Module Code - Title:

MF4756 - PRODUCT DESIGN AND MODELLING

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

0

Lab

4

Tutorial

0

Other

4

Private

2

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

3D parametric modelling systems are an integral part of the product design process. They are typically used to control key aspects of a product such as its design, communication, management, presentation, documentation and validation. The aim of this module is to introduce students to these six key product design areas using SolidWorks in the context of generic best practice modelling strategies. In addition students will: Understand the primary issues and considerations involved in designing a new product and develop a creative approach to the solution of design problems. Understand the concepts and practices associated with 3D parametric modelling and visualisation technology. Model and develop products and components in contemporary computer modelling software. Be able to create comprehensive product models and specifications in the context of the total development of a product. Develop cognitive modelling/visualisation, problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Syllabus:

Problem definition and clarification - design briefs; New Product Development (NPD) Concurrent Engineering NPD vs Traditional NPD; The deliverables of processes of design; design processes and the role of parametric CAD; Modelling strategies from cognition to prototype; Creative Design Methods; Product Concepts Surface modelling and solid modelling techniques; design intent: planning parts for design flexibility; relations and equations; parametric dimensions; design and modelling for manufacture and assembly; assembly modelling; drawings; drawing documentation; BOMs; creating design tables using Excel for multiple part and assembly configurations; Library features: SolidWorks Toolbox of fasteners and components; importing and exporting files; CAD standards for data exchange; STL files and the FDM rapid prototyping system; linking with SolidCAM. FEA analysis and design validation; rendering and presentation techniques; product animation.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to: 1. Construct robust part files using the SolidWorks parametric modeller. 2. Construct assembly documents and configurations from modelled part files. 3. Demonstrate an ability to capture and implement design intent in product design. 4. Generate fully dimensioned and annotated working drawings for created parts and assemblies. 5. Demonstrate proficiency in using SolidWorks to create free-form sculptured and complex swooping surfaces required for consumer products. 6. Design and save models for use with the FDM rapid prototyping system. 7. Apply the design process to solving a design problem using SolidWorks and explain their design solution. 8. Demonstrate bottom-up and top-down assembly procedures. 9. Use the SolidWorks Toolbox library of fasteners and components.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

1. Appreciate the importance of hybrid modelling techniques in designing contemporary consumer products.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

N/A

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

The module has a two-hour PC-based lecture followed by a two-hour practical lab with applied tasks each week. A substantial part of the module is an assigned project that requires students to apply their knowledge of hybrid and master modelling techniques to reverse engineer an existing product, make design modifications and create a comprehensive set of design documentation for it. Extensive use is made of created Internet based video tutorials provided through the authors website: www.ul.ie/~rynnet to facilitate self-directed learning.

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

Lombard, M. (2018) Mastering SolidWorks 1st Edition , Sybex

Lombard, M. (2008) SolidWorks Surfacing and Complex Shape Modeling , Wiley Publishing Inc.

SolidWorks Corporation (2008) SolidWorks User¿s Guides , SolidWorks Corporation

Planchard, D. and Planchard, M. (2007) Official Certified Solidworks Associate CSWA Exam Book , CENGAGE Delmar Learning

Barr, R.E., Krueger, T.J., Aanstoos, T.A. and Juricic D. (2006) Engineering and Computer Graphics Workbook Using SolidWorks 2007 , Schroff Development Corporation.

Urlick, Karl. T., Eppinger Steven.D. (1995) Product Design and Development , McGraw Hill

Lockhart, S.D. and Johnson, C.M. (2000) Engineering Design Communication: conveying design through graphics , Prentice-Hall

Other Relevant Texts:

Lindbeck, John R, Wygant, Robert M, (1995) Product design and manufacture , Prentice-Hall

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Spring

Module Leader:

colin.butler@ul.ie