Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Faculty of Technology
MSc Mechatronics
Course Handbook
Academic Year 2015/2016
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDENT HANDBOOK ................................................................ 4
1
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
REGISTRY ....................................................................................................................... 45
July
August
September
Monday
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24 31
Tuesday
7 14 21 28
11 18 25
October
November
7 14 21 28
5 12 19 26
December
7
14 21 28
8 15 22 29
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24
15 22 29
9 16 23 30
7 14 21 28
11 18 25
16 23 30
9 16 23 30
Wednesday
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
Thursday
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
10
17 24 31
Friday
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
11
18 25
Saturday
11 18 25
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
12
19 26
Sunday
5 12 19 26
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
8 15 22 29
13 20 27
Week No.
PGrad
40 41 42 43
44 45 46 47 48
49 50 51 52
53 1
1
4
4
5
5
9
9
10 11 12 13
10 11 Xmas
11 18 25
11 18 25
11 18 25
March
2016
January
February
Monday
11 18 25
8 15 22 29
Tuesday
5 12 19 26
9 16 23
Wednesday
6 13 20 27
Thursday
3
3
April
7 14 21 28
8 15 22 29
3 10 17 24
7 14 21 28
11 18 25
2
2
6
6
7
7
8
8
May
June
9 16 23 30
13 20 27
5 12 19 26
3 10 17 24 31
14 21 28
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
11 18 25
15 22 29
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
5 12 19 26
16 23 30
Friday
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
11 18 25
8 15 22 29
6 13 20 27
10
17 24
Saturday
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
5 12 19 26
9 16 23 30
7 14 21 28
11
18 25
Sunday
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24
8 15 22 29
12
19 26
14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34
35 36 37 38
Week No.
PGrad
Xmas
12 13 14
Easter
9 10
11 12
Exams
Exams
2016
August
July
September
Monday
11 18 25
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
Tuesday
5 12 19 26
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
Wednesday
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
Thursday
7 14 21 28
11 18 25
8 15 22 29
University Closed
9 16 23 30
Bank Holiday
Friday
8 15 22 29
5 12 19 26
Saturday
9 16 23 30
6 13 20 27
3 10 17 24
Examinations
Sunday
3 10 17 24 31
7 14 21 28
Week No.
39 40 41 42 43
44 45 46 47
48 49 50 51 52
PGrad
9 10 11 12
13 14 15
Project
11 18 25
Individual Project
MSc Mechatronics
Programme Guide
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDENT HANDBOOK
We want to welcome you to the School of Engineering, Media and Sustainable Development and your
course and say that we are looking forward to working with you and we are sure that you will enjoy
your studies and make your own contribution to your course and its continued development. We
would like to think that you have an exciting and rewarding career ahead.
Our Masters degree is demanding and represents an intense period of work for you. But life and
education are not all work. Higher education is a total experience and we want you to enjoy University
life to the full. May we wish you well with your studies and take this opportunity to say that we are
always available if you think that we can help you in any way and look forward to getting to know you
during your stay at Leicester.
The mechatronics discipline represents the synergetic integration of Mechanical engineering,
electrical/electronic engineering and computing to enable the design of intelligent machines and
machine systems. Mechatronics is essential to the development of modern and competitive products
and industrial processes. Such engineering capabilities and skills are at a premium in the current
industrial scene. Mechatronics has a key role to play in nearly all advanced products and process
development with growing trend towards high quality improved functionality, greater customization,
enhanced ease of use and better reliability and safety at economic cost.
Typical Careers: Product Manager; Project Leader; Research Engineer; Systems Engineering; Product
Development Engineer. Typical employing industries include - Automotive, Aerospace, Automation
Systems, Hardware/ Software Developers to name only a few.
We hope you enjoy your time with us and find studying this field of knowledge an interesting and
rewarding experience.
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1
1.2
For further details of the regulations governing the operation of De Montfort University's
postgraduate programmes you should refer to the Taught Postgraduate Programmes, University
Regulations. [http://www.dmu.ac.uk/aboutdmu/policy/regulations/taught-postgrad/index.jsp]
Also available under the course information content area in the Courses Blackboard.
Programme Aims
The field of Mechatronics is recognised as a skill shortage area. Such skills will be critical to
the industrial and economic growth of industries in the Western World and developing
nations. Graduates from this course can expect enhanced technological skills, which will
improve their career prospects.
The course aims to take graduates from a single discipline background and develop them into
multidisciplinary engineers capable of working in the Mechatronic field, which will meet the
demand from industry to produce engineers who can operate in industry at the highest level.
The graduands from this course will attain broad base technological knowledge and skills to
integrate the engineering disciplines enabling them to design and develop integrated products
and systems.
The course will extend the students knowledge in advanced techniques to master's level. It
will provide knowledge of engineering and computing sciences, which constitute the
mechatronic discipline, develop the analytical skills and an understanding in the use of
specialist processes and equipment involved in product development. It will further develop
the graduates knowledge of the business environment.
1.3
The course aims to develop the student's ability to engage in research, which is principally
represented by the substantial individual project undertaken in the second and final semester.
Learning Outcomes
The student will be expected to have developed the following skills and knowledge from the
proposed programme:
Structure
The structure of the course conforms to De Montfort University Regulations for Taught
Postgraduate Programmes.
The course consists of 8x15 credits, level M modules of 150 hours per module of notional
learning time and a 60 credit, level M individual project of 600 hours notional learning time to
the master's award. Therefore, the full master's award has 1800 hours of notional learning
time and requires the accumulation of 180 credits.
There are no prerequisites for modules with the exception of the individual project that
requires the Research Methods module.
Master's award can be achieved by successfully 12 level M modules, eight taught and a project
equivalent of four modules, of 15 credits each leading to 180 credits.
Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) exit award can be achieved by successfully completing eight
Level M modules of 15 credits each, leading to 120 credits.
