WM1AF-15 Engineering Systems Design
Introductory description
This module provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of designing complex engineering systems. In today’s fast-evolving technological landscape, engineers are expected to develop innovative solutions that meet diverse requirements, address sustainability challenges, and integrate seamlessly into real-world applications.
Module aims
The aim of this module is to equip students with the tools, methodologies, and critical thinking skills required to approach engineering system design in a holistic manner by following Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, the module enables students to explore and apply key concepts, including system requirements analysis, concept generation and evaluation, design optimization, and lifecycle considerations with a focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
System Development Lifecycle models
Model Based Systems Engineering
System Requirements Analysis
Calculus - Integration and applied integration, differential equations
Design Optimization
Parameter Modelling
Engineering systems simulation
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Identify and appraise system development lifecycle models for a project, including the use of Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods [AHEP:4-C6].
- Create approximate mathematical models of broadly-defined engineering systems [AHEP:4-C3].
- Apply and evaluate basic and advanced systems engineering analyses for broadly-defined engineering systems [AHEP:4-C9, C10].
- Use systems engineering modelling and methods to produce preliminary design specifications for broadly-defined engineering systems [AHEP:4-C5].
Indicative reading list
Creating Systems That Work” (report by Royal Academy of
Engineering Report): https://raeng.org.uk/media/1xyh13ax/creating_systems_that_work.pdf
NASA Systems Engineering Handbook”:
https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20080008301.pdf
Systems engineering: coping with complexity”, Richard Stevens, London: Prentice
Hall Europe, 1998.
C. Elliott, “Turning dreams into specifications. I”, Engineering Management Journal,
Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 22-26
C. Elliott, “Turning dreams into specifications. II”, Engineering Management Journal,
Vol. 3, No. 2, pp. 83-91
Subject specific skills
System structure definition and interface activities
System lifecycle stages and review reporting
Requirement specification development
Parametric design application
Safety architecture design
Human factors analysis
Mass budget interpretation
Verification report generation
Transferable skills
This module will contribute to the development of the following from the Warwick Core Skills framework:
Critical Thinking: Interpreting, analysing
Problem Solving: Problem creation
Teamworking: Collaboration
Digital Literacy: IT skills
Professionalism: Attention to detail
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Seminars | 12 sessions of 1 hour (8%) |
| Practical classes | 6 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Private study | 30 hours (20%) |
| Assessment | 60 hours (40%) |
| Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Online learning (independent): Engagement with provided study materials and signposted resources - review, interpretation and application to example problems and case studies.
Private study: Creation of own tools and resources - e.g. theoretical / physical models, computational simulations, digital design artefacts, portfolio evidence etc. relevant to subject.
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
|||
| Assessment 1 | 30% | 18 hours | No |
|
Computer-based exam of system development lifecycle and mathematical models. |
|||
Reassessment component is the same |
|||
Assessment component |
|||
| Assessment 2 | 70% | 42 hours | No |
|
Group report defining the technical design specifications for a mechatronic system based on customer requirements, incorporating system architecture and systems engineering tools to be used to verify and validate the design. Subject to peer marking in line with WMG policy. |
|||
Reassessment component |
|||
| Assessment 2 reassessment | Yes (extension) | ||
|
Individual report contributing to the technical design specifications for a mechatronic system (being developed by a fictional team) based on customer requirements, incorporating system architecture and systems engineering tools to be used to verify and validate the design. |
|||
Feedback on assessment
Formative: Verbal feedback during interactive class sessions; (Automated) individual feedback for computer-based tests; Verbal feedback during ad hoc meetings
Summative: Cohort level summary feedback for formal tests / exams; Written feedback and marks aligned with University 20 point marking scale.
There is currently no information about the courses for which this module is core or optional.