Introductory description

This module presents and provides skills in the application of more advanced mathematics and systems modelling concepts that underpin many areas of Engineering. It builds on the fundamental material introduced in the year 1 Engineering Mathematics and Systems module and introduces more advanced topics related to the analysis of a wide variety of engineering systems.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Sequences, series, limits and Taylor series, Fourier series, Partial differentiation and vector calculus (grad, div, curl and multiple integration), Applied linear algebra: linear matrix/vector equations and their solution (applications such as linear regression analysis, electrical circuits and fluid networks); eigenvalue/eigenvector analysis (applications such as oscillation in circuits, structural dynamics, solution of state variable models and stability analysis); multidimensional Taylor series, linearization and extrema of functions, Fourier transforms, z-transforms, Partial differential equations and their solution (examples to include: wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace equation), Numerical methods: Newton-Raphson iteration, Euler integration of initial value ODE’s, numerical integration of functions, linear programming, MATLAB as a system modelling and analysis tool, Elementary computer programming concepts and constructs, illustrated using MATLAB as a prototype programming tool.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• understand and apply programming concepts and methods
• recognise and apply advanced mathematical tools and techniques to solve engineering problems
• develop complex mathematical models of engineering systems
• solve complex engineering problems using MATLAB
• model engineering problems involving dynamic simulation techniques making appropriate simplifying assumptions
• analyse models mathematically using appropriate statistical techniques and evaluate limitations of measurement on data used

Indicative reading list

Croft A., Davison R., Hargreaves J.F., Flint, J., Engineering Mathematics: A Foundation for Electronic, Electrical, Communications and Systems Engineers. 4th edition. Pearson 2015.
Stroud K.A., Booth D.J., Engineering Mathematics. 7th edition. Palgrave Macmillan 2011.
Singh K., Engineering Mathematics Through Applications. 2nd edition. Palgrave Macmillan 2011.
Moore H., MATLAB for Engineers. 3rd edition. Pearson 2013.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

breaking a complex problem into smaller steps.
construction of logical arguments and exposing illogical reasoning
describing an engineering/real-world problem mathematically, identifying key themes and assumptions.

Transferable skills

resilience
time management
working independently and with other students
critical thinking
creativity
intellectual rigour
working under pressure