Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Smart Materials and Surfaces
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: MEC11118
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:

This module covers aspect in the field of tribology and smart materials or processes.The approach is to use the knowledge and understanding of materials science & engineering in these fields focusing on applications and benefits to society.Smart materials, also known as smart or intelligent materials, refer to materials that have properties that can be altered or controlled in response to external stimuli such as temperature, stress, light, electric or magnetic fields, or other environmental factors. These materials are designed to exhibit specific, controllable responses to changes in their surroundings. The use of smart materials in engineering can lead to innovative applications and improved functionality in various fields.The application of smart materials in engineering allows for the development of adaptive, responsive systems with enhanced performance and functionality. These materials play a crucial role in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and electronics.Some common smart materials & processes which may be covered in this module: Additive Manufacture, Piezoelectric Materials, Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and Self-healing Materials.Surfaces - both in terms of the requirements for coatings and surface modification and the applications of the coatings in engineering industries.Tribology is the science and engineering of interacting surfaces in relative motion, including the study of friction, wear, and lubrication. It plays a crucial role in materials engineering and is essential for understanding and improving the performance and longevity of materials and mechanical components in various systems.By understanding and controlling tribological factors, materials engineers can optimize material selection, surface treatments, and lubrication strategies to improve the efficiency, reliability, and lifespan of mechanical components and systems. Tribology research contributes to advancements in materials science, surface engineering, and the development of new materials with enhanced tribological properties.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically evaluate the properties and performance of smart materials and /or processes.

LO2: Examine and evaluate the mechanisms of surface degradation and assess the effectiveness of methods designed to prevent it.

LO3: Assessing deposition methods for surface coatings and modifications to determine their effectiveness in altering surface properties for specific applications.

LO4: Select appropriate materials and coating processes for specific applications.

LO5: Evaluate the societal and economic benefits derived from the utilization of smart materials and / or processes.
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 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.
Online Guided independent study 155 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.
Face To Face Tutorial 16 Tutorials and seminars are designed to encourage active participation, facilitate problem-solving, provide personalised feedback, and promote peer interaction to deepen comprehension and skills. Appropriate questions will be provided to support your preparation for assessments and promote understanding of the concepts from the lectures.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 4 Hands-on activities will be an opportunity to promote real-world application, peer collaboration, and feedback for experiential learning and skill development in a practical setting.
Face To Face Centrally Time Tabled Examination 3 Centrally Time Tabled Examination
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Oral Presentation 25 1~5 Week 8 HOURS= A2 - 500 Words Poster on the a chosen smart materials or process - as a poster this can be seen by a wide audience technical and non [M17].The poster to include societal & environmental matters [M5] and how this resolves a problem.
Report 25 2~3~4 Week 12 , WORDS= 2000 words Practical lab reports. Working in groups preparing samples and producing data, this will then be used to produce an individual technical [M17] report on the practical classes.
Centrally Time Tabled Examination 50 1~2~3~4~5 Exam Period HOURS= 3 Centrally Time Tabled Examination
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

 

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