Mechanical Engineering MEng

Core modules:

Global Engineering Challenge Week

The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.

*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.

Essential Mathematical Skills & Techniques

This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at Levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the Level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department. The module is delivered via online lectures, reinforced with weekly interactive problem classes.

20 credits

Fundamental Engineering Science: Part 1

In conjunction with a similar module that runs in the Spring semester, this module will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and understanding that will underpin the rest of your mechanical engineering degree. This module focuses on statics, solid mechanics and manufacturing processes; you will learn about these topics from first principles and observe them as phenomena in the laboratory. You will then have the opportunity to apply them to a practical engineering problem in a separate, concurrent integrative project module.

20 credits

Fundamental Engineering Science: Part 2

In conjunction with a similar module that runs in the Autumn semester, this module will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and understanding that will underpin the rest of your mechanical engineering degree. This module focuses on dynamics, fluids, gases and thermofluids; you will learn about these topics from first principles and observe them as phenomena in the laboratory. You will then have the opportunity to apply them to a practical engineering problem in a separate, concurrent integrative project module.

20 credits

Autumn Integrative Project

This module will introduce you to what it means to be a professional engineer by supporting you through the process of tackling a typical, practical, engineering problem. Through a series of structured, timely activities you will integrate the fundamental knowledge, taught in a separate, concurrent module, with the skills and capabilities expected of modern engineers. In conjunction with a similar integrative project in the Spring semester, you will develop a holistic view of mechanical engineering that will provide a solid foundation for the rest of your degree, and your subsequent career, giving you the ability and confidence to address open-ended, engineering problems in a proficient and effective manner.

25 credits

Spring Integrative Project

This module will provide you with further insight into what it means to be a professional engineer by supporting you through the process of tackling a typical, practical, engineering problem. Through a series of structured, timely activities you will integrate the fundamental knowledge, taught in a separate, concurrent module, with the skills and capabilities expected of modern engineers, building upon feed forward from a similar integrative project in the Autumn semester. In conjunction with the Autumn project, you will develop a holistic view of mechanical engineering that will provide a solid foundation for the rest of your degree, and your subsequent career, giving you the ability and confidence to address open-ended, engineering problems in a proficient and effective manner.

35 credits

Semester 1

Engineering - You're Hired

The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project. The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.

Mathematics for Engineering Modelling

To further extend the student's understanding, developed in Level 1, of a variety of mathematical techniques and the application of these techniques in modelling engineering problems

10 credits

Dynamics of Structures and Machines

This module introduces you to the concepts that define the dynamics of structures and machines. There are two main topics: structural vibration and rigid body mechanics.  In structural vibration, you will learn how to apply the single degree of freedom model to analyse the free response of systems and their forced vibration when subjected to steady-state, impulse and arbitrary loading. Aspects of rigid body mechanics include the analysis of common mechanisms and the dynamics of rigid rotors including imbalance and gyroscopic precession.

10 credits

Mechanics of Deformable Solids

The module continues the process begun in the first year of providing the essential knowledge, understanding and skills associated with the mechanics of deformable solids which students require to become competent Chartered Mechanical Engineers. The module covers analysis of mechanical components under stress and application of different methods to evaluate stress state and deformation of deformable solids. Plastic failure is also covered.

10 credits

Design Project Part 1

This module brings together analytical, computational, and empirical approaches to the design and optimisation of structures and systems. This module also provides you with a basic introduction to electric circuits for mechanical engineers and the basics of electromechanical energy conversion, including common motor topologies. You will develop an understanding of how basic mechanical and electrical theory can be adapted and applied to industrial design situations. You will also develop knowledge and awareness of engineering in terms of being able to make decisions based on limited data and legal, ethical, and economic considerations.

20 credits

Accounting and Law for Engineers

The module is designed to introduce engineering students to key areas of accounting and legal risk that engineers should be aware of in their working environment. The module will draw directly on practical issues of budgeting, assessing financial risks and making financial decisions in the context of engineering projects and/or product development. At the same time, the module will develop students' understanding of the legal aspects of entering into contracts for the development and delivery of engineering projects and products, and enhance their awareness of environmental regulation, liability for negligence, intellectual property rights and the importance of data protection. Through a series of parallel running lectures in the two disciplines, the module will provide a working knowledge of the two areas and how they impinge on engineering practice.

