ObjectivesSuitable for graduates working within government or the defence industry who wish to broaden their understanding of defence sensor systems and the integration and data fusion techniques employed to maximise the effectiveness of multi-sensor systems. Takes you on to a thorough understanding of the principles and technology of sensors, methods of sensor integration and data fusion with applications to weapon integration. You will be taught by Cranfield University academic staff at the Defence Academy - College of Management and Technology who understand the challenges of translating theory into practice. The defence-specific content will be delivered by military staff from the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom. Visiting lecturers include experts from industry, research establishments and Government departments, particularly the MOD.
Entry requirementsNormally a 1st or 2nd class Honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate discipline (normally electronics, electrical engineering or physics). Alternatively, a lesser qualification with relevant professional experience may be acceptable. Students whose first language is not English must attain an IELTS score of 7.
Course descriptionThis decade has seen major developments in sensors and in data fusion and integration techniques used to maximise data retrieval from multi-sensor systems. The application of these techniques to guided weapons has so far been selective, but with the emphasis on smaller, more technological armies, multi-sensor systems are expected to play a crucial role in electronic warfare and guided weapon areas.
The Technology Foresight Review highlighted the importance of sensors for the future generation of guided weapon systems and it is estimated that, of future investment in guided weapons, over half will be in the field of sensors.
The MSc in Defence Sensors and Data Fusion is modular and can be taken part-time or as a one year full-time programme. The entry is at graduate level or equivalent. The course structure defines three levels of modules: Foundation, Subject and System.
Modules:
Foundation modules
The foundation level modules are designed to provide the groundwork in mathematics and science required for the course:
* Mathematics and Signal Processing
* Propagation Theory and Antennas.
Subject modules
The subject level modules deal with sensor technology:
* Radar Principles
* Electro-Optics/Infrared Sensors (Part One)
* Sonar/Acoustic/Seismic Sensors
* Sensor Fusion
* Soft Computing and Optimisation
* Data and Information Fusion
* Analysis and Design of Search and Track Radar
* Practical Radar Systems
* Electro-Optics/Infrared Sensors (Part Two).
System modules
The system level modules concentrate on systems integration and data fusion, together with a project:
* Sensor Integration and Data Fusion Study
* Individual Project.
Each module has an entry pack that specifies the knowledge required to study the module and an exit pack consisting of an assignment which is assessed. The project will commence at the University, but can be carried out in industry under the supervision of a University supervisor and an industrial mentor.
Duration
MSc full-time: 1 year, part-time: 3 years. PgDip full-time: 28 weeks, part-time: 2 years.
Assessment
End of module examination, continuous assessment, project presentation and viva voce.