Lean process improvement is becoming standard practice within industry, and the modern engineer requires a deep understanding of the principles and techniques utilised.  The management of the application of lean practices can affect company efficiency directly and so having a good knowledge of practices and methodology’s helps such activities to go smoothly. This module will enable you to have an expert appreciation of the importance of having lean practices within engineering organisations and its implications for managerial behaviour

Quality has always been the key to business success and survivability, but it requires organisations to allocate a lot of effort and resources to achieve it. The key to providing quality services and designing top quality products lies in the strength and effectiveness of the processes used in their development; processes which must be constantly reviewed to ensure they operate as efficiently, economically and as safely as possible.

The ability of industries to meet the ever-changing demand of customers is heavily influenced by the development of advanced manufacturing technologies. No longer are these methods solely used for rapid prototyping. Customers expect high complexity products, on demand, and with a growing element of customisation. In adopting advanced manufacturing technologies, manufacturing companies will ensure faster time to market of new products, improve products and processes, use new, sustainable, materials, and customise to customer requirements. An ability to move from the design stage to the manufacturing stage without the need for specialised tooling is a valuable cost saving. You will investigate the benefits and drawbacks of such technologies, looking at applications as an alternative to more established manufacturing methods as well as traditional uses in prototyping.

Analysis of cad product is a cost-effective way of prototyping engineering solutions. New designs can be loaded far in excess of service conditions safely, fluid flow can be analysed, heat movement can be assessed. The module will familiarise you with advanced tools, primarily by utilising tools in study projects. The module will look at dynamic load simulation, advanced analysis packages, involving thermal stresses, frequency responses, nonlinear analysis and transient Reponses. The tasks are designed to link real load scenarios with simulated, investigating variations. Assessment will be via practical application in case studies.

The project may be work-related. Industry linked projects are strongly encouraged. The project must be carried out by individual students; there is no scope for group work within this module.  This module directly supports students’ own professional development by providing them with an opportunity to undertake an industry linked project, or research project, of a meaningful scale and level of complexity. 

This module allows students to build on their interests and experience, allowing them to test theories and apply their knowledge. Research skills are seen as important to self-development and employability and are eminently transferable in the workplace. The Major Project offers you considerable autonomy and the opportunity to take responsibility for an individual and demanding piece of work at honours degree level.