Product Design Engineering

Liverpool John Moores University

United Kingdom, Liverpool

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Home/United Kingdom/Liverpool /Liverpool John Moores University/Product Design Engineering

Liverpool John Moores University

United Kingdom , Liverpool

Key Facts

Program Level

Bachelor

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

H772

Campuses

City

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesSeptember-2023

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 4 year(s)

Tuition Fee

GBP 21,050

Next Intake September-2023

Product Design Engineering

About

Why study Product Design Engineering at Liverpool John Moores University?

Design-led curriculum and opportunities to exhibit at the University's annual Product Innovation Show

Teaching delivered in well-equipped laboratories with state-of-the-art software plus excellent technical support

All students receive a personal copy of SolidWorks 3D CAD software and access to all Autodesk products

Thriving student industrial design society

Option of completing a year-long industrial placement or International module

About your course

The professionally-accredited BSc (Hons) Product Design Engineering at Liverpool John Moores University combines skills development in traditional hand-generated design work such as sketching, drawing and physical model making, with the latest computer-aided design techniques.

Additional course costs

Throughout the course students can expect to incur expenses over and above their ordinary living costs. The faculty will provide certain basic design materials; above this students are expected to provide their own design materials.

The Product Design Engineering degree gives you the opportunity to test your creativity and develop technical skills in using the latest CAD technology so that you will be able to take ideas from product conception, design and analysis, right through to production.

This is a hands-on course in which you will have access to CAD suites loaded with the latest 3D visualisation software, a purpose-built creative design studio, an advanced manufacturing laboratory and modern engineering laboratories.

The course has been developed in partnership with industry experts so that it is relevant to the needs of employers and you will be encouraged to take the year-long work placement option to get a taste of what it's really like to work in the design industry.

Product Design Engineering

...

What you will study on this degree

Please see guidance on core and option modules for further information on what you will study

Further guidance on modules

Modules are designated core or option in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU's Academic Framework Regulations.

Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules are also included to provide you with an element of choice within the programme. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.

Level 0

Core modules

Computer Aided Design

Aims
This module introduces the subject of 3D Computer Aided Design, with a focus on solid modelling of parts and assemblies in order to produce engineering drawings.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Understand 2D engineering drawings in the creation of 3D parts and assemblies.
2 Apply solid modelling techniques to create 3D parts.
3 Apply solid modelling techniques to create 3D assemblies.

Design Visualisation

Aims
This module introduces theoretical aspects of a range of visualisation techniques used by designers and develops the fundamental sketching, drawing and rendering skills.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Develop a design visually using a range of hand-generated techniques.
2 Create effective visuals using sketching and drawing software.
3 Demonstrate a knowledge of visualisation conventions and aesthetics.

Design Thinking Product Innovation

Aims
The main aim of this module is to offer students a broad perspective on Design Thinking as an integral part of product innovation.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Understand the organisational aspects of product development and its implications for managing and developing innovative products.
2 Understand and apply Design Thinking frameworks for innovation in a product design and development setting.
3 Apply Design Thinking tools and practices for technological innovation.
4 Identify and reflect upon the following aspects of personal development: strengths and weaknesses, motivations and values, ability to work with others.

Introduction to Electronics and Control

Aims
This module introduces the fundamentals of applied mathematics and electronics, both theoretically and through practical application, building circuits in laboratories. You will also learn to write simple code as a tool for engineering. You will work both individually and as part of a group during this module.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Apply fundamental knowledge of analogue and digital electronics.
2 Demonstrate knowledge of mathematics and electrical engineering theory to the selection of electronic components.
3 Create a program to operate embedded intelligent controllers.
4 Design basic control algorithms and circuits.

Mechanics, Materials and Manufacture

Aims
This module will cover the subjects of basic mechanics, mathematical theory, materials science and manufacturing technologies through a series of case studies and design-led lectures, seminars and workshops.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Define the micro-structural characteristics of a range of engineering materials.
2 Identify the relationships between manufacturing processes and material behaviour.
3 Demonstrate a clear understanding of the physics of mechanical systems and mathematics by applying them in formulating solutions to common problems.

Prototyping and Modelmaking for Design

Aims
This module introduces the subject of prototyping and modelmaking as a strategic part of the Design Thinking process. It emphasises how these practical activities lead to more informed design decisions in the successful development of innovative products.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Test prototypes to better understand design problems
2 Explore innovative solutions by testing for human interaction and functionality
3 Select appropriate materials, tools and techniques to produce prototypes and models as an integral part of the Design Thinking process
4 Understand the broader history of design and classify the principles of aesthetics

Advanced Computer Aided Design

Aims
This module will focus on single component part modelling. The key aim is to develop a range of advanced solid modelling and surface feature skills that can be applied to real-world products with complex geometry.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Apply hybrid modelling techniques to create geometry using BOTH solid modelling and surface tools.
2 Reverse engineer existing products by selecting and applying the most appropriate tools.
3 Design a component that can be manufactured using a forming process, along with its associated tooling.
4 Critically evaluate the modelling process, using storyboard methods to document specific features applied.

