Course description
The course provides an intensive exposure to integrated design, simulation, modelling, analysis, automotive components and production cars. The analysis elements include structural optimisation, dynamics, internal combustion engine thermo-fluid dynamics, design, instrumentation and control. Staff teaching on this course have extensive industrial experience and design skills as well as teaching qualifications in higher education.
Teaching is based in our new purpose-designed engineering building on the Wheatley Campus where we share facilities with the South East Motorsport Academy.
Course content
For students entering with previous undergraduate study or qualifications, the course is structured around two semesters a year over two years. Semester 1 runs from September to December each year, Semester 2 from January until May. Between the first and second years it is possible to take an elective industrial project during the summer months - subject to availability. The course is completed by May of the final year in time for graduation at the beginning of September. The course is also available in sandwich mode, lasting three years (full-time).
To qualify for a master's degree you must pass the compulsory modules and the dissertation. Elective modules provide you with the opportunity to broaden your range of skills and interests and to improve your overall average and gain merit or distinction in the award
Compulsory modules:
* Mechanical Engineering Project is a double module working in groups to take on major design and analysis projects, managing time and resources to provide working engineering solutions that are both feasible and financially viable.
* Engineering Simulation and Modelling presents finite element modelling of structures containing composite materials, advanced simulation techniques using ADAMS and an introduction to MATLAB.
* Advanced Mechanical Engineering Design uses advanced techniques in design development and solution, including 'Value Engineering' and 'TRIZ' - the theory of inventive problem solving using methods such as inventive principles matrix, functional analysis and use of space and time domain in formulating solutions to design problems.
* Advanced Engineering Management provides an understanding of the management skills and knowledge that are important in the engineering industry. The areas studied are project management, leadership, team building and motivation, employment legislation and health and safety.
* CAD/CAM is a master's level module that develops skills in using state-of-the-art design and manufacturing software.
* Advanced Strength of Components is concerned with the prediction of the load-carrying capacity and life of mechanical engineering components by an analysis of factors such as inelastic behaviour, residual stress, stability, cracks, and fatigue and contact loading.
Optional modules:
* Advanced Materials Engineering and Joining Technology takes further the detailed processing and design of advanced materials for engineering products. The significance of the properties and composition of materials is explored in relation to the selection of joining processes and optimising joint design, for the manufacture of high-performance engineering products and structures.
* Advanced Computer Aided Animation enables you to render and animate 3D complex assemblies using PC-based CAD systems. The emphasis in this module is on understanding how complex animations are created using studio software.
* Numerical Methods and Applications provides an introduction to the concepts of numerical methods and applications of these methods.
* Industrial Project is an industrially based module in an automotive company taking on a project with significant responsibility.
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching methods vary according to the subject, but typically include lectures and seminars to provide a sound theoretical base, and practical work designed to demonstrate important aspects of theory or systems operation. Assessed coursework exercises, essays, presentations and laboratory exercises form the basis for continuous assessment.
The methods of assessment include examination and coursework reflecting the development of academic content from the more practical aspects to the more conceptual.
Quality
Teaching staff are drawn primarily from the School of Technology. Visiting speakers from business and industry provide further input. The programme benefits from the rigorous validation and review processes at the University, and the external examiners are very positive about the course.
