Start your journey to becoming a professional engineer and discover the wide range of applications and disciplines related to engineering. By gaining insight into career opportunities at this early stage in the course you can follow your interests throughout your study. You'll learn about the role of engineering in society, including environmental issues, and sustainability, looking at ethical issues in engineering and the importance of marketing, commercial understanding, engineering standards, and legal aspects of pursuing a career in engineering. You will cover the history of engineering, motivating you with inspiring successes that have changed human life forever, as well as critically learning lessons from failures. Through this module you may get the opportunity to visit manufacturing and engineering companies and to start to think and critically analyse as an engineer, discovering how to break down complex systems into parts and subparts in engineering terms so that you can simplify complex systems. Visits by guest lecturers from industry and/or appropriate professional bodies will also be encouraged, as will a visit to an engineering company. You'll be encouraged to join your appropriate professional bodies and use the advantages from this throughout your course.
View the full module definitionDevelop the underpinning engineering mathematical skills needed to solve technical and applied problems. The mathematical skills are essential for the successful completion of your project and knowledge-based modules. The module will focus on teaching mathematics while solving applied engineering problems, formulas, and expressions. Algebraic skills will also be extensively developed to carry out mathematical analyses and solve engineering problems. The module will include algebraic skills, trigonometry, vectors, geometry, basic calculus, and their application to solving practical engineering problems. The teaching of this module includes introducing external self-learning and assessment tools in mathematics, allowing flexible and independent learning. The module will be assessed with reference to the application of mathematics in engineering problems.
View the full module definitionApply your learning through project based learning, where you'll have both individual work and group work where you'll be in a multidisciplinary range of students from the engineering group. This module is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of design and manufacturing processes, from the in-class theoretical briefings to hands on practical activities. You will gain insight on the need of selecting the most appropriate materials and manufacturing processes, designing and building of basic mechanical products. You'll be introduced to modern equipment such as CNC machines, 3D printers and 3D modelling. The behaviour and properties of a range of materials will also be introduced. You will learn how to conform to the regulations relating to safe workshop practices and applying your materials and structural knowledge for their design and prototypes.
View the full module definitionGain knowledge and fundamental understanding of vector mathematics and its application to particle and rigid body dynamics. You'll start by learning the terminologies, definitions, and applications of the machine dynamic. The module covers kinematics in one and two dimensions, including the relations between displacement, velocity, and acceleration of an object. As a student, you can apply these principles to many design process applications, including machine and mechanism designs. You will learn the basic principles of cams and gear dynamics and will solve practical examples related to the design of mechanisms. The module also includes the linear single degree of freedom vibration with and without damper and/or external force.
View the full module definitionOur module focuses on the design and operational characteristics and internal architecture of Embedded. It examines the signals used and the programming techniques that can be applied to real time systems using C programming. It will also provide you with Workshop and laboratory skills. You will be given the opportunity to develop Real Time embedded Operating system and dedicated software (such as PLC) in order to solve given engineering problems (for example produce a programme for an engineering application, store, evaluate and justify approaches taken). This module forms the basis of embedded controllers to control electrical machines and is a key development of workplace practice and employment. You will investigate how to design embedded systems that can monitor inputs and changes outputs using specialized software (such as Siemens Ladder logic and Microchip MPLAB IDE). The created program can include Boolean logic, counting, timing, complex math operations, and communications with other devices such as wireless GSM or WIFI modules. You will be introduced to the principles of microprocessors and give them experience of using and programming a microprocessor system for the operation or control of peripheral devices. This module will provide an introduction to the terminology (e.g. bits, bytes, words) and concepts related to microprocessor applications. You will also gain understanding of the architecture and operation of real time embedded microprocessor-based systems and the use of decimal, binary and hexadecimal number systems, and functions for programming. Successful completion of this module will provide a range of knowledge and skills of value to employers with an interest in microprocessors programming.
View the full module definitionApply your learning through project based learning, where you'll have both individual work and group work where you will be in a multidisciplinary range of students from the engineering group. This module is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of electrical and electronic engineering, from the in-class theoretical briefings to hands on practical activities. You'll gain insight on the need of selecting the most appropriate electronic components, designing and building of basic mechatronic products. You'll be introduced to modern programming software and simulation packages.