10 credits

Semester 2

Computational and Numerical Methods

This module consolidates previous mathematical knowledge and develops new mathematical and numerical techniques relevant to Mechanical Engineering

10 credits

Heat Transfer

Heat transfer mechanisms are introduced. Heat conduction, convection and radiation are studied in this order. Techniques for analysing heat transfer problems are then covered. Two applications, heat exchangers and fins are analysed in detail. At the end of the module, students should be able to:
1. State the fundamental processes of heat transfer and apply them to real world systems.
2. Understand how heat is transferred by conduction, convection and radiation.
3. Solve a variety of fundamental and applied heat transfer problems.

10 credits

Materials Processing

This module provides an introduction to materials processing for mechanical engineers and places particular emphasis on the relationships between processing, microstructure and properties that are essential to defining and understanding the behaviour of a material under service conditions. The module covers all of the common classes of engineering material - ceramics, polymers, composites and metals - and you will, through the use of practical examples and case studies, learn about the strong dependence of final functional and structural properties on the processing route selected for processing and manufacture.

10 credits

Fluids Engineering

The module is designed to consolidate and extend the students' understanding of basic fluid flow properties, fluid flows and applying analysis techniques to solve engineering fluids problems. The module will cover the use of both integral control volume and differential analysis techniques. These will be applied to a range of simple engineering fluid systems;Newtonian laminar analysis will be applied to internal flows. The boundary layer will be introduced and related to the concepts of drag. The concepts of compressible nozzle flow, choking and shock waves will be covered. Sub-sonic and sonic compressible flow will be introduced. Students will also be introduced to the computational fluid dynamics using FLUENT and given hands-on experience.

10 credits

Design Project Part 2

This module builds upon Part I of the project in the Autumn semester. You will continue the thematic project in which the functional analysis and eventual synthesis are brought together. It will include legal, ethical, and economic considerations. This enables you to develop your skill in formulating analytical and computational models and evaluating them so as to develop an optimal design solution.

20 credits

Mechanical Engineering stream:

Integrity of Materials and Components

This module brings together knowledge gained of engineering science aspects of stress, deformation analysis, and material strength, and to apply them to engineering components. The module will broaden students' perspectives by introducing the 3D nature of stress, plastic analysis, fracture response and tribology. Practical aspects will be introduced through case studies and labs.

10 credits

Advanced Engineering Thermodynamic Cycles

The course will consolidate and expand upon the fundamental and general background to Thermofluids engineering developed during first and second year courses. This will be achieved through the study of more realistic systems, machines, devices as well as their application.

To introduce students to more realistic energy conversion and power production processes. Use of irreversibility to analyse plant. Introduction of reheat and heat recovery as methods of achieving improved efficiency. To look at total energy use by means of combined gas and steam and combined heat and power cycles and understand some of the environmental issues. A variety of refrigeration cycles will also be illustrated as well as the Otto and Diesel cycles.

10 credits

Manufacturing Systems

The aim of this module is to enable students to understand the concepts and practices used by modern manufacturing organisations. The modules starts with content on current trends in manufacturing processes (in particular high-speed machining and additive manufacturing). Students are then introduced to ways of designing and evaluating a manufacturing system as well as the relevant theories, concepts and methodologies of controlling and managing a manufacturing shop floor.

10 credits

Group Design Project

The module demonstrates the principles of engineering design by challenging students to provide a viable solution to one of a variety of engineering industrial problems. The problems undertaken by the students are varied and are proposed, and actively supported by, various internal and external stakeholders. Students work in groups to generate possible solutions to the problem and then concentrate individual effort on different aspects of the problem. Each group is mentored by a member of academic staff and by a representative of the stakeholder.

20 credits

Control Engineering for Mechanical Engineers

This module aims to introduce the student to the key components which are used to implement feedback control of a physical process: sensors, actuators and controllers. The student is introduced to these elements through the language of classical control systems modelling. Emphasis will be placed on electrical, mechanical and electro-mechanical systems but reference will be made to the much wider applicability of the techniques. An introduction to dynamic system modelling will also be included. Analysis methods (based upon the characteristic equation and the Bode diagram) will be used to demonstrate how performance can be defined, analysed, predicted, and designed.

