This module aims to provide a rigorous understanding of first-principles design applied at the limits of practical performance of mechanical systems, including constraints on it. It introduces ideas and methodologies for miniaturization that are essential to modern technology, e.g. in the large UK instrumentation sector, as well as sub-systems for use in aerospace, automotive, etc. Additionally, it provides insights into the science and practice of metrology.
Having set the scene in terms of the implications to mechanical systems design arising from high-precision applications, from microsystems technology and from nanotechnology, the module examine the definitions and causes of uncertainty and the nature of mechanical surfaces. It then proceeds to explore some fundamental principles useful to design and to the assessment of technical plausibility; for example, loops, alignment principles, kinematic design. Practical ways to exploit them are studied through semi-kinematic design, flexure design, materials selection and so on. A review of some conventional and non-conventional manufacture processes is necessary to this study and leads directly to more detailed consideration of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) design strategies. Case study examples are drawn mainly from instrumentation, but may also include considerations of machine tools, vibration reduction, etc.