(SEM III) THEORY EXAMINATION 2021-22 SENSOR AND INSTRUMENTATION

DESCRIPTION for SENSOR AND INSTRUMENTATION – B.Tech Sem III Question Paper (KOE034)

This is the B.Tech Semester III theory examination paper for Sensor and Instrumentation (KOE034).
The exam carries 100 marks and evaluates the student's understanding of sensors, transducers, instrumentation systems, data acquisition, proximity & temperature sensors, intelligent sensors, AD converters, I/O systems, and applications of automation.

The paper is divided into three sections – A, B, and C, combining conceptual, descriptive, and application-oriented questions.

SECTION A – Short Conceptual Questions (20 Marks)

This section contains 10 compulsory questions of 2 marks each, covering the basics of:

What is a Transducer

Parameter measured by a Strain Gauge

Function of an RTD

Level sensors & applications

Definition of Instrumentation

Meaning of clusters and graphs (used in data visualization / LabVIEW)

Timer and example

Applications of a Data Socket (LabVIEW connectivity tool)

Definition of Sensors

Meaning of an Autonomous Robot

The questions in Section A check basic understanding and key definitions.

SECTION B – Descriptive Medium-Length Questions (30 Marks)

Students must attempt any three questions. Topics include:

Classification of Sensors & Selection Process

Different categories such as mechanical, thermal, optical, magnetic, chemical, etc., and how to choose a sensor based on range, accuracy, environment, and response time.

Proximity Sensors

Inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, infrared, and magnetic proximity sensors.

Graphical Programming Techniques

Used in environments like LabVIEW, with emphasis on blocks, clusters, loops, and front-panel design.

Basic Block Diagram of a Data Acquisition System (DAS)

Includes sensors, signal conditioning, ADC, processor, storage, and display.

Intelligent Sensors

Smart sensors with microprocessors, self-calibration, self-diagnostics, and communication modules.

Section B evaluates intermediate understanding and explanation ability.

SECTION C – Long / Analytical / Application-Based Questions (50 Marks)

Students must attempt one part from each question (Q3 to Q7).

Q3 – LVDT / Piezoelectric Sensors

Working and arrangement of LVDT for pressure measurement
OR

Piezoelectric sensor principle and one practical application

Q4 – Hall Effect / Temperature Sensors

Hall Effect and its role in position sensing
OR

Various temperature sensors like Thermocouples, RTDs, Thermistors, Infrared sensors

Q5 – Industrial vs Virtual Instrumentation

Concept of industrial instrumentation + software tools for automation (like SCADA, LabVIEW, MATLAB)
OR

Meaning, structure & advantages of virtual instrumentation

Q6 – ADCs / I/O Types

Types of Analog-to-Digital Converters (Flash, SAR, Dual-slope, Sigma-Delta)
OR

Input–Output types: Analog I/O, Digital I/O, Serial I/O, Parallel I/O

Q7 – Intelligent Sensors / Automobile Engine Control

Features of intelligent sensors:
Self-calibration, Self-testing, Self-communication
OR

Techniques used in Automobile Engine Control (fuel injection, ignition timing, sensor feedback loops)

Section C tests deep understanding, diagrams, and real industrial applications.

OVERALL SUMMARY

The Sensor and Instrumentation (KOE034) question paper provides a complete assessment of:

Sensor fundamentals

Transducers, strain gauges, RTDs, proximity sensors, Hall Effect sensors, temperature sensors

Instrumentation concepts

Instrumentation definition, DAS, timers, data sockets, I/O types

Advanced sensor systems

LVDT, piezoelectric sensors, intelligent sensors, automation tools

Industrial & real-world applications

Automobile engine control, industrial instrumentation, virtual instrumentation

Digital processing

ADC types, smart communication, graphical programming tools

It blends basic theory, technical explanations, block diagrams, and real industrial applications, ensuring strong competency in modern sensing and instrumentation systems.