Mechanical Engineering MSc

This module develops professional and research skills including academic/technical writing, communication, critical literature reviewing, and project planning. The year-long nature of the module enables these developing skills to be applied to assessments in concurrent modules.

The module provides an important link to the PGT individual project by providing visits to research laboratories and time for specific project-relating training. Training in areas including statistics and data analysis, design of experiments and health and safety requirements and assessment will also be undertaken to equip students with the skills for their individual projects.

This module covers topics aligned to the design, description and analysis of dynamically complex, integrated systems. Examples of such include automotive power trains, aero-engines and combined heat and power generating plant.

This module covers the following topics:    

• Basic concepts in Design of Experiments and the analysis of experiments including the effects of noise
• Reliability of systems - reliability models for components and how these are combined to form system reliability assessments        
• Dynamic behaviour of systems : introduction to the state-space protocol and dynamic simulation of systems.

Emphasis throughout the course will be on real applications and tasks involved in the engineering of 'integrated systems' products.

Delivery

Assessment method

The module involves five students working as a team to design a product from initial concept to fully engineered drawings.

Starting from a design brief prepared by the supervisor or ‘client’, the group will be required to devise and evaluate alternative design concepts, undertake the detailed engineering analysis and mechanical design, select suitable materials and methods of manufacture and assess costs and the marketability of the product. Manufacture a prototype or proof of concept and evaluate its performance.

Delivery

Assessment method

This project involves students undertaking an original, independent, research study into an engineering or industrial topic appropriate to their specific MSc programme. The project should be carried out in a professional manner and may be undertaken on any topic which is relevant to the MSc programme, as agreed by the relevant Course Director and module convenor.

The project has several aims, beyond reinforcing information and methodology presented in the taught modules; the student is expected to develop skills in research, investigation, planning, evaluation and oral and written communication.

Final reporting will take the form of a written account including a literature review and an account of the student's contribution. A presentation will be made to academic staff towards the end of the project.

This module will allow the theoretical background needed to understand linear Finite Element analysis. To present a number of examples to illustrate how practical problems can be analysed using FE software.

You will cover the following topics: 

• Structural analysis
• Derivation of finite element equations using energy considerations
• Linear and quadratic elements
• Beam, plate and shell elements
• Practical applications of finite elements in stress analysis problems
• Examples of finite element applications
• Introduction to thermal problems
• Introduction to non-linear problems

In this module you’ll develop an advanced understanding of fluid mechanics. You’ll use computational methods in fluid mechanics to further understand how techniques are applied to real fluid engineering problems. For example, you’ll study fluid/structure interactions, air flow, channel flow and water wave propagation. You’ll spend between two and four hours in lectures and two hours in computing sessions each week.

This is an advanced module in fluid mechanics applicable to a wide range of engineering disciplines. You will develop understanding and application skills of basic concepts and fundamental knowledge in turbulence and turbulent flows in engineering.

Topics to be covered include:

• fundamental theory of turbulence
• statistical description of turbulence
• boundary layer structures
• turbulent flow control
• turbulence modelling and CFD
• experimental techniques
• practical and industrial examples

Delivery

Assessment method

This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge and understanding of the main stream computer modelling techniques used in modern engineering practice, including Finite Element, Finite Difference and Finite Volume methods.

Topics covered will include:

• Introduction to numerical methods in engineering
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of structures
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for thermo-fluids problems
• Coursework on running FEA and CFD software

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to most of the main fields within Aerospace technology such that students understand the basics and are equipped to understand 'what there is to know' in this field.

The main topics covered are:

• A brief history of aircraft
• Aerodynamics
• An introduction to Aircraft Propulsion
• An introduction to Flight dynamics
• An introduction to aerospace materials and structures
• A brief overview of Astronauts and Space
• A brief introduction to Rotorcraft
• Airworthiness
• An introduction to Avionics
• Future developments in aircraft

Re-assessment

Students who fail this module overall and are required to complete a re-assessment will be re-assessed by exam. The re-assessment exam mark alone will be used to determine whether students satisfy progression requirements.

This module aims to develop your understanding and application skills of basic concepts and fundamental knowledge in fluid mechanics in aerospace engineering. You will study a range of topics such as applied aerodynamics fundamentals and several relevant theories. 

This module includes:

• Introduction to Aerodynamics.
• Inviscid, irrotational and incompressible flow: potential flow solutions, source and sinks, doublets, vortex, circular cylinder placed in a uniform flow, Kutta-Joukowski theorem on lift, the Kutta condition, Biot-Savart law.
• Two-dimensional aerofoils: thin flat-plate aerofoil, thick cambered aerofoil, aerofoil nomenclature, NACA aerofoils, pressure distributions, flow separations, lift and drag curves.
• Finite-span wings: induced drag, downwash angle, effect of aspect ratio, Delta wings, vortex breakdown.
• Boundary-layer control: stalling speed, high-lift devices, flaps, slats, Gurney flaps, winglets, vortex generators, wall suction, riblets.

