MANF 496 - Production Lab: Capstone III

Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 22
Lab Hours: 66
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Concludes the capstone sequence and involves rigorous testing, troubleshooting, and iterative refinement of an advanced manufacturing project. Validate results, compile comprehensive documentation, and deliver professional presentations. Emphasizes effective communication of project findings and a thorough evaluation of the project’s broader environmental, economic, and social impacts.

Prerequisite: Admission to BASAMD program and Dept. Chair permission.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Analyze project data to troubleshoot manufacturing process issues and refine outcomes to meet quality and performance standards.
Produce comprehensive project documentation detailing the design process, data analysis, iterative improvements, and final results.
Deliver a professional report and presentation to effectively communicate project outcomes and recommendations to stakeholders.
Evaluate the broader environmental, economic, and social impacts of the project, justifying design decisions that address these considerations.

Course Contents

Additional Fabrication & Safety Protocols - Refines hands-on assembly processes, emphasizes updated risk assessments for final-phase projects, and ensures compliance with evolving safety standards.
Pre-Testing Procedures & Equipment Calibration - Validates tooling, instrumentation, and automated systems before comprehensive production trials.
Comprehensive Testing & Validation Methods - Implements QA/QC checkpoints, sensor-based monitoring, and SPC tools to confirm product functionality and performance.
Data Analysis & Design Refinement - Leverages statistical methods (e.g., FMEA, control charts) to interpret test outcomes, enhance designs, and mitigate risks.
Final Validation & Quality Gate Reviews - Conducts formal approvals through metrics-driven criteria (yield, efficiency), ensuring readiness for operational scale-up.
Project Management & Collaboration Software Usage - Exploits digital tools (Gantt charts, issue tracking) to manage tasks, resources, and cross-functional communication.
Student Logbooks & Comprehensive Documentation - Maintains detailed records of design changes, testing data, and process iterations for final reporting.
Presentation Strategies & Reporting Techniques - Develops executive summaries, technical reports, and visual aids (charts, dashboards) for stakeholder communications.
Continuous Improvement & Lean Principles - Encourages iterative enhancements, minimal waste, and systematic problem-solving in last-phase production processes.
Capstone Closure & Handoff - Finalizes design files, validates performance data, and compiles a knowledge transfer package supporting post-capstone continuity.

Instructional Units: 6.5