The aim of this module is to provide the learner with a fundamental comprehension of fluid mechanics, the branch of mechanics associated with the static and dynamics of fluid flow. Fluid mechanics is fundamental to many industrial processes and device design. Starting from the definition of a fluid, learners build up their knowledge to describe, characterise and analyse the behaviour of steady fluids flows. Learners are introduced to the theoretical formulation of concepts of mass, momentum and energy conservation, as well as the application of such. The course is designed such that learners emerge with the tools and knowledge to solve real life problems relating to fluid flow.

1. Define, derive and manipulate the concepts of pressure, hydrostatic pressure and buoyancy. Apply principles to problem-solving involving same.

2. Describe the concept which underpins Reynolds Transport Theorem (Total and Convective derivative) and to be able to use both the flow continuity (i.e. law of mass conservation) and Bernoulli’s equation (i.e. law of energy conservation) to calculate (pressure, velocity and height) heads in a 1D flow.
3. Compile and report in a clear concise manner the findings of laboratory experiments concerning theoperation of flow measuring devices.

4. Describe the concept of inviscid flows and thereafter be able to use inviscid flow momentum theory to calculate forces exerted on both stationary and moving bodies by fluid flows.
5. Demonstrate an awareness of the Reynolds number, Laminar, Turbulent Flow, Hagen-Poiseuille Flow, Coutte Flow, Friction Factors, Darcy Equation and the entry length requirements for pipeline flow
6. Approximate pressure losses associated with friction and fittings in pipelines for both laminar and turbulent flows and be able to read Moody Diagrams to account for the relative roughness of a pipeline. Additionally the learner should be able to distinguish between minor and major losses

This module is designed to extend students knowledge of differential and integral calculus and its applications to engineering problems.

1. Applydifferentiation techniques to solve a range of problems modelled bysingle and multivariable functions.

2. Formulate and evaluate integrals to find average values, areas, and volumes.

3. Solve first order separabledifferential equations arising from applied engineering problems.

4. Critique a peer’s work objectively and communicate constructive feedback orally and in writing.

5. Communicate their mathematical knowledge and reasoning both orally and in writing.

This module presents the theory of machines and mechanisms such as cams and gears. It also introduces the student to free and forced vibrating single degree of freedom systems.

1. Recognise standard machine components, recall their associated nomenclature and explain their function.
2. Design cam, gear, and spring-mass damper systems.

3. Apply equations of motion to problems in undamped and damped single degree of freedom systems.

4. Calculate the gear speeds, power transmitted, and geometric characteristics of simple and compound gear trains.

This module introduces pneumatic and electro-pneumatic technologies used to control machines. The student will study valves, actuators and all aspects of air production, conditioning and distribution. Electro-pneumatic circuits will be designed, simulated and built, including multi-actuator sequences. The student will specify and size components based on system requirements.

1. Outline the working principles of electro-pnuematic components.
2. Describe the components of pnuematic and hydraulics actuation.
3. Simulate, build and test basic and multi-actuator pneumatic and electro-pneumatic circuits.

4. Specify, size and select suitable pneumatic components for industrial applications

This module introduces students to techniques for solving second order differential equations. In addition, students are introduced to probabilistic and statistical analysis for engineering.

1. Recognise and solve second order differential equations and appreciate their role in the modelling of oscillations and vibrations.

2. Implement suitable analytic procedures in problems involving discrete and continuous random variables and probability distributions.

3. Performstatistical analysis with appropriate software and interpret the results.

4. Critique a peer’s work objectively and communicate constructive feedback orally and in writing.

5. Communicate their mathematical knowledge and reasoning both orally and in writing.

An introduction to the principles of thermodynamics

1. Describe in detail the state of a thermodynamic system as well as the properties and characteristics of thermodynamic processes (Isobaric, Isochoric, Isothermal, Polytropic, Adibatic)

2. State the Zeroth and First Law of thermodynamics and demonstrate its application to both closed and open thermodynamic systems by been able to solve thermodynamic problems involving an ideal gas, phase change fluids, and incompressible substances by using the steady flow energy equation

3. Calculate using steady flow energy equation, enthalpy temperature diagrams and steam tables the work and power generated in a steam power plant

4. Apply the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics to work processes in thermodynamics componentsand to allcycles for energy efficient and sustainable power production, for the listed thermodynamic systems:
o Carnot Heat Engine and Heat Pump
o Stirling Heat Engine
o Otto Heat Engine
o Diesel Heat Engine
o Simple Brayton Heat Engine

5. Analyse and Evaluate the actual and ideal vapour compression refrigeration cycle and hense analyse the operation of heat pumps and refrigeration systems, with a view to increasing energy efficiency, and the delivery of sustainable energy solutions to support the SDGs 12 and 13.