2.2
Post Graduate Certificate (PGC) exit award can be achieved by successfully completing four
Level M taught modules of 15 credits each, leading to 60 credits.
Full-time Structure
The full-time structure consists of two semesters of mainly taught modules. These modules
are delivered and studied at the rate of four modules per semester. The assessment
examination of the modules will be in weeks 13-15. The third semester is allocated to the
individual project. The three semesters are delivered in 45 weeks in one calendar year. Table
2.1 shows the full-time structure.
Module
Code
ENGT5101
ENGT5102
ENGT5103
ENGT5108
ENGT5201
ENGT5202
ENGT5203
ENGT5204
ENGT5301
Module Title
Electromechanics
Mechatronics Systems
Engineering
Engineering Business
Environment and
Energy Studies
Programming and
Software Engineering
Mechatronics Systems:
Dynamics and Control
Machine Vision,
Robotics and Flexible
Automation
Microprocessor
Applications and
Digital Signal
Processing
Research Methods
Individual Project
Credit
Level Semester Core Pre-requisites
Value
15
M
1
Yes
15
Yes
15
Yes
15
15
15
M
M
M
1
2
2
Yes
Yes
Yes
15
Yes
15
Yes
15
Yes
ENGT
5204
Semester 2
ENGT5103
Engineering Business
Environment and Energy
Studies
ENGT5102
Mechatronics Systems
Engineering
ENGT5202
Machine Vision, Robotics and
Flexible Automation
ENGT5203
Microprocessor Applications
and Digital Signal Processing
ENGT5201
Mechatronics Systems:
Dynamics and Control
ENGT5101
Electromechanics
ENGT5108
Programming and Software
Engineering
Semester 3
Summer
Optional
Placement
Year
ENGT5301
Individual
Project
ENGT5204
Research Methods
A Research Methods module will be introduced in the second semester, and the outcome will
be geared towards the individual Project, i.e. formulation of project plan and literature search.
The project modules in the third semester will form the major thrust for solving the
mechatronic problem.
The part-time mode of study is possible with a student attending on a day release basis and
studying modules as timetabled. The only constraints are that the student must normally study
a minimum of 30 credits per academic year and the Individual Project module must be the last
module studied for the master's exit award.
Year 1 (Monday)
Semester 1
ENGT5103
Engineering
Business
Environment
and Energy
ENGT5102
Mechatronics
Systems
Engineering
Semester 2
ENGT5202
Machine Vision,
Robotics and
Flexible
Automation
Year 2 (Friday)
Semester 3
(Summer)
Project
(planning)
ENGT5203
Microprocessor
Applications
and Digital
Signal
Processing
Semester 1
ENGT5101
Electromechanics
*ENGT5108
Programming
and Software
Engineering
(Wednesday,
distance learning
mode)
Semester 2
ENGT5201
Mechatronics
Systems:
Dynamics and
Control
*ENGT5204
Research
Methods
(Wednesday,
distance learning
mode)
Semester 3
(Summer)
ENGT5301
Individual
Project
(Must be
completed
within 12
months)
Note:
ENGT5108 and ENGT5204 are now on Wednesday; Part time students are advised to do these modules
via Distance Learning mode
The Industrial Placement is optional and you are advised to register early in your studies with
the Placement Unit on the ground floor of Gateway House. More information can be found at
2.3
The following members of academic staff have specialist interest in the listed subject areas:
Mechatronics Programme Leader
Mechanical Engineering
Programme Leader
Electronic Engineering
Programme Leader
Eengineering Manangement
Programme Leader
Dynamics and Control
Electronics
Instrumentation
Power Electronics
Programming & Software
Engineering
Systems and Control
Mechatronics
Signal Processing/Numerical
Method
Microprocessor Applications
Engineering Business
Environment / Lean Engineering
Robotics & Machine Vision
Design and CAD
Process /PLC/Control/Water
System
Bioengineering, Rapid
Prototyping
MEANT
Digital Electronics
Aerodynamics
Electromagnetics
Communication
Materials Science
Fluid and Thermodynamics
Dr Seng Chong
Haris Pancholi
Dr. John Gow
Dr Cristian Serdean
Haris Pancholi / Dr Keith Maycock
Tomasz Janus / Prof Bogumil Ulanicki
Adam Moroz
Project Co-ordinators
Dr Seng Chong / Haris Pancholi
http://www.dmu.ac.uk/about-dmu/academic-staff/full-listing-of-dmu-academic-staff.aspx
2.4
Module Information
The following pages give some outline information of the modules on this course. More detail
will be provided by the Module Leader at the start of the module, but this section should help
you understand what the modules aim to cover.
10
ENGT5101 Electromechanics
Lecturers
1.
2.
3.
4.
Module Characteristics
The module provides an insight into the fundamental theory and application underpinning
electronics, mechanics, and mechatronic systems engineering.
Learning Outcomes
a) Critically analyse the design processes and methodologies for electromechanics and apply
and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
b) Develop techniques to create solutions and apply a systems approach to novel engineering
problems related to electromechanics.
c) Apply electromagnetic and piezoelectric principals to current research and development in
electromechanical / microelectromechanical systems and their applications.
Learning and Teaching Strategies
This is essentially a broadening subject. The extent to which the material is novel or
reinforcement will depend upon the background of the individual student. The integrative
treatment of the material will vary to take into account the student needs.
Lectures together with examples and exercises will be the vehicle for information delivery for
this module. Prior intelligence has shown that this is the most efficient strategy for delivery of
the module. Use of libraries, the Internet and other sources are available to enhance the
student learning experience.
