Postgraduate Diploma in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping)
Online 800-hour Postgraduate Diploma in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping). 8 modules covering IEC 61131-3, IEC 61508 and MATLAB/Simulink. Assigned tutor and open enrolment.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Analyse the stability of non-linear systems using Lyapunov methods.
Design controllers through feedback linearisation.
Design sliding mode controllers and mitigate chattering.
Apply backstepping to systems in strict-feedback form.
Incorporate adaptation and robustness into non-linear controllers.
Implement non-linear laws in real time and validate them with HIL.
Compare the performance of non-linear strategies with classical control.
Who it's for
- Control engineer who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- Electromechanical systems engineer who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- Control algorithm developer who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- Power electronics engineer who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- Researcher in non-linear control who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- HIL testing engineer who wants to specialise in Non-Linear Strategies (SMC/Backstepping).
- Engineering or science graduates seeking to enter the automotive sector.
What you'll work with
- IEC 61131-3
- IEC 61508
- ISO 13849-1
- IEC 61800-7
- ISO 26262
- IEC 60204-1
8 modules · 800 h
1.1Non-linear state equations1.2Equilibrium points and linearisation1.3Phase plane and limit cycles1.4Lyapunov stability theory1.5LaSalle's invariance principle1.6Input-to-state stability (ISS)1.7Systems in strict-feedback form1.8Bounded uncertainties and disturbances1.9Control-affine systems1.10Practical: phase-plane analysis of a pendulum
2.1Relative degree and normal form2.2Exact input-output linearisation2.3Exact input-state linearisation2.4Zero dynamics and minimum phase2.5Computed torque control in robots2.6Robustness of exact linearisation2.7Lie derivatives and differential geometry2.8Practical limitations of linearisation2.9Tracking control with exact linearisation2.10Laboratory: computed torque on a two-degree-of-freedom arm
3.1Sliding surfaces3.2Reaching condition and sliding3.3Equivalent control law3.4Chattering phenomenon3.5Boundary layer and saturation functions3.6Higher-order sliding modes3.7Second-order super-twisting algorithm3.8Sliding mode observers3.9Practical design of the switching gain3.10Workshop: SMC with super-twisting in Simulink
4.1Step-by-step recursive design4.2Virtual control functions4.3Construction of Lyapunov functions4.4Adaptive backstepping with unknown parameters4.5Term explosion and command filtering4.6Backstepping with disturbances4.7Combining backstepping and sliding mode4.8Application to electromechanical systems4.9Backstepping for underactuated robots4.10Practical: backstepping for a DC motor
5.1Model reference adaptive control5.2Gradient-based adaptation laws5.3Robustness of adaptation laws5.4Robust control via Lyapunov functions5.5Passivity-based control5.6Disturbance observer (DOB) estimation5.7Control with approximating neural networks5.8Finite-time control5.9Control with Lyapunov barriers and constraints5.10Laboratory: adaptive control of a manipulator
6.1Power converter control6.2Control of permanent magnet synchronous motors6.3Control of unmanned aerial vehicles6.4Control of robotic manipulators6.5Control of cranes and inverted pendulums6.6Control of hydraulic systems6.7Control of non-linear chemical processes6.8Comparison with classical PID6.9Non-linear control of active suspensions6.10Case study: position control of a hydraulic servo
7.1Discretisation of non-linear laws7.2Real-time implementation7.3Actuator saturation7.4Automatic code generation7.5Hardware-in-the-Loop testing of the controller7.6Experimental parameter tuning7.7Robustness analysis by Monte Carlo7.8Controller documentation7.9Parameter sensitivity analysis7.10Case study: HIL of an SMC controller
8.1Plant selection and modelling8.2Open-loop stability analysis8.3SMC controller design8.4Backstepping controller design8.5Comparative simulation of both strategies8.6Real-time implementation8.7Robustness tests8.8Analysis of results8.9Report and presentation8.10Final review with the tutor
How you'll learn
100% online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and a assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it possible to combine study with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is MATLAB/Simulink, Simscape, dSPACE, Python with python-control, CasADi, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied on real procedures for servo-hydraulic control, power converter control and regulation of robotic manipulators under uncertainty. Assessment is continuous per module, plus the final integrative project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Analyse the stability of non-linear systems using Lyapunov methods.
Design controllers through feedback linearisation.
Design sliding mode controllers and mitigate chattering.
Apply backstepping to systems in strict-feedback form.
Incorporate adaptation and robustness into non-linear controllers.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- Prior technical training or professional experience in the sector. A university degree is not required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient command of Spanish to follow technical standards documentation.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 800 hours in total, spread over 6 to 8 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours per week, compatible with full-time work.
You will work with MATLAB/Simulink, Simscape, dSPACE, Python with python-control, CasADi. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
An in-house SEIUM diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrative project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area can be credited towards the higher programme. Check the credit transfer policy when you enrol.
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