Core Module Information
Module title: Forensic Materials Engineering

SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: MEC11112
Module leader: Neil Shearer
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Engineering and Mathematics
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

Forensic materials engineering is a field of study that combines the principles of materials science and engineering with the legal system to investigate and solve problems related to the failure or malfunction of materials and structures. This can include analysing and interpreting physical evidence, determining the cause of failure, and providing expert testimony in legal proceedings.Overall, forensic materials engineering combines scientific, engineering and legal aspects to understand how and why a material or structure failed, to determine the cause of failure and to provide expert testimony in legal cases.Through this module we will become familiar with many of the techniques and processes utilized in forensic engineering and consider failure mechanisms theory to predict life time and consider risk management aspects.The module is very practical focused to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate and design their own learning in a structured environment.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically assess, select and apply a range of physical, analytical and mechanical examination techniques used in materials technology and product failure analysis.

LO2: Apply appropriate forensic techniques to analyse and report on the cause of failures in products.

LO3: Examine the different modes of component failure through the fundamental principles of fracture analysis and mathematical evaluation.

LO4: Conduct a failure analysis or materials characterisation using forensic methods and report on the outcomes of the investigation.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 2, In Person, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Neil Shearer
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 27 Hands-on activities will be an opportunity to promote real-world application, experiential learning and skill development in a practical setting. As part of the assessment you will design and carryout investigations on individual components / samples.
Face To Face Lecture 22 Each week you attend a 2 hour lecture where we will use various interactive activities to stimulate critical thinking, and foster a collaborative environment to enhance your understanding and retention of the module content.
Face To Face Centrally Time Tabled Examination 3 Centrally Time Tabled Examination
Online Guided independent study 148 A learning approach where students take responsibility for their own learning process, with support and direction from academics through tutorials and research assessments. This method combines the independence of self-directed study with the guidance of a structured framework provided by academic staff.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Centrally Time Tabled Examination 40 1~2~3 Exam Period HOURS= 3 Centrally Time Tabled Examination
Report 15 1 Week 6 , WORDS= 1000 A technical quote [M17] for the methods and processes including standards and security measures. this will involve understanding the issue and evaluating and designing the solution process and basing this on a business quote [M3, 5]
Report 15 1~4 Week 11 , WORDS= 500 Report outlining the findings from the identification in a succinct way.a technical report written for a semi-technical audience [M17] in a business format.
Report 30 1~2 Week 13 , WORDS= 1500 Research-Based Assessment: Failure Mechanisms in Engineering Based on a Theoretical Case Study.A technical report [M17] grounded in a case study and literature [M4] taking into account materials, processes, and testing methods
Component 1 subtotal: 60
Component 2 subtotal: 40
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Forensic Materials Engineering