Module Content
i) Electronics:
Review of Principles of Electronics
Transistors, Thyristors, Diodes, Simple circuit analysis
Operational Amplifiers, Active Filters
Sensors and encoders
Combinational logic: Boolean algebra, Logic gates, Karnaugh maps
Sequential logic: Flip Flops, Registers, Counters
Microcontroller and applications
ii) Mechanics:
Dynamics: Work, Energy, Power
Friction and Screw threads
Belt Drives: High speed and Low speed
Clutches and Torque, Energy Conversion
Geared Systems: Fixed centred gear, Epicyclic gear
Vibrations: Free, Damped, Forced
Motion Control
Model based design
Industry 4.0
11
5.
Assessment
Assessment
Method
Examination
Coursework
6.
Duration of
assessment
Unseen Exam
Coursework
Assessment
Weighting
3 hours
Assessment
Weighting
70%
30%
%
Threshold
50%
12
1.
2.
3.
4.
Module Characteristics
The module will introduce the students to Mechatronic philosophies of Design. It will provide
the basic tools and the rules for analysis of systems together with integrated design concepts
and evaluation techniques. It also exposes the student to rational assessment of a range of
studies of Mechatronic System design.
Learning Outcomes
a) Develop the analytical and critical appraisal skill set necessary to embark on new design
problems.
b) Have a better understanding of the integration between the engineering disciplines and be
able to develop and apply cross-discipline skills.
c) Be able to understand, analyze and design control theory for given systems. Be able to
design control for common systems
d) Develop transferrable skills associated with team/ group work to a deeper level
Learning and Teaching Strategies
Learning strategy will be based on Lectures and tutorials for the dissemination of knowledge,
information and the demonstration of and the use of software.
Student centred learning via assignments and coursework will expose the student to applied
research, presentation of findings, report writing. This will develop the skills and
understanding of the students.
Module Content
i) Systems Techniques:
Representation of Systems: Definition of a System; Systems Components,
mathematical modelling; Method of representation
Analysis methods: Laplace transform; Transfer Functions and Block diagrams
Systems Behaviour: Transient Response; Frequency response; Open & Closed Loop
Systems
Organisations: Data Flow diagnostic; Design of Experiments
State Space Methods: State Variable Diagrams; General State Equations
ii) Design:
Organisation: Principle of Total Design and Integration of Discipline
Methodology: Design Process, Decision making processes. QA systems
Management: Communication; Models, Computational Methods and CAD
13
5.
Assessment
Assessment
Method
Coursework
6.
Component Type
Coursework 1
Assessment
Descriptor
Individual
Assignment
Group
Coursework 2
Assignment
Reassessment will be by failed component.
Assessment
Weighting
50%
50%
%
Threshold
50%
14
2.
Module Characteristics
The module will provide an awareness of the commercial environment and the need for
operational efficiency within manufacturing businesses. It will provide a thorough
understanding of lean 6-sigma practices and their limitations, and an appreciation of new
developments in the field of operations planning.
In addition, the use of sustainable approaches to production will be examined.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module the student will be able to:
Student centred learning via applied research and presentation of findings, laboratory report
writing and practical exercises for the development of professional engineering skills.
15
4.
Module Content
i) Financial & Performance Management traditional and modern methods
involving:
Manufacturing cost structures, costing methods, cost types (recurring, non-recurring).
Effects of manufacturing volumes & learning curves, engineering economic analysis;
Profit & loss accounts, balance sheets, marginal costing. Budgeting, cash flow
statements, depreciation, taxes, interest & inflation; Economic cost analysis of a
product and process using traditional methods, using performance measures such as
accounting ratios and profitability analysis; Costing methods for inventory
management, capital cost estimating. Accounting methods for inventory management,
economic evaluation of manufacturing systems, capital payback analysis, financial
justification
Operations & Project Management planning and control, finite capacity scheduling,
critical path analysis, flow processing systems, discrete event simulation, supply chain
resource planning. Enterprise Resource Planning works order processing, materials
requirements planning, sales order processing,
Problem solving with engineering manufacturing environments which consider
production and engineering efficiencies, safety, limitations and governmental
regulations.
Quality Management & Control total quality management, statistical process control.
Lean & 6-Sigma Principles, Systems and Facilitation waste reduction, Kaizen
exercises, management of continuous improvement
Roles and functions of personnel within commercial engineering and manufacturing
organisations.
ii) Sustainable production issues and management approaches
The nature of sustainable development strategies and current practice, Key steps in
starting, managing and improving sustainable development strategies, Analysis of and
for sustainable development, Participation for sustainable development,
Environmental impacts of engineering practices and minimisation of such impacts.
Information, education and communications, Strategy decision-making frameworks
and procedures, Sustainability Requirements as Core Criteria for Evaluations and
Decisions, Trade-offs: Facing Conflict and Compromise, Processes:
Designing and Using Sustainability Assessment Processes, Implementation:
Sustainability Assessment Applications and Implications, The financial basis for
environmental strategies, Monitoring and evaluation systems, Environmental Life
Cycle Analysis, carbon modelling and economics.
5.
Assessment
Assessment Method
Component Type
Coursework
Coursework
Examination
Unseen Exam
16
Duration of
assessment
3 hours
Assessment
Weighting
70%
30%
%
Threshold
50%
6.
17
Dr. Ian Sexton - sexton@dmu.ac.uk; 0116 257 7498; Queens Building Q2.31
Module Characteristics
As data processing systems grow in complexity, it becomes increasingly important to adopt an
efficient engineering approach to the production of software if time, cost and quality
requirements are to be met.
2.
3.
Although a particular langauge and APIs may be used, e.g. C++ and the STL (Standard Template
Library), Jave and its APIs, etc., the concepts will be applicable across a range of languages,
e.g.C++, Java, Python, Ruby, Matlab and its toolkits, embedded C and peripheral and signal
processing APIs, etc.
Learning Outcomes
The students should be able to:
a) Have theoretical and practical knowledge in programming in an object-oriented lanaguage
with experience in using and developing object libraries and applying object oriented
design to solve different classes of problems associated with the MSc programme as a
whole. Implementing these tasks should be at a professional or equivalent level.
b) Critically analyse up to date programming methodologies, and be able to independantly
show reponsibility and accountability when choosing a development platform as well as
constructing new theories.