Product Design And Presentation

Aims
Introduce students to design theories on the conceptualisation of ideas and aesthetic sensibilities through the generation of 3D computer aided rendered and physical modelling techniques.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Apply visual research and develop a 3d rendered model.
2 Understand how materials, colour, texture and lighting are applied in creating a persuasive graphic presentation of a product.
3 Create a high-quality physical model.

Applied Electronics And Control

Aims
This module covers the fundamental theory and calculations behind the design of sensors, electric motors and microcontrollers through involvement in applied, creative engineering projects.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Design and build remote intelligent systems.
2 Specify and adapt metrology (measurement) requirements.
3 Interface & program sensors then visualise output data.

Embodiment Design

Aims
Through a Reverse Engineering methodology this module develops the skills and knowledge necessary to take a conceptual design, from design brief, through the embodiment phase of design, to the production of detailed design documents.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:
1 Apply the Reverse Engineering methodology.
2 Construct an initial product design specification and select an optimal design from a range of design solutions.
3 Evaluate and select appropriate standard items and materials with their associated manufacturing processes to inform the final design.
4 Manage a design related project to the completion of a set of design documents.

Product Analysis

Aims
This module introduces the fundamentals of the Finite Element Method as an optimization tool used within the product development lifecycle. Alongside Finite Element Analysis, measurement techniques and hand calculations will be considered as validation tools.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Apply material properties; mesh; loads and fixtures to a range of single component stress problems.
2 Define interaction between parts for multi-component stress problems.
3 Execute thermal analyses, defining heat loads for steady state and transient studies.
4 Identify and apply 2D simplification methods to static and thermal problems.
5 Identify methods to reduce model size, and apply appropriate subsequent symmetry conditions.

Digital Marketing and Business Model Development

Aims
The aim of this module is to enable the student to develop a primarily digital marketing plan for a product concept, a key part of which involves producing a promotional video and photographic still featuring the prototype.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Develop a postioning and branding strategy for your product design
2 Construct a credible and imaginative promotional plan for your product design
3 Design, plan and manage the creation of a scripted promotional video.

Design Project and Product Management

Aims
Provide the knowledge and skills of how product design and development functions are managed in organisations and the principle methods of planning, monitoring and controlling innovative design projects.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Synthesize design, project and product management theory and techniques to conceive an effective project plan.
2 Monitor and analyse design project and product activities to ensure effective execution of a project plan through the use of industry standard tools.
3 Evaluate and reflect on the outcome of the design project against stated objectives in terms of time, cost and quality constraints.

Major Project Research Report

Aims
Students will independently plan, organise and manage effective research in order to acquire new knowledge of a self-selected project. This module is designed to prepare and enable students to produce a research report that justifies the selection of a Major Project. It represents the culmination and consolidation of the student's research within their chosen project area.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Apply comprehensive analytical secondary research to a self-selected 1st order problem.
2 Undertake critical analysis of the chosen area of research.
3 Construct a robust argument for the design problem based on secondary research.

Major Project

Aims
Provide an opportunity to complete a substantial piece of design work in a supervised environment that is of particular interest to the student. Students will demonstrate the application of knowledge and skill gained throughout the duration of their programme to solve a self-selected problem.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Apply a recognised design process from a self-selected complex problem and develop a solution from a range of concepts.
2 Demonstrate independent creative and critical thinking in the pursuit of a solution.
3 Systematically apply design techniques and skills to produce a design solution to professional, highly innovative standards.

Sustainable and Ethical Design

Aims
Introduces students to sustainable and ethical issues in design.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Evaluate ethical issues when conducting primary research.
2 Analyse social, environmental and ethical issues that constrain design.
3 Critically evaluate and apply methodologies that ensure well-designed products and services.

User Centred Design

Aims
Introduce UCD research methods and to allow students to practice the concepts and language of product semantics.

Learning Outcomes
After completing the module the student should be able to:

1 Integrate new knowledge of the role of the user in design.
2 Synthesize knowledge of product semantics in creating a new product concept.
3 Test and evaluate a concept using the appropriate research-based methodology.

Teaching and work-related learning

Excellent facilities and learning resources

We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies. Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.

Teaching styles include lectures supported by small-group tutorials, and design workshops, projects, enterprise activities, online activities, field trips and laboratory work. Projects provide opportunities to expand your skills to the stage where you are building and testing your own prototype designs.

Work-related Learning

Local companies contribute to the design and development of this course and in fact many of them offer work placements to our students. These placements offer an invaluable opportunity to join a commercial company for a year and put all you have learnt in the first two years into practice.

We strongly recommend that you take up this opportunity as it will give you a taste of what it's like to work in the real world of design and it will give you a professional edge when you come to negotiate your way through the graduate job market.

"DriveWorks is a UK based company with global software sales to manufacturing companies. We have been involved with LJMU for several years providing undergraduate internships and 18 month Graduate Training Schemes for Engineers and Product Designers."

