Motorsport Technology

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Design and Practice II (double) (30 credits)

  In this module, you will embark on an introductory study of control systems, focusing on both digital and analogue control using electronic systems. You will develop your ability to analyse digital control problems and devise logical implementations for both combinational and sequential logic scenarios. Additionally, you will gain the skills to identify the components of a digital control system, select suitable controllers, and implement control algorithms.

  On successful completion of this module, you will possess a strong foundation in control systems, empowering you to tackle complex control problems in various industries. The hands-on experience and exposure to industry-standard simulation and modelling packages will enhance your practical skills, making you a valuable asset in the field. Effective documentation and communication abilities will enable you to collaborate seamlessly with other engineers and contribute to the maintenance and implementation of control systems. 

• Materials Engineering (15 credits)

  This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of materials used in mechanical engineering, with a focus on selection, design, manufacturing optimization, and environmental impact assessment. You'll delve into the specifics of metals and polymer composite materials, gaining valuable insights into their structure, properties, and manufacturing processes.

  By the end of this module, you'll have the underpinning knowledge and comprehension necessary to make informed decisions about materials selection for engineering applications. You'll explore how the structure and properties of materials are influenced by their manufacturing processes, leading to optimized performance in real-world scenarios. Additionally, you'll gain an understanding of the factors and processes involved in material degradation, enabling you to evaluate and account for these factors in your design work.
   

• Electronics and Control Engineering 1 (30 credits)

  In this module, you'll develop a comprehensive understanding of electronic and electrical systems, their control mechanisms, and their integration with existing processes. The focus is on preparing you to analyse, apply, and predict the performance of these systems, especially in the context of high-level autonomous operations. 

  Upon completing this module, you'll be able to explain the operation and limitations of major control, electrical, and electronic systems. You'll have the skills to analyse complex electronics and control problems, design appropriate tests, and accurately assess outcomes. Leveraging industry-standard modelling and simulation software, you'll be capable of explaining and analysing the behaviour of electronics and control systems. 
   

• Engineering Dynamics (15 credits)

  This module is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of dynamic mechanical systems. The focus includes mechanical vibration, control systems, and the performance evaluation of single-degree-of-freedom systems, as well as first and second-order systems. Additionally, you'll explore the kinematics of mechanisms, gears, and epicyclic gears. The coursework is enriched with practical laboratory exercises, providing hands-on experience to complement theoretical learning. 

  By the end of this module, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively analyse the dynamic performance of mechanical systems. 

• Thermal Systems (15 credits)

  In this module, you will build upon your foundational knowledge of engineering thermodynamics to explore the application of these principles in analysing and designing equipment and systems across various engineering domains. You will delve into the intricacies of gas mixtures, combustion chemistry, and thermodynamics, enabling you to evaluate key indicators and performance metrics. 

  This module equips you with valuable skills and knowledge applicable in diverse engineering scenarios. You will not only comprehend the inner workings of thermal systems but also learn to evaluate their performance under varying conditions. Through practical exercises and CAE modelling, you will compare mathematical models with real-world results, honing your ability to assess and optimise thermal systems' efficiency and effectiveness.
   

• Electrical Machines and Drives (15 credits)

  In this module, you will delve into the realm of electrical machines and their drives, a critical area in the realm of Electro-Mechanical Engineering. The module focuses on designing drives for electrical machines and challenges you to create effective solutions, backed by appropriate specifications. You’ll engage in research and literature reviews, which will fine-tune your analytical skills. 

  This module will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of various electrical machines and their applications, encompassing both fundamental concepts and more intricate aspects where applicable. Through mathematical analysis, you will develop problem-solving skills in tackling intricate challenges. You will gain the ability to decipher the intricacies of electrical machines and predict their behaviour through analytical means. 
   

• Stress Analysis (15 credits)

  In this module, you'll delve into the intricacies of static stress analysis using closed-form solutions derived from fundamental principles. You'll also explore how this understanding relates to failure criteria and the material properties of the component. Practical application of theories will be facilitated through a hands-on laboratory session, offering a real-world context to the learned concepts.

