Module manager: Dr Mingwen Bai
Email: m.bai2@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
N/A
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module equips students with essential skills in design and manufacturing in a digitally driven and quality-focused engineering environment. Covering CAD, CNC machining, metrology, and quality assurance, the module combines lectures, software-based learning, and hands-on group work. It also serves as a preparatory foundation for the MECH5775M Advanced Manufacturing module (semester 2), where students are expected to apply 3D design skills using SolidWorks to manufacture engineering components.
On completion of this module, students will gain a sound understanding of key manufacturing technologies and how they integrate with product design and quality control in engineering systems. Students will engage in software-based CAD design, learn CNC programming and machining basics, apply principles of dimensional metrology and quality assurance, and gain awareness of modern trends including micro/nano-manufacturing and automation. Teaching will involve lectures, practical labs, CAD exercises, and team-based coursework.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Apply scientific principles of core manufacturing technologies and evaluate their appropriate use.
2. Demonstrate competence in CAD modelling and design using SolidWorks.
3. Evaluate and justify manufacturing process selection and production planning decisions based on design, material and economic constraints.
4. Use dimensional metrology tools and interpret measurement data for quality control.
5. Describe and critically assess advanced topics in manufacturing, including micro/nano-manufacturing and Six Sigma.
6. Develop a process chain that integrates design, manufacturing, and quality assurance to meet engineering requirements.
These module learning outcomes contribute to the following AHEP4 learning outcomes:
- Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering. [M1]
- Design solutions for complex problems that evidence some originality and meet a combination of societal, user, business and customer needs as appropriate. This will involve consideration of applicable health and safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards. [M5]
- Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems (to include the entire life-cycle of a product or process) and minimise adverse impacts. [M7]
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
General Skills (UK-SPEC):
- Ability to integrate design and manufacturing requirements in engineering solutions.
- Planning and teamwork in project-based assignments.
Specific Engineering Skills:
- Design: Use of CAD (SolidWorks) for 3D modelling and engineering drawing.
- Engineering Analysis: Evaluation of manufacturing processes and quality control metrics.
Engineering Practice:
- Basic CNC machining setup and operation
- Use of metrology instruments
- Application of Six Sigma and Lean principles
- Awareness of automation and robotics in manufacturing
Software & Computation: Competence in CAD tools and basic process planning software.
Introduction to Manufacturing Technologies
Overview of conventional and modern manufacturing methods, including forming, machining, casting, and joining.
- Process selection based on design constraints, material properties, and economic considerations
- Comparison of subtractive vs additive and forming techniques.
CAD for 3D Design:
SolidWorks (Software Labs) Hands-on training in SolidWorks for modelling and documentation of parts and assemblies.
- Part modelling, assembly constraints, and exploded views
- Technical drawings with tolerances and annotations
- Design for manufacture and downstream use in CAM.
CNC Machining Basics and Team Coursework
Introduction to CNC milling and turning with a focus on digital-to-physical workflow.
- Toolpath generation basics and G-code overview
- Setup, fixturing, and safe operation of CNC machines
- Group project involving design, manufacture, and report submission.
Advanced Metrology and Quality Assurance
Principles and tools of dimensional measurement and process verification.
- Hands-on use of micrometers, calipers, height gauges
- Introduction to coordinate measuring machines (CMMs)
- Understanding tolerance, inspection plans, and statistical control.
Materials Selection and Processing
Overview of common engineering materials and their selection based on function and process compatibility.
- Use of Ashby plots and CES EduPack for structured selection
- Considerations for machinability, surface finish, and cost.
Digital Manufacturing and Process Planning
Use of digital tools to bridge design and production.
- Interpreting CAD models for CAM and documentation
- Process flow planning and simple simulation tools
- Understanding the role of PLM systems and digital twins.
Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing
Introduction to quality and productivity frameworks.
- DMAIC cycle and control charts
- Lean tools: 5S, value stream mapping, kaizen (Concise—sub-bullets help distinguish Six Sigma from Lean).
Automation and Robotics in Manufacturing
Overview of industrial automation and its integration in manufacturing.
- Applications of PLCs, sensors, and actuators
- Role of collaborative robots (cobots) and safety systems
- Brief intro to Industry 4.0 concepts.
Methods of assessment
The assessment details for this module will be provided at the start of the academic year
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laboratory | 2 | 3 | 6 |
| Practical (computer based) | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Lecture | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Seminar | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 106 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 44 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
- Weekly CAD drop-in sessions (2 hours) include tutor and demonstrator interaction, offering live feedback on part design, modelling accuracy, and manufacturability.
- CNC coursework preparation sessions allow students to review tooling, and process plans with staff before actual machining, receiving guidance on errors or design-process mismatches.
- Measurement and metrology workshops involve iterative practice with real-time technician feedback on dimensional accuracy, method selection, and error analysis.
Group design and manufacturing project includes milestone check-ins and verbal feedback from academic staff at key design, planning, and production stages.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team