Learning and Teaching Strategies
Formal lecturing with appropriate demonstrations together with practical programming
classes using a PC laboratory.
The subject matter requires a 'hands-on' approach in order to be of value to the students.
In addition to staffed lab sessions, students are encouraged to continue in their own time using
any of the computing facilities available to them in the Faculty and beyond. Many of the
students are expected to have their own PC at home were they can continue their study.
The following points should also be noted:
a) Some students undertaking this module will have significant work-based experience as
programmers. The module is therefore of value in consolidating their practical
knowledge in terms of an academic framework.
b) The entire module is available on the Web and students are directed to the numerous
Web based materials associated with this module. Students are also instructed on the
compilers and software available on the Web.
c) Open learning approaches are related to the extensive module notes and
supplementary material that is issued to students and the exercises they are expected
to perform.
d) Tutoring takes place mainly during the lab sessions, when the module leader has time
to discuss problems with students on an individual basis.
e) Independent learning is based on lecture notes that are issued to students at the start
of the module.
f) Weekly Seminars are held which are on a variety of subjects related to the programme
as a whole.
18
4.
Module Content
Basic software system concepts: analysis, design, implementation and testing
Use of APIs (application program interfaces), i.e. Data structures, their limitations and
application., e.g. arrays, vectors, hashtables, etc.
5.
Assessment
Method
Programming &
Software
Engineering
Coursework
6.
Component
Type
Course
Work
Assessment
Descriptor
Submission of
solutions of
programming
exercises
Assessment
Weighting
100%
%
Threshold
50%
19
2.
Module Characteristics
This is an advanced level dynamics and control module which covers topics such as: analysis of
linear systems, introduction to dynamics of nonlinear system, modal analysis and
identification of system models, control design techniques for state-space representation and
advanced topics for SISO systems. The module is supported by Matlab tutorials and laboratory
experiments concerned with computer control of typical mechanical system.
The module intends to develop student ability to critically analyse engineering problems
involving dynamics and control issues and to further develop his/her experimental and
theoretical skills.
3.
Learning Outcomes
a) Systematic understanding of dynamics and control
b) Demonstrate originality of the application of knowledge to solving practical dynamics and
control problems
c) Be able to deal with complex issues of systems modelling and active control systematically
and creatively
d) Demonstrate self-direction and originality, act autonomously when problems in dynamics
and control are formulated and solved
4.
Student centred learning via applied research and presentation of findings, laboratory report
writing and practical exercises for the development of professional engineering skills.
Module Content
i) Dynamics
Mathematical modelling and dynamics analysis of multi-degree of freedom mechanical
systems. Vibration excitation and measurement. Identification of system parameters.
Modal analysis and testing.
ii) Control
Modelling engineering systems of diffrent physical nature
Modern control design techniques (pole placement techniques, state estimation, etc.)
20
5.
Assessment
Assessment Method
Assessment:
Outcomes: 1,2
6.
Component
Type
Unseen
Examination
Duration of
assessment
3 hours
Assessment:
Other
Outcomes: 1
Coursework 1
Reassessment will be by failed component.
Assessment
Weighting
70%
30%
%
Threshold
50%
21
2.
Module Characteristics
The module will provide both conceptual and detailed knowledge in the area of robotics,
machine vision and flexible automation. The module builds upon the fundamental philosophy
of Mechatronics in the context of mobile, industrial and intelligent robotics technologies. The
module will develop techniques and present applications of the technologies.
3.
Learning Outcomes
a) Systematic understanding of dynamics and control
b) Demonstrate originality of the application of knowledge to solving practical dynamics and
control problems
c) Be able to deal with complex issues of systems modelling and active control systematically
and creatively
d) Demonstrate self-direction and originality, act autonomously when problems in dynamics
and control are formulated and solved
4.
Student centred learning via applied research and presentation of findings, laboratory report
writing and practical exercises for the development of professional engineering skills.
Module Content
The module will be broadly segmented into two components, namely (i) Machine Vision, and
(ii) Flexible Automation and Robotics.
i)
Machine Vision:
Camera Systems
Image Operations
Colour / 3-D Imaging
Processors and Pattern Recognition
Vision Systems
Integration of vision systems with other plant automation
Advanced applications of machine vision
22
5.
Assessment
Assessment Component
Method
Type
Examination
6.
Unseen
exam
Assessment
Descriptor
Machine
Vision and
Robotics
Duration of
assessment
3 hours
Assessment
Weighting
100%
%
Threshold
50%
Normally a resit examination will form the reassessment requirements, or a task deemed to be
equivalent by the course management team.
23
2.
Module Characteristics
To provide the student with adequate knowledge for the application of a microprocessor
system, aimed at single chip embedded solutions as being appropriate to a product orientated
treatment.
3.
Learning Outcomes
a) Analytical and experimental adeptness in selected topics of Microcontrollers and digital
signal processors.
b) Proficiency in the use of a DSP processor and/or a Microprocessors and its software for
study and design of a mechatronics or a multimedia communications engineering system.
c) Ability to critically evaluate and interpret results generated by microcontroller/DSP
software.
4.
Student centred learning via applied research and presentation of findings, laboratory report
writing and practical exercises for the development of professional engineering skills.
Software
Design of Software using structured approaches, High and Low Level Languages
Assemblers and Compilers, Hardware Development tools including In-circuit Emulators,
Techniques
Input/Output Programming, Port and Peripheral Accessing, Masking
Systems
Distributed systems, Multitasking, Multiprocessor Systems, Parallel Processing
Signal Processing:
Mathematical transforms: Fourier transform; Laplace transform; z transform; Discrete
Fourier transform; Fast Fourier transform.
Time-domain analysis. Impulse description of signals. Impulse response of a system.