10 credits

Structural Vibration

In this module we will explore how structures vibrate and how we can model them in order to understand and optimise their behaviour. We will look at how to model systems/structures mathematically as multi-degree of freedom systems and as continuous systems. The module will link theoretical models with experimental modal analysis, where our knowledge of the system is derived from measurements (such as accelerations). You will explore the fascinating world of dynamics through lectures and dedicated reading. The theoretical learning will be supported by two laboratory experiments to be carried out in groups. Your understanding of experimental modal analysis will be cemented by coding your own analysis tool and applying it to data gathered in the lab.

10 credits

Integrated Design Skills

The module aims to integrate the design and mechanical elements of the students' engineering learning of the previous two years by studying the integration of these components to design an automated solution to an engineering problem.

10 credits

Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad stream:

Study Year Abroad

Level 3 is spent abroad at Universities with leading Engineering Departments. These Universities are carefully chosen to offer comparable courses in mechanical engineering to those offered at Sheffield.

The following Level 3 Sheffield mandatory modules are matched with equivalent modules at the Host University: MEC302, MEC303, MEC304, MEC307, MEC321, MEC326, MEC333. The other modules are optional in Sheffield, and make-up the remainder of the 120 Sheffield equivalent credits.

120 credits

Mechanical Engineering with a Year in North America stream

Study Year in North America

The Level 3 year abroad is spent studying an agreed set of Mechanical Engineering modules at Universities with leading Engineering Departments either in the US or Canada. These modules are selected to mirror Sheffield modules at the same level and to build upon the knowledge and skills gained in the first two years of the MEng degree. Level 3 Autumn/Spring mandatory modules together with either MEC313 Finite Element Techniques or MEC320 Computational Fluid Dynamics, are matched with equivalent modules at the Host University. The other modules are optional as in Sheffield and make up the remainder of the 120 Sheffield equivalent credits

120 credits

Mechanical Engineering with Biomechanics

Integrity of Materials and Components

This module brings together knowledge gained of engineering science aspects of stress, deformation analysis, and material strength, and to apply them to engineering components. The module will broaden students' perspectives by introducing the 3D nature of stress, plastic analysis, fracture response and tribology. Practical aspects will be introduced through case studies and labs.

10 credits

Advanced Engineering Thermodynamic Cycles

The course will consolidate and expand upon the fundamental and general background to Thermofluids engineering developed during first and second year courses. This will be achieved through the study of more realistic systems, machines, devices as well as their application.

To introduce students to more realistic energy conversion and power production processes. Use of irreversibility to analyse plant. Introduction of reheat and heat recovery as methods of achieving improved efficiency. To look at total energy use by means of combined gas and steam and combined heat and power cycles and understand some of the environmental issues. A variety of refrigeration cycles will also be illustrated as well as the Otto and Diesel cycles.

10 credits

Group Design Project

The module demonstrates the principles of engineering design by challenging students to provide a viable solution to one of a variety of engineering industrial problems. The problems undertaken by the students are varied and are proposed, and actively supported by, various internal and external stakeholders. Students work in groups to generate possible solutions to the problem and then concentrate individual effort on different aspects of the problem. Each group is mentored by a member of academic staff and by a representative of the stakeholder.

20 credits

Advanced Mechanics of Solids

The module provides an introduction of advanced analytical techniques used for study of deformable solids, a general knowledge of the techniques employed and skills to perform analysis for selected solid components and structures. It aims to provide students with the following: the skills and confidence to perform advanced analysis of solid components and structures; the knowledge of selected advanced analysis techniques employed on the more common components and structures; and an understanding of the behaviour of solids under two or three dimensional stress fields, and the limitations imposed by assumptions and boundary conditions.

10 credits

Finite Element Techniques

The module aims to give students a thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles of the Finite Element Method. The approach will be based on energy methods (Principle of Minimum Total Potential Energy). Formulation of statics problems using 1D elements (bar elements, shaft elements, beam elements and beam-column elements), and truss elements will be taken up. Finally, a simple 2D element for plane stress/plane strain case will be formulated. Throughout the module, assembly, application of boundary conditions, and solution procedures will be discussed with examples. The students will be expected to apply this knowledge given a problem. The use of a commercial finite element code will be provided via laboratory sessions, where various modelling strategies, appreciation of the scope of application, check validity, and the ability to interpret results will be covered.

