Unit information: Modelling 2 (EDES) in 2016/17

Unit name	Modelling 2 (EDES)
Unit code	MENG20003
Credit points	10
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Michael Patterson
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	MENG11611 or equivalent
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Mechanical Engineering
Faculty	Faculty of Engineering

Description including Unit Aims

Computing-based Modelling:

During the first seven laboratory sessions, students will be required to undertake a computer-based project, during which they will develop a model of either an engineering/scientific or rule-based system in the Matlab environment. Support and notes are provided in the laboratory sessions. These projects will be assessed by Viva during the final session and by the submission of a written report.

Physical Modelling:

This part of the unit will enable students to model and physically realise engineering systems, evaluate design alternatives, manufacture working prototypes and assess their performance. This is achieved through additive layer manufacturing of the parametric model generated in the computer-based modelling exercise, manufacture of a simple assembly using standard workshop tools and design and build of an amphibious vehicle.

Aims:

Computing-based Modelling:

To extend the students’ knowledge of scientific computing via Matlab. To increase their ability and confidence in the development of programs to model physical systems.

Physical Modelling:

To provide students with foundation skills in developing (conceiving, designing and building) engineering systems to meet a specification and analysing performance for existing systems and critically appraising their performance through presentations, demonstrations and written reports. These activities together broaden the students understanding of the design, development and test process, and in particular, provide hands-on experience to realise their designs.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Computing-based Modelling:

• Students will be able to develop simple Matlab models of a range of engineering systems.

Physical Modelling:

At the end of this part of the unit, students will be able to:

• Understand the processes involved to develop engineering systems to meet a specification;
• Select appropriate standard components and provide reasoning for their choice;
• Use basic hand tools and standard materials, to manufacture their designs;
• Assess the performance of engineering systems in relation to a specification;
• Interpret engineering drawings proficiently;
• Work more effectively in teams when solving engineering problems;

Disseminate technical material proficiently in both written and oral form.

Teaching Information

Computing-based Modelling:

• 1 hour introductory lecture followed by 8 x 2 hour laboratory sessions.

Physical Modelling:

• Design and Build exercises – in workshop build exercise (3 hours) plus additive layer fabrication of modelled artefact

Amphibious Vehicle Build - 3 x 3 hour design/build classes, and 1x3 hour demonstration session.

Assessment Information

Project assessment (80%)
Amphibious Vehicle Build demonstration and build quality (20%)

Reading and References

Computing-based Modelling:

• A Guide to Matlab, B.R. Hunt et al., (Cambridge University Press), 2001. In addition, Matlab’s on-line help is extensively used.

Physical Modelling:

No texts are needed, this aspect of the course being adequately supported by handouts.