Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C4: Design Methods (shared with IIA), 2024-25
Leader
Lecturers
Prof. P O Kristensson, Prof. J.M. Cullen
Timing and Structure
Shared with IIA. Michaelmas term. 14 lectures + 2 examples classes. Assessment: 100% exam
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- present useful tools for designers of all disciplines and illustrate the practical application of systems engineering and risk management techniques.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- formulate a design problem, allowing the widest range of valid solutions.
- evaluate competing design concepts systematically.
- use techniques such as quality function deployment, and various creative methods.
- search for ways in which a design can fail, and assess likelihood of failure.
- appreciate how basic evaluation techniques can be applied to a complex design.
- appreciate how decisions regarding product architecture influence performance.
Content
Design Tools (8L)
Introduction to the design process; problem formulation; methods of searching for solutions; techniques for design evaluation; guidelines for embodiment design.
Systems Engineering (3L)
Introduction to systems engineering; system decomposition, integration and evaluation; Dependency Structure Matrices.
Risk Management (5L)
Introduction to risk management; rework; risk analysis; probabilistic design.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
D6
Manage the design process and evaluate outcomes.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
Last modified: 31/05/2024 10:02
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C4: Design Methods (shared with IIA), 2020-21
Leader
Lecturers
Dr J.M. Cullen, Prof P.J. Clarkson
Timing and Structure
Shared with IIA. Michaelmas term. 14 lectures + 2 examples classes. Assessment: 100% exam
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- present useful tools for designers of all disciplines and illustrate the practical application of systems engineering and risk management techniques.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- formulate a design problem, allowing the widest range of valid solutions.
- evaluate competing design concepts systematically.
- use techniques such as quality function deployment, and various creative methods.
- search for ways in which a design can fail, and assess likelihood of failure.
- appreciate how basic evaluation techniques can be applied to a complex design.
- appreciate how decisions regarding product architecture influence performance.
Content
Design Tools (8L)
Introduction to the design process; problem formulation; methods of searching for solutions; techniques for design evaluation; guidelines for embodiment design.
Systems Engineering (3L)
Introduction to systems engineering; system decomposition, integration and evaluation; Dependency Structure Matrices.
Risk Management (5L)
Introduction to risk management; rework; risk analysis; probabilistic design.
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
D6
Manage the design process and evaluate outcomes.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P8
Ability to apply engineering techniques taking account of a range of commercial and industrial constraints.
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US3
An understanding of concepts from a range of areas including some outside engineering, and the ability to apply them effectively in engineering projects.
Last modified: 01/09/2020 10:44
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2018-19
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr AE Markaki, Prof MPF Sutcliffe
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Dr AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group C Courses for references for this module
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 02/06/2018 11:50
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturer
Prof. MPF Sutcliffe and Prof. AE Markaki
Lab leader
Prof. AE Markaki
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Prof. AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in via moodle, preliminary report by 4 pm 3 Dec, final report by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 13/07/2024 01:24
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturer
Lecturer
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Dr AE Markaki)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Dr AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. NA Fleck)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. NA Fleck)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group C Courses for references for this module
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 01/09/2017 10:31
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2022-23
Module Leader
Lecturer
Prof. MPF Sutcliffe and Prof. AE Markaki
Lab leader
Prof. AE Markaki
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Prof. AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in via moodle, preliminary report by 4pm 24 Nov, final report by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 09/10/2022 01:16
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2025-26
Module Leader
Lecturer
Prof. MPF Sutcliffe and Prof. AE Markaki
Lab leader
Prof. AE Markaki
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Prof. AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in via moodle, preliminary report by 4 pm 2 Dec, final report by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 26/07/2025 00:45
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturer
Lab leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Prof MPF Sutcliffe)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in via moodle, preliminary report by 4pm 25 Nov, final report by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 29/09/2020 22:54
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2023-24
Module Leader
Lecturer
Prof. MPF Sutcliffe and Prof. AE Markaki
Lab leader
Prof. AE Markaki
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Prof. AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in via moodle, preliminary report by 4pm 28 Nov, final report by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 24/11/2023 16:45
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4C2: Designing with Composites, 2019-20
Module Leader
Lecturer
Prof MPF Sutcliffe and Dr AE Markaki
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 13 lectures + 1 examples class + 10 hours coursework. Assessment: 75% exam / 25% coursework
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- develop a systematic approach to design with composites based on mechanical properties and to understand the practical considerations associated with design, manufacture and service requirements.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- be familiar with the range of composite systems in use.
- derive and use formulae to bound composite material properties.
- perform simple laminate analysis by hand, and more complex analysis with the help of appropriate software.
- be familiar with the use of carpet plots to choose laminates based on stiffness.
- understand the detailed mechanisms of lamina and laminate failure.
- use strength models of failure for lamina and laminates.
- describe design processes commonly used for composite structures.
- be familiar with the manufacturing routes for composites.
- use selection charts to select an appropriate manufacturing route.
- understand the practical requirements associated with joining, manufacture and service use.
Content
Introduction and processing (1L, Prof MPF Sutcliffe)
- Introduction
- Fabrication technology
Elastic deformation of laminates (5L, Dr AE Markaki)
- Elastic deformation of composites (stiffness bounds) and material property charts.
- On and off-axis elastic constants of laminates.
- Elastic deformation of laminates.
Designing against failure (4L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Underlying mechanisms of yield and failure for laminate. Strength of a single ply.
- Failure of laminates. Strength models. Splitting and delamination. Composite toughness.
- Testing methods.
Practical Laminate Design (3L, Prof. MPF Sutcliffe)
- Laminate design methods. Carpet plots. Case studies.
- Composite Compressive Strength Modeller software.
Further notes
Examples papers
Examples Paper 1: Elastic deformation
Examples Paper 2: Strength
Examples Paper 3: Practical considerations
Coursework
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Case Study: Establish design criteria for a simple structure (10 hours) Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Coursework reports are to be handed in by 4 pm on Thu week 1 (Lent Term): [15/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group C Courses for references for this module
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US4
An awareness of developing technologies related to own specialisation.
Last modified: 24/05/2019 09:21
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