Mechanical Engineering MSc

This module aims to extend your knowledge of the scientific principles used in more advanced static analysis of mechanical components and systems and to understand the role that mathematical and computer based modelling plays in this type of analysis. The module will allow you to gain experience in the use of commercial analysis software to solve non-linear and thermal structural problems. This experience will be gained on leading commercial software packages through the solution of a number of graded problems..

The module uses selected topics to give you an advanced understanding of the theory and analytical tools that can be applied to dynamic mechanical systems. You will develop the ability to develop models and analyse complex systems using commercial software packages and to specify appropriate optimisation and mitigation techniques. The module further provides, through theory and practical examples, the means to quantify and solve realistic problems. Laboratory testing of a practical system will be used to provide data to validate models. Fundamentals of acoustics are covered including sound sources and propagation and mitigation of noise. Measurement techniques form part of the investigative nature of the subject and general empirical methodology. Mathematical analysis packages are used extensively throughout the module.

In this module you will consolidate the skills required to implement and manage the New Product Development (NPD) process within the context of an industrial organisation in order to deliver improvements in the contemporary performance imperatives of quality, speed and price. You will develop your expertise in the evolution, development and exploitation of NPD strategies. You will explore the principles of innovation and creativity to develop an improved understanding of management policies, models, culture and creative practice; and appropriate management methodologies to assess new product ideas, determine feasibility, and define those products to achieve commercial gain. Much of your work will be group-based and interactive and involve a number of industrial case studies illustrating NPD tools and techniques. You will evaluate the importance of customer involvement, teamwork, organisational strategy, knowledge management, intellectual property, and leading-edge methodologies in the context of NPD strategies.

The project provides you with the opportunity required within an MSc to undertake a major programme of advanced independent work. Where possible your project is carried out in collaboration with an industrial company and takes place at the company.

This module introduces you to the principles and applications of computer aided design (CAD) within industry. It considers an advanced 3D design package to allow mechanical and visual design to be carried out. You will also look at modern approaches to automation of the design process and topology optimisation for parts manufactured using additive manufacturing. The module provides hands-on experience of a high-level 3-D CAD system from part design to assembly, drawings and design automation. It also provides you with an understanding of the role, concepts and application of 3-D CAD systems in industry.

This module will build upon your previously acquired understanding of Operations Management, Quality Assurance and Control, together with the statistical techniques employed in probability theory. During the course of this module, you will develop further expertise necessary to implement and operate Quality Systems, Maintenance Regimes and Reliability Trials and support New Product Introductions. You will explore the role of Quality Systems in the introduction of New Products. You will also learn about the importance of ensuring that products are problem-free in their early life to become established on the market.

Fluid dynamic forces acting on a fluid handling system affect the performance effectiveness of the system. This module considers an advanced study of fluid flows relevant to industrial fluid handling systems such as vehicles, turbomachines and pipeline systems. Modern vehicles will be studied to highlight the subtle design features being employed to reduce drag, provide deliberate vortices, or create a predictable down-force on the vehicles. The design features related to turbomachines and the pipelines are also discussed in detail. Additionally, the module considers an optimised design for various systems considered including engine cooling systems, in-car air conditioning, turbo-machines and piping systems. We will introduce you to an appropriate commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software package and its use for design of an optimised system.

This module aims to develop your understanding of the strategic aspects of programme and project management and its role in adding competitive advantage to an organisation. The module enables you to gain a firm grounding in the principles, processes, tools and techniques that underpin programme and project management. It also aids you to develop a systematic understanding of the purposes and uses of financial information, together with the ability to use quantitative skills to improve performance management and decision making within an organisation. Emphasis is placed upon the need for competence in project planning and control. Team-working, communication and risk management skills are developed by means of group activity. Extensive use is made of project management and simulation software.