Prior study of “Introduction to Engineering Design and Practice” or equivalent

You will cover the following topics

Top down Design – Creating datum features in assemblies, creating parts in an assembly, managing model hierarchy, modifying parts and assemblies
Mechanisms – Understanding degrees of freedom, assembling parts that move, understanding joint types, specialised mechanism features gears, motors, dampers, belts, chains, cams etc, understanding different mechanism analysis type (inputs required and outputs generated), setting up analyses, running analyses, interpreting results
File exchange formats – IGES, STEP, STL. Accuracy. Problems. Repair of imported models.
Rapid Prototyping – historical background, review of systems, role of STL files, model slicing, errors, applications, tooling, metal manufacturing systems
Alternatives to parametric modelling – Direct modelling, advantages and disadvantages, when to use it, creating features, modifying features

This module will be delivered over one semester.
A total of 36 hours of contact time (3 hours per week over two semesters) will be used.
This module will enable you to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including laboratories, practical exercises and demonstrations. Regular formative practical assessments will be set on CAD operation to focus your learning.
This will be supported by 114 hours of independent study where you will have the opportunity to research background information related to the delivery of the core material and to work on your assignment.

CAD software of an industrial standard capable of parametric solid and direct modelling, mechanism design and simulation, exporting and importing various file formats (e.g. Parametric Technology’s CREO Parametric)
A varied range of suitable rapid prototyping equipment

1. Solve a range of mechanism problems by choosing and implementing an appropriate solution based on the underlying principles of analysis. (AHEP 3:EA2, D3b, D5, P2, P4,G3b)

2. Interpret complex data presented in graphical and numeric manner relating to mechanism analysis. Use this understanding of the data to optimise the performance of a mechanism against specified criteria. (AHEP 3: EA3b, P2, D3, D5, G3b)

3. Select an appropriate rapid prototyping or additive manufacturing method for a given scenario, making the decision between various systems based on technical and financial constraints. (AHEP 3:EA2, EL4, P1, P2, P4, P6)

You will be required to complete one element of summative assessment as follows:

3,000-word written assignment describing the process of designing, optimising and prototyping a complex mechanism such as a vehicle suspension (100% covering all learning outcomes) Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes EA2, EA3b, EL4, P1, P2, P4, P6, D3b, D5, G3b.

Formative guidance and feedback will be provided in tutorial sessions within the class.

Luke Jumper, Randy H. Shih (2022) Parametric Modeling with Autodesk Inventor, SDC Publications. ISBN: 978-1-63057-506-9
Randy H. Shih (2022) Learning Autodesk Inventor 2023: Modeling, Assembly and Analysis, SDC Publications ISBN /Ean: 1630575232 / 9781630575236
John Willis, Sandeep Dogra (2019) Autodesk Fusion 360: A Power Guide for Beginners and Intermediate Users (5th Edition) by CADArtifex ISBN: 979-8775245610
Daniel T. Banach, Shawna D. Lockhart (2022) Autodesk Inventor 2023 Essentials Plus, SDC Publications. ISBN: 9781630575106
Michael J. Rider (2022) Designing with Creo Parametric 9.0, SDC Publications ISBN: 978-1-63057-533-5

The module tutor will direct the student to the latest academic papers for each area of study Technical manuals for equipment used