This module provides the student with the basics of stress and strain calculations for mechanical components subjected to point, distributed and thermal loading. Axial, bending and torsional loads are analysed. The module also includes an introduction to material properties and testing

1. Specify the fundamental and derived SI units employed in mechanic of solids.
2. Define and compute the mechanical stresses and strains on loaded components, rods, and pressure vessels
3. Complete and analyse the results of tensile, hardness, and other material tests
4. Compute the stresses and strains enduced by torsional loading and thermal expansion.
5. Determine the stresses and deflections of loaded flexural members

The student will analyse basic pneumatic/hydraulic manufacturing applications and develop automated solutions using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) technology. PLC ladder logic programmes will be designed, developed and tested.

1. Specify suitable components/sequences for industrial automated applications
2. Construct basic ladder logic programs using Boolean logic, I/O, timers, counters, relays, sequencing, etc.

3. Demonstate competence in wiring, programming and testing PLCs
4. Implement safety best practices in the design of automated systems, including specific Safety PLC hardware and devices/assemblies safety.

Manufacturing Engineering 2 follows on and builds from Manufacturing Engineering 1. It broadens the learners experiences in both the theoretical and practical elements of Manufacturing.

1. Summarise the main process of modern manufacturing using Machining Centres, Robotics and CNC.

2. List the basics of Quality Control, Measurement and Inspection and recall the main principles of Dimensioning and Tolerancing.

3. List types of polymers and summarise the relevant shaping processes.
4. Recall basic properties of engineering materials, identificationand selection and metal forming processes.

5. Summarise the basic elements ofEthics andSustainability in the contextof Manufacturing.

6. Generate CNC Programmes for turning and milling.

7. Generate CNC programingfor CAM.

Computer Aided Design 2 is a five-credit module, delivered via a 1.5 hr laboratory over academic year. The aim of the module is to enhance the student's skill, knowledge, and competence in producing mechanical models, virtual prototypes, engineering drawings and design documentation. Students will be introduced to specialist extensions of CAD software including Mechnical Simulation and flow analysis through which structural, thermal, fluid flow and modal analysis of designs will be conducted. Additionally, students will be exposed to more advanced features of the CAD Parametric package including Sheetmetal, Surface Modelling and Multibody Design.

Students will learn about the importance of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing specification (ASME Y 14.5) in the design process and will be required to apply GD&T to their drawing files. Specifically, general tolerancing and related principles, symbology, datum reference frames, tolerances of form, tolerances of location, tolerances of profile and tolerances of runout.

In addition, students will also be exposed to other commercially available CAD packages, examining similarities in workflow and data exchange. Central to this module is a design, build and test project, where students are challenged to undertake a design challenge. Applying the skills learned in the module in a synergistic combination with rapid prototyping, students will be tasked with the physical manufacture of both functional and aesthetically pleasing designs to meet a set design challenge.

1. Reproduce complex parts and design features using advanced surface modelling tools and techniques.

2. Use rapid prototype technologies such as 3D printing and laser scanning develop and demonstrate product design ideas.

3. Use appropriate computer aided engineering extensions in order to evaluate designs from a basic structural, thermal and/or fluid flow perspective.

4. Produce functioning CAD models – while working within diverse groups – by utilising the learning assimilated in theCAD modules.

5. Produce technical reports which incorporate product specifications and controls such as dimensional and geometric tolerances.

This module introduces the fundamentals of engineering mechanics to the learner (i.e. Newton's Laws of Motion, Energy, Work, Linear and Angular Momentum), and aims to build the learners engineering confidence by showing the learner analytical methods which can be used to solve everyday engineering problems. Students are expected to attend lectures and to participate in problem-solving in tutorials. The tutorials are designed to engage the learner and to show them how to implement, the universally accepted methods described in the lectures.

1. Construct Free Body Diagrams of real world problems, and thereafter apply Newton’s Law of Motion and vector operations to evaluate equilibrium of particles andbodies.

2. Applying the principles of equilibrium to analyse the internal forces acting on planar trusses, frames and machines.

3. Discuss the concepts of centroids of lines, area and volume, and compute their location for bodies of arbitrary shape. Thereafter,the learners should be able to apply this learning to handle distributed loads.

4. Analyse basic engineering problems relating to the kinematics of particles using different coordinate systems (i.e. Cartesian, n-t and cylindrical), and solve engineering problems which are time dependent (i.e. Relative Position, Velocity and Acceleration).