Convolution. Difference equations. Frequency-domain analysis. Fourier series
continuous and discrete. Fourier transform continuous and discrete. Z-transform. Poles
and zeros in s-plane and z-plane.
Design of digital filters.
Implementation styles of DSP's: pipelining and parallelism, dedicated digital signal
processors, systolic arrays.
Performance assessment of digital signal processors: Power consumption, Hardware cost
and throughput rate.
Programmable DSP's, Harvard architecture, RISC, SIMD and MIMD machines.
Case study: Comparison between FFT and DFT implementation using dedicated and
programmable DSPs
24
5.
Assessment
Assessment
Method
Coursework
6.
Component
Type
Assignment
Assessment
Weighting
100%
%
Threshold
50%
25
2.
3.
4.
Module Characteristics
The module will introduce the fundamental elements of research methods in an engineering
context. The vehicle for its delivery will be preparation for the individual research project
through undertaking lectures, seminars and assignments that introduce and develop the
concepts, organisational structure and deliverables of a research project.
Learning Outcomes
a) Formulate and present a research project outline indicating the problem to be investigated,
the methodology to be employed and the anticipated outcomes.
b) Appraise a range of different approaches, which may be adopted at various stages within a
research project taking into account factors such as the project length, constraints and the
purpose of the project.
c) Formulate a design specification that will define the design boundaries and constraints and
act as the blue print for the project realisation.
d) Undertake a literature review and produce a critical appraisal of this literature relevant to
their research project making appropriate use of citations and reference material.
e) Present their research findings in a technical presentation in a coherent and concise
manner to an informed but non-specialist audience; and in a written form applying
appropriate conventions for both a detailed project thesis and in a technical research
paper.
Learning and Teaching Strategies
Staff directed learning via lectures, tutorials, seminars and laboratory exercises for the
dissemination of knowledge, information and the demonstration and use of software packages.
Student centred learning via applied research and presentation of findings, report writing,
assignments, practice and practical exercises for the development of skills and understanding.
Module Content
The nature and purpose of research
Formulating a project brief and development of a research programme
Information retrieval methods and techniques
Conducting a literature review; data sources & collection; referencing and citation
Problem solving and risk analysis
Planning and organisation of a research project
Formulating a design specification for a research project
Performing experiments and organising data
Quantitative results analysis / Qualitative results analysis
Presentation of results to an audience(orally, written and visually)
Producing technical research thesis and technical research papers.
26
5.
Assessment
Assessment Method
Component
Type
Assessment
Weighting
%
Threshold
Coursework
100%
50%
27
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Module Characteristics
The module aims to introduce the student to the discipline of conducting a research project to
be carried out in a restricted time frame. It will involve organisation, design, application,
analysis and presentation.
Learning Outcomes
The students should be able to:
a) Apply the knowledge gained from the modules already studied to identify an area of
suitable research within the field.
b) Conduct appropriate self directed research and obtain a deeper and broader knowledge of
the chosen research. Demonstrate autonomy in planning and executing the project.
c) Demonstrate a critical awareness of current problems in the specific field of the project
and how established research and interpretive techiniques are used, applying these to
typical project scenarios for decision making in light of poor or incomplete information.
d) Critically evaluate the effectiveness of the application of research methods in producing an
engineering solution to a design brief (thus applying relevant design, analysis,
implementation and evaluation skills and techniques).
e) Present the work in written and oral form and be subject to a critical review.
Module Content
Planning and organisation of reseach project (research methodology, resource
requirements and Gant chart)
Review of literature and state of the art
Formulation of system requirements
System specification and design including the system components
Analysis and design verification using system modelling / simulation
Prototyping / fabrication of the system / device
Formulation of an experimental methodology and techniques (data collection, test
procedures, analytical methods)
System testing and analysis of results
Preparation of a research thesis (presentation of findings and critical evaluation of the
work)
Project presentation to project evaluation panel, other academic staff and peers.
Assessment
Assessment Method
Component Type
Oral
Presentations
Typically a dissertation of
10000 words and
Written
Assignment
Assessment
Weighting
90%
10%
%
Threshold
50%
The final written report will require re-submission if deemed to have failed to reach
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6.
Project deliverables:
End week 3 = project plan
End week 12 = draft report for supervisor
End week 15 = full report plus presentation
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Module characteristics
This module forms the optional placement of all master's programmes in CSE. The optional
placement is for 12 months duration and is started after the student has completed the taught
part of their MSc, that is usually in May. After completion of the placement students return to
begin their dissertation.
A placement cannot be taken after completion of the dissertation.
Learning outcomes
The purpose of the placement is to expose students to real problems in the professional world,
to allow them to gain valuable work experience and to help them see some of the theoretical
principles from the taught element of the programme in a practical setting.
a) Critically review the engineering practices used within the placement organisation and
compare these to state-of-art practices.
b) Undertake product and/or process development activities that involve formulating and
using engineering methods to critically evaluate and make value judgments concerning the
further engineering development of the product and/or process.
c) Critically analyse engineering research and development outputs in terms of their cost and
production efficiencies, health and safety effects, environmental effects and governmental
regulations.
d) Develop a project plan for managing an engineering-based research and development
project, making use of limited and contradictory information and critical engineering value
judgments.
Teaching and learning strategies
The student will be visited, normally on two occasions by a visiting tutor (a member of
academic staff from DMU). The visiting tutor's role is specified by the Industrial Placement
Unit and includes ensuring that the student is fruitfully engaged on work of an appropriate
standard and is meeting the reasonable expectations of his/her employer. The tutor also acts
as a first point of contact for the employer if they are in any way concerned about the
performance/aptitude of the student.
Key Skills
It is expected that a range of key skills will be acquired during the placement year. These may
include team working, technical expertise, time management, report writing and presentation
skills.
Module syllabus
As each placement will be unique and the work relevant to the employers core business, this
information is not generally applicable to all placements.
