ENG1011 · Engineering methods

Overview

This unit develops methods for analysing complex problems. The basics of statics and material properties are introduced and used to analyse structures such as beams, cantilevers and truss sections. This knowledge is used to design, analyse, build and test a structural component. Simplifications are implicit in the methods used in this analysis. These simplifications will be examined carefully and scrutinised in a broader cross-disciplinary context through problems related to the system being designed. The methods considered will include: the use of simplifications, assumptions, constraints, boundary conditions and levels of required precision. The outcome of the structural analysis and testing will be compared and the suitability of the simplifications used will be scrutinised. You will gain knowledge about the methods engineers use to address complex problems across disciplines. Alongside this “engineering thinking”, you will also gain insight into the role of different specialisations of engineering in society. Communication and teamwork skills will be developed through teamwork tasks.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% Assessment in this unit includes competency hurdle assessment tasks. The consequence of not achieving a competency hurdle is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Determine reactions and internal member forces in simple truss and beam systems and carry out limit state design to select appropriately sized members.
2. Determine the strength of structural materials to inform engineering designs with considerations to performance, cost, sustainability and societal impact.
3. Determine the steady-state performance of simple systems involving levers, gears, springs and pulleys using appropriate engineering problem-solving methodologies.
4. Propose concept designs that solve engineering problems and justify finalised design with considerations of key variables, assumptions and system boundaries.
5. Identify appropriate engineering tools and techniques to develop, validate and convey designs and solutions.
6. Identify roles and responsibilities within a team and reflect on self and team behaviours that contribute to the successful conduct of a project.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.