Manufacturing Engineering HNC

This module integrates the two subject areas of computer-aided design and computer aided-manufacture (CAD/CAM). You acquire a broad and deep understanding of the practical applications of a CAD/CAM system, and develop practical skills in 2D and 3D CAD systems and an appreciation of transfer of data between software packages. You use CAM software to generate manufacturing simulations of a component and design a dimensionally accurate component on a CNC machine using a CAD/CAM system.    

You gain experience of carrying out a design project, giving you an appreciation of how design involves harmonising key parameters and blending them into the design solution, and to produce a design report. You cover each stage of the process, including: client brief, planning, design specification, design report and evaluation.

You develop the fundamental analytical knowledge and techniques needed to successfully complete the core modules of Higher National Engineering programmes. We provide you with the knowledge needed for further study of analytical methods and mathematics, required for more advanced option modules. You explore fundamental algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics and probability, for the analysis, modelling and solution of realistic engineering problems at Higher National level.

This is a 15-credit module.

You explore industrial robotics as a key component of modern and future automated manufacturing. With the rise of lighter, smarter and safer industrial robots that are easier to interface, you examine why demand is rapidly growing across the sector. Study common applications such as welding, painting, assembly and materials handling. You learn how industrial robots operate using electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Develop the skills to select and program a robot for specific tasks, consider essential safety factors, and assess the economic potential of robotics in manufacturing.

Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing and commercial sectors through the integration of cyber-physical systems, IoT, Big Data, 3D printing, advanced robotics, simulation, augmented reality, cloud computing and cybersecurity. This revolution is reshaping how top companies globally produce goods to meet customer demands. In engineering and manufacturing, this shift is driven by the combination of high-performance computing, the internet and advanced manufacturing technologies, resulting in highly flexible and adaptive processes. You examine case studies of transitions to Industry 4.0 to effectively communicate Industry 4.0 concepts, technologies and implications.

You are introduced to the techniques and best practices required to successfully manage an engineering project - from identifying a problem, through to finding a solution. You consider the role and function of engineering in our society, the professional duties and responsibilities expected of engineers together with the behaviours that accompany their actions.

You cover: roles, responsibilities and behaviours of a professional engineer, planning a project, project management stages, devising solutions, theories and calculations, management using a Gantt chart, evaluation techniques, communication skills, and the creation and presentation of a project report.

This is a 15-credit module.

You are introduced to the production process for key material types, the various types of machinery used to manufacture products and the different ways of organising production systems to optimise the production process, consideration of how to measure the effectiveness of a production system within the overall context of the manufacturing system, and an examination of how production engineering contributes to ensuring safe and reliable operation of manufacturing.

You consider the importance of quality assurance processes in manufacturing or service environments and study the principles and theories that underpin them. You explore the tools and techniques used to support quality control, including attributes and variables, testing processes and costing models. You also learn the importance of quantifying costs related to quality and examine international standards for quality management.