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.

Automation is becoming more prevalent as greater efficiency is sought. Being able to analyse a process for automation is a valuable skill for an engineering in manufacturing. Knowledge of available equipment allows an engineer to make informed decisions for capital investment, to ensure efficiency, cost effectiveness and quality are maximised. The introduction of Industry 4.0 has increased the quantity of information available to the engineer.

You will investigate automation strategies form the equipment side, covering the integration of actuators and sensors, drive mechanisms and utilising robots of various axis configurations to complete tasks.

Engineering utilises power and must be concerned with its use and transmission. This may be directly involved in long distance transmission or specification of power systems for individual projects. Being able to model the systems allows concepts to be proven prior to installation and change, thus providing a cost-effective prototyping route.

This module studies complex control and automation systems used in modern manufacturing, design and energy production and distribution. It is designed to provide you with the necessary analytical and modelling skills to mathematically design, test, investigate and verify control systems for automation. These skills being necessary for an understanding of dynamic feedback control designs.

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.