View the full module definitionEntering higher education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all our students to make the most of the opportunities higher education provides, reach your potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You'll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you'll explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where you collect knowledge and complete mini tasks. You'll proceed at your own pace, though we you to have completed your Into ARU exploration by week 6. If for any reason you're unable to complete by that date, we'll signpost to existing services so that we can be confident that you are supported.
View the full module definitionOn this module, you'll study the principles, operation, and design of electrical drive systems for robotics and electrical applications. You will learn the basic structures of controlled electrical drives realised with DC and AC machines, and the investigation methods of the whole system and performances evaluation. The module is designed to provide you with the skills for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical control systems, machinery, and equipment. You will gain the fundamental knowledge and concept of sensors and actuator systems for robotics and mechatronics. The sensors are devices that measure a variety of environmental parameters and through start programming, the actuators conduct specific tasks defined and prompted via the control system. The skills gained in this module could be applied to a very wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, transport networks, power generation, transmission and distribution, building services, telecommunications as well as scientific and military research.
View the full module definitionThis module is designed to give you advanced understanding of electronics and electronic design from the perspective of related practical project development. You'll learn about transistors/MOSFETs, Transducers/Sensors, as well as Data Acquisition Fundamentals/measurements and some signal processing. These skills will prepare you to be able to design and develop a practical electronics project. Thus, the module has a multidisciplinary nature. You'll also develop insights into the functionality of different elements of the project by analysing their performance and their overall impact on the successful completion of the project while meeting the relevant performance targets.
View the full module definitionIn this module you will focus on the area of smart robotic and mechatronics software programming and modelling. You will gain a comprehensive overview of the technical aspects and state-of-the art methods in design and operation, acquiring knowledge and concepts for Robotic programming. You will also explore their adaptability to change of settings, looking at the capabilities, limitations and future trends in robotic systems and programming methods and modelling. In recent years, machine learning, and AI have become an increasingly common presence in robotic solutions, introducing flexibility and learning capabilities in previously rigid applications. This module will provide an introductory knowledge and skills in adapting machine learning and AI. This module will extend your skills across essential areas in the field of programming of Robots and automation. You will use your existing knowledge of engineering theory and practice as the base to build new skills in this field such as embedded systems, sensors, and programming.
View the full module definitionBuilding on previous modules here you will continue applying mathematics to express and solve engineering problems, moving on to include more complex mathematical concepts. You’ll be introduced to applications of calculus, complex numbers, Laplace transforms, and Fourier Series, helping you to develop an appreciation of the overwhelming influence that these concepts have had on engineering analysis and design, particularly with their application to specialist software. You’ll learn to apply differentiation and integration technics to solve engineering problems in dynamics, control, structural analysis, engineering optimisations, and computational engineering. You’ll also learn to analyse engineering concepts by solving complex equations and differential equations using analytical and numerical techniques. Coding is also used to develop your problem-solving skills and create solutions to complex mathematical problems, you’ll apply this to engineering problems to create a logical sequence of steps or solutions after which you’ll develop tests to check the solution is correct.
View the full module definitionThis module is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of robotic digital design and robotic control processes and mechatronics, from the in-class electronic components and related hardware briefings to hands-on practical design activities. You'll gain insight into how to select the most appropriate electronic design processes for designing, and building of robotic control systems, with controlling sensors and software functions to form different robotic control products based on IOT data that will be transferred by Lora protocol. You'll learn how to conform to the regulations relating to safe workshop and laboratory practice and to apply your electronic and robotics background to integrated system prototyping. The data collected by IoT sensors and other resources will also provide the context you need for the testing and development of the designed robotic project.
View the full module definitionRuskin Modules are a great opportunity to explore challenges and ideas outside your area of study. Working with students from a range of courses, you'll be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines, and apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, realise your potential and help you prepare for the world of work.
