Mechatronics & Intelligent Machines, BEng (Hons)

Program Overview

This BEng (Hons) Mechatronics & Intelligent Machines program at UCLan provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of intelligent machines and the development of mechatronics systems, equipping them for careers as graduate engineers in the field of mechatronics. The program offers a range of modules covering electromechanical systems, programmable logic controllers, robotics, precision technologies, systems engineering, and engineering management. Students gain hands-on experience through practical sessions, industry placements, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The program is accredited by the Institution of Engineering Designers and provides pathways to further research and professional development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BEng (Hons) Mechatronics & Intelligent Machines program at UCLan is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to work as graduate engineers in the field of mechatronics. The program focuses on the fundamentals of intelligent machines and the development of mechatronics systems, including:

• Electromechanical systems
• Programmable logic controllers
• Robotics
• Precision technologies
• Systems engineering
• Engineering management
Students will gain a deep understanding of these areas and learn how to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.

Outline:

The program is a three-year full-time program delivered in-person at the Preston Campus. It starts in September and includes an optional 48-week sandwich placement in industry between Year 2 and Year 3.

Year 1:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Digital and Programmable Systems (ER1001): This module introduces basic concepts of digital and programmable systems, including microprocessors/microcontrollers, and provides experience in embedded programming.
• Mechanical Engineering Science (ER1203): This module further develops the core principles and theory of mechanical engineering science.
• Engineering Science & Analysis (ER1210): This module introduces core principles of thermal and fluid engineering, problem-solving techniques, and essential engineering practices, including relevant measurement methods.

Year 2:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Digital Systems (EL2242): This module introduces design methods and practical skills for constructing reliable digital systems.
• Applied Instrumentation and Control (ER2100): This module introduces modern engineering experimentation, including experiment design, system calibration, data acquisition, analysis, and presentation.
Students gain hands-on experience with modern instrumentation and systems-level experimentation.
• Design and Manufacture (MP2070): This module develops technical knowledge related to concept evolution, detail design, and prototype development.
It also covers project management methods to prepare for the final year project. It develops problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and computational modeling skills.
• Optional Modules:
• Robotic Systems (EL2007): This module explores the theoretical, intellectual, and practical challenges of adapting robot systems to sense and interact with their physical world and perform tasks.
• Operations Management A (MP2721): This module develops skills and knowledge needed to participate in an operations management team.

Year 3:

• Compulsory Modules:
• Mechatronics (ER3200): This module introduces mechatronics system elements, different sensors, actuators, controllers, signal conditioning methods, and examples of software used in mechatronics systems development using case studies.
It also demonstrates electromechanical systems in Mechatronics systems and intelligent machines. It provides a thorough understanding of the theory and practice of different types of maintenance to achieve high results within the plant.
• Project (MP3995): This module involves carrying out and reporting a program of work leading to the investigation/design of a product/system/service, including investigation, analysis, design, evaluation, test, manufacture, study of current research or development leading to the development of new knowledge and methods or applications.
• Optional Modules:
• Programmable Logic Controllers (ER3202): This module introduces programmable logic controller concepts, hardware architectures, and programming.
It covers PLC, DCS, HMI, SCADA, and PLC applications in Mechatronics systems.
• Advanced Engineering Portfolio (ER3801): This module consists of a research project on a topic of the student's choice, agreed upon with a supervisor.

Assessment:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Tutorial questions
• Examinations
• Online assessments via Blackboard questions
• Extended assignments
• Presentations
• Poster defense
• Written reports

Teaching:

The program utilizes a range of teaching methods, including:

• Case studies
• Lectures
• Practical sessions
• Independent learning guided by a tutor
• Tutorial sessions
Students will work alongside research-active staff and have the opportunity to continue on to PhD research.

Careers:

This program provides a strong foundation for a career in a range of roles associated with:

• System engineering
• Test engineers
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities in the new £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC).
• The University has links with major employers in aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering, including BAE Systems and JLR, as well as sector support and supply chain organizations, such as the NW Aerospace Alliance and the Northern Automotive Alliance.

2024/25

UK

• Full-time: £9,250 per year
• Sandwich year: £1,500 for the sandwich year
• Part-time: £1,540 per 20 credits

International

Most of these will be optional, but some courses have essential additional costs.