Aims and Fit of Module

To enable students to develop an understanding of a wide range of aspects of the design function, within different contexts such as design freelancing, design offices, design agencies/consultancies, manufacturing companies etc., and its management, and in particular a comprehensive understanding of design process models and their critiques. 

The core of the module is a detailed study of a six-phase model of the Design Process derived from several authors and the BS 7000 BSI British Standards series of standards for Design Management Systems: Product Planning and Feasibility; Design Specification; Conceptual Design; Embodiment Design; Detail Design; Post-Design-Release.

Learning outcomes

Students completing the module successfully should:

A	US3 – Ability to apply and integrate knowledge and understanding of other engineering and non-engineering disciplines to support engineering design activities.	 	Coursework

B	D3 – Ability to identify and manage cost drivers within the context of engineering design.	Cost decomposing models and cost evaluation methods. 	Exam

C	D5 – Ability to ensure fitness for purpose for all aspects of the engineering product life cycle, i.e. manufacture, operation, maintenance, disposal and/or recycling.	Be able to describe phases of design in a business setting. 	Exam

D	S1 – Knowledge and understanding of the commercial and economic context of engineering processes.	Knowledge and understanding of 

(1) the key aspects of corporate design management, and 

(2) the key stages of the design process.	Exam

E	S2 – Understanding of management and business practises that may be used to achieve engineering design objectives including finance, law, marketing, personnel and quality.	Knowledge and understanding of the key aspects of design project management.	Exam

F
	P5 – Understanding and application of IPR, including patent application and nature of associated legal and contractual issues.	Understanding of the importance of intellectual property protection through design, concept of technology disclosure and patenting to a company.	Coursework

G	P9 – Ability to apply engineering design techniques, taking account of a selection of commercial and industrial constraints.	Ability to apply principles of business strategy such as mass customization to the design of business models.

	Coursework and exam

Method of teaching and learning

Lectures, case studies, class questions, group work, coursework assignment and an exam.