Course Title: Autotronics for Mechatronics Engineering
Credit Hours: 3 (2 hours lecture + 1 hour lab per week)
Course Description: This course introduces the fundamental concepts of automotive
electronics (Autotronics), with a focus on the integration of electronic control systems
in modern vehicles. It includes the study of sensors, actuators, Engine Control Unit
(ECU), automotive communication protocols (such as CAN, LIN), diagnostics using
OBD-II, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The course blends
theoretical knowledge with hands-on laboratory experiments.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs): By the end of this course, students will be able
to:
1. Understand the role and function of electronic systems in
modern vehicles.
2. Identify and explain various automotive sensors and
actuators.
3. Analyze the structure and function of ECUs and embedded
systems in cars.
4. Interpret data from On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) systems.
5. Use diagnostic tools and software for vehicle troubleshooting.
6. Demonstrate the working principles of automotive
communication networks (CAN, LIN).
7. Understand the basics of ADAS and the trend toward
autonomous driving.
8. Apply acquired knowledge in a lab setting to simulate and test
automotive electronics systems.
Weekly Topics:
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Topics
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Introduction to Autotronics and Evolution of Automotive
1
Electronics
Electrical and Electronic Components in Vehicles 2
Automotive Sensor Technologies (Speed, Position,
3
Temperature, etc.)
Actuators in Automotive Systems (Injectors, Solenoids, 4
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Topics
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Relays)
Engine Management System and ECU Functions 5
Fuel Injection Systems (MPI, GDI, CRDI) 6
Ignition Systems and Spark Control 7
OBD-I and OBD-II Standards and Protocols 8
Automotive Diagnostic Tools (e.g., ELM327, Scan Tools) 9
Automotive Communication Protocols (CAN, LIN, FlexRay) 10
In-Vehicle Networking and Troubleshooting Techniques 11
Safety and Emission Control Systems 12
ADAS and Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles 13
Final Project Presentations and Case Studies 14
Course Review and Final Exam Preparation 15
Methodology and Tools:
Lectures with multimedia presentations
Interactive lab sessions with real vehicle modules
Hands-on with OBD-II scanners and diagnostic software
(Torque Pro, Car Scanner, etc.)
Use of simulation software (MATLAB/Simulink, Proteus, Arduino
IDE)
Group projects and presentations
Guest lectures from automotive professionals
Assessment Methods:
Quizzes and Assignments: 15%
Lab Work and Reports: 25%
Midterm Exam: 20%
Final Exam: 30%
Project/Presentation: 10%
Textbooks and References:
"Automotive Electronics Handbook" by Ronald K. Jurgen
"Understanding Automotive Electronics" by William Ribbens
OEM Service Manuals and OBD-II Databases
Online resources and technical datasheets
Lab Topics:
Basic electrical measurements and fault detection
Reading and clearing DTCs using OBD-II tools
Sensor and actuator testing with Arduino
ECU interfacing and data logging
CAN Bus simulation and troubleshooting
Prerequisites:
Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering
Digital Logic Design
Basic Programming (C/C++, Python preferred)
Deliverables:
Weekly lab reports
One group project: Design and implementation of an ECU-
simulated system with sensor/actuator feedback
Midterm and final exams
Learning Support:
Online lab manuals and datasheets
Access to vehicle diagnostics tools and hardware
Recorded lectures and video tutorials
Note: This course prepares students for real-world applications in automotive
electronics, diagnostics, and smart vehicle technologies
