University of Bradford
School of Informatics
Awarding and teaching institution:
Final award:
level H]
Programme title:
Duration:
UCAS Code:
Subject benchmark statement:
Programme accredited by:
Date produced:
University of Bradford
BSc (Hons) [National Qualifications Framework
Animatronics
3 or 4 years full time
W615/BSc/Anim3; W616/BSc/Anim4
Computing, Engineering, Art & Design
Not applicable
original January 2003, v5 June 2005, v6 Nov 2005,
v7 Feb 2006, v8Sept 2006 (revised 14 Nov. 2006)
Animatronics is the design and production of lifelike and realistic creatures used in
the leisure and entertainment industries, incorporating robotics, computing,
electronics, construction, and systems control theory. The use of animatronic models
is increasing in the film and video industries, but animatronics can also be found in
museums, parades, shopping malls, and at many types of visitor attractions. At
Bradford, our distinctive approach integrates design, computing, electronics, and
control systems to give you the technical skills needed to produce artificial lifeforms
that move like their real world counterparts. At the same time, we aim to give you the
conceptual and theoretical skills needed to anticipate future developments in the
industry.
This interdisciplinary course is run by the University’s Department of Cybernetics,
Internet, and Virtual Systems, with several modules contributed by the School of
Engineering, Design, and Technology and the Department of Electronic Imaging and
Media Communications. In accordance with the University’s mission, “Making
Knowledge Work”, the Department of Cybernetics aims to provide you with
knowledge of a comprehensive range of leading edge technologies through its
emphasis on both teaching and research, in the firm belief that the two are mutually
dependent. The BSc Animatronics programme aims to:




produce graduates equipped to design, construct, and control animatronic
models;
give students a sound appreciation of the elements of surface design in
animatronic models;
develop subject knowledge and understanding, and provide training in discipline
skills to enable graduates to pursue further programmes of study or to move
directly into responsible careers in animatronics, robotics or related practices;
help students develop personal transferable skills, enabling them to pursue
further programmes of study or careers in non-cognate fields;
Learning outcomes indicate what you should know and understand, and be able to
do on successful completion of the course. These have been developed with
reference to the Computing, Engineering, and Art and Design subject benchmarks.
On successful completion of the course you will be able to;

demonstrate discrete and integrated Knowledge and Understanding in
theoretical and practical aspects of the following fields: robotics; engineering
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principles; computer control; creature design, surface materials; movement and
animation; physiology; sound.

conceptualise, design and operate animatronic structures through the synthesis
of Discipline Skills in programming, using either computer networked or
microprocessor control systems; the creation and moulding of basic prosthetic
structures together with an appreciation of their external artistic surface
fabrication; the design of such structures with regard to their biodynamic,
mechanical and physical effects and their inclusion in a range of contexts and
environments.