5. Represent and analyse practical engineering problems (i.e. Force, Energy, and Momentum) related to the kinetics of particles by drawing FBD’s and using:

Newton’s Laws of Motion,
Principle of Work and Energy
The Conservation of Linear Momentum.
The Conservation of Angular Momentum

The module exposes the learner to modern manufacturing processes and techniques with special emphasis on non-traditional practices. It also has a practical use of CADCAM and Mold & Cavity software to generate machine code. It concludes the series of modules on Manufacturing technology

1. List the basic elements of modern advanced manufacturing techniques and production processes.
2. Summarise the principles of traditional manufacturing processes.
3. Summarise the principles of non-traditonal manufacturing processes.
4. Use CAM software in the generaton of ISO G and M codes for the manufacture of components on CNC machine tools.
5. Use of Mold and cavity Software to provide software solutions for practical applications.

Numerical Methods & Programming is concerned with learning various programming techniques and applying these techniques to solve numerical based engineering problems. These problems include roots of equations, 1st and 2nd order initial value differential equations, curve fitting based on the method of least squares, interpolation functions, differentiation, and integration. All of these numerical problems will be programmed, debugged, and executed.

1. Apply programming techniques for: character, integer, float types, loops, conditional statements, arrays, input/outputs, reading and writing files, plotting graphs, creating functions, and running and debugging a program.

2. Apply standard techniques to solve the roots of a multi-order equation.

3. Apply standard techniques for numerically differentiating and numerically integrating functions.

4. Apply standard techniques for curve fitting experimental data and establishing interpolation functions.

5. Apply standard techniques to solve 1st order and 2nd order initial value differential equations.

This module introduces the learner to the three modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection and radiation. Attention is focused on the physical mechanisms and empirical laws used to define and quantify conductive (one- and two-dimensional steady state conduction, transient conduction), convective (free, forced and phase change) and radiative (radiation properties and shape factors) heat transfers.

Learning is assisted by analysing practical, discipline specific applications such as plane walls, radiators and underfloor heating; domestic and industrial products such as ovens and heat exchangers; and laboratory practicals involving temperature, heat transfer and thermal property measurement.

Further context is provided by highlighting how heat transfers (thermal energy and efficiency) underpin ethical considerations such as 'health and safety' and 'sustainable development', emphasised in both Engineers Ireland's Code of Ethics and relevant UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

1. Describe the empirical laws and physical mechanisms that define the three modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection and radiation.

2. Select the appropriate empirical law(s) or problem-solving technique requiredin different contexts orapplications.

3. Apply the appropriate conductive, convective and/or radiative heat transfer analysis in different contexts orapplications.

4. Devise a finite difference numerical model to assist the analysis of a two-dimensional conductive heat transfer problem.

5. Explain the significance of the outcome(s) obtained from eithertheoretical calculation and/ornumerical modelling.

6. Critique the method of analysis, outcome(s) and conclusion(s)from the ethical perspectives outlined in Engineer Ireland’s Code of Ethics and relevantSDGs.

7. Recognise the limitations of either the theoreticalcalculation ornumerical modelling analysis conducted.

8. Plan and execute an experimental program capable of validating the accuracy of thetheoreticalcalculation ornumerical modelling analysis.

Machine Design is the branch of engineering mechanics relating to the study of engineering stresses and strains in mechanical systems. A part or component of a machine fail when the stress induced by either the static and dynamic loading exceed its allowable stiffness or strength. This module presents the engineering fundamentals necessary to analyse static and/or fatigue stresses.

1. Construct Shear Force Distribution (SFD) and Bending Moment Distribution (BMD) diagrams to calculate maximum flexure stresses present in bending beams under a variety of loading conditions

2. Calculate the principal and shear stresses and their directions on a stress element subjected to a bi-axial stress system.

3. Construct Mohr’s circle of stressfor bi-axial load systems.

4. Design mechanical components subjected to static loading and predict failure based on different failure theories for ductile materials (such as Maximum Normal Stress Theory, Maximum Shear Stress Theory and Distortion Energy Theory) and brittle materials (such asRankine Theory and Mohr Hypothesis).

5. Apply the laws of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) topredict failure.

6. Calculate the fatigue life of a structural element subjected to sinusoidally varying loads (e.g. bending, torsional, axial)

7. Analyse the effect of different types of stress concentrations on a component’s (1) ability to withstand static loads and (2) service life under fatigue loading

8. Design mechanical and machine components (e.g. screws, bolts, gaskets, fasteners, springs, bearings and shafts) which are to be subjected to static and fatigue loading

This module addresses the issues associated with the innovative design of manufactured products that are environmentally supportive and the selection of optimum materials for those products for an economic environment with limited and shrinking resources.

1. Participate in the design and redesign of engineering components and products

2. Employ modelling software to create models and prototypes of product ideas

3. Employ appropriate software tools to select materials that satisfy design requirement

4. Employ product performance analysis techniques including safety and other standards and regulations

5. Participate in the development of market plans for products and participate in the creation of market strategies with regard to the costing and pricing and the promotion and distribution of products

The student will configure and program 2 controllers commonly used in industrial to control processes: An All-in-One Controller which features PLC ladder logic, a graphical used interface and digital & analog I/O interfaces A PID Temperature Controller

The characteristics and principles of operation of electrical, electronic and mechanical sensors/actuators are investigated. Concepts such as feedback, steady state error, disturbances, ON/OFF controllers, proportional, integral and derivative controllers will be examined to show that proper control system design leads to systems that are efficiently and adequately controlled.