Assessment
The student will be required to submit a 3000 word assignment. The topic will be decided
between the student and visiting tutor. It may be a project or study related to the student's
work experience but falling outside the normal work profile. It could also be an analytic
review of the experience gained in the work placement.
30
3.1
The project is a major part of the MSc programme (credited as 4 modules - 60 credits) which
maybe undertaken in industry or be part of ongoing research at De Montfort University. The
module Research Methodology develops the tools and techniques necessary to engage in a
masters level project. In addition, it is used as a tool to develop the brief and carry out
background research for the individual project itself.
Aims
The project will be a self-contained piece of work of greater depth than could be
accommodated within the taught modules. Ideally the project should encompass many aspects
of the taught modules.
The postgraduate nature of the project should be evident from the overall higher standard
compared with an undergraduate project. This will be reflected in the depth of the analysis and
critical review, the insight required and in the complexity of the task undertaken.
The benchmark for determining the degree of success of a project will normally be whether or
not the project and its report can form the basis for a publishable academic paper.
3.2
An academic member of staff with knowledge of the subject area will supervise each project.
The Project Management Panel will comprise the Academic Supervisor, the Individual Project
Module Leader and, where appropriate, an Industrial Supervisor. The purpose of the Project
Management Panel is to oversee the management and progress of the project. Students will be
expected to submit a written progress report at every meeting. The outline project schedule
(with appropriate dates for full-time students) is:
In discussion with the Individual Project Module Leader, students will select a project
during the Research Methods module. The Individual Project Module Leader is the
person charged with the responsibility of the day-to-day management of the project
exercise for the whole cohort of students and to vet all project briefs to ensure uniformity
of standard, suitability of the subject area and appropriate intellectual challenge. The
Programme Leader will also check the suitability of all individual projects.
An academic supervisor with knowledge of the subject area will be appointed. The
academic supervisor has a prime responsibility for the progress of the project and to
advise and guide the student through the project exercise from the start of the project
period to the production of the dissertation and its oral presentation.
Where appropriate, an industrial supervisor will be appointed at the students place of
work, to provide local support, expertise and guidance for the student. The industrial
supervisor will function in collaboration and consultation with the academic supervisor.
At the end of the first week of the project period, students will have produced a project
specification and plan of work.
Students will work full time on their projects and follow the agreed plan of work.
During the project, students will be expected to meet the Academic Supervisor normally at
least once per week if the project is University based or at least once a month, if industry
based, in addition to any industrial supervision. In exceptional circumstances, such as
overseas placement, alternative arrangements will be made.
Written project reports should normally be handed in by the final day of the project
period.
Formal presentations should normally take place at the project conference to be held at De
Montfort University during the final week of the project period.
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3.3
The assessment of a project will take into account a range of factors including the students
approach as evidenced by performance at Programme Management Panels, quality of
literature search and critical review, effectiveness of proposed or implemented solutions, the
quality of the project report and the standard of presentation.
Projects for part-time students will be normally related to the students employment, which
would be carried out as part of the students normal duties, i.e. a task or tasks which would
have been carried out anyway but which can now be improved using the new skills and
knowledge, and augmented by setting it in its research context, appropriate for an advanced
Masters project.
3.4
Some students may have difficulty finding suitable projects due to their working environment
or their current workload. In such circumstances flexibility will be shown when selecting a
project. In the last resort a project can be carried out in the student's own time.
Project Assessment
Project Assessment Criteria
A project should draw upon the knowledge base and skills acquired in the taught modules;
should demonstrate the integrative nature embodied in the Rapid Product development field
and demonstrate design ability at the conceptual and practical levels.
The academic supervisor will be the first reader of the dissertation and will mark the project.
A second reader, who is not a member of the Project Management Panel will be appointed by
the Individual Project Module Leader to second mark the work to ensure uniformity of
standards and assessment.
Project Report
The quality of this report is a major consideration since it is where the student displays his/her
understanding of the problem tackled, the solutions offered, and a critical evaluation of his/her
achievements. Examiners look for
Evidence of sufficient reading enabling the student to fully understand the conceptual
context of the project and any related work which has been done
Originality, a readiness to confront issues, and tenacity in dealing with them
Sensibly ordered presentation of material which reads as the development of a coherent
argument
Sensible distribution of emphasis (so that unimportant details are not given too much
discussion and difficult issues are addressed in full)
Quality of English/readability
A critical evaluation of the project in terms both of the results produced and the
methodology adopted
32
Oral Presentation
Students are expected to make short presentations of their projects; its problems and its
approaches. Examiners will look for:
33
Delivery
4.2
Teaching Methods
The course occupies three 15-week semesters in one calendar year. Delivery of the eight
taught modules will be during the first two semesters. The modules are delivered in parallel,
normally over a 12-week period. The remaining three weeks are for assessments and
examinations.
The teaching methods used during the taught modules may consist of the following:-
Lectures
Teaching on the course is carried out in a variety of ways; by formal or interactive lectures,
problem solving tutorials, discussion groups, laboratory sessions, text based learning and directed
reading. For tutorials and laboratory based sessions smaller groups than for lectures are used.
In each module tutorial/laboratory seminar work may be set to be completed partly in tutorial
periods and practical classes but also in private study time. This is regarded as an essential part of
the learning process and students are expected to complete most, if not all of the work set.
Time-tabled class hours will amount to approximately 16 hours per week. Much of the work you
will be expected to do will be "self directed study" and you will be expected to devote a
considerable amount of your out of class time to further study. In addition students are
encouraged to devote time to wider reading directly related to lecture, tutorial and coursework
material. It is important that you do this, as it will affect your performance on the programme. The
library has a good stock of appropriate texts and reading lists are provided for each module.
The teaching methods associated with a subject area are indicated on each Module Template.
