Agricultural Engineering – BEng

This module introduces the learner to the basics of engineering science and mathematics, and how to apply these to problems in the field of agricultural technology.

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the basics of farm machinery electrics and electronics. Areas of study include the use of the multimeter, wiring circuits of agricultural machinery, testing and diagnostics of issues in wiring and electronic circuits.

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to the basics of farm tractors and workshop repair processes for example diesel engines, hydraulics, brakes and transmissions and welding.

The aim of this module is to introduce the learner to operation, setup and maintenance of agricultural equipment such as modern grass and forage equipment and tillage equipment.

In this module the students study engineering design and drawing. Also involved is commercial packages used in agriculture.

The focus in this module is to prepare the student for the working environment. This is achieved by the correct planning, organisation and repair or fabrication of equipment used by the agricultural industry. Projects are fabrication or repair based for example:

Fabrication: log splitters, post driver and bale handlers

Repair: Tractor engines, clutches, brakes, hydraulic, transmissions or machinery repair.

Introduce the learner to the complex electrics and electronics on farm machinery such as Isobus, CAN bus and sensor technology.

This module introduces the learner to more complex aspects of the modern tractor such as modern engine features and modern tractor transmissions systems

This module emphasises the management/business/administrative aspect of the Service Manager’s job. The module covers service department work-related areas such as Workshop Loading and Control, Workshop Efficiency and Productivity, Workshop Layout, Warranty Administration and Customer Service Process. The module also covers the work of the Dealer Principal, the Parts Sales and Vehicle Sales departments.

This module is designed to provide an overview to the theoretical and practical aspects of entrepreneurship and business management. Learners will gain a knowledge of and appreciation for the need to apply sound business techniques to managing a farm business. The module will also cover the issues involved in farm succession and inheritance.

This module will help students understand some practical applications of computers in the Automotive, Transport and Agricultural Industry with particular regard to tractor and agricultural machinery dealerships, machinery dealerships, agricultural machinery manufacturers and agricultural contractors.

The module give the students an overview of dairy and beef production systems in Ireland. It examines the issues relating to agricultural output such as qulaity assurance, crop production, animal health.

Introduce the learner to more advanced engineering mathematics.

Develop the students understanding of fluid power through a grounding in Hydraulics.

This module aims to improve the learners knowledge and understanding of materials and processes used by engineers. Learners will apply relevant mechanical equations to practical problems, components and case studies to enable them to select both correct materials and processes. Learners will understand how to quantify the environmental impact behind these choices Learning is enhanced with the use of a material selection software package, (Granta Edupack for example). Learners will analyse mechanical components that are exposed to complex loading.

The use of computer aided design (CAD) systems in industry has become an essential part of the modern working environment. It is used at all stages of the design period, from conceptualisation and production of working drawings to the production of virtual reality images, prototypes, and final products. This unit aims to further candidates understanding of the CAD Parametric Modelling environment, in terms of hardware, software and physical surroundings, and the concepts of mechanical engineering design that accompany this environment. It will explore the typical composition of a CAD Parametric Modelling systems and Health and Safety matters that are associated with safe working practices.

All elements of the module are predicated upon safety and ethical considerations. This module is structured to provide a balance of theoretical and practical experience through classroom, computer laboratory and workshop environments.

Introduce the learner to more complex aspects of the modern tractor.

Introduce the learner to the complex electrics and electronics on farm machines.

Introduce the learner to more advanced engineering mathematics.

Develop the students understanding of Mobile Hydraulics, and enable the student to understand the components and common types of circuit employed in this area.

The use of computer aided design (CAD) systems in industry has become an essential part of the modern working environment. It is used at all stages of the design period, from conceptualisation and production of working drawings to the production of virtual reality images, prototypes, and final products. This unit aims to further candidates understanding of the CAD Parametric Modelling environment, in terms of hardware, software and physical surroundings, and the concepts of mechanical engineering design that accompany this environment. It will explore the typical composition of a CAD Parametric Modelling systems and Health and Safety matters that are associated with safe working practices.

All elements of the module are predicated upon safety and ethical considerations. This module is structured to provide a balance of theoretical and practical experience through classroom, computer laboratory and workshop environments.

Introduce the learner to more complex aspects of the modern tractor.

Introduce the learner to the complex electrics and electronics on farm machines.

This module aims to develop the learner’s ability to apply their technical skills and knowledge to complete an individual technical project. There may be capacity for the individual project to focus on a pre-existing group project, where the focus of the project may be in such areas as characterisation and test of an assembly, product improvements, risk assessment or any other relevant topic agreed between learner and supervisor.

This module also incorporates professional development, which aims to advance the learner’s transferrable skills, in order to prepare for employment. Transferrable skills such as project management and organisation, creative problem solving, technical writing and presentation skills are developed in this module.