Maria Sarkar, VP and Owner, DriveWorks

"The best feature of the programme is its sandwich year. This enabled me to develop my graduate skills as well as my design and technical knowledge. This definitely increased my employability after I graduated. I was able to experience many different aspects of the design world throughout the four year programme and would highly recommend it."

Phil Jones, recent graduate

Support and guidance

Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support

The School is a supportive environment in which to study and your tutors are committed to ensuring that you reach your full potential at LJMU. From the moment you enrol at LJMU, you will be assigned a personal tutor who will work with you on setting targets for yourself as part of your personal development plan, and discuss one-to-one any course-related issues should you need to.

Assessment

Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.

For many of the design and enterprise modules, you may be expected to work in teams and produce exemplar work for your design portfolio.

Your tutors will give prompt and constructive feedback via Canvas (our virtual learning environment), face-to-face or in writing. This will help you to identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more work.

Facilities

What you can expect from your School

This programme is delivered in the Byrom Street complex of LJMU's City Campus. Here you'll find high quality lecture theatres, meeting and seminar rooms plus social spaces and a large cafÃ©. The Avril Robarts Library, open 24/7 during semester, is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.

Disciplines

Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Applicants require a High School Certificate (Tawjihi) plus 1 year of further study to include: Community College Certificate / Diploma / General Vocational Secondary Education Certificate For entry onto the first year. A-level applicants require 104 points are required and students studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma will need to achieve 27 points or more for first year entry.

Career

You will enjoy varied career opportunities both in the UK and overseas with a BSc (Hons) degree in Product Design Engineering.

Design is a growing sector, despite the recession the profession continues to expand, offering opportunities in many different industries. Increasingly complex product design and manufacturing processes should mean designers will continue to enjoy good employment prospects.

Starting salaries for graduates vary according to the size and type of employer; salaries in London are likely to be higher. Self-employment or freelance work is quite common but normally occurs after developing a track record of relevant industrial experience and a network of contacts and potential clients.

Many design professionals either go freelance or decide to start their own business. Such as graduates Troy Baker (Managing Director) and Graham Wilson (Technical Director), founders of Design Reality, a design consultancy based in St Asaph, who also deliver guest lectures on the course.

Others secure employment with their placement organisations, such as Philip Gilbank, who graduated with a first class honours degree and now works for the computer aided design company DriveWorks after completing a sandwich year with the company.

"The New Designer Show was definitely a worthwhile experience for me. It allowed us all to showcase our work against the best design graduates in the industry. I was approached by Gillette during the show and discussed the opportunity of joining them as a product designer."

George Sewell, recent graduate

"The student came fully equipped with design and project planning skills which enabled him to hit the ground running. The work ethic and attention to detail which is critical to our fast paced business environment has been very impressive. We hope to continue to use this programme in the coming years."

Gwyn Jones, PSS Engineering Ltd

Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service

We are committed to ensuring all our students experience a transformation in their employability skills and mindset and their career trajectory. A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course.

Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose. It will enable you to become more proactive, adaptable and resilient in your awareness and approach to career possibilities.

Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's state-of-the-art suite of online tools, resources and jobs board. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, ensuring students can build experience whilst they study.

One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones to accelerate your job search and applications, CV and interview technique. Themed careers and employability workshops, a programme of employer events and recruitment fairs run throughout the year and students have the opportunity to hear from a range of alumni who openly share their own onward experience.

Student Futures work with businesses to create opportunities for fully funded internships which help students increase their network within the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.

A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Enterprise Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.

Fee Information

Tuition Fee

GBP 21,050

How to Apply

All applications for September 2023 entry must be submitted by Friday 30 June 2023. Once an offer has been made, applicants will have a further 28 days to pay a deposit for the course. Failure to do so, may result in your offer being cancelled.

When you apply to LJMU via UCAS, your ability to achieve the entry criteria is just one area that we take into account. Another important part of the application form is your personal statement, which is an opportunity for you to tell us about yourself. You should include your skills, relevant interests and hobbies, along with why you want to study the course.

Any work experience or voluntary work should be mentioned here, but don’t just state where and when, tell us about what you have learned and why you enjoyed it. We are looking for motivation, commitment and enthusiasm. This is your opportunity to convince us why you would like to study on the course you have chosen at LJMU.

If you need further help in filling in your UCAS form there are full instructions at ucas.com or you can contact UCAS direct: +44 330 3330 230 open Monday to Friday, 8.30am-6pm (GMT)

You can submit your application to UCAS from 6 September for entry in September the following year. We advise early applications as some courses become full. The final application deadline for International students is 1 April 2023.

Additional requirements

In addition to satisfying the general academic criteria, you will also need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. The English language level required is also listed alongside each course in this. You are advised to check our online course information for detailed and up-to-date entry requirements for specific degrees.

If you miss the deadline for applications, don’t worry, as applications for many courses can be made through UCAS Clearing.

Once you have applied UCAS sends the applications to us and we pass them to the Admissions Officer responsible for selecting students for each course. Every application is considered very carefully and you will be notified by UCAS whether or not your application has been successful. You can also track your application and make your decisions online via UCAS Track.