An industrial machine’s behavior is based on a set of output commands initiated by a microcontroller or microprocessor unit. To direct these microcontroller or microprocessor driven outputs an input control device is needed. The input control device is manipulated by an operator known as a human. A Human Input Device is a controlling unit which primarily takes operator inputs and sends them to a machine. Physical parameters such as motion, light, temperature, color, and pressure can be detected by a wide variety of sensors, switches, and other semiconductor input sensing devices. These sensed physical parameters enable industrial machines to drive the attached output electromechanical loads using solid state drivers.

This course will explore concepts in Physical Computing using mechanical, semiconductor, and optical devices for Human Input Devices. In addition, hands-on labs will focus on the development of Physical Computing concepts with applications to dc motor controls.