BEng (Hons) Level 4 Modules

Computing for Engineers

All sectors of engineering require high levels of computer literacy and the ability to write computer programs for problem solving is highly desirable. In learning the fundamentals of computer programming, logical thinking and problem solving skills are developed as well as coding techniques that will support the study of modules in forthcoming years. This course delivers the concepts of structured computer programming and lab time is allocated for implementing these concepts. Students will be provided with opportunities to plan, write and debug their own computer programs.

This module is assessed by 100% coursework.

Professional and Workshop Skills

The purpose of this module is to provide students with development opportunities for the practical skills that are required throughout their studies, and beyond into their careers as professional engineers. Students will develop their communication skills, and begin the process of reflective practice in order to take responsibility for managing their own learning. It introduces them to basic workshop practices and provides an understanding of rules and procedures that may be applicable in such an environment. The statistics topic introduces typical quantitative analysis methods for industrial engineering. These methods enable the students to model industrial variables, framing the problem and making decisions in an uncertain environment.

This module is assessed by 100% coursework.

CAD and Technical Drawing

The purpose of this module is to provide students with development opportunities for the practical skills that are required throughout their studies, and beyond into their careers as professional engineers. Students will develop their engineering communication skills and gain 3D computer modelling expertise necessary for their continued engineering education.

This module emphasises the importance of integrating skills and knowledge from different parts of the degree programme in order to solve problems through the application of fundamental engineering science. The material that is introduced in this module will be deepened during the subsequent years of the degree programme.

This module is assessed by 100% coursework.

Mathematics for Engineers

A good mathematical grounding is essential for all engineers. The theory developed in this module underpins the other mechanical engineering modules studied at Level 1. Wherever possible, mathematical theory is taught by considering a real example, to provide students with the mathematical tools they will need within the context of the science to which they apply. Solutions are considered by both analytical and numerical techniques. Where basic principles are involved, some proofs will also be taught.

This module is assessed by 25% coursework and 75% exam.

Statics and Dynamics

The primary aim of the study of engineering mechanics is to develop in students a capacity to predict the effects of force and deformation in the course of carrying out the creative design function of engineering. As the student undertakes the study of solids and forces (first statics, mechanics, then dynamics) they will be building a foundation of analytical capability for the solution of a great variety of engineering problems. Modern engineering practice demands a high level of analytical capability, and the study of mechanics can help immensely in developing this capacity.

The study of dynamics allows the student to analyse and predict the motion of particles and bodies with and without reference to the forces that cause this motion. Successful prediction requires, in addition to knowledge of physical and mathematical principles of mechanics, the ability of visualize physical configurations in terms of real machines, actual constraints and the practical limitations which govern the behaviour of machines.

This module is assessed by 25% coursework and 75% exam.

Electrical and Electronic Technology

An understanding of the basic principles and many of the important practical applications of electronic and electrical engineering is now essential to practitioners of other disciplines, especially Mechanical Engineers. The aim of the module is to provide a foundation in Electrical Engineering and Electronics for students, of sufficient depth to be useful, and without being over complicated or cluttered with too-rigorous and exhaustive mathematical treatment.

This module is assessed by 25% coursework and 75% exam.

Introduction to Robotics

The aim of this module is to introduce students to robotics engineering by providing a broad overview of diverse robotics applications. The focus of this introductory module will be on the main technological aspects of robots as truly mechatronic systems, including mechanical configurations, sensing and actuation systems and programming methods. Some considerations about the mathematical description of robots will be provided. Finally, students will also gain hands-on experience of designing a robotic system using an educational robotic kit.

This module is assessed by 100% coursework.

Materials and Methods of Manufacture

The selection of materials and manufacturing method is an integral part of the engineering design procedure. The purpose of this module is to introduce the fundamental properties of engineering materials through an understanding of the atomic and molecular interactions within the material. The student is then introduced to the technology of manufacturing processes and how the selection of manufacturing processes are influenced by, and subsequently affect, material properties.

This module is assessed by 25% coursework and 75% exam.