SPC is also inextricably linked with feedback control loops, which are commonly used in continuous manufacturing processes, so control theory, including laboratory work, is included as an option. Automatic and robotic control systems have great potential for maintaining high product quality, and there is scope for innovation. Efficient data processing is a prerequisite for any quality system. There are now many computer packages for data analysis, and participants are introduced to a wide variety of these ranging from simple spreadsheets to sophisticated statistical software. The Quality Assurance Module covers a wide range of topics.
Students learn about the properties of different materials and attend materials laboratories.
They gain an appreciation of the skills needed to obtain reliable data in the Gear Metrology Laboratory, which has been designated as the UK Centre for Gear Standards. They are taught about quality systems in the context of Total Quality Management, the basic principles of which apply to both the manufacturing service industries. Emphasis is also placed on the integration of such diverse activities as quality function deployment, supplier's evaluation, failure mode effect, criticality analysis, etc into a coherent quality management system. Product liability is also discussed with reference to the latest legislation in the United Kingdom and the European Single Market. Students also study the BS EN ISO9000 series, which is an internationally accepted standard for quality assurance systems.