WM2A1-15 Automated Manufacturing Systems
Introductory description
This module explores the technologies and principles behind modern automated manufacturing systems, incorporating discrete event simulation (DES) as a key method for modelling and optimizing these systems. Learners will gain exposure to various industrial automation practices, covering robotics, automated material handling, assembly lines, and production scheduling. The module also addresses the role of sustainability, focusing on how efficient automated systems can reduce environmental impact while enhancing productivity.
Module aims
The aim of this module is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the design, control, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems. The module aims to equip students with the tools and skills necessary to analyse, improve, and sustainably manage automated manufacturing processes.
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.
Discrete event modelling,
Automated assembly system optimisation,
Lean principles in automated manufacturing,
material planning and control.
MRP/ERP/MES systems
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Describe the characteristics of automation systems management, including material planning and control, and the integration of manufacturing resource planning (MRP), manufacturing execution system (MES), and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems in automated manufacturing [AHEP:4-C13].
- Analyse automation solutions to design suitable production/assembly systems, considering the role of robotics and automated material handling in manufacturing sustainability [AHEP:4-C7].
- Apply discrete event modelling to simulate automated manufacturing systems and assess production line efficiency [AHEP:4-C5].
- Evaluate the sustainability impacts of different automation solutions and their effectiveness in enhancing quality in automated manufacturing systems, using the outputs from discrete event simulations [AHEP:4-C14].
Indicative reading list
Reading lists can be found in Talis
Subject specific skills
Automation System Design and Analysis
Smart Manufacturing Integration
Human-Robot Collaboration
Sustainable Automated Manufacturing
Discrete Event Modelling
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
Sustainability: Community citizenship
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 |
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| Assessment 1 | 30% | 18 hours | Yes (extension) |
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Individual report on the analysis of a manufacturing system case study, identifying inefficiencies and proposing strategies to incorporate automation, considering operational, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness perspectives. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Assessment 1 reassessment | No | ||
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Individual report on the analysis of a manufacturing system case study, identifying inefficiencies and proposing strategies to incorporate automation, considering operational, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness perspectives. |
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Assessment component |
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| Assessment 2 | 70% | 42 hours | No |
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Group portfolio comprising report and working simulation model of an automated manufacturing system. The model will incorporate and analyse key factors observed in real-world systems, and their effect on system performance and quality. Subject to peer marking in line with WMG policy. |
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Reassessment component |
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| Assessment 2 reassessment | No | ||
|
Individual portfolio comprising report and working simulation model of an automated manufacturing system. The model will incorporate and analyse key factors observed in real-world systems, and their effect on system performance and quality. |
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Feedback on assessment
Formative: Verbal feedback during interactive class sessions and practical sessions; Verbal feedback during ad hoc meetings.
Summative: 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.