CQUniversity Unit Profile
ENEX12003 Essential Mathematics for Control Systems
Essential Mathematics for Control Systems
All details in this unit profile for ENEX12003 have been officially approved by CQUniversity and represent a learning partnership between the University and you (our student).
The information will not be changed unless absolutely necessary and any change will be clearly indicated by an approved correction included in the profile.
General Information

Overview

In this unit, you will learn the fundamentals of control systems and essential mathematical skills to analyse and design a standard control system. The mathematical knowledge you will gain through this unit includes differentiation, integration, Laplace and Fourier transformations needed to model a control system. You will study linear time-invariant (LTI) systems and mathematical representation of periodic signals, time and S-domain representation of control systems. You will use industry-standard simulation software to model LTI systems, simple control systems and will gain skills in simulating various control schemes using this simulating software.

Details

Career Level: Undergraduate
Unit Level: Level 2
Credit Points: 6
Student Contribution Band: 8
Fraction of Full-Time Student Load: 0.125

Pre-requisites or Co-requisites

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: MATH11218 Applied Mathematics AND Electrical Fundamentals for Aircraft Maintenance

Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).

Offerings For Term 1 - 2025

Online
Rockhampton

Attendance Requirements

All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).

Class and Assessment Overview

Recommended Student Time Commitment

Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.

Class Timetable

Bundaberg, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville
Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Assessment Overview

1. Written Assessment
Weighting: 20%
2. Written Assessment
Weighting: 20%
3. Practical and Written Assessment
Weighting: 20%
4. Take Home Exam
Weighting: 40%

Assessment Grading

This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.

Previous Student Feedback
Unit Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
  1. Interpret the derivative as a rate of change to apply the rules of differentiation in investigating rates of change of functions
  2. Apply standard rules and techniques of differentiation and integration to construct and analyse simple mathematical models involving rates of change and elementary differential equations
  3. Perform Fourier transforms to find frequency domain representations of time domain functions
  4. Explain the principles of automatic control systems and typical associated control system building blocks
  5. Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms and analyse control systems in the s-domain using simulation software
  6. Work collaboratively and autonomously and communicate professionally in presenting your solutions.

Learning Outcomes are linked to Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies and also discipline capabilities. You can find the mapping for this on the Engineering Undergraduate Course website.

Alignment of Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Graduate Attributes
N/A Level
Introductory Level
Intermediate Level
Graduate Level
Professional Level
Advanced Level

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes

Assessment Tasks Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Written Assessment - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 20%
3 - Practical and Written Assessment - 20%
4 - Take Home Exam - 40%

Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes

Graduate Attributes Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Communication
2 - Problem Solving
3 - Critical Thinking
4 - Information Literacy
5 - Team Work
6 - Information Technology Competence
7 - Cross Cultural Competence
8 - Ethical practice
9 - Social Innovation
10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes

Assessment Tasks Graduate Attributes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 - Written Assessment - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 20%
3 - Practical and Written Assessment - 20%
4 - Take Home Exam - 40%
Textbooks and Resources

Textbooks

There are no required textbooks.

IT Resources

You will need access to the following IT resources:
  • CQUniversity Student Email
  • Internet
  • Unit Website (Moodle)
Referencing Style

All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: Harvard (author-date)

For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.

Teaching Contacts
Diluka Moratuwage Unit Coordinator
d.moratuwage@cqu.edu.au
Schedule
Week 1: Introduction to Control Systems. Begin Date: 10 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Introduction to Control Systems.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 1, Control Systems Engineering, by Norman S. Nice, Seventh Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 2: Differentiation and Integration. Begin Date: 17 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Differentiation and Integration.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapters 8-10, Modern Engineering Mathematics, by Glyn James and Phil Dyke, Sixth Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 3: Linear Time Invariant (LTI) Systems. Begin Date: 24 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Linear Time Invariant (LTI) Systems.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 2, Signals and Systems, by Alan V Oppenheim, Alan S. Willsky, and S. Hamid Nawab.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 4: Laplace Transform. Begin Date: 31 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Laplace Transform.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 11, Modern Engineering Mathematics, by Glyn James and Phil Dyke, Sixth Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment on the application of differentiation and integration in practice is due.