1. Identify the operation andcharacteristicsof sensors and actuators, including their required signal conditioning and digital interfacing.

2. Configure and program Operator Control Systems to read sensors, display information on a HMI, and control output devices.

3. Analyse various control concepts including open loop, closed loop, relays, motor control, sequential control, process control, PID control.
4. Program PID Temperature Controllers for applications which require ON/OFF control, continuous modulated control etc.

This module introduces the student to fully automated control systems. Through both theoretical and practical training, the student studies robotics and vision systems. Robotics:

Investigating robotic capability, technology and anatomy. Development and execution of robotic programmes using standard robotic language. Practical training using 6 axis robots. Vision systems

Exploring typical application areas of vision systems, as well as general machine vision information. Practical training setting up visions system

Furthermore, the student will investigate how to integrate these with additional sensors/actuators to design fully automated manufacturing cells.

1. Describe the industrial uses, feasibility and cost effectiveness of robotic systems.

2. Definerobotics technology and anatomy.

3. Develop and simulate robotic programs.

4. Describe the industrial uses and principlesof a vision system.

5. Set-up a machine vision system.

The study of electrical technologies is an essential part of the learning outcome for an Energy Engineer. It is critical that the student understands the safe operation of modern electrical systems to allow for effective and economic use of plant. In this module students will learn about the electrical technologies associated with various industrial and power transmission systems, which assists in reducing electrical energy consumption. The course begins with a review of basic DC and AC theory and goes on to look at power factor and its correction. Transformers which form a critical [part of the electrical transmission network are then introduced. The distribution of power in three-phase networks is introduced next along with the requirements for measuring the real power consumed, is considerer next. Interconnection of AC grids by HVDC transmission is examined along with how to rectify and invert AC and DC power sources. Transmission of power by superconducting cables is introduced along with the storage of energy by super-capacitors. The course concludes by studying the operation of power electronics and PV cells.

1. Explain the operation of single and three-phase AC and DCelectrical distribution networks.

2. Calculate power consumption in three-phase AC circuits, determinethe power factor and specify how this can becorrected.

3. Identify and calculatethe sources of inefficiencyin power transmissionequipment especially transformers and AC/DC converters.

4. Analyse electrical safety in the workplace, and how it can be improved using RCD and isolation transformers.

5. Develop simple spreadsheet models of electrical systems such as inverters and PV devices.

This module introduces the student to the main concepts and methodologies of Lean and Six Sigma. It covers Lean tools, the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control) methodology and a set of tools used at different steps of the DMAIC methodology. The module aims to give the students an understanding of the powerful Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies necessary to successfully lead and contribute to DMAIC improvement projects within an organisation.

1. Distinguish and explain Lean Six Sigma concepts and explain why organisations use them.

2. Define, select and apply Lean and Six Sigma tools for problem solving, prioritizing problems, reducing waste, evaluating process performance and improving processes.

3. Collect, summarise, analyse and interpret data using graphical methods, descriptive and inferential statistics.

4. Explain the concept of ethics and integrity and examine various codes of ethics for engineers.

5. Communicate findings effectively, accepting responsibility for their own contribution and performance.

The "Professional Practice for Mechanical Engineers" module relies somewhat on the ideology of Collaborative learning where learning is a naturally social act and learners benefit when exposed to diverse viewpoints from people with varied backgrounds. It provides students with the opportunity to manage and control a team based design, build, test project (DBT) whilst also affording students the opportunity to apply their engineering knowledge, tools and theory, learned on their chosen programme to the solution of broadly defined engineering problems during work experience. As such, the module consists of three elements, namely: Project Management Team based DPT project Work experience

Work experience preparation takes place during the term while the placement commences in April for students that successfully source a placement.

1. Usethe tools and techniques used for standardised team based project planning and management.

2. Apply Project Planning and Management tools to plan, manage and control the operation of the project.

3. Analyse personal skills and characteristics to develop a CV related to Work Placement career strategy.

4. Present and articulate their skills and experience professionally (e.g. in an interview situation).

5. Apply the engineering knowledge, tools and theory, learned on their chosen programme to the solution of broadly defined engineering problem.

6. Use the technical literature and other resources to find and evaluate information relevant to the project.

7. Implement appropriate engineering solutions through the design, build, and testing of a device or system.

8. Analyse project outcomes and effectively communicate project details and results to both specialist and non-specialist audiences through written technical reports, posters, videos, and oral presentations