  Through this module, you'll gain a profound ability to calculate stresses, strains, and deflections in beams undergoing bending and torsion. You'll be adept at determining various stress components like principal, octahedral, hydrostatic, and deviatoric stresses in three-dimensional components. This skill set will enable you to evaluate the strength and deformation suitability of a diverse range of components under static loading conditions. 
   

Year 3 (optional placement year)

Optional modules

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

• Engineering Project (30 credits)

  This module aims to provide you with a platform to delve deeply into a practical engineering issue, fostering a comprehensive understanding of real-world problem-solving. You will undertake a substantial project that goes beyond the scope of your previous coursework, allowing you to solidify your knowledge and hone the skills you've acquired during your studies. 

  Throughout the module, you will be required to meticulously document your project's journey, from its inception to its completion, in a comprehensive report. You'll learn to prepare effective project plans and Gantt charts, crucial tools for organising and executing the project in a systematic manner. Your ability to critically evaluate engineering practices through in-depth analysis of published literature will be nurtured. You'll also learn to apply a diverse range of both innovative and established techniques to address complex engineering problems, showcasing your problem-solving prowess.
   

• Management Ethics, Energy and Sustainability (30 credits)

  This module is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges that intersect business, society, and sustainability. With a specific focus on the automotive, transport, and general engineering sectors, this module delves into critical topics such as project management, leadership, energy, environmental concerns, sustainable engineering, ethics, and social aspects of employment.

  By the end of this module, you'll possess a holistic perspective on business practices and their impact on the triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental aspects. You'll learn to craft effective business plans, making compelling arguments that incorporate sustainability principles, echoing the shift towards a circular economy.
   

• Vehicle Dynamics (15 credits)

  This module is designed to provide you with a comprehensive grasp of both theoretical and practical aspects related to the critical components of vehicle dynamics: tyres, ride, and handling. Through a combination of theory and practical exercises, you will delve into various analyses and design considerations to understand the dynamic behaviour of vehicles.

  By the end of this module, you will develop a critical understanding of the techniques required to analyse and assess the handling and ride qualities of an entire vehicle. Throughout the module, you will gain proficiency in using computer-based tools for vehicle dynamic analysis and design, enabling you to confidently prepare specifications for optimal vehicle performance. Additionally, you will be encouraged to explore and solve new vehicle dynamics problems independently, nurturing your ability to strategize solutions autonomously.
   

• Motorsport Engine Technology (15 credits)

  This module is designed to equip you with an in-depth understanding of modern engines, including Hybrid Electric Powertrain (HEP) systems and alternative fuels. Firstly, you will grasp and explain the underlying working principles and design solutions of contemporary engines and HEPs. Secondly, you will learn to connect various topics coherently and logically, enabling a holistic perspective. Lastly, you will acquire analytical techniques crucial for evaluating engine performance, combustion characteristics, and making informed decisions about design and development.

  By the end of this module, you will not only have a confident grasp of engine cycles, combustion processes, and key performance indicators but also the ability to adapt and innovate engine components and ancillary systems.
   

• Electronics and Control Engineering 2 (15 credits)

  This module is designed to provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in the realm of electronics and control systems. The focus is on equipping you with the expertise to create, analyse, and critically evaluate complex electronic and control systems. The module will also explore the integration of these advanced systems with existing processes and applications, unveiling their impact on the technological landscape.

  Upon completing this module, you will possess the advanced capabilities required to excel in the design, analysis, and evaluation of intricate electronic and control systems. These skills will be invaluable in applications such as Computer Integrated Manufacturing, where the fusion of electronic systems and automation plays a pivotal role.
   

• Motorsport Vehicle Performance (15 credits)

  This module is designed to take your prior knowledge to the next level, focusing on advanced vehicle performance topics crucial to the world of motorsport. You will delve into intricate subjects such as lap-time simulation, data acquisition, instrumentation, and telemetry.

  At the end of this module, you will be adept at systematically grasping and applying advanced concepts related to motorsport vehicle performance. You'll harness your engineering knowledge to synthesise racing car performance, utilising computer simulations and mathematical models grounded in first principles. The ability to create accurate computer simulations of racing car lap times using specialised synthesis and modelling tools will be a key takeaway.