Introduction to Manufacture module (GA12005)
Learn about manufacturing processes, Lean Six Sigma, process selection, additive manufacturing, sustainable manufacturing and global manufacturing trends
This module introduces the core principles of manufacturing as applied to engineering design and production. You will cover the history and context of manufacturing, commonly used manufacturing processes, process selection, additive manufacturing and rapid tooling, sustainable manufacturing, automation and sensors.
In this module you will examine in depth the full life cycle of materials from raw state to consumer product and eventual disposal; appreciate the drivers and constraints of manufacturing industry in a wider context and select appropriate manufacturing methods for specific applications. This module is delivered as part of a Graduate Apprenticeship, with teaching taking place one day a week on the University's City Campus.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- Understand the life cycle of materials from raw state through manufacturing to consumer product.
- Understand the drivers and barriers of manufacturing in a wider global context.
- Understand the operation and capabilities of the most commonly used manufacturing processes, automation systems and sensing technologies.
- Evaluate current and future trends in manufacturing, including additive manufacturing, and the drive towards sustainability.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Differentiate between the various types of manufacturing enterprise, and why they are organised in specific ways.
- Appreciate the value of manufacturing industry, and its net value to the national and global economy
- Select appropriate manufacturing processes for specific applications based on affecting factors.
- Recognise the need for sustainability in all aspects of product design and manufacturing, in particular the ”6Rs” and the ”Circular Economy”
- Be able to analyse and predict future trends in manufacturing.
Assignments / assessments
Investigative Report 1 (40%)
- An individual investigative report (1,500 words) related to lecture material on manufacturing principles and processes. (Given in Week 1, Due Week 6)
Investigative Report 2 (40%)
- A second individual investigative report on a topic within automation technology. Given Week 6, due Week 12)
Online Tests (20%)
- Short ”quiz” exercises that examine your knowledge and understanding of the topics presented in the weekly lectures. (no more than 4 tests in the module)
This module does not have a final exam.
Teaching methods / timetable
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Overview of Manufacturing |
| 2 | Basic Manufacturing Processes |
| 3 | Process Selection Methods |
| 4 | Sustainable Manufacturing |
| 5 | Additive Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping |
| 6 | Global Manufacturing Strategy |
| 7 | Introduction to Automation |
| 8 | Reading Week |
| 9 | Sensors and Control: Part 1 |
| 10 | Sensors and Control: Part 2 |
| 11 | Reading Week |
| 12 | Manufacturing in the UK – A Reflection |