However, it is intended that a flexible approach to teaching will be adopted in order to encourage
alternative learning methods and self-directed study. It is not intended that a rigid structure be
imposed on individual lecturers.
A general definition of the formal contact time is as follows:
Lecture: A period, generally not more than one hour, when information and ideas are given,
concepts and principles are developed and intellectual skills are illustrated to a group of students
in a formal manner by a lecturer.
Tutorial: A period in which students will have an opportunity to discuss problems arising out of
work already introduced in the lectures. Such problems might include either more detailed
analysis of a given topic, or difficulties which have arisen in assignments issued in advance of the
class. The student groups will be small.
Further tutorial help, on an individual basis, is available as required.
Laboratory: A period when practical work using specialist equipment is employed to develop
competence in experimental or special techniques.
4.3
Formal contact is the time prescribed for regular meeting of student and staff. Further study by
the student will be necessary in order to satisfactorily complete the course, but the amount of
time is dependent of the student's ability and motivation. The formal contact specified in this
document has been found to give a satisfactory balance for this type of course.
The formal regulations governing your studies at De Montfort University are embodied in the
Examination rules and progression requirements given in De Montfort University Regulations on
34
http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/academic-support-office/studentregulations.aspx
Attendance
Although the regulations for the award of your degree make no formal attendance requirement
we expect you to treat formal contact time as full- time employment. Clearly, practical work,
which is a major constituent of your degree, which is formally assessed, cannot be undertaken
without attendance.
If you need to miss formal class contact for any reason you should ask permission of the lecturer
concerned, or the Programme Leader. Absence for illness should be self certified or certified by a
medical practitioner.
You must not be absent yourself from formal tests or examinations without prior permission of
the Programme Leader. If you miss a formal test due to illness you MUST obtain a certificate from
a medical practitioner, valid for the time of the test. Self-certification is NOT acceptable in this
case. An Extenuating Circumstances form should be submitted to the Subject Authority Board
(SAB) concerned.
Submission of Coursework
Assignments, laboratory reports and project work is normally handed in at the Student Support
Centre in Gateway House, and a receipt obtained.
Most coursework including project reports will also be required to be submitted via the use of
TurnitinUK through Blackboard as a tool to check the originality of your work. For more
information, visit Using TurnitinUK in Blackboard to submit your work:
http://www.library.dmu.ac.uk/Support/Justask/index.php?page=175&faqcategory=14
Submission Deadlines
All coursework MUST be submitted by the lecturer's published deadline date. Make sure that you
are aware of that date and the penalties for missing the deadline.
Students should also be aware that the limit for extended deadlines on coursework is two weeks
before the date of the relevant assessment board (to enable work to be marked in advance of the
meeting and included within a sample for consideration by external examiners). A schedule of
dates will be published annually for students' information.
All applications for extensions of more than two weeks on coursework deadlines or deferral of
assessment should be submitted to the Chair of the Postgraduate Programme Board for
consideration. The Board Chair will consider the grounds on which the extension/deferral is
requested. The Chair will work within the criteria set down by the Academic Board Panel and may
also have regard for possible wider issues about the student's health and welfare.
The Chair will determine whether the extenuating circumstances provide sufficient grounds for
the student to be granted either an extension or a deferral or both. In certain severe cases, it is
anticipated that students may be eligible for a deferral but that an extension would be of more
benefit. In such cases students may be advised that the deferral has been approved but that, if
their work can be submitted by the ultimate limit for extensions (2 weeks before the assessment
board), it will be marked and the mark received at the board. Both Board Chairs and students
should be permitted to exercise judgment in the given circumstances as to which form of support
(extension or deferral) is likely to be of most benefit.
Module leaders will not approve extensions of coursework of two weeks if the resulting deadline
would extend beyond the ultimate limit and potentially delay the presentation of the mark. It is
the module leader's responsibility to report all marks in good time before boards and to alert the
Board Chair about requests for a two week extension late in the semester. In these cases, the
Board Chair may be empowered by the Board to take executive action to approve late results
arising from this form of extension, subject to their inclusion in the external examining
procedures.
Board Chairs are empowered to reach a decision on individual applications submitted throughout
the semester and the need for a prompt decision may be critical. Board Chairs should therefore
consider all cases and involve the Secretary to the Board so that a formal record can be compiled.
The standard penalties to be applied in the case of work submitted after the normal deadline
without authorization are:
up to seven actual days after the normal submission deadline: 50% cap on the work assessed
seven or more days after the normal submission deadline: 0% fail mark for the work
assessed.
4.4
Assessment
4.5
Assessment of the Modules is by examination and/or coursework throughout the course. This
will consist of practical, theoretical and written work and each assignment will contribute to the
overall grade in the proportions indicated in the module templates.
Marking scheme
Modules are marked on a range of 0-100%. Mark descriptors are given in the table below. A
mark below 50% indicates a Fail grade (the shaded boxes).
36
37
4.6
Assessment Regulations
Award of MSc
For the award of MSc a student is required to pass the project and completing eight taught
modules (total of 180 credits).
The PGD exit award can be only achieved by successfully completing eight taught modules
(total of 120 credits).
38
Assessment Failures
Students may present themselves for a module reassessment normally on not more than two
successive occasions.
Reassessment for the individual project will normally require re-submission of the final report
including any modifications demanded by the examiner.
Where a taught module or the project is retaken and passed, the grading of the module or project
is capped to a mark of 50%.
4.7
4.8
There are certain skills which graduates should possess regardless of the academic content of
their degree. For example, the ability to write a report, how to create a professional
presentation, communicate effectively, use information sources and technology. This
programme aims to develop these skills in each module.
Study Skills
Learning and study support available from the Library Services includes The Centre for
Learning and Study Support (CLaSS), the Maths Learning Centre and IT Training
Library Services support undergraduate, postgraduate and research students who are studying
full-time, part-time and by distance learning. You will find information, guidance and expert
advice through them to help you get the most out of your university learning experience, for
example you may want to:
develop your essay writing
refine your referencing
polish your presentation skills
excel in exams
improve your IT
demystify a maths problem.
