Introduction to Mechatronics (SE 423) – Teaching Assistant

Role

Served as the teaching assistant for SE 423 – Introduction to Mechatronics, an undergraduate course integrating embedded programming, sensing, actuation, and closed-loop control. The course centers on hands-on learning using the TI LaunchXL-F28379D microcontroller platform, real-time C programming, and system-level mechatronic design through structured labs and a semester-long robotics project.

Responsibilities

• Supported weekly lab sessions by helping students with hardware–software integration, including sensor interfacing, PWM motor control, ADC/DAC usage, and interrupt-based embedded programming.
• Assisted students with debugging issues in Code Composer Studio, troubleshooting wiring and circuit problems, validating signal acquisition, and interpreting real-time system behavior.
• Guided student teams through incremental project milestones, helping them implement locomotion control, sensor fusion, and navigation logic for autonomous mobile robot projects.
• Held office hours to provide individualized support in embedded C programming, microcontroller configuration, and control design for electromechanical systems.
• Evaluated lab check-offs, homework, and project deliverables, ensuring technical correctness and clear documentation.
• Helped coordinate lab logistics, maintain equipment, and prepare demonstration setups.

Topics and Skills Supported

• Digital I/O, timers, interrupts, ADC/DAC, PWM generation, and serial communication (UART, SPI, I²C).
• Integration of sensors such as encoders, IMUs, IR distance sensors, ultrasonic devices, and gyroscopes.
• Motor control using H-bridge drivers, closed-loop speed and position control, and real-time feedback.
• Embedded C programming on TI microcontrollers with an emphasis on deterministic timing.
• Signal processing for mechatronics applications, including filtering and noise mitigation.
• Robot navigation fundamentals and implementation of control algorithms for mobile platforms.