The fundamentals of the method and the ability to apply it to various situations will be tested via a written exam. The practical use of the commercial finite element software will be assessed via a mini-report. Feedback during the term will be provided via an online quiz.

10 credits

Computational Fluid Dynamics

The module introduces fundamental concepts of Computational Fluid Dynamics from the governing physical principles to their mathematical definition, approximation and numerical solution, with an emphasis on the importance of experimental and theoretical validation. The course explains the typical steps for a robust use of CFD analysis to predict the behaviour of complex fluid flows encountered in typical engineering applications, including turbulent flows. Students will consolidate their understanding by performing and critically assessing the results of a CFD analysis of a typical and industrially relevant fluid problem.

10 credits

Control Engineering for Mechanical Engineers

This module aims to introduce the student to the key components which are used to implement feedback control of a physical process: sensors, actuators and controllers. The student is introduced to these elements through the language of classical control systems modelling. Emphasis will be placed on electrical, mechanical and electro-mechanical systems but reference will be made to the much wider applicability of the techniques. An introduction to dynamic system modelling will also be included. Analysis methods (based upon the characteristic equation and the Bode diagram) will be used to demonstrate how performance can be defined, analysed, predicted, and designed.

10 credits

Anatomy and Physiology for Engineers

This module aims at providing students with an understanding of human physiological function from an engineering, specifically mechanical engineering, viewpoint. Introduction to human anatomy and physiology with a focus on learning fundamental concepts and applying engineering (mass transfer,fluid dynamics, mechanics, modelling) analysis.

10 credits

Fluid Biomechanics

This module introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of biomechanics and to apply the engineering principles to study biological systems. Emphasis will be made on areas of medicine and physiology where engineering techniques are particularly useful or where a clear need exists for an engineering approach. The module will focus on the fundamentals of biomedical fluid mechanics on the mechanical aspects of how living creatures move in the air or water.

10 credits

Integrated Design Skills

The module aims to integrate the design and mechanical elements of the students' engineering learning of the previous two years by studying the integration of these components to design an automated solution to an engineering problem.

10 credits

Aspects of Medical Imaging and Technology

This module provides an introduction to medical technology, with a particular bias towards ionising and non-ionising electromagnetic radiation and its diagnostic role in medicine. The module begins with the generation and behaviour of electromagnetic waves and the breadth of technological application across the electomagnetic spectrum. This extends from magnetic resonance imaging at low energies to high energy photons in X-ray systems. The importance of radiation in diagnosis is acknowledged by discussion of imaging theory and primary imaging modalities, such as planar radiography and CT. The therapeutic role is examined by a brief consideration of radiotherapy.

10 credits

Mechanical engineering only:

A student will take a minimum of 30 and a maximum of 40 credits from this group. 10 credits per module.

Advanced Mechanics of Solids

The module provides an introduction of advanced analytical techniques used for study of deformable solids, a general knowledge of the techniques employed and skills to perform analysis for selected solid components and structures. It aims to provide students with the following: the skills and confidence to perform advanced analysis of solid components and structures; the knowledge of selected advanced analysis techniques employed on the more common components and structures; and an understanding of the behaviour of solids under two or three dimensional stress fields, and the limitations imposed by assumptions and boundary conditions.

10 credits

Finite Element Techniques

The module aims to give students a thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles of the Finite Element Method. The approach will be based on energy methods (Principle of Minimum Total Potential Energy). Formulation of statics problems using 1D elements (bar elements, shaft elements, beam elements and beam-column elements), and truss elements will be taken up. Finally, a simple 2D element for plane stress/plane strain case will be formulated. Throughout the module, assembly, application of boundary conditions, and solution procedures will be discussed with examples. The students will be expected to apply this knowledge given a problem. The use of a commercial finite element code will be provided via laboratory sessions, where various modelling strategies, appreciation of the scope of application, check validity, and the ability to interpret results will be covered.

The fundamentals of the method and the ability to apply it to various situations will be tested via a written exam. The practical use of the commercial finite element software will be assessed via a mini-report. Feedback during the term will be provided via an online quiz.

