Summer 2026 - MSE 381 D100
Feedback Control Systems (4)
Class Number: 3841
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
SurreyMay 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Fri, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Surrey -
Exam Times + Location:
Aug 13, 2026
Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
Surrey
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Instructor:
Siamak Arzanpour
saa56@sfu.ca
1 778 782-8535
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Prerequisites:
MSE 280 (or ENSC 380).
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
This course is an introduction to the analysis, design, and applications of continuous time linear control systems. Topics include transfer function representation of open and closed loop systems, time domain specifications and steady state error, sensitivity analysis, time and frequency response, and stability criteria. It includes a treatment of methods for the analysis of control systems based on the root locus, Bode plots and Nyquist criterion, and their use in the design of PID, and lead-lag compensation. Lab work is included in this course. Students with credit for ENSC 383 or SEE 342 may not take MSE 381 for further credit.
COURSE DETAILS:
As above.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
The main goal of the course is to provide the students with basic tools in modeling, analysis, and design for linear feedback control systems. Students will learn how to model mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems as differential equations and transfer functions. The analysis in this course includes the stability of open-loop and closed-loop systems, time responses, and frequency responses of low order systems. The design methods are divided into root-locus techniques and frequency response techniques using Bode plots for designing PID and lead/lag controllers. Students will also learn how to apply control theory to real engineering problems with Matlab/Simulink and through laboratory exercises.
Grading
- Labs 15%
- Quiz 15%
- Midterm 30%
- Final 40%
NOTES:
This grading scheme is tentative. The instructor reserves the right to change the scheme.
REQUIREMENTS:
Students need to know MATLAB programming well. Familiarity with MATLAB Control Toolbox is an asset.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.