This module enables students to conduct an individual research project in the corresponding (for example, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, Electronics, Electrical, Medical, Pharmaceutical, etc) Engineering subject area. Students must identify a problem, break it into more manageable components, and critically analyse it. Students will conduct a literature review (review of the current knowledge in the field of choice), formulate research questions, and collect primary data via experimentation, numerical analysis, case study, interviews or questionnaires to perform a qualitative or quantitative analysis. The dissertation must be 8500 words and an oral presentation. The focus will be on critical thinking and organising a significant research thesis/volume with an introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Students will have guest lectures from industry professionals to acknowledge the industry requirements and the latest trends in the engineering enterprise, reaching out to professional bodies such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). An academic staff member (chosen by students or the module leader) will supervise students. It will be throughout the student's journey working on the dissertation and provide support, advice and recommendations as required. Students will prepare a research proposal (1000-1500 words) that includes the following information: Title, Research Overview, Objectives, Research Context, Research Question, Research Methods, Research Significance and References. Students must also submit the ethics form, CV, and Gantt chart with a detailed explanation of the research development plan and an exit plan focusing on enhancing employability.
View the full module definitionThis module emphasises the underlying unity of apparently different physical systems (electrical, thermal, mechanical, fluid, chemical, biological etc.) by developing the concept of the system model and using the method of analogy. The module is focussed on simple 'lumped parameter' models with particular reference to instrumentation and control systems. The module starts by contrasting signal types and discusses methods of characterisation. The module concentrates on linear systems, developing the use of the Laplace transform, system block diagrams and the system transfer function as key tools. The difference between static and dynamic system models is explored and practical dynamic models are developed. The use of computer tools and packages is integral to the module. This module introduces the principles and practices of modern control systems. Although a basic grounding in maths is required, the approach of the course will be that certain mathematical skills are essential tools for the analysis and design of instrumentation and control systems, hence the module will emphasise the ability to use the tools effectively rather than treat them with mathematical rigour. The problems of instability in feedback and control systems are evaluated with a mixture of case studies and methods for determining the absolute and relative limits of stability in practical systems. The module will cover the specification of the complete system in terms of performance criteria. It will then consider a variety of design approaches both analytical and heuristic.
View the full module definitionOn successful completion of this module, you will be able to conceive, plan, develop and execute a successful real-world electronics and robotics engineering project. You will also produce and present a project report outlining and reflecting on the outcomes of each of the project processes and stages. As a result, you will develop skills such as critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, interpretation, decision-making, information literacy, and information and communication technology, and skills in professional and confident self-presentation. This is a multidisciplinary module; therefore, projects will include a combination of skills relevant to robotics, electronic and electrical systems, mechatronics, and renewable energy systems. The aim of the project is to integrate your learning in a real-world industrial project and therefore improve your employability skills. The module includes advanced topics in programming, machine learning and AI, hardware and software development, connectivity, and data communications. This unit introduces you to the techniques and best practices required to successfully create and manage an engineering project designed to identify a solution to an engineering need. Among the topics covered in this unit are 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.
View the full module definitionRobotics and Machine Intelligence models and analyses human and robot behaviour, including human-robot interaction and collaboration. You'll develop an understanding of the basic principles of how to design user-friendly human-robot interaction systems. As artificial intelligence and robotics become more integrated into our daily life, simplifying many everyday tasks, it is hard to imagine how we could manage without them. Artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning and deep learning are transforming heavily regulated industries, such as automotive, food and agriculture, construction, healthcare and life sciences, financial services and trading. Over the last decade, substantial progress has been achieved. This module will explore human-robot interaction and etiquette through three fundamental questions about communication between a human and a robot. How should a robot move differently in the presence of a human? How should it understand hints in terms of postures and eye emotions? How should it learn from user feedback? This module will answer these questions and reveal the scale of the impact of human-robot interaction systems on modern society.
View the full module definitionThe engineering major group project aims to give you the experience of working within a team and it is like the way engineers often work in the industry. The aim is for these projects to be defined in collaboration with industry in line with the active learning policy at ARU. You'll integrate your knowledge and understanding to specify and solve a substantial and complex engineering problem. This will be done via the creation and development of a product, process, or system. The engineering major group project allows you to further develop your understanding of project and time management, societal and user needs, diversity and inclusion, ethics, sustainability and product life cycle, health and safety, risk, and intellectual property rights. You'll develop your skills to function effectively in a team both as an individual and a leader. You will develop effective communication and leadership skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
View the full module definitionThis module aims to provide a thorough introduction to key concepts underlying advanced topics in control of industrial systems analysis and design. Conventional engineering and industrial applications and examples are provided emphasising particular differences in the design procedure. The weekly lectures and tutorials deliver a comprehensive insight into current industrial control technology and practices, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Distributed Control System (DCS) systems. Subjects include discrete event system control, programming pneumatics PLCs, and an introduction to manipulator theory and practice.