exercise Personal Transferable Skills in critical thinking; numerical techniques;
independent learning and research; team working; IT and communication skills;
creative and problem based resolution; life-long learning skills, and personal
management.
The Curriculum
The map of your studies is shown below depicting core (C) and optional (O) modules.
Each year, or stage, of an Honours degree programme comprises of two semesters
with 60 credits being studied in each semester. Modules worth 10 credits are
delivered and assessed within one semester, whereas modules worth more than 10
credits may be delivered in one or more semesters in that year or stage.
You will have an option to undertake an industry based placement period (not less
than 45 weeks) between Stage 2 and Stage 3. This route is strongly recommended
as it gives you the opportunity to test, and enhance, your knowledge and skills in a
real-time environment. On your successful completion of the placement period you
will be awarded the Diploma in Industrial Studies.
Assessment Regulations: a summary
The full assessment regulations for the awards of the University are detailed and
complex and are maintained on the University web-site at
http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/acsec/QA_Hbk/Undergrad_Regs_.html. What follows
here is a condensed version.
To pass and proceed from one stage to another and to be eligible for a classified
Honours award, you must achieve at least 40% in 100 credits and 35% in the other
20 credits.
The Class and Division of the undergraduate Honours Degree that you are awarded
is based on the overall weighted marks that you achieve in Stage 2 and Stage 3.
Stage 2 contributes 30%, and Stage 3 contributes 70%. The degree is awarded on
the basis of the following overall weighted average marks:
70% and above
60% and above
50% and above
otherwise
First Class Honours
Second Class Honours – First Division
Second Class Honours – Second Division
Third Class Honours
The classes and divisions of the Honours degree are subject to variation by 2% at
the discretion of the Board of Examiners.
If you successfully complete Stage 1, you are eligible for a Certificate of Higher
education; if you successfully complete Stage 2, you are eligible for a Diploma of
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Higher Education. The learning outcomes for these awards are consistent with those
of the English National Qualifications Framework and its descriptors.
Unit Code
STAGE 1
Level
Credits
Sem
Hons
Ord
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
Robotics 1
Basic Electronics
Materials and Colouration
Cybernetics Skills
Mechanical Principles
Structured Programming
Robotics 2
Manufacturing Systems
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
1
1
1
1
10
10
10
10
2
2
2
2
Life Casting & Prosthetics
Cybernetics 1
Kinesiology
Java Programming
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
CY0205M
ENG1011
M
CY0227L
2
1
10
10
1
1
Sensors & Actuators
Visualisation
C
C
C
2
20
1,2
C
C
CY0225M
CY0226M
EM0237M
CY0207M
EM0127M
CY0224M
EM0203M
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
CY0203M
CY0212M
CY0216M
2
2
2
10
10
10
2
2
2
Sculpting, Armature and Synoptic
Project
Conventions of Animatronics
Physiognomy and Facial Articulation
Sound Studio Practice
Robotics 3
Specialist Project 1
Concepts of Computer Control
Introduction to 3D Computer
Animation
Morphing Signals
How to Run an SME
Science & Society
3
3
3
2
2
20
40
20
20
20
1
1, 2
1
1
1
CY0115M
BC1006M
BC1005M
CY0112M
BC1008M
CY0114M
CY0215M
ENG1004
M
BC1007M
CY0101M
CY0116M
CY0110M
Unit Title
STAGE 2
C
C
C
O
O
O
STAGE 3
EM0362D
CY0319K
EM0353D
EM0211D
EM0205D
Specialist Project 3
C
C
Final Year Project (Animatronics)
C
C
Digital Videography
O
Soundscapes
O**
3D Character Modelling and
O**
Animation
CY0316M
3
10
2
Robotics 4
O
O
CY0317M
3
10
2
Digital Image Processing
O
O
EM4033M
M
10
2
Media Production Planning
O**
EM0352D
3
20
2
Computers and Music
O
EM0204D
2
20
2
Multimedia Application Development
O**
O**
CM0331D
3
20
2
Human Computer Interaction
O**
O**
EM4030D
M
20
2
Sound and Music for the Moving
O**
Image
* modules marked with an asterisk may only be taken in Stage 3, semester 2, if they have
not previously been selected by Honours route students as an option in Stage 2, semester 2
** Students may only take a maximum total of 20 level 2 and/or level M credits at stage 3.
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Number of Option credits by semester
Ordinary Route
Stage 2, semester 2
none
Stage 3, semester 1
none
Stage 3, semester 2
40 from 60
Honours Route
10 from 30
20 from 60
40 from 90
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategies
The course is designed to give you a wide experience of teaching, learning and
assessment strategies. You will be taught the principal theories, concepts and
underpinning information which are usually delivered in formal lectures. These
fundamentals are then explored further during the practical sessions, and supported
by tutorials and seminars. The course is designed to allow you to develop and
enhance your practical and inter-personal skills through working in small groups,
engaging in problem solving scenarios. Project work is included to allow you to
demonstrate your ability to bring the various elements of the course together in a
holistic manner.
The Assessment methods you will encounter are similarly varied and your progress
will be reviewed using a mix of formal examinations, reports, laboratory portfolios,
essays, oral presentations (either individual or team) and the final year project. Your
performance in each module will be assessed using a mix of these assessment
systems to allow you to demonstrate that you have achieved the particular module
learning outcomes.
Admissions Policy
Offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual applicant. Most
important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of your potential to
benefit from your studies and of your ability to succeed on this particular course.
Entrance requirements may vary but are set after consideration of each applicant’s
academic background and achievements and all other relevant experience. A typical
offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be 240 points,
ideally including a Science A-level. Applications are welcome from candidates with
non-standard qualifications or who are lacking academic qualifications but have
significant relevant experience.
Upon completion of a UCAS form you will be invited to attend one of the
Departmental Open Days to allow you to have a look at our facilities and meet the
staff. During Open Days you will have an opportunity to discuss the course with the
Course Tutor as well as discuss “the Bradford Experience” with some of our current
students. You will also be given information with regard to our Foundation Year with
a typical offer of 120 points.
Student Support and Guidance
During your time at Bradford you will experience a wide range of support services
ranging from university wide through to Departmental level. Upon joining the course
you will be allocated a Personal Tutor who will be your guide and mentor throughout
your stay at Bradford. The department operates an “Open Door policy” during
working hours so that there is always someone there available to talk to should your
Personal Tutor not be available.
The Department has a system of Year Stage, Placement and Project handbooks,
year and course tutors, and formal Staff Student Liaison Committees so that any
problem areas can be rapidly resolved. The School of Informatics offers students
round-the-clock, seven days per week access to its dedicated computing facilities.
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The University provides important facilities such as extended access to Library and
Computing facilities, counselling and welfare services, careers advice
(http://www.careers.brad.ac.uk) and a Disability Office.
(http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/disab/).
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