An advanced module which builds on the students knowledge of thermo-fluids as applied to a range of advanced powertrain systems.

• Design features, function and layout
• Performance, efficiency and energy flows
• Fuel delivery and gas exchange processes
• Combustion, heat release and work transfer
• Coolant system and heat rejection
• Lubrication system and friction
• Aftertreatment system, emissions and test regulations

The aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of automotive engineering. The module also develops the appreciation of the economic and legislative influences on the design of a modern automobile.

For each of the following subject areas, the historical evolution of design of the component is considered with regard to the influences of performance optimisation, cost, and legislative requirements:

• Engine (i.c. types and development trends, fuel economy and emissions, alternative and hybrid powertrains)
• Transmission (manual and auto gearbox, differential, 2- and 4WD systems)
• Body/chassis (skeletal and unitary constructions, crashworthiness, aerodynamics)
• Control systems (steering and linkage, braking inc. ABS and traction/stability control)
• Suspension (arrangements, handling/dynamics)

Delivery

Assessment method

The module covers the following topics:

• Planar motion in a moving frame of reference
• Vibration modelling; the quarter-vehicle model
• Tyre forces and basic tyre modelling
• Ride comfort
• Lateral vehicle dynamics: handling and stability, understeer/oversteer
• Simulation tools and basic model building: special reference to Matlab
• Overview of vehicle chassis enhancement by electronic control, for example, anti-lock braking systems, traction control, dynamic stability control, etc.

Examples and applications of the concepts and techniques developed are given on passenger cars, heavy vehicles, and motorcycles. 

The module will give students in-depth understanding of technical capability of modern manufacturing processes in relation to product design. The aim of the module is to develop students’ abilities to understand and assess the capability of single and combined manufacturing processes. You’ll spend two hours in lectures and two hours in seminars each week when studying this module.

This module introduces the important aspects of advanced automated manufacturing principles. It aims to help you develop a sound understanding of flexible automated manufacturing solutions. Through case studies, you’ll study their role in the context of current and future manufacturing challenges, as well as their advantages and limitations. Topics include:

• computer integrated manufacturing
• implications of mass customisation on automated manufacturing systems
• the impact of enterprise agility on their manufacturing facilities

This module covers:

• Basic airframe structure
• Airframe component manufacturing techniques
• Joining techniques
• Assembly technology
• Composite structures
• Jigless assembly and automated manufacture
• Basic aero-engine structure
• Geometry and material constraints
• Manufacturing processes: forging, casting, welding and joining techniques, special processes, small and non round hole manufacture
• Certification, verification inspection and quality control

Method and Frequency of Class:

Method of Assessment:

The aim of this module is to provide students with detailed knowledge of the various Additive Manufacturing technologies including specific design, material and process principles. Students will gain an insight into current and future applications as well as the research developments required for the advancement of this technology.

This module will cover design, processing and material aspects of Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing technologies, as well as the current and potential applications of the technology in a wide variety of sectors. Topics covered will include:

• commercial and experimental systems
• material requirements
• design for Additive Manufacturing
• software and systems

This is an advanced module in fluid mechanics applicable to a wide range of engineering disciplines. You will develop understanding and application skills of basic concepts and fundamental knowledge in turbulence and turbulent flows in engineering.

Topics to be covered include:

• fundamental theory of turbulence
• statistical description of turbulence
• boundary layer structures
• turbulent flow control
• turbulence modelling and CFD
• experimental techniques
• practical and industrial examples

Delivery

Assessment method

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to most of the main fields within Aerospace technology such that students understand the basics and are equipped to understand 'what there is to know' in this field.

The main topics covered are:

• A brief history of aircraft
• Aerodynamics
• An introduction to Aircraft Propulsion
• An introduction to Flight dynamics
• An introduction to aerospace materials and structures
• A brief overview of Astronauts and Space
• A brief introduction to Rotorcraft
• Airworthiness
• An introduction to Avionics
• Future developments in aircraft

Re-assessment

Students who fail this module overall and are required to complete a re-assessment will be re-assessed by exam. The re-assessment exam mark alone will be used to determine whether students satisfy progression requirements.

An advanced module which builds on the students knowledge of thermo-fluids as applied to a range of advanced powertrain systems.

