MEC6884 · Sustainable engineering systems

Overview

Sustainable engineering systems are optimised to use resources in a sustainable way - such that the demand of the systems does not deplete the supply of resources and in fact can contribute to that supply. This unit involves a rethink in the way we engineer. At one level, it can involve water harvesting, co-generation of power or the use of alternative/renewable power sources but at a more fundamental level, it requires us to design smart, adaptive structures and devices.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 50% Final assessment: 50% Final grades: PGO (pass grade only) or NGO (fail) This unit contains hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NGO).

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

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Interpret how engineering systems are integrated to provide sustainable outcomes.
2. Analyse and predict stakeholder needs in terms of sustainable engineering systems.
3. Plan and justify alternates for optimising sustainable engineering systems in terms of performance and cost.
4. Apply the techniques and considerations relevant to a systems engineer to sustainable systems including examples such as building maintenance, power supply and generation and remotely located infrastructure.
5. Integrate and design methodologies to develop systems to meet specified sustainable requirements, including innovative approaches to synthesise alternative solutions.
6. Engage in regular self-assessment and peer-assessment of individual and team performance as a primary means of tracking continuing professional development.

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.