View the full module definitionThis module aims to provide you with advanced dynamics and control theory. In the dynamics, the module will cover the fundamentals of kinematics and its application in robotics design. In the control area, the module will include the design and modelling of the control system with the state space method. The module will explore the system's dynamic characteristics and examine its stability and observability. The module will analyse the stability and the linearity of systems and explore the feedback response.
View the full module definitionSupervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) is a technique of software and hardware components that permits industrial organizations to: Manage industrial processes locally or remotely. Monitor, gather data and process it in real-time. Interact with devices directly including sensors, valves, pumps, motors, etc via human-machine interface (HMI) software. Log events into a log file. SCADA systems are essential for industrial institutions as they help to retain efficiency, process data for more intelligent decisions, and communicate system concerns. The primary SCADA architecture starts with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or remote terminal units (RTUs). PLCs and RTUs are microcomputers that communicate with an array of entities, (factory machines, HMIs, sensors, and end devices), and then route the information from those objects to computers with SCADA software. The SCADA software processes, distribute, and displays the data, allowing operators and other employees to analyse the data and make crucial decisions. The module enables students to design a SCADA robot's mechanical and control system considering potential real-world applications, i.e., Smart City, Smart Manufacturing, etc. They use a combination of hardware and software to automate industrial processes while capturing Operational Technology (OT) using real-time data. Connect the sensors that monitor equipment to an onsite or remote server for example Control processes locally or at remote locations, Acquiring, analysing, and displaying real-time data, Directly interacting with industrial equipment, Record and archive events for future reference or report creation. A particular focus will be on Industry 4.0 technologies and their importance in operating modern manufacturing environments. You will work as team members to design and analyse a SCADA robot's physical model focusing on the business or customers' needs.
View the full module definitionIn this module, you'll focus on the area of machine learning and computer vision with reference to automation and robotics. In this respect, you will gain a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art techniques and their applications. You will also experience the capabilities of the widely used techniques, their limitations, and future trends. You'll learn the application of Machine Learning techniques in solving complex dynamic robotics-related problems. Emphasis would be given to Neural Networks, Deep Neural Networks, Recurrent Neural Networks, etc. You'll apply Computer Vision techniques in negotiating time-varying complex spaces for robotic manoeuvrability. The module's emphasis will be on image processing, object location, recognition, classification, and tracking. This module facilitates human-robot interaction in dynamic, unstructured and challenging environments by leveraging techniques from Artificial Intelligence with a focus on implementation.
View the full module definitionThis module is led by a multidisciplinary investigative project. Weekly topics are introduced to provide ideas to the teams for your research and study. The case study involves the production and presentation of a case-study-based research and investigation of a ‘sustainable design and management’ scenario. Each team will demonstrate a proposed management plan for designing an innovative engineering solution to the sustainability design problem, considering the societal, user, business, and customer needs and requirements for health and safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, environmental, commercial, and code of conduct. The weekly lectures provide a conceptual foundation across several disciplines, including Engineering management systems, green energy systems, sustainable environmental design and development, behavioural changes, and policies. The module also addresses topics unique to energy technologies, such as Smart Grid, interfacing, and design issues. This module introduces basic Sustainable Technologies, ranging from traditional topologies to modern renewable energy-based systems, including energy storage systems such as fuel cells. Hybrid electrical vehicle principles are also briefly introduced. The module builds a smooth transition from background material to more complex systems and applications, in the modern context of sustainability and will further develop a critical awareness and understanding of engineering operating systems including production, manufacturing, planning and plant resources required for a business to operate efficiently and reliably satisfy customers' needs and including requirements for health and safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, environmental, commercial, and code of conductwhile staying true to their sustainability strategy. The module will further provide an in-depth study of the operating systems used in complex technical organisations to identify good practices and the tools and techniques to systematically develop and improve the efficiency of such systems, including the use of discrete event simulation. For the assignment and in the development of your case study, you will exercise your analytical thinking and show your understanding of different roles within a sustainability and engineering management team and you will demonstrate your aptitude to exercise initiative and personal responsibility, which may be as a team member or leader.
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