Basics of vehicle electronics (3cr)

Objective

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- explain the structure and operating principles of key electronic systems in vehicles and mobile machinery
- explain the fundamentals of sensor technology and signal processing in various vehicle and machinery systems
- interpret the basic structure of in-vehicle and mobile machinery communication networks and the main protocols (CAN, LIN, J1939)
- apply basic methods of OBD-II diagnostics and electronic system testing
- search for and utilise up-to-date technical information related to vehicle electronics

Content

- Operating environment of electronics in vehicles and mobile machinery
- Sensor technology and signal processing
- Electronic control units (ECUs) and mobile-PLC control systems
- Bus technology and communication protocols used in vehicles and mobile machinery (CAN, LIN, J1939)
- Basics of OBD-II and other diagnostic approaches
- Testing and troubleshooting of electronic systems

Qualifications

- Basics of car electric systems or equivalent knowledge and skills
- Electrical engineering and electronics or equivalent knowledge and skills

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student recognises electronic systems and sensors and describes their basic principles. Identifies basic concepts of bus technology and OBD diagnostics and uses information sources with guidance.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student explains the operating principles of key electronic systems, sensor technology and bus communication, and applies basic diagnostic methods in typical situations. Uses up-to-date information independently.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student explains electronic systems as integrated entities, evaluates sensor and bus operation in different situations, and applies diagnostic principles in new or demanding contexts. Justifies solutions and uses information critically.

Materials

- Robert Bosch: Automotive Electrics and Automotive Electronics
- Robert Bosch: Automotive Handbook
- Ribbens: Understanding automotive electronics: An engineering perspective.
- Schmidt & Saari: Hybridi- ja sähköajoneuvot: Tekniikkaa, huoltoa, testausta
- Field-related publications and maintenance literature
- Lecturer’s material