Degree in Health Engineering La Salle Campus Barcelona

Bachelor in Health Engineering

Lead the biomedical engineering that will define the medicine of the future

Computational logic

Description: 

The subject of Computational Logic provides the theoretical and practical foundations that support the design, analysis and operation of digital systems, with special emphasis on their application in the field of Health Engineering.

The course is structured in four parts. The first part covers Boolean algebra to understand the binary representation of information, as well as logic gates and the creation of simplified combinational logic circuits. The second part introduces the combinational systems used to implement the most basic digital devices. The third part explores how to store information in a digital system. The fourth and final part covers sequential systems, culminating in those used to implement logic controllers and complex digital systems in general.

Type Subject
Tercer - Obligatoria
Semester
Second
Course
2
Credits
6.00

Titular Professors

Previous Knowledge: 

Analog Electronics

Objectives: 

The general objectives of the subject are:

1. Understand the fundamentals of digital technology, including the binary representation of information and the use of Boolean algebra to describe and analyze logic circuits.

2. Design and analyze combinational and sequential digital systems applying current design methodologies and tools.

3. Apply the concepts of computational logic to the analysis and resolution of technological problems, using digital systems, especially in the field of Health Engineering.

4. Use design and simulation tools to model, verify, and implement digital systems.

Contents: 

Part I. Numerical Representation and Boolean Algebra

1. Numerical representation systems

1.1 Natural Binary Code

1.2 Hexadecimal code

1.3 Representation of signed numbers

1.4 Binary codes

2. Boolean algebra and logic gates

2.1 Operations boolean (AND, OR, NOT, XOR, ...)

2.2 Canonical Forms

2.3 Design and implementation of systems with logic gates

3. Combinational logic circuits

3.1 Simplification of functions using Karnaugh maps

3.2 Incomplete functions

3.3 Design Exercises

Part II. Combinational Systems

4. Combinational functional blocks

4.1 Characteristics of the input and output signals of the functional blocks

4.2 Encoders/Decoders

4.3 Multiplexers

4.4 Comparators

4.5 Applications with functional blocks

Part III. Elements of memory

5. Memorization Elements

5.1 Introduction to memory elements. Classification of sequential systems

5.2 R-S, D, D-RS Bistable

5.3 Examples of timing diagrams in circuits with multiple flip-flops

6. Registers

6.1 Registers and their characteristics

6.2 EP/SP, ES/SS, ES/SP and EP/SS Registers

6.3 Temporal analysis of control signals in registers

6.4 Design problems with registers

7. Counters

7.1 Introduction to Counters

7.2 Design of synchronous counters

7.3 Expansion of counting capacity

Part IV. Introduction to Sequential Systems

8. Synchronous sequential systems

8.1 Introduction to sequential systems

8.2 Definition of state machines

8.3 Synchronous sequential systems

8.4 Implementation of synchronous sequential systems

8.5 Examples of synchronous sequential systems

9. Memories

9.1 Types of memory

9.2 Random access memories: RAM and ROM

9.3 Sequential access memories: LIFO and FIFO

10. Synchronous sequential systems with memories

10.1 Examples of synchronous sequential systems with memories

Methodology: 

The course uses an active, theory-and-practice-oriented methodology aimed at the progressive development of competencies. Each week includes three sessions combining lectures, exercises, and continuous assessment activities. These contents are reinforced with group practical sessions carried out throughout the semester.

The approach integrates prior independent work, collaborative learning, and formative assessment, ensuring alignment between activities, evaluation criteria, and the ECTS workload. The eStudy platform serves as the main communication channel and repository for materials and assignments.

On the practical side, the course includes a workshop on basic soldering techniques and laboratory sessions based on active methodologies such as project-based and cooperative learning. Students develop a multi?phase project that involves designing, simulating, assembling, soldering, and verifying digital systems.

This approach allows students to connect theory and practice, work collaboratively, and face real situations typical of the design and validation of digital systems applied to Health Engineering.

Evaluation: 

The assessment components of the course include the midterm exam or checkpoint, the final exams in both the regular and resit periods, the continuous assessment exercises completed both in and outside the classroom, and the laboratory practicals. In order to pass the course, students must pass both the theory and the practical components separately.

Evaluation Criteria: 

Below are the criteria used to assess the quality of the student's performance in relation to each learning outcome. Each criterion specifies what is evaluated, how it must be demonstrated, and what aspects determine correct and complete work.

LO1. Basic knowledge of digital technology and its components, as well as how to design digital systems

Assessment criteria:

1.Understands and correctly applies numbering systems and binary representation.

2.Properly uses Boolean algebra and simplification methods.

3.Identifies and describes logic gates, combinational blocks, and sequential elements.

LO2. Design and use of systems, components, processes, or experiments to meet established requirements and to analyze and interpret results

Assessment criteria:

4.Analyzes combinational and sequential circuits.

5.Designs digital systems according to requirements and selects suitable components.

6.Develops state diagrams, timing diagrams, and logical descriptions.

7.Analyzes and compares the real and simulated behavior of circuits.

8.Properly documents the design process.

LO3. Identification, formulation, and resolution of technological problems that require a digital system as a solution

Assessment criteria:

9.Formulates and solves technological problems, particularly in Health Engineering.

10.Produces coherent schematics and logical descriptions.

11.Designs digital solutions aligned with the problem requirements.

LO4. Use of design and simulation techniques and tools from system conception to implementation of a digital system

Assessment criteria:

12.Uses digital design and simulation tools rigorously.

13.Physically implements designs (breadboard and stripboard).

14.Analyzes discrepancies between simulation and reality and proposes solutions.

15.Works effectively in a team during practical sessions and projects.

Basic Bibliography: 

Computational Logic Notes. La Salle Engineering.

Additional Material: 

  • Slides used in class
  • Practice regulations
  • Laboratory practice guides
  • Recorded classes