Module Descriptors

The role of Computer aided Design (CAD) systems and techniques are proving to be ever more critical as enabling technologies in the engineering and design environment. Great emphasis is now being placed on these technologies and this module introduces the student to this important area.

This module will give students a detailed introductory insight into the use of CAD Systems. An introduction to the engineering design process and the role which CAD systems play in its effective implementation will be given. A review of CAD systems is given as well as the strategic importance of enterprise-wide product modelling will be introduced. Feature-Based Design, Assembly data management, secure product data/information exchange/storage/authorising mechanisms (using PDM digital vault systems) and relevant scenarios in product development will be covered as a part of this module. The appropriate use of non-dimensional modelling scenarios will be covered in addition to simple parametric relationship aspects.

During the course of this module students will develop their UWS Graduate Attributes. Academic Universal and Work-ready attributes: Students will gain knowledge and understanding of this important discipline as well as having the opportunity to develop a broad range of ICT, technical and transferable skills.

This module has been reviewed and updated, taking cognisance of the University’s Curriculum Framework principles. For example, module will be delivered mainly by an innovative laboratory demonstrations, recorded lecture content supporting students to organise their own study time and the use of real-world practical problems, industry standard Computer Aided Engineering activities developing digital intelligence meta-skills.

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

L1. Characterise and employ appropriate advanced solid geometry feature creation methods and techniques.

L2. Develop basic parametric relationships in the model creation process.

L3. Configure product assembly using various assembly constraints.

L4. Produce engineering drawings and describe modelling methodology

A broad knowledge and understanding of computer aided design (CAD) methods and techniques and how these fit into engineering and design strategies.
Specific and detailed knowledge and understanding of the application, techniques and practices associated with CAD in the engineering and design environment.
To gain specific knowledge of the appropriateness of methods and techniques for different CAD related problems/scenarios.
Knowledge and understanding of health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards when undertaking and evaluating design activity.
Understanding of mitigation of security risks in relation to accessing and storing data and digital equipment.

Design solutions for complex problems that evidence some originality and meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards.
Making use of specialised CAD techniques to solve engineering and design problems such as parameterisation methods or automation techniques.
Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed.
Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems

Undertaking, evaluating and assessing critical CAD methods. Making judgements on appropriateness of CAD solution strategies. Being able to develop conceptual solutions and strategies to CAD related problems and activities.

Critically discuss solution strategies and issues associated with CAD techniques.

Bringing information together from a variety of sources during problem solving and being able to perceive potential problems with methods and strategies.

Ability to perform, interpret and evaluate complex numerical, geometrical and graphical data and using it to solve problems.

Ability to use variables and equations. Ability to integrate existing software with other applications such as spread sheets. Make use of multi-purpose integrated software systems to solve or provide solutions to complex CAD related activities.

Using communications skills to write detailed, technical reports, including text and illustration. Communicate using CAD systems through animated sequences and other standard presentation media.

Using CAD hardware and software and associated ICT equipment and systems such as networks to support and perform a wide range of problem solving and CAD related tasks.

Identifying and addressing their own learning needs both during and out with class time.

Identifying solution routes and strategies using their own initiative and informed judgements.

The following materials form essential underpinning for the module content and ultimately for the learning outcomes:

In line with the Academic Engagement Procedure, Students are defined as academically engaged if they are regularly engaged with timetabled teaching sessions, course-related learning resources including those in the Library and on the relevant learning platform, and complete assessments and submit these on time. Please refer to the Academic Engagement Procedure at the following link: Academic engagement procedure

2.12

1. More than one assessment method can be used to assess individual learning outcomes.
2. Schools are responsible for determining student contact hours. Please refer to University Policy on contact hours (extract contained within section 10 of the Module Descriptor guidance note).
   This will normally be variable across Schools, dependent on Programmes &/or Professional requirements.