Unit information: Computer Based Modelling 4 in 2011/12

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Unit name Computer Based Modelling 4
Unit code MENGM1411
Credit points 10
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director Professor. Neild
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None
Co-requisites

None
School/department Department of Mechanical Engineering
Faculty Faculty of Engineering

Description including Unit Aims

This unit is made up of two parts: Computing and CAD.

Computing: This part of the course is in two elements. Firstly, the students will be introduced to Matlab through the use of self-guide workbooks and extended exercises problems within a supported-learning environment. The basic concepts of programming in Matlab, including loops, conditional statements, matrix manipulation, function definition and plotting will be covered. This is followed by an extended individual Matlab-based project, during which the student will develop a computer model of an engineering system. Examples of these included: traffic modelling and planetary motion. Supporting notes are provided.

CAD: This unit consists of an introductory lecture/tutorial followed by design exercises. The introductory tutorial will enable the students to be able to use CAD software and understand its capabilities. The design exercises will involve designing typical engineering components and fitting them together into an assembly and producing engineering drawings.

Aims:

Computing:

To understand how to develop a computer model of an engineering system using the Matlab programming package. To increase their ability and confidence in the development of programs to model physical systems.

CAD:

One aim is to introduce the student to CAD and current industrial practice in this area. A second aim is to make the student proficient in the use of one CAD package.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Computing:

By the end of the course the student should be able to; Use loops and conditional statements, define functions, display computational results graphically using the Matlab programming package.

In addition students will be able to develop Matlab models for engineering systems.

CAD:

  • A good understanding of geometric modelling.
  • A good understanding of product visualisation.
  • A good understanding of CAD tools such as assembly modelling.
  • Ability to use an industrial standard CAD system.

Teaching Information

  • The course will mainly be taught through self-study with supported-learning. There will be introductory lectures and laboratory classes to assist students with their projects and studies.
  • Computer-based Modelling: Introduction; One lecture followed by 3 laboratory sessions to assist with extended exercises. Project; 1 hour lecture followed by 8 laboratory sessions.
  • CAD: Introductory lecture followed by laboratory sessions using the Faculty CAD facilities.

Assessment Information

Computing: project assessment (50%)

CAD: project assessment (50%)

Reading and References

Computing:

  • A Guide to Matlab: For Beginners and Experienced Users, B.R. Hunt et al., Cambridge University Press, 2001
  • In addition, Matlab's on-line help is extensively used.

CAD:

  • CADCAM: principles, practice and manufacturing management, C.A. McMahon, & J. Browne, (Addison Wesley Longman), 1998.

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