MECHTRON 4AX3, Term I 2026-2027

Predictive and Intelligent Control

Instructor

Dr. M. v. Mohrenschildt, ITB 164, mohrens
Office hours: To be determined My main way to communicate is email. Do not sent me messages in other systems, I am not monitoring them.

Lectures, Tutorials

Lectures are in person

MECHTRON 4AX3 Tu, Th, Fr 11.30-12.20
Tutorial:

Note:

Description

The course will present key aspects of advanced control and Machine Learning. We will examine the principles common to both and the difference in formulation of the two approaches.

Major Topics

The following are the major topics (12 major topic, about 3 lectures per topic flexible depending on audience). There will be 35 lectures + 1 midterm lecture and 12 tutorials.

This course introduces several concepts used in systems engineering, predictive control and artificial intelligence. A variety of techniques including prediction and estimation, linear models, basic optimization techniques, Monte Carlo techniques, neural networks, and clustering are introduced. The techniques are applied to predictive and smart systems by the example of model predictive control and intelligent control, classification and decision-making. The course is intended for engineering students with understanding in signals and systems and control. Prerequisite(s): MECHTRON 3DX4 or SFWRENG 3DX4 or IBEHS 4A03

Teaching Assistants

Course Information on Web

Grades, Assignments, and Exams

Assignments

There will be 5 assignments

Graduate Attributes

The major topics are listed above

Learning Objectives

Learning objectives are measured and reported to the CEAB as part of the accreditation process. The numbers in brackets define the mapping from indicators to competencies.

Approved Advisory Statements

The following statements are required to be included in all course outlines by the Undergraduate Course Management Policy.

Academic Integrity

You are expected to exhibit honesty and use ethical behavior in all aspects of the learning process. Academic credentials you earn are rooted in principles of honesty and academic integrity. It is your responsibility to understand what constitutes academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty is to knowingly act or fail to act in a way that results or could result in unearned academic credit or advantage. This behavior can result in serious consequences, e.g. the grade of zero on an assignment, loss of credit with a notation on the transcript (notation reads: “Grade of F assigned for academic dishonesty”), and/or suspension or expulsion from the university. For information on the various types of academic dishonesty please refer to the Academic Integrity Policy, located at https://secretariat.mcmaster.ca/university-policies-procedures-guidelines/ The following illustrates only three forms of academic dishonesty:

Authenticity/Plagiarism Detection

Some courses may use a web-based service (Turnitin.com) to reveal authenticity and ownership of student submitted work. For courses using such software, students will be expected to submit their work electronically either directly to Turnitin.com or via an online learning platform (e.g. Avenue to Learn, etc.) using plagiarism detection (a service supported by Turnitin.com) so it can be checked for academic dishonesty. Students who do not wish their work to be submitted through the plagiarism detection software must inform the Instructor before the assignment is due. No penalty will be assigned to a student who does not submit work to the plagiarism detection software. All submitted work is subject to normal verification that standards of academic integrity have been upheld (e.g., on-line search, other software, etc.). For more details about McMaster’s use of Turnitin.com please go to www.mcmaster.ca/academicintegrity.

Course with an On-Line Element

Some courses may use on-line elements (e.g. e-mail, Avenue to Learn (A2L), LearnLink, web pages, capa, Moodle, ThinkingCap, etc.). Students should be aware that, when they access the electronic components of a course using these elements, private information such as first and 5 last names, usernames for the McMaster e-mail accounts, and program affiliation may become apparent to all other students in the same course. The available information is dependent on the technology used. Continuation in a course that uses on-line elements will be deemed consent to this disclosure. If you have any questions or concerns about such disclosure please discuss this with the course instructor.

On-Line Proctoring

Some courses may use on-line proctoring software for tests and exams. This software may require students to turn on their video camera, present identification, monitor and record their computer activities, and/or lock/restrict their browser or other applications/software during tests or exams. This software may be required to be installed before the test/exam begins.

Conduct Expectations

As a McMaster student, you have the right to experience, and the responsibility to demonstrate, respectful and dignified interactions within all of our living, learning and working communities. These expectations are described in the Code of Student Rights & Responsibilities (the “Code”). All students share the responsibility of maintaining a positive environment for the academic and personal growth of all McMaster community members, whether in person or online. It is essential that students be mindful of their interactions online, as the Code remains in effect in virtual learning environments. The Code applies to any interactions that adversely affect, disrupt, or interfere with reasonable participation in University activities. Student disruptions or behaviours that interfere with university functions on on-line platforms (e.g. use of Avenue 2 Learn, WebEx or Zoom for delivery), will be taken very seriously and will be investigated. Outcomes may include restriction or removal of the involved students access to these platforms.

Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilitie

Students with disabilities who require academic accommodation must contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS) at 905-525-9140 ext. 28652 or sas@mcmaster.ca to make arrangements with a Program Coordinator. For further information, consult McMaster University’s Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities policy.

Requests for Relief for Missed Academic Term Work

In the event of an absence for medical or other reasons, students should review and follow the McMaster Student Absence Form Policy (MSAF Policy).

Academic Accommodation for Religious, Indigenous or Spiritual Observances (RISO)

Students requiring academic accommodation based on religious, indigenous or spiritual observances should follow the procedures set out in the RISO policy. Students should submit their request to their Faculty Office normally within 10 working days of the beginning of term in which they anticipate a need for accommodation or to the Registrar’s Office prior to their examinations. Students should also contact their instructors as soon as possible to make alternative arrangements for classes, assignments, and tests.

Copyright and Recording

Students are advised that lectures, demonstrations, performances, and any other course material provided by an instructor include copyright protected works. The Copyright Act and copyright law protect every original literary, dramatic, musical and artistic work, including lectures by University instructors. The recording of lectures, tutorials, or other methods of instruction may occur during a course. Recording may be done by either the instructor for the purpose of authorized distribution, or by a student for the purpose of personal study. Students should be aware that their voice and/or image may be recorded by others during the class. Please speak with the instructor if this is a concern for you.

Extreme Circumstances

The University reserves the right to change the dates and deadlines for any or all courses in extreme circumstances (e.g., severe weather, labour disruptions, etc.). Changes will be communicated through regular McMaster communication channels, such as McMaster Daily News, Avenue to Learn and/or McMaster email.

Additional Statements

Generative AI

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is permitted in this course for all deliverables. However, the use of AI has to be fully transparent, and all individuals are accountable for the work they submit. Transparency means that the use of AI is clearly indicated and documented. Accountability means that each individual is responsible for the work they submit and must be able to explain any work co-authored with AI.

Discrimination

The Faculty of Engineering is committed to creating an environment in which students of all genders, cultures, ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access to education and are welcomed and treated fairly. If you have any 7 concerns regarding inclusion in our Faculty, in particular if you or one of your peers is experiencing harassment or discrimination, you are encouraged to contact the Department Chair, Associate Chair Undergraduate, Academic Advisor, or the Equity and Inclusion Office.