10 credits

Computational Fluid Dynamics

The module introduces fundamental concepts of Computational Fluid Dynamics from the governing physical principles to their mathematical definition, approximation and numerical solution, with an emphasis on the importance of experimental and theoretical validation. The course explains the typical steps for a robust use of CFD analysis to predict the behaviour of complex fluid flows encountered in typical engineering applications, including turbulent flows. Students will consolidate their understanding by performing and critically assessing the results of a CFD analysis of a typical and industrially relevant fluid problem.

10 credits

Aero Propulsion

This module provides students with an understanding of principles of operation of gas turbines, pulse-jets, RAM-jets and solid and liquid fuelled rocket engines as applied to aero propulsion. The understanding is built upon fundamental thermodynamic and fluid mechanic analyses of components and systems for each propulsion method. Methods for improving efficiencies and increasing specific work output of components are also introduced as well as an introduction to combustion, losses and efficiencies.

10 credits

Mechanical Engineering only

A student will take up to 10 credits from this group. 10 credits per module

Robotic Systems

Robotics is having an increasing impact on society and the way we live. From advanced manufacturing to unmanned aerial systems and driverless cars this exciting area is presenting increasing technological challenges. This unit provides students with the advanced knowledge and understanding to apply control and systems engineering concepts to the field of robotics. The unit covers the theoretical foundations of manipulators and mobile robots, and reviews robotic systems with reference to their applications.

10 credits

Mathematics (Computational Methods)

10 credits

Renewable Energy

The module provides an introduction to some alternative energy technologies with emphasis on solar and wind energy. It aims to provide students with a fundamental appreciation of the potential and usable energy obtainable from the sun and wind; a general knowledge of wind turbine aerodynamics, wind turbine systems, photovoltaics and domestic photovoltaic systems.

10 credits

Mechanical Engineering stream, Mechanical Engineering with a Year in North America stream, and Mechanical Engineering with a Year Abroad stream:

Preparation for Practice

Preparation for Practice is a core module to support your transition into early-career graduate life. You will:
i. explore your professional responsibilities and values, and evidence them in your portfolio, alongside your strengths;
ii. learn to identify, prioritise, and respond to your areas for development in a professional context; and
iii. evidence commitment to your professional development by undertaking an independent development activity, such as skills training, experience, or career development work.
The aim is for you to leave with a strong profile as an engineering graduate, and a clear sense of how to work towards your next professional goal.

15 credits

MEng Individual Project

Each student will undertake an individual research project under the guidance of a member of academic staff. The project will permit students to demonstrate their organisational skills and initiative. During the project students will be expected to integrate and apply their learning obtained on the course. The technical components of a project may be experimental, theoretical, analytical or design based and most projects will require proficiency in a number of these. Assessment of the module is based upon conduct, submission of a thesis and the ability to present the findings of the project at a colloquium and viva.

45 credits

Mechanical Engineering with Biomechanics stream:

Preparation for Practice

Preparation for Practice is a core module to support your transition into early-career graduate life. You will:
i. explore your professional responsibilities and values, and evidence them in your portfolio, alongside your strengths;
ii. learn to identify, prioritise, and respond to your areas for development in a professional context; and
iii. evidence commitment to your professional development by undertaking an independent development activity, such as skills training, experience, or career development work.
The aim is for you to leave with a strong profile as an engineering graduate, and a clear sense of how to work towards your next professional goal.

15 credits

Computational Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal System

This module aims to provide you with an overview of the state-of-the-art approach for modelling the musculoskeletal system from a biomechanical point of view. The course starts with a brief review of vectors and tensors, followed by anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system. You will then be introduced to a range of modelling and experimental methods applied to a variety of bones and muscles. More specialised topics will be introduced towards the end of the course giving examples where biomechanical models can be used in various clinical applications.

15 credits

Introduction to Medical Device Regulation

Medical devices bring great benefit to patients, but it is essential to ensure that such devices are fit for purpose. This module explores the principles of regulation, and demonstrates how two of the world’s largest regulatory frameworks (European and American) reduce risks and ultimately benefit the patient, the user and the manufacturer. You will simulate companies operating in this area, and learn the roles of Quality Standards, CE Marking, Notified Bodies, Competent Authorities and other key agencies. You will develop appreciation for the changing regulatory landscape, with special attention to the emerging use of computational modelling in this context.

15 credits

Biomechanics of Human Movement

Biomechanics of human movement is the science concerned with the internal and external forces acting on the human body and the effects produced by these forces. This module will deal with both the kinematics (the branch of biomechanics of human movement entailing the study of movement from a geometrical point of view) and kinetics (the branch of biomechanics of human movement investigating what causes a body to move the way it does).

