B3, 3B4, 3B6

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce the main types of renewable electrical power and the entroduce the main electrical technologies that underpin the generation of renewable electrical power and its integration into the existing electrical transmission and distribution network.
  • explain the technologies that enable renewable electricity sources to be integrated into the existing grid at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • explain the implications for electrical power systems of the increasing integration of renewable electrical power sources.
  • outline the means of quantifying the economic viability of renewable electrical power generation, and show how Government policy can have a significant influence on this.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • know the various sources of renewable electrical energy and be able to quantify the theoretical energy available from these.
  • understand the characteristics of wind turbines and the electromechanical technologies required to match these to generate power to the existing electrical grid.
  • understand the theory of asynchronous machines used for large-scale wind generation and why they find widespread use in this application.
  • know the theory of permanent magnet and salient pole synchronous machines, and their roles in offshore wind generation and hydroelectric/tidal barrage schemes, respectively.
  • understand the operation of a p-n junction diode as PV solar cell, and the means of fabrication of Si solar cells and solar modules.
  • know the equivalent circuit for a solar cell.
  • understand how the electronic and optical/photonic performance of a solar cell is optimised.
  • appreciate the vital role that power electronics plays in renewable electrical power systems with reference to DC links for offshore wind power and solar PV.
  • know how electrical power systems are controlled, and appreciate the impact of connecting renewable energy sources at both the transmission and distribution level.
  • understand how economics and Government policy affects renewable electricity decision making.

Content

This course is concerned with the electrical technologies that underpin the sources of renewable electricity that make a significant contribution to overall electrical power generation: large-scale wind power; solar PV; hydroelectricity. The theory and operation of these technologies will be explained, with a focus on the electrical aspects. The course will also provide an introduction to some of the enabling technologies that facilitate the connection of renewable electricity sources into the existing 3 phase grid, such as power electronic converters and energy storage equipment. The implications of increasing the proportion of renewable electricity on the operation of the grid will be outlined, as will the economics of renewable energy systems. The effect of Government policy on the uptake of renewable electricity projects will also be briefly considered.

Background to renewable energy (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Definition, context and arguments for renewable electrical energy. 
  • Sources of renewable electrical power: hydroelectricity; tidal barrages; wave power; tidal motion; large and small-scale wind power; biomass; solar PV.
  • Planning and regulatory issues.

 

Large-scale wind power (4L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Characteristics of wind energy; theoretical power available from the wind (Betz limit and tip-speed ratio); types of wind turbine; control of wind turbines; use of gearboxes; the arguments for fixed and variable speed wind power; options for generator technology.
  • Induction generators for large-scale wind power: extension of induction motor theory to generators; generator torque-slip characteristic; speed control by rotor resistance; speed control by slip energy recovery; theory of doubly-fed induction generators; control of reactive power.
  • Arguments for offshore wind power, advantages and disadvantages; permanent magnet generators for offshore wind power, theory of permanent magnet generators; connection of offshore wind power into the grid; need for DC links for far-offshore generation.

Introduction to hydroelectric and tidal barrage schemes (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Quantifying the energy available from hydro and tidal barrage schemes.
  • Role within electrical supply system – constant power vs pumped storage operation.
  • Turbine design – influence of head of water.
  • Salient pole synchronous generators – theory and calculations.

Solar photovoltaics and power electronics for renewables (6L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

Integration of renewable sources into the grid (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Overview of UK grid.
  • Control of real and reactive power flows.
  • Integration of renewable power into existing grid: issues of 'where' and 'when' renewable sources are available.
  • Use of energy storage technologies.
  • Embedded generation.

Introduction to economics of renewable electricity (1L, Dr T J Flack)

  • Introduction to basic economic concepts.
  • Simple cost model.
  • Inclusion of interest rate/inflation – discounted cash flow analysis.
  • Case studies: large hydroelectric plant; small domestic wind turbine vs solar photovoltaics.
  • Government incentives and their effects.

Examples Class and Guest lecture (2L, Prof G A J Amaratunga)

There will be one examples class to cover the two examples papers associated with this module.

There will be one guest lecture on an area of topical interest.

Further notes

None.

Examples papers

Two examples papers will be issued.

Coursework

None.

Booklists

Please see the Booklist for Group B Courses for references for this module.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

 
Last modified: 28/07/2017 16:00

Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4B13: Electronic Sensors & Instrumentation, 2023-24

Leader

Dr P A Robertson

Lecturer

Timing and Structure

Lent term. 16 lectures (including examples classes). Assessment: 100% exam

Prerequisites

3B1 assumed.

Aims

The aims of the course are to:

  • introduce students to state-of-the-art practice in electronic instrumentation systems, including the design of sensor/transducer elements for physical measureands, their respective interface electronics and precision measurement techniques.

Objectives

As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:

  • design circuits to interface to simple temperature and strain measurement devices.
  • demonstrate a knowledge of frequency sources and measurement circuits.
  • measure high currents using 4 terminal devices and transformers.
  • describe how micromachined silicon sensors are made, their operation and merits.
  • describe a range of ultrasonic transducers, their applications and associated electronics.
  • understand the operation of electromagnetic sensors for flux, current and position sensing.
  • design and analyse sensor circuits and estimate signal to noise ratios.
  • design an appropriate interface circuit for a sensor with given characteristics.
  • produce an outline design of an instrumentation system to monitor a range of physical parameters including pressure, temperature, flow, position and velocity.

Content

Temperature & Strain Sensors and Interface Electronics (3L, Dr P A Robertson)

  • Description of thermocouples, thermistors and strain gauges and associated electronics.
  • Drift, noise and bandwidth considerations, signal to noise ratio improvement.

Electromagnetic devices (4L, Dr J Alexander-Webber)

  • Selected revision of electromagnetic theory and its application to electronic sensors.
  • Flux gate, inductive and Hall effect magnetic devices and interface electronics.
  • Synchronous detection method applied to fluxgate sensor.
  • Laser range finder and velocity sensing

Precision Measurements (2L, Dr P A Robertson)

  • Voltage measurements: thermal emfs, guarding, shielding. Precision ADC methods
  • Time and frequency measurements: stable frequency sources, timer-counter techniques
  • Current measurements: current transformers, 4-terminal measurements of high current

Ultrasonic transducers (3L, Dr P A Robertson)

  • Description of piezo-electric devices, theory and application in practical sensor designs.
  • Case studies of the Polaroid range finder, Doppler motion detector and an electronic gas meter.
  • Electronic circuits for driving transducers and signal detection methods.

Microfabricated sensors (3L, Dr P A Robertson)

  • Overview of silicon micromachining techniques and their application in accelerometers, gyroscopes, automotive air-bag sensors and pressure transducers. Physical priciples of operation and related signal processing electronics.

Practical Demonstration Lecture (1L, Dr P A Robertson)

  • Evaluation of micromachined accelerometers and gyroscopes.
  • Flux-gate magnetometer using synchronous detection
  • Ultrasonic motion and distance sensing.

Booklists

Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.

Examination Guidelines

Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.

UK-SPEC

This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:

Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.

GT1

Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.

IA1

Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.

IA2

Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.

KU1

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.

KU2

Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.

E1

Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.

E2

Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.

E3

Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.

P1

A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.

P3

Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).

US1

A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.

US3

An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.

US4

An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.

 
Last modified: 12/12/2023 10:49

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