Manufacturing is at the core of engineering. The mishandling of manufacturing operations can cost organisations loss in the millions and can even lead to the closure of a company.
Systems approach to problem solving in manufacturing has been around for many years and has constantly evolved with manufacturing needs.

This module is aimed at delivering an Introduction to Manufacturing Systems engineering and modern philosophies that are being implemented in modern engineering.

Some of these systems include but are not limited to (Lean manufacturing Just in Time, Six Sigma, 5s. Poke-A-Yoke). You will also cover the Types of systems and plant layouts utilised in various manufacturing industries varying from automotive to food plants, focusing on the benefits and disadvantages seen from using such systems.

Introduction to planning and control methodologies and tools applicable to manufacturing organisations including, demand management, master production, scheduling, capacity planning, manufacturing resource planning, enterprise resource planning, shop floor control and inventory management will also be covered.

This module will be delivered over one semester through a variety of activities which will include;
• Lectures and Seminars
• Group Problem Solving Activities
• Manufacturing Project Management contextualised by use of case study analysis.

Blended mixture of lectures, interactive group tutorials and seminars will allow students to understand in theory and applied practical terms the use of manufacturing operations to, analyse and evaluate problems thus creating effective solutions

A total of 36 hours of contact time (3 hours per week ) will be used.

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 case study and revision for the examination.

Hill ,A & Hill, T, (2009) Manufacturing operations strategy 3RD Edn., Palgrave
Hawkins, W.M (2013) Automating Manufacturing Operations: The Penultimate Approach, Momentum Press

Statistical Analysis Software such as SIGMA XL OR MINITAB

1. Ability to define and demonstrate the systems approach to manufacturing analysis and the integration of techniques which enable systems to be optimised. (AHEP 3: P4)

2. Ability to apply the specific philosophies and tools of manufacturing/production management and control in set manufacturing scenarios. (AHEP 3: EL3b, P1, P4, P7)

3. Complete a typical manufacturing project using scheduling, monitoring controlling tools considering the commercial, economic and environmental context of manufacturing. (AHEP 3: P1, P4)

4. Critically appraise the competitive advantage of optimised production management and control on a manufacturing organisation. (AHEP 3: EL2, EL3b, P4

You will be required to complete two elements of summative assessment as follows:

1,500-word written Manufacturing Case study Assignment; Learning Outcomes 2, 3, 4 (50%). Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes EL2, EL3b, P1, P4, P7.

1.5-hour Examination; Learning outcomes 1 &2 (50%). Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes EL3b, P1, P4, P7.

Formative guidance, exam revision and feedback will be provided in tutorial sessions within the class Information on how to solve manufacturing case studies will be provided in tutorial sessions and academic skills advisors will be available to guide and advise on how write academic assignments.