10 credits

MEng Individual Project

Each student will undertake an individual research project under the guidance of a member of academic staff. The project will permit students to demonstrate their organisational skills and initiative. During the project students will be expected to integrate and apply their learning obtained on the course. The technical components of a project may be experimental, theoretical, analytical or design based and most projects will require proficiency in a number of these. Assessment of the module is based upon conduct, submission of a thesis and the ability to present the findings of the project at a colloquium and viva.

45 credits

Cardiovascular Biomechanics

This module will enable student to apply fundamental engineering principles to analyse the physiology of the cardiovascular system. The module starts with a brief review of relevant theories in Fluid Mechanics, followed by anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system, including blood rheology and vessel tissue mechanics. Students will learn the cardiovascular anatomy using state-of-the-art Virtual Reality equipment. The second part gives students an overview of the modelling, analytical and experimental methods applied to several parts of the cardiovascular system. The final part will focus on more specialised topics, like the application of modelling techniques to investigate correlations with disease.

15 credits

Mechanical Engineering stream, Mechanical Engineering with a Year in North America stream, and Mechanical Engineering with a year abroad stream:

A student will take a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 45 credits from this group. 15 credits per module.
All modules take place in Autumn Semester, except Railway Engineering and Sustainable Transport which runs through the academic year.

Industrial Experimental Methods for Engineering Problems

The module aims to provide students with an understanding of how experimental techniques can be used to solve industrial engineering problems. The students will be introduced to the theory behind, and practice of, a range of measurement techniques, common to static and dynamic problems, through a combination of lectures and labs and tutorial sessions. Working in small groups the students will be tasked to design and execute a suitable experiment to address an industrially relevant problem; analysing data and making informed decisions within the context of the problem.

15 credits

Industrial Applications of Finite Element Analysis

The module aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of finite element modelling and its application to solve industrial engineering problems. A set of industry-relevant problems will be provided to students along with experimental results for model validation. Students will be allocated one of their preferred projects and will have to devise a modelling strategy to solve their particular problem. Knowledge will be drawn from lectures introducing the theory behind finite element modelling of dynamic problems for modal and transient analyses, non-linear problems including contact, material behaviour and large deformation as well as fracture.

15 credits

Fundamentals and Applications of Tribology

Many practicing engineers use tribology regularly without a true understanding of its importance and its role in engineering design. This module introduces fundamental science that explains surface phenomena of wear, friction and lubrication. Students learn through industrial case studies, techniques to assess a range of engineering and machine contacts, from bearings to hip joints and banana skins! Theoretical and practical techniques will cover contact mechanics, friction, wear and lubricant films in hydrodynamic and elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication regimes. Students will learn to evaluate failure mechanisms and compare key design features that can be used to diagnose failure as well as improve design.

15 credits

Railway Engineering and Sustainable Transport

Transition from undergraduate engineering to real-world application is the focus of Railway Engineering and Sustainable Transport. This module introduces the interdisciplinary field of railway transport through application of mechanical engineering in the context of creating a sustainable transport system. Linking engineering fundamentals to application in the rail industry it focuses on skills and expertise needed to make rail transport and its operation resilient to technological, demographic, economic, social and environmental change.

Evaluation and problem solving for rail transport issues provides context for developing widely applicable transferable skills. These include justification of engineering decisions through evaluation of data, and assessment of engineering's economic and social impacts. Themes are explored using a local field trip.

15 credits

Advanced Engineering Fluid Dynamics

The module introduces advanced subjects in fluid mechanics and focuses on the theory and applications of the fundamental physical laws governing fluid flows. The Navier-Stokes and the continuity equations are revisited and the energy and the general Scalar Transport Equations for fluid flows will be derived. Creeping flows, laminar/turbulent boundary layer flows, shock and expansion waves, drag rise and supersonic aerofoils, etc. will be discussed. A key skill developed is problem solving in the area of advanced fluid mechanics through how equations, models and boundary conditions may be adapted and simplified to describe a wide variety of engineering fluid flows.