For these, or any other aspect of studying at university, contact
The Support Office
Ground Floor
Kimberlin Library
Telephone (0116) 257 7042
For more information and study skill advice, visit the Library homepage at:
www.library.dmu.ac.uk/Services/Services
There are available from the library a series of study packs that are available online and are
useful in carrying out research and writing reports and making a presentation.
The following are available in HTML or PDF format:
Essay Writing
Report Writing
Research Methods
Time Management
Presentation Skills
Dissertation preparation and presentation
Links to these and other valuable resources from the library can be found by pointing your
favourite web browser at http://www.library.dmu.ac.uk/Support/Guides/index.php?page=359
(There is also some more information about the Library and what it offers in section 5, below)
39
At the end of each module students are invited to provide formal feedback through a Module
Questionnaire. This formally documents feedback that may have already been gathered and
acted upon during the module.
Each cohort of students is invited to elect a student representative to represent the body of
students on the Programme Management Board which meets twice per year. This provides a
formal way for the body of students to be represented in the main management meeting.
Naturally, in addition to the formal modes of feedback, the course team welcome feedback ad
hoc so that if we are doing something particularly well, we can do more of it, or if there is
something that needs improving, we can act on it in a timely way.
40
5 WHAT TO DO IF YOU:
5.1
Change address
5.2
You must tell the Registry if you change your local or home address.
Are ill
5.3
If the period of absence is not more than four consecutive days obtain a "Student Self Certification
of Absence caused by illness" form from the Faculty Office, complete it and get it signed by your
Personal Tutor.
For absence longer than four days a supporting certificate is required from a medical practitioner.
5.4
Discuss the reasons with your Personal Tutor - before you are absent if at all possible. If you are
absent for more than a week or if it affects your examinations or coursework, you should send a
written explanation of your absence to your Personal Tutor.
5.5
The combined Registration Card and Student's Union Card you are issued with during enrolment
should be carried at all times on campus. It should be displayed to gain access to all University
facilities and for admission to examinations. If you lose it, apply to the Faculty Office for a
replacement.
5.6
If for any reason you wish to withdraw from the course or need to interrupt your studies you
must see the Programme Leader (or your Personal Tutor). Please make sure that you do this as it
could have a bearing on any future opportunities in Higher Education.
A particular module - see the appropriate lecturers. If the problem is not resolved then see in
order:
1. Course Leader
2. Head of Department
3. Head of Studies
5.7
Personal matters (this can include anything that is causing you worry and may have a bearing on
your attitude and performance on the Course - emotional/sexual/social problems, health,
accommodation, financial, etc.). There is no "rule" for this. Your Personal Tutor especially is there
to help you, but if you have built up a better rapport with some other member of staff by all means
go to them instead. Be aware, however, that the academic staff are not trained counsellors and
will aim to help find the right service in the University if the problem is outside their scope.
We know that your expectations of our services are high, and so we have developed a Student
Services Centre to meet your needs. This exciting, accessible and welcoming centre brings
together a range of key student support services under one roof, where you will be met by
professional staff who can offer information, advice and guidance on a wide range of topics
such as
41
You will receive a copy of our student handbook, which provides detailed information on all
our services and is available in different formats. More information can be found on the
website at http://www.dmu.ac.uk/study/student_services/index.jsp
Or please contact Student Services at:
Student Services Centre, Ground Floor, Gateway House 0.10
Telephone: +44 (0)116 257 7595
Email: studentservices@dmu.ac.uk
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm
http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/student-and-academicservices.aspx
5.8
The surgery opening times are 8:00am 9:00pm Monday and Wednesday and 8:00 5:00
Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Appointments start at 9:00am. The contact number during
surgery hours is (0116) 255 3388 (outside surgery hours, please contact 0845 045 0411).
More information can be found at
http://www.dmu.ac.uk/dmu-students/the-student-gateway/student-and-academicservices.aspx
42
Walk-in Service
Royal Infirmary
Infirmary Square
Leicester
LE1 5WW
The centres are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provide a nurse- led service. They
are designed to complement GP services. You do not need an appointment to attend. Some of
the services offered are as follows:
Contraceptive advice
Coughs, colds and flu-like symptoms
Dressing care
Emergency contraception
Hayfever, bites and stings
Minor cuts and wounds - care, dressings
Muscle and joint injuries - strains and sprains
Skin complaints - rashes, sunburn, headlice
Smoking cessation support
Stomach ache, indigestion, constipation, vomiting and diarrhoea
Suturing
Womens health problems, e.g. thrush, menstrual advice
5.9
For further details please contact the respective services for a copy of their information guide
or visit the Student Services
The procedure for claiming Extenuating Circumstances is set out in the leaflet Extenuating
Circumstances Affecting Assessments (H997), and should be followed to the letter as it
represents the only way that the information can be brought to the attention of the necessary
Programme Management Board (PMB).
43
Librarians supporting the Faculty of Technology are Elizabeth Martin and Kay Relf .
44
7 REGISTRY
Registry is responsible for the following:
Admissions
i. Status checking and international student visa issues.
ii. Processing of applications.
Student Finance
i. Advice on what is available and how to apply.
ii. Student Loan processing and queries
iii. Operation of DMU bursary and scholarship schemes.
iv. Tuition fees; rates and payment.
Enrolment management and ID cards.
Council Tax Certificates.
University Timetable
Examination deferral requests
Academic Appeals
Academic Offences
Examination schedules and management of all formal examinations
Graduation Ceremonies and conferment of awards
45
6
7
8
B
1
2
3
4
C
1
2
3
4
D
1
2
3
4
5
6
E
1
2
F
1
2
3
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2. Bede Island
4. Bosworth House
8. Enquiry Centre
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48