• Design features, function and layout
• Performance, efficiency and energy flows
• Fuel delivery and gas exchange processes
• Combustion, heat release and work transfer
• Coolant system and heat rejection
• Lubrication system and friction
• Aftertreatment system, emissions and test regulations

The aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of automotive engineering. The module also develops the appreciation of the economic and legislative influences on the design of a modern automobile.

For each of the following subject areas, the historical evolution of design of the component is considered with regard to the influences of performance optimisation, cost, and legislative requirements:

• Engine (i.c. types and development trends, fuel economy and emissions, alternative and hybrid powertrains)
• Transmission (manual and auto gearbox, differential, 2- and 4WD systems)
• Body/chassis (skeletal and unitary constructions, crashworthiness, aerodynamics)
• Control systems (steering and linkage, braking inc. ABS and traction/stability control)
• Suspension (arrangements, handling/dynamics)

Delivery

Assessment method

This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge and understanding of the main stream computer modelling techniques used in modern engineering practice, including Finite Element, Finite Difference and Finite Volume methods.

Topics covered will include:

• Introduction to numerical methods in engineering
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of structures
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for thermo-fluids problems
• Coursework on running FEA and CFD software

This module introduces the design, manufacture and performance of fibre-reinforced composite materials. 

Constituent materials including fibres, resins and additives are described. Processing techniques and the relationships between process and design are highlighted. Design methodologies and computer-aided engineering techniques are demonstrated for component design.

Case studies from a variety of industries including automotive and aerospace are presented.

Method and Frequency of Class:

 Method of Assessment:

In this module you’ll develop an advanced understanding of fluid mechanics. You’ll use computational methods in fluid mechanics to further understand how techniques are applied to real fluid engineering problems. For example, you’ll study fluid/structure interactions, air flow, channel flow and water wave propagation. You’ll spend between two and four hours in lectures and two hours in computing sessions each week.

This module will allow the theoretical background needed to understand linear Finite Element analysis. To present a number of examples to illustrate how practical problems can be analysed using FE software.

You will cover the following topics: 

• Structural analysis
• Derivation of finite element equations using energy considerations
• Linear and quadratic elements
• Beam, plate and shell elements
• Practical applications of finite elements in stress analysis problems
• Examples of finite element applications
• Introduction to thermal problems
• Introduction to non-linear problems

In this module students develop understanding of hydrogen vehicle technologies and their role in delivering more sustainable transport and energy sectors.

The module covers technologies currently under development and those likely to be used in future vehicle power-train systems, as an energy storage buffer for the grid and as an alternative gas vector to decarbonise heat.

Technologies covered include;

• electrolysers, storage, fuel cells and the impact of hydrogen on different applications.
• Hydrogen use in the transport and energy sectors
• Sustainable sources of Hydrogen
• Hydrogen storage and distribution
• Fuel cell technologies
• Hydrogen Vehicles
• Grid stability and decarbonisation of heat applications
• Economic and environmental feasibility assessment

Delivery

Assessment method

The aim of this module is to provide students with detailed knowledge of the various Additive Manufacturing technologies including specific design, material and process principles. Students will gain an insight into current and future applications as well as the research developments required for the advancement of this technology.

This module will cover design, processing and material aspects of Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing technologies, as well as the current and potential applications of the technology in a wide variety of sectors. Topics covered will include:

• commercial and experimental systems
• material requirements
• design for Additive Manufacturing
• software and systems

An introductory module to the specialist area of materials for low carbon transport.

• Overview of policy, regulation and materials requirements for low-carbon transport Composites
• Emerging propulsion materials and systems (fuel cells, rechargeable batteries, supercapacitors, superconductors) for road vehicles, trains and aircrafts.
• Advanced metal and alloys (steel, titanium alloys, aluminium alloys, magnesium alloys and superalloys) for transport applications.
• Advanced composites including carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) for transport applications.
• Ceramic thermal barrier coatings for aircraft gas turbine engines

The module introduces the relevant background and fundamental concepts regarding the integration of different Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in modern manufacturing systems.

The focus is on understanding topics such as cyber-physical systems, adaptive and autonomous manufacturing, digitalisation, data analytics and emerging business models through a series of relevant case studies.

The aim of the module is to enable students to develop a sound understanding of how ICT technologies can be combined and integrated with available manufacturing technologies in the context of today’s and tomorrow’s manufacturing challenges.

On this module, you’ll gain a solid understanding of the theoretical background and fundamental concepts behind various automated manufacturing systems. The focus will be on the planning, design and implementation of production lines and assembly systems, enabling you to develop flexible manufacturing solutions.

You’ll also explore methods and key performance indicators for quantitatively analysing production efficiency and cost, helping you optimise system performance and support informed decision-making in manufacturing environments.