15 credits

Advanced Dynamics

In this module we will explore how linear/nonlinear structures vibrate and how we can model them in order to understand and optimise their complex behaviour both analytically and numerically. We will uncover the behaviour of theoretical nonlinear models and we will explore and evaluate the fascinating world of advanced dynamics, random vibration, nonlinear systems and chaos through lectures and dedicated reading. We link advanced engineering with concepts from physics and maths that are of core importance in the new era of engineering, considering structures from light aerospace structures to offshore wind turbines and space shuttles. Furthermore, we will discover the world of Hamiltonian mechanics by capturing its fundamental physics. The learning will be supported by dedicated tutorial sessions.

15 credits

Additive Manufacturing - Principles and Applications

This module will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing), providing you with an insight into the technologies themselves, when and how they might be applied, and the broader economic, social and industrial context within which these techniques sit. Our aim is to provide you with an understanding of the underlying principles and considerations relevant to this area, so that you are able to apply this knowledge confidently and effectively during your future career.

15 credits

Mechanics and Applications of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies

In this course students are introduced to advanced conventional manufacturing processes including sheet/bulk metal forming and Machining operations and the relevant mechanics of the processes and materials deformation. Analytical modelling techniques are also introduced and their applications are explained in order to determine the deformation of materials under the applied loads. Fundamentals of deformation and relevant force calculations together with mechanics of machining in metallic materials will be covered as the secondary manufacturing operations. The module provides a greater range and depth of knowledge related to the deformation of materials and process analysis in primary and secondary manufacturing operations using theoretical and experimental learning methods. The students will be equipped with tools to analyse and design manufacturing operations utilising various manufacturing methods within a wider engineering context.

15 credits

Computational Biomechanics of Musculoskeletal System

This module aims to provide you with an overview of the state-of-the-art approach for modelling the musculoskeletal system from a biomechanical point of view. The course starts with a brief review of vectors and tensors, followed by anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system. You will then be introduced to a range of modelling and experimental methods applied to a variety of bones and muscles. More specialised topics will be introduced towards the end of the course giving examples where biomechanical models can be used in various clinical applications.

15 credits

Engineering Commercial Success: And making the world a better place!

Students work in interdisciplinary teams to create solutions to a real problem provided by a real customer. Typically the customer will be a member or members of the community e.g. children with disabilities, terminally ill people, etc. Student teams learn how to solicit needs from user interviews and go on to create (and where possible prototype) solutions that meet functional, commercial and social requirements. Teams pitch their concept and business start up proposals to an invited audience and assessors.

15 credits

Advanced Aerospace Propulsion Technology

This module enhances students' foundational knowledge by introducing a more specialist Level 7 understanding of major aero propulsion devices. For example, the rocket design will be mastered from the design lessons and innovations of the rockets of historical importance. The more in depth analysis of the alternative air breathing engines such as ramjet, scramjet, and synergistic air-breathing rocket engine will be investigated. Then the advanced gas turbine off-design performance will be analysed. The advanced gas turbine combustion will also be investigated. Finally, the recent explosive development of electric/hybrid propulsion and aircraft will be examined.

15 credits

Mechanical Engineering stream, Mechanical Engineering with a Year in North America stream, and Mechanical Engineering with a year abroad stream:

A student will also take a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 45 credits from this group. 15 credits per module.
All modules take place in Spring Semester.

Sustainable Engineering Design

This module aims to enable students to create designs which meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (environmental, social and economic). The module aims to engage students in a range of sustainable design tools through lectures, seminars and research in small groups. Group research is shared with other students through student led presentations. The development of sustainable design knowledge in this module culminates in a final multidisciplinary, group project, devising a plan to regenerate a local area sustainably. This will involve fieldwork to survey the site.

15 credits

Managing Innovation and Change in Engineering Contexts

This module introduces you to the importance of innovation in manufacturing and service organisations whose primary business activity is engineering and/or technology. Innovation management is introduced as the thoughtful combination of new product/process development and change management. Through case studies, theoretical frameworks, and tools you will come to understand innovation at multiple scales: international, national, regional, organisational and team, with particular emphasis on how organisations manage and exploit the commercial risks and opportunities inherent in innovation, and how project teams and engineers can respond to innovation challenges effectively. The module is aimed at engineering students of any discipline.

