Module Code - Title:
MF4038
-
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To introduce the student to the broad issues relating to the design and implementation of advanced manufacturing systems, for example automated and mechatronic systems at a macro level.
The module will give an overview surrounding the managerial, human and technological and economic factors involved in this process, from an engineering perspective.
Approaches to the technologies available to the automation of discrete part and continuous processes will be examined and evaluated. The aim will be to provide a broad, strategic overview of automation and mechatronics processes appropriate for engineering management.
Syllabus:
Elements of an automated system, levels of automation surrounding manufacturing processes within the manufacturing plant. Applications to indicative manufacturing processes such as machining, moulding and fabrication.
Processing of composites: for example lay up methods, press / autoclave / resin transfer moulding, RRIM, poltrusion and filament winding.
Coating methods: PVD methods, CVD methods, electro-deposition and electroforming methods, joining: fusion welding, solid state welding, adhesive bonding and mechanical joining machining.
Electromachining (electrochemical and electro-discharge) and mechanical machining.
Currently employed and state of the art systems for integration of continuous and discrete manufacturing systems, including Factory 4.0 and its role in the broader value chain. This can include RFID, traceability, 3-D printing, materials analysis, current trends, and human factors.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Describe and critically appraise current and emerging technologies (as listed above, eg composites, coating etc) in the context of indicative manufacturing processes such as machining, moulding and fabrication, or other processes used in for example dairy or pharma sectors.
Apply elements of ISA-88, -95 and -99 in the design of automated systems.
Critique design solutions in indicative problem settings.
Define training needs for technical users, eg technicians and operators.
Prescribe an appropriate combination of technologies for a given application in a manufacturing setting.
Design solutions to technical issues that may arise in the implementation of such a system.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Demonstrate a clear appreciation of the role of automation and mechatronics in the strategic development of the manufacturing sector both at plant and global level
Justify the role of the human factor in integration and control of an automated, distributed setting, including human safety, reliability, legal and ethical considerations.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module will comprise lectures and automation-laboratory exercises and workshops.
The module aligns with CONFIRM (SFI funded), IBUS (EU funded) and HOPS (COST funded) research by faculty members.
This module caps off students' learning in automation, processes and operations in the context of systems integration principles and practice, including an awareness of human issues associated with cyberphysical systems.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Bolton, W (2015)
Mechatronics: Electronic Control Systems in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. 6th edition.
, Pearson.
Black JT and Kohser RA (2017)
DeGarmo's Materials and Processes in Manufacturing 12th Edition
, Wiley
Other Relevant Texts:
The World Batch Form (2011). ()
The WBF Hand Book: Applying ISA-88 In Discrete and Continuous Manufacturing
, Momentum Press; UK
Lin P, Abney K, and Jenkins R (2017)
Robot Ethics 2.0: From Autonomous Cars to Artificial Intelligence
, Oxford University Press.
Scholten, B. (2007)
The Road to Integration: A Guide to Applying the ISA-95 Standard in Manufacturing.
, International Society for automation
Groover M (2015)
Fundamentals of Modern Manufacturing: Materials, Processes, and Systems
, Wiley
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BEDEMAUFA - DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
Con.Sheahan@ul.ie