Cranfield University

Program Information

Degree Offered

Computer Aided Engineering (Option of Computational and Software techniques in Engineering) MSc

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The term 'Computer Aided Engineering' (CAE) covers the use of computers in all activities from the design through to the manufacture of a product. It is a fast-moving subject of crucial importance to industry. Its main focus of attention is on the generation of computer understandable product descriptions (which have come to replace the traditional engineering drawing) and their applications in a manufacturing environment.
Cranfield University’s MSc option in Advanced Engineering Analysis and Design is designed to equip you with the skills required to persue a successful career working in rapidly expanding engineering IT industry sector both in the UK and overseas. Typically, graduates are employed by software houses and consultancies, or by CAD/CAM and other engineering companies in software development roles and industrial research.

Structure
The Advanced Engineering Analysis and Design option of the MSc in Computational and Software Techniques in engineering course consists of three parts: core modules, specialist modules and individual research thesis.
Modules:
Core modules
Students begin by following a set of five core modules:
• C Programming
• Management for Technology
• Computational Methods
• Computer Graphics/GUIs
• Object Oriented Programming in C++.
Specialist Modules
The specialist modules are designed to provide students with the programming techniques required to write core CAE software. In this way, students are prepared for the MSc research thesis.
The module options are as follows:
• Curve and Surface Modelling
• CAE Applications
• Finite Element Analysis
• Solid Modelling
• Finite Difference Analysis
• Advanced CAE Applications
• Data Exchange
• Java Programming.
The software, mathematical and computational methods form the basis of the modules Curve and Surface Modelling, Solid Modelling, Finite Element Analysis and Finite Difference Analysis.
These modules cover the application of CAE algorithms for the generation and analysis of product models used to represent the geometry of such complex artefacts as car bodies and aircraft wings.
The material on CAE Applications and CAE Advanced Applications covers the utilisation of CAE software for design, analysis, and data exchange and product data management. We use the industry-standard system I-DEAS extensively for this purpose. The exchange of product data between dissimilar CAE systems is a key topic and we explore the current standards, IGES and STEP in depth in the module Data Exchange.
Research Project
Students then go on to undertake an individual research thesis project, allowing specialisation within an area of particular interest. Recent thesis titles have included:
Some past thesis topics have included:
• Applications of Neural Networks to the Modelling of Multiphase Flow from Oil Wells
• Morphing for Complex Composite Geometry
• B-spline Volume Modelling
• A Graphical User Interface for a Multiphase CFD code
• Rotational Symmetry for Design Evaluation in Assembly-Orientated CAD

Accreditation:

NA

Eligibility Requirements:

Typically a 1st or 2nd class UK Honours degree or equivalent in engineering, science, mathematics, computer science, information technology, communication, networks, or a related discipline. Other qualifications (eg HND or alternative) may be acceptable, provided there is evidence of sufficient relevant work experience.

International Student Requirements:

Typically a 1st or 2nd class UK Honours degree or equivalent in engineering, science, mathematics, computer science, information technology, communication, networks, or a related discipline. Other qualifications (eg HND or alternative) may be acceptable, provided there is evidence of sufficient relevant work experience. Our normal minimum requirement is a TOEFL score of 580 (paper test) or 237 (computer test), essay rating 4.5 or 92 (Internet test), all skills 19 or an IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 for writing, a TOEIC overall score of 830, or a Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English grade C or Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English grade C, although a number of our programmes require higher scores.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No