In a factory, each manufacturing operation must be designed and integrated with other operations. This module addresses the planning, design and maintenance of modern factory systems.

Course leader

Dr Veronica Martinez

Module learning outcomes

On completion of the module students should be able to:

• Understand and be able to apply the traditional techniques of method study
• Understand the factors that affect the ergonomic design of jobs, tools and equipment, and the workplace
• Understand the principles of Lean production, and be able to relate these to traditional work study
• Apply relevant work study and lean production techniques to the design of production systems
• Understand the roles of time standards in manufacturing
• Know the different ways in which time standards can be determined and the advantages and disadvantages of each method
• Understand the basic principles behind learning and be able to manipulate a simple learning model to predict the effect of learning on the cycle time of repetitive work
• Understand the basics of machine reliability and know how to calculate reliability of complex engineering systems
• Know how to develop an optimal maintenance schedule for factory equipment
• Understand the different types of process layout and the advantages and disadvantages of each
• Appreciate the factors that affect the layout of a factory
• Understand and be able to apply the techniques used in planning factory layouts

Assessment

100% by examination. Paper 3, double paper with 3P4