This two-semester project module aims to offer students a context in which to develop a proposal for an intelligent manufacturing project through their internships in companies and interaction with supervisors, and then complete the problem analysis, research, conceptualization, design development, and system development. In the first semester an emphasis on design research, problem formulation, and conceptualization is encouraged, while in the second semester an emphasis on system development, testing, and evaluation is encouraged. Students are encouraged to develop intelligent manufacturing projects based on their interests and professional goals, and make use of practical use of principles, techniques and methodologies acquired.
Students are expected to aim for an integration of all knowledge, insights, and skills gained while studying on this program as well as present results at the highest standards of enquiry and production in all aspects of this final year project.
A. Specify a substantial problem, and produce a plan to address the problem;
B. Produce and follow an appropriate project plan to fit within the available time and assessment structure;
C. Locate and perform a review of project related literature;
D. Design, implement and test a solution to a substantial problem;
E. Evaluate in a critical fashion the work they have done, and to place it in the context of related work;
F. Prepare and deliver a formal presentation;
G. Structure and write a dissertation describing their projects.
In the project we wish to foster independent learning, under the guidance of supervisors. There is a review, which provides an opportunity for monitoring progress and giving formative feedback. Supervisors from both university and companies maintain regular contact with students throughout the project to provide direction and advice as needed.