15 credits

Advanced Energy and Power

This module will introduce students to the rapidly changing landscape of conventional power generation. The course will provide a greater depth and range of specialist knowledge for advanced plant design for the future including carbon capture. This will provide a foundation for leadership and a wider appreciation of future conventional power station design. Students will become knowledgeable in the sources of pollutants and mitigation techniques employed by the industry and a wider appreciation of social and environmental considerations. The course will permit the students to engage in fundamental design of key components in power generation (burners, boilers) as well as in the simulation of carbon capture plant.

15 credits

Human Factors and User-Centred Design

The module is designed to give students an introduction to human factors and user-centred design and how they are used within the design process (alongside engineering analysis, manufacturing considerations, marketing etc.). The module concentrates on developing an understanding of how populations are characterised and how that influences design decisions. It gives an overview of the theory and practices surrounding design with humans before asking students to apply those theories in a series of case studies. The module gives students an opportunity to work within a team and learn from peers as they tackle the case studies.

15 credits

Cardiovascular Biomechanics

This module will enable student to apply fundamental engineering principles to analyse the physiology of the cardiovascular system. The module starts with a brief review of relevant theories in Fluid Mechanics, followed by anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system, including blood rheology and vessel tissue mechanics. Students will learn the cardiovascular anatomy using state-of-the-art Virtual Reality equipment. The second part gives students an overview of the modelling, analytical and experimental methods applied to several parts of the cardiovascular system. The final part will focus on more specialised topics, like the application of modelling techniques to investigate correlations with disease.

15 credits

Aviation Safety and Aeroelasticity

This module covers the area of engineering related to aeroelasticity and safety by means of analytical techniques and study cases. The students will develop a fundamental knowledge of aeroelasticity and its implications for aircraft design and operation and evaluate aircraft loading; be able to analyse different manoeuvres using heave/pitch aircraft models; and be able to calculate internal loads in different manoeuvres. The course will provide students with an understanding of aeroelastic phenomena including flutter and divergence. This course provides the methodology and techniques for prediction/detection of a number of aeroelastic effects.

15 credits

Mechanical Engineering stream, Mechanical Engineering with a Year in North America stream, and Mechanical Engineering with a year abroad stream:

A student will take a up to 15 from this group. 15 credits per module.
All modules take place in Spring Semester.

Industrial Automation

Industrial automation has become an important feature today, especially in this age of rapid production and high
precision. Knowledge and skill in this area has therefore become increasingly necessary. This module aims to give you the opportunity to interact directly with devices such as sensors and actuators through Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) and PC; gather, process and monitor data locally or at remote locations; configure the hardware and program the latest version of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) used in industries. You will have the opportunity to learn PID controllers and their applications in industry.

15 credits

Petroleum Engineering

This unit gives an overview of the current and future technology for the oil and gas industry. It includes the origins of petroleum and its refining, as well as introduction to biofuels. This module covers -the origins, types and quality of refinery feedstock and products;-detailed analysis of various sections of petroleum processing in refineries;-introduction to advanced topics in petrochemical engineering such as catalyst development, desulphurisation, pollution control and hydrogen production.-details on key biofuels and their strategic importance and the technological challenges of viable large scale production.

15 credits

Nuclear Reactor Engineering

The module provides a broad base introduction to the theory and practice of nuclear reactors for power production. This includes those aspects of physics which represent the source of nuclear energy and the factors governing its release, as well as the key issues involved in the critical operation of nuclear cores. The relation of the science underlying successful operation with the needs for fuel preparation and engineering designs is emphasised. The module aims to provide students with a clear grasp of those aspects relevant to the design and operation of nuclear reactors along with an understanding of the principles of reactor design. The module will cover the techniques used to prepare nuclear fuels and process spent fuel. Students will develop an understanding of the present and future roles of nuclear reactors in energy provision.

15 credits

Design and Manufacture of Composites

This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of both the design and manufacture of polymer composites and is presented in two sections. First, design of composites is taught via tutorials and practicals on classical laminate theory and ESAComp software. An extended series of worked examples provides students with the basic tools they need to design effective composite parts. Second, manufacture of composites is taught via lectures. Students will learn multiple routes for making composite parts alongside practical issues such as defects, machining/joints, failure, testing and NDT, repair and SMART composites.

10 credits

Materials for Energy Applications

This module aims to develop your understanding of materials (ferrous and non-ferrous alloys, ceramics, composites) used for energy generation.

15 credits