Higher Engineering Science SQA
Full course content, a smart revision plan and instant past paper feedback for Higher Engineering Science SQA.
Content Overview
45 topics in 9 modules
βοΈ The Systems Approach 4 topics
- Complex System, Sub-System and Control Diagrams
- Role of Negative Feedback in a System
- Closed-Loop, Two-State and Proportional Feedback
- Using Error Detection in a Closed-Loop System
βοΈ Energy and Efficiency, Calculations 4 topics
- Calculations Related to Energy Audits
- Applied Calculations Involving Efficiency, Work Done and Power
- Manipulating and Combining Given Formulae to Obtain Answers
- Solving Structural Problems Using Trigonometric Functions and Substitution
βοΈ Engineering Roles and Disciplines 2 topics
- Role of the Professional Engineer within a Project
- Skills and Specialist Knowledge Required within Projects
βοΈ Impacts of Engineering 4 topics
- Examples of Social and Economic Impacts of Engineering
- Examples of Environmental Impacts of Engineering
- Sustainability of Engineering Solutions
- Emerging Technologies and their Impact
βοΈ Analogue Electronic Control Systems 10 topics
- Variable Resistors, Light and Temperature Sensors in Voltage Dividers
- Using Input Transducer Characteristics to Design Voltage Dividers
- Function and Purpose of BJTs
- Designing a BJT Circuit as a Current Amplifier
- Calculating the Current Gain of an npn Transistor
- Function and Purpose of MOSFETs
- Designing a MOSFET Circuit as a Voltage-Operated Switch
- Comparing BJT and MOSFET Transistors in a Given Application
- Function of op-amp Configurations
- Calculating Relationship between Input and Output Voltages for op-amp Configurations
βοΈ Digital Electronic Control Systems 2 topics
- Digital Electronic Control
- Programmable Control
βοΈ Drive Systems 6 topics
- Diagrams of Drive Systems
- Selecting and Calculating Appropriate Drive Systems
- Purpose of Couplings, Radial and Thrust Bearings
- Purpose of Friction in Brakes and Clutches
- Calculating Torque: T = Fr
- Calculating Power in a Drive System
βοΈ Pneumatics, Structures and Forces 7 topics
- Sequential Control Circuits with up to Three Cylinders
- Electro-Pneumatic Control Circuits
- Equilibrium of Concurrent and Non-Concurrent Forces in 2D
- Resolving Triangle/Polygon of Forces, Resultant/Equilibrant
- Calculating Reaction Forces in Simply-Supported Beams or Structures
- Using Nodal Analysis to Calculate the Size and Nature of Forces in Frames
- Diagrams of Structures
βοΈ Materials 6 topics
- Stress/Strain Graphs
- Properties of Materials
- Using Strain Gauges
- Calculating Young's Modulus of Elasticity
- Calculating Factor of Safety
- Calculating Elastic Strain Energy
Higher Engineering Science SQA Revision Content
Take a look at whatβs inside. The full course and past papers are ready in Adapt.
Higher Engineering Science SQA - The Systems Approach - Complex System, Sub-System and Control Diagrams Content Preview
The Systems Approach
Complex System, Sub-System and Control Diagrams
Complex Systems
- Complex systems are composed of numerous interconnected parts, all of which work together to perform a common function.
- These systems are often broken down into simpler sub-systems to be understood and analysed more effectively.
- Understanding complex systems requires a good grasp of the underlying sub-systems and their interactions.
- Examples of complex systems can include a computer, a nuclear power plant, or the human body.
Sub-Systems
- A sub-system is a system within a larger complex system that performs a specific task.
- Sub-systems are often designed and analysed independently but always work in tandem within the larger system.
- If one sub-system fails, it may affect the performance or functionality of the whole system.
- Understanding the role of each sub-system and their interconnections is crucial when studying complex systems.
Control Diagrams
- Control diagrams or schematic diagrams are graphical representations of the components and interconnections within a system.
- These diagrams can depict the flow of signals, energy, or materials through the system.
- They provide a clear, visual representation of how a system operates at a high level.
- Key elements in control diagrams may include input and output variables, process components, and control devices.
- Mastery of control diagrams is essential when trying to understand or design complex systems.
Question: Describe the role and potential impact of a sub-system failure within a complex system like a nuclear power plant.
Unlock instant, personalised feedback
Sign up to Adapt to get access to 1,000s of exam questions with instant, examiner feedback!
Get started βTry Adapt now
Take control with the only revision platform you will ever need.