Assessment 1 Due: Week 4 Friday (4 Apr 2025) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 5: Inverse Laplace Transform. Begin Date: 07 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Inverse Laplace Transform.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 11, Modern Engineering Mathematics, by Glyn James and Phil Dyke, Sixth Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Vacation Week Begin Date: 14 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 6: Time-Domain and S-Domain. Begin Date: 21 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Time-Domain and S-Domain.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 2-4, Control Systems Engineering, by Norman S. Nice, Seventh Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment on Fourier transform, Laplace transform, and system analysis using simulation software is due.


Assessment 2 Due: Week 6 Friday (25 Apr 2025) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 7: Periodic Signals and Fourier Series. Begin Date: 28 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Periodic Signals and Fourier Series.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 12, Modern Engineering Mathematics, by Glyn James and Phil Dyke, Sixth Edition. 

Suggested reading: Chapter 3, Signals and Systems, by Alan V Oppenheim, Alan S. Willsky, and S. Hamid Nawab.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 8: Fourier Transform. Begin Date: 05 May 2025

Module/Topic

Fourier Transform.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 4-5, Signals and Systems, by Alan V Oppenheim, Alan S. Willsky, and S. Hamid Nawab.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 9: Feedback Control Systems. Begin Date: 12 May 2025

Module/Topic

Feedback Control Systems.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 11, Signals and Systems, by Alan V Oppenheim, Alan S. Willsky, and S. Hamid Nawab.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment on the application of Fourier and Laplace transforms, and simulating control systems in simulation software is due.


Assessment 3 Due: Week 9 Friday (16 May 2025) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 10: PID Control and Controller Design. Begin Date: 19 May 2025

Module/Topic

PID Control and Controller Design.

Chapter

Suggested reading: Chapter 8-9, Control Systems Engineering, by Norman S. Nice, Seventh Edition.

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 11 Begin Date: 26 May 2025

Module/Topic

Assessment progress review.

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 12 Begin Date: 02 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Assessment help.

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Review/Exam Week Begin Date: 09 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Take home assessment designed to reinforce all topics learned during the class is due.


Assessment 4 Due: Review/Exam Week Friday (13 June 2025) 11:45 pm AEST
Exam Week Begin Date: 16 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Assessment Tasks

1 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Assessment 1

Task Description

This assessment requires students to apply differentiation and integration techniques to analyse real-world mathematical models. It involves interpreting the derivative as a rate of change of a physical phenomenon, applying differentiation rules, and solving elementary differential equations relevant to a simplified mathematical model. Additionally, students will also apply integration techniques to determine accumulated quantities, and analyse systems governed by integral equations in practical contexts.


Assessment Due Date

Week 4 Friday (4 Apr 2025) 11:45 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Week 6 Friday (25 Apr 2025)

Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students. However, no model answers wii be provided.


Weighting
20%

Minimum mark or grade
30%

Assessment Criteria

  • Interpret derivative as rate of change: Accurately applying differentiation rules to analyse and interpret derivatives in real-world contexts.
  • Develop and analyse mathematical models: Constructing well-defined mathematical models involving rates of change and elementary differential equations, demonstrating correct application of differentiation and integration techniques.
  • Achieving task objectives: Successfully solving the given problems, meeting the expected learning outcomes with precise and accurate solutions.
  • Providing well-structured and justified solutions: Presenting solutions in a clear, logical, and organised manner, supported by appropriate mathematical reasoning and step-by-step calculations.
  • Demonstrating a systematic problem-solving approach: Breaking down complex problems into manageable steps, applying suitable mathematical techniques, while clearly explaining the reasoning behind each step.
  • Explains key assumptions and interpretations: Clearly articulates assumptions made in the problem-solving process and provides insightful interpretations of the mathematical results in context.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Report as a Pdf File, need to be uploaded to Moodle.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Interpret the derivative as a rate of change to apply the rules of differentiation in investigating rates of change of functions
  • Apply standard rules and techniques of differentiation and integration to construct and analyse simple mathematical models involving rates of change and elementary differential equations


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking

2 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Assessment 2

Task Description

This assessment evaluates students’ ability to analyse signals and control systems using Fourier and Laplace transforms. It focuses on transforming time-domain functions into the frequency domain, understanding control system components, and applying Laplace transform techniques for system analysis using simulation software.


Assessment Due Date

Week 6 Friday (25 Apr 2025) 11:45 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Week 8 Friday (9 May 2025)

Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students. However, no model answers will be provided.


