Course description - Design

The aim of this unit is to investigate a number of major scientific principles that underpin the design and operation of engineering systems. It is a broad-based unit, covering both mechanical and electrical principles. It is intended to give an overview that will provide the basis for further study in specialist areas of engineering.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Analyse static engineering systems
2. Analyse dynamic engineering systems
3. Apply DC and AC theory
4. Investigate information and energy control systems.

Course description - Design

This unit develops the learner’s knowledge and understanding of the functions, structures and inter-relationships of an engineering business. It then enables the learner to develop and apply the skills of costing, financial planning and control associated with engineered products or services. Finally, this is brought together with the development of the fundamental concepts of project planning and scheduling that can be applied within an engineering organisation.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Manage work activities to achieve organisational objectives
2. Select and apply costing systems and techniques
3. Analyse the key functions of financial planning and control
4. Apply project planning and scheduling methods to a specified project.

Course description - Design

The aim of this unit is to give learners an opportunity to experience the process of carrying out a design project. It will enable them to appreciate that design involves synthesising parameters that will affect the design solution.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Prepare a design specification
2. Prepare a design report
3. Use computer-based technology in the design process.
   

Course description - Project

This unit develops learners’ ability to use the knowledge and skills they develop at work and/or on an engineering programme to complete a realistic work project. It also contributes, if appropriate, to the requirements of Engineering Applications theme 2.
The unit aims to integrate the skills and knowledge developed in other units of the course within a major piece of work that reflects the type of performance expected of a higher technician at work.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Select a project and agree specifications and procedures
2. Implement the project within agreed procedures and to specification
3. Evaluate the project
4. Present project outcome.
   

Course description - Design

The aim of this unit is to develop in learners a technical understanding of electrical power topics at both a component level and a system level.
The unit investigates three-phase systems, both balanced and unbalanced systems, and is best covered via the use of j-notation. Aspects of measurement of power in three-phase systems and faults such as the loss of the neutral, and single-phasing, are also covered.
Due to increased use of power electronics (eg in variable speed drives and computer power supplies) the effect of harmonics in power systems is becoming more important. This unit investigates the effects of harmonics and the use of harmonic filters.
The use of j-notation and circuit simulators to analyse common methods of power distribution in single-phase/balanced three-phase systems is included, as are aspects of economic comparison.
The polyphase induction machine is investigated from the viewpoint of starting methods, torque and control. The effect of load inertia on the dynamic response is also investigated.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Analyse three-phase systems
2. Investigate harmonics in power systems
3. Analyse methods of power distribution
4. Compare power systems and components from an economic viewpoint.