Mechanical Systems Analysis

Learning Outcomes

Partial CEng Programme Level Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Computing lab classes require the students to select and apply appropriate computational analyses and to compare these to analytical approaches whilst recognising the limitations of both approaches
• The coursework portfolio incorporates an individual reflection on a specific engineering ethics case study that is discussed in a small group
• The case study coursework presents a complex problem that needs careful analysis using first principles of mathematics, mechanics, materials and structures, thermofluids, electronics and electrical systems principles (taught in other Part 1 modules)
• There is a specific exercise within the coursework portfolio and a group discussion which then leads into the need for environmental considerations in the final integrated case study
• Applying knowledge of mathematics, mechanics, materials and structures, thermofluids, electronics and electrical systems principles (taught in other Part 1 modules) to the integrated case study coursework at the end of the module
• This is considered as part of the ethics in engineering case studies, where students have to write a self reflection as part of the coursework portfolio
• The summative case study coursework at the end of the module combines specific sub-system assessments on mechatronics, economics, structures, materials and requires a final assessment integrating these issues
• The solution neutral design approach is assessed in our summative case study coursework at the end of the module and also features specific sub-system assessments on mechatronics, economics, structures, materials etc so partially fulfils C5
• Group work reflecting on team roles and diversity forms a specific part of the coursework portfolio
• Reflection on personal development planning reflection is part of the coursework portfolio, and a draft CV, discussed with the PAT forms part of this assessment
• Materials assessments are linked to a system design question in the extended case study assessed at the end of the module
• Presentation skills are assessed in small groups as part of the coursework portfolio, focussing first on presenting a historical/amusing debunked theory and then later on presenting a complex messy data-set
• Formative coursework activity identifying a relevant technical paper in a sustainability topic, and critically reviewing this is combined with a presentation on scientific hypothesis testing in PAT groups with verbal feedback as part of the coursework portfolio
• Reflection on small group work and one’s role within the team forms part of the personal development planning reflection which is part of the coursework portfolio

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Identify ways to enhance the success of teams in decision making and problem solving;
• Analyse your own skillset and the competencies you will need, then identify and pursue opportunities for professional development;
• Deliver technical presentations tailored to your audience, using appropriate presentation aides;

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Identify ways to analyse complex mechanical systems in the real world, considering aspects of system dynamics, structure, materials, fluid flow, energy, electrical and electronic sub-systems, and the economic and environmental context.
• Conduct analysis spanning more than one engineering subject area in order to support design and investment decisions;

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Develop simplified mathematical models in order to analyse real mechanical systems, justifying approximations and acknowledging their limitations;
• Devise and plan experiments and laboratory tests in support of achieving an engineering objective, including the use of dimensional analysis to relate laboratory tests to practical systems;
• Analyse engineering challenges and devise engineering objectives in a way that facilitates innovation;
• Critically assess the use of analytical and computational models, explaining relevant uncertainties in the modelling;
• Obtain knowledge from primary scientific literature.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• The roles and responsibilities of professional Mechanical Engineers, including identification and discussion of ethical issues arising in case studies;
• Entrepreneurship, innovation and the knowledge economy.

Semester 1

• Introduction to the module
• Assignment introduction
• Future perspectives in Mechanical Engineering
• Communication skills: writing and presentations
• Data analysis and modelling
• Personal development planning
• Ethics in Engineering
• Creativity and entrepreneurial behaviour
• Personal development planning
• The Knowledge economy
• Thinking like an Engineer: estimates, assumptions, and graphing guidelines.

Semester 2

• Analytical approaches:
• Analysis of complex real-world systems
• Techno-economic evaluation
• Literature review
• Experimental design
• Mathematical modelling, assumptions and model reduction
• Computational modelling, model verification, model validation
• Application of fundamental aspects of thermo-fluids, structures, materials, dynamics, electrical, computation and design.
• Case studies, including:
• Aircraft structural design
• Offshore energy systems

Teaching methods include:

The core material in the module is taught through lectures, tutorials and small group discussions. The lecture material is also supported through problem-based learning. Students will participate in formative individual and group-work activities that will develop a range of skills necessary for a Professional Engineer and explore the relevance of navigating scientific literature to arrive at educated engineering judgements for mechanical systems analysis.

Semester 1 and 2 – Individual assignments via small group discussion and presentation:

• Critically evaluate your professional skills, practice and development;
• Discuss/reflect on what general principles regarding being a professional engineer might be derived from your experiences in taking part in this module and how you might apply these principles later in your career;
• Discuss/reflect on whether and how your experience of taking part in this module has influenced your assumptions on the meaning of being a professional engineer and the implications this might have for your own future practice and development.

Learning Activities

• Lectures
• Timetabled tutorial slots in Semester 1 and 2
• Problem-based learning
• Tutorials
• Computing classes
• Group based case study analysis
• Giving presentations
• Interactive classroom work
• Private research and study

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.