Weighting
20%

Minimum mark or grade
40%

Assessment Criteria

  • Correctly applying Fourier transforms to convert time-domain functions into their frequency-domain representations.
  • Accurately analysing signal characteristics, such as frequency components, bandwidth, and dominant frequencies.
  • Explaining the fundamental principles of automatic control systems, including open-loop and closed-loop configurations.
  • Identifying and describing typical control system building blocks (e.g., sensors, controllers, actuators) and their roles.
  • Correctly applying forward and inverse Laplace transforms to analyse dynamic systems.
  • Implementing and simulating a simple control system effectively using industry-standard software.
  • Using appropriate mathematical notation, diagrams, and structured explanations.
  • Presenting simulation results with clear annotations and interpretation.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Report as a Pdf File, Video demos, software codes need to be uploaded to Moodle.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Perform Fourier transforms to find frequency domain representations of time domain functions
  • Explain the principles of automatic control systems and typical associated control system building blocks
  • Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms and analyse control systems in the s-domain using simulation software


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking

3 Practical and Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Assessment 3

Task Description

In this assessment, students will apply Fourier and Laplace transforms to analyse control systems. They will:

  • Perform Fourier transforms to obtain frequency-domain representations of time-domain signals.
  • Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms to analyse control systems in the s-domain and simulate results using software.
  • Work collaboratively or independently and communicate your solutions professionally through a structured report or presentation.

Submission should include calculations, simulation results, and explanations demonstrating their understanding.


Assessment Due Date

Week 9 Friday (16 May 2025) 11:45 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Week 11 Friday (30 May 2025)

Marked assignment with feedback will be returned to students. However, no model answers will be provided.


Weighting
20%

Minimum mark or grade
50%

Assessment Criteria

  • Correct application of Fourier transforms to given time-domain signals.  
  • Accurate interpretation of frequency-domain representations.
  • Correct application of forward and inverse Laplace transforms.
  • Analysis of control system behaviour in the s-domain.
  • Use of simulation software to simulate and analyse simple control systems.
  • Clarity and professionalism in presenting solutions.
  • Proper use of figures, graphs, and simulation outputs.
  • Effective distribution of tasks and evidence of teamwork. 


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Report as a Pdf File, Video demos, software codes need to be uploaded to Moodle.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Perform Fourier transforms to find frequency domain representations of time domain functions
  • Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms and analyse control systems in the s-domain using simulation software
  • Work collaboratively and autonomously and communicate professionally in presenting your solutions.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Team Work
  • Information Technology Competence

4 Take Home Exam

Assessment Title
Assessment 4

Task Description

This is a take-home assessment designed to reinforce students' overall understanding of the unit and their ability to apply mathematical concepts in practice. It assesses students' ability to:

  • Interpret the derivative as a rate of change of a physical quantity and apply differentiation rules to investigate rates of change in real-world scenarios.
  • Use differentiation and integration techniques to construct and analyse simple mathematical models involving rates of change and elementary differential equations.
  • Explain the principles of automatic control systems and identify typical control system building blocks.
  • Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms to analyse control systems in the s-domain, using simulation software to validate results.

Students are required to provide detailed calculations, justifications, and interpretations of their results. The submission should be structured professionally, incorporating mathematical reasoning, graphical representations, and simulation outputs where applicable.


Assessment Due Date

Review/Exam Week Friday (13 June 2025) 11:45 pm AEST


Return Date to Students

Marked assignment with feedback will be returned with feedback after the release of grades.


Weighting
40%

Minimum mark or grade
50%

Assessment Criteria

  • Correct interpretation of derivatives as rates of change in real-world scenarios.
  • Correct application of differentiation and integration techniques in constructing mathematical models.
  • Clear explanation of control system principles.
  • Correct application of forward and inverse Laplace transforms.
  • Analysis of control systems in the s-domain with appropriate justifications.
  • Use of simulation software to implement a simpler control system and interpretation of results.
  • Effective use of equations, graphs, and simulation outputs.  
  • Justified assumptions and interpretations of results.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Interpret the derivative as a rate of change to apply the rules of differentiation in investigating rates of change of functions
  • Apply standard rules and techniques of differentiation and integration to construct and analyse simple mathematical models involving rates of change and elementary differential equations
  • Explain the principles of automatic control systems and typical associated control system building blocks
  • Apply forward and inverse Laplace transforms and analyse control systems in the s-domain using simulation software


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking

Academic Integrity Statement

As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.

Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.

When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.

Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.

As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.

What is a breach of academic integrity?

A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.

Why is academic integrity important?

A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.

Where can I get assistance?

For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.

What can you do to act with integrity?