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Unit outline_

MECH9460: Mechanical Systems Design 2

Semester 2, 2024 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit aims to apply some newly acquired skills to begin to understand how stress and strain are distributed in the more common categories of machine parts. Reducing the loads in standard parts to just the most significant, leads to a range of relatively simple analyses. By using different degrees of simplification and a proportional amount of effort, the examination of components can provide results of corresponding accuracy. To lead the student to utilise and be aware of modern computer methods, to be aware of past methods and be prepared of future developments. Not all the analysis of mechanical components are covered in the course but the ones that are deal with exemplify principles that can be applied to novel items that our graduates may encounter in their professional life. At the end of this unit students will be able to: apply fatigue life prediction in general to any component; design a bolted joint to carry tensile and or shear loads: use a numerical solver to arrive at the optimal dimensions of a component, given its loads and sufficient boundary conditions; design shafts to carry specified steady and alternating bending moments and torques; design and construct a space frame, such as that for a dune buggy, to meet requirements of strength and rigidity; be able to arrive at the principle parameters of a pair of matched spur gears, and to be able to extend this to helical gears. Course content will include: stress and strain in engineering materials; yield and ultimate fail conditions in malleable and brittle materials; spatial, 3D frameworks; deflections due to forces, moments and torques.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
AMME9301 and MECH9400
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
MECH3460
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Paul Briozzo, paul.briozzo@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Moray Kidd, moray.kidd@sydney.edu.au
Paul Briozzo, paul.briozzo@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s) Ankith Anil Das, ankith.anildas@sydney.edu.au
Luke Halls, luke.halls@sydney.edu.au
Thai Nguyen, thai.nguyen@sydney.edu.au
Sarah Lin, sarah.lin@sydney.edu.au
James Kirkness-Duncombe, james.kirkness@sydney.edu.au
Lauren Punter, lauren.punter@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 2 September 2024
Type Description Weight Due Length
Small continuous assessment Small Continous Assesment 1
Assessment of engagement in Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.
1% Week 03 In-Tutorial engagement with content.
Outcomes assessed: LO1
Assignment Assignment 1 - FEA Design Analysis
The use of FEA in a design case in a report format
25% Week 04
Due date: 23 Aug 2024 at 23:59

Closing date: 06 Sep 2024
Maximum of 20 pages in total
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
Small continuous assessment Small Continous Assesment 2
Assessment of engagement in Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.
1% Week 06 In-Tutorial engagement with content.
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO7 LO4 LO3
Assignment Assignment 2 - Bolt vs Weld Design Analysis
The use of an EXCEL spreadsheet in analysis of mechanical elements
25% Week 08
Due date: 20 Sep 2024 at 23:59

Closing date: 04 Oct 2024
Maximum of 1 EXCEL spreadsheet
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5
Small continuous assessment Small Continous Assesment 3
Assessment of engagement with Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.
1% Week 09 In-Tutorial engagement with content.
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4
Small continuous assessment Small Continous Assesment 4
Assessment of engagement in Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.
1% Week 11 In-Tutorial engagement with content.
Outcomes assessed: LO5 LO8 LO6
Assignment Assignment 3 - Shaft Design Analysis
The use of an EXCEL spreadsheet in analysis of mechanical elements
25% Week 11
Due date: 18 Oct 2024 at 23:59

Closing date: 01 Nov 2024
Maximum of 1 EXCEL spreadsheet
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO5 LO6
Presentation group assignment Assignment 4a - System Engineering Presentation
Video on System Engineering Project in .mp4 format
5% Week 13
Due date: 01 Nov 2024 at 23:59

Closing date: 15 Nov 2024
5 to 6 minute video
Outcomes assessed: LO11 LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Assignment group assignment Assignment 4b - System Engineering Project
System Engineering Project focusing on course topics in a report format
15% Week 13
Due date: 01 Nov 2024 at 23:59

Closing date: 15 Nov 2024
Maximum of 30 pages in total
Outcomes assessed: LO11 LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Small continuous assessment Small Continous Assesment 5
Assessment of engagement in Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.
1% Week 13 In-Tutorial engagement with content.
Outcomes assessed: LO9 LO11 LO10
group assignment = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

  • Assignment 1: Apply skills in SolidWorks / Simulation to a given structure and demonstrate good practice in mechanical design for presentation in a report format. 
  • Assignment 2: Apply skills in analysis combined with SolidWorks / Simulation to a given weld design and demonstrate good practice in mechanical design for presentation in a report format.
  • Assignment 3: Apply skills in selecting methods for the analysis of a given shaft design and demonstrate good practice in mechanical design for presentation in a report format. 
  • Assignment 4a: Compile a prerecorded group presentation of 5 to 6 minutes duration in MP4 format on the chosen project topic.
  • Assignment 4b: Research and produce at a Project in report format comprised of combined course topics.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Distinction

75 - 84

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Credit

65 - 74

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Pass

50 - 64

Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Late penalties are in accordance with University Guidelines.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

You may only use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator. If you do use these tools, you must acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section. The assessment instructions or unit outline will give guidance of the types of tools that are permitted and how the tools should be used.

Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of generative AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.

The unapproved use of these tools or unacknowledged use will be considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

Studiosity is permitted unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission as detailed on the Learning Hub’s Canvas page.

Outside assessment tasks, generative AI tools may be used to support your learning. The AI in Education Canvas site contains a number of productive ways that students are using AI to improve their learning.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy 2023 reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy 2023. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Ongoing Non-contact independent work doing research, homework, and working on assignments, group meetings and prior readings across multiple weeks Independent study (90 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10 LO11
Week 01 Introduction / Finite element analysis as applied using a modern CAD system Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1
Week 02 Finite element analysis (FEA) as applied using a modern CAD system Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1
Week 03 Pre-tensioned bolted joints and differences to bolts subjected to shear loads - Part 1 Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO3 LO7 LO9
Week 04 Pre-tensioned bolted joints and differences to bolts subjected to shear loads - Part 2 Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO3 LO7 LO9
Week 05 Weld design for members in either: shear, torsional and bending (or combined) loads Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO4 LO9
Week 06 Fatigue failure mechanisms, the use of fatigue strengths data in a variety of applications Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO3 LO5 LO9
Week 07 Designs of frames, with a focus on 3D space frames and the writing of industry-standard reports Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO2 LO9
Week 08 Design for Reliability and Maintainability / Technical Risk Assessment Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO5
Week 09 Shaft analysis, examination of simplifying assumptions in typical shafts and their associated equipment Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO9
Week 10 Spring design review using optimisation methods with suitable applications Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO7 LO8 LO9
Week 11 Examination of basic kinematic mechanisms and methodologies compared to compliant mechanisms and methodologies associated with their analysis Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO7 LO9 LO10
Week 12 Gear Design for Strength to AGMA Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO9 LO11
Week 13 Super Tutorial - System Engineering Lecture and tutorial (4 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10 LO11

Attendance and class requirements

  • Attendance and class participation are as stipulated in the University of Sydney Course Work Policy Section 68 - Students must either attend (in-person) or view (within 24 to 48 hours) any recorded lectures.
  • Students must attend and actively participate in their allocated Tutorials by completing their set (either Tutorials or Assignment) work.
  • Set readings will be as advised through CANVAS as required.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

There are no prescribed readings for this unit, but the following are recommended as references.

         The text is relevant for the Engineering Drawing component of MECH2400 9400 and MECH3460.

  • Shigley's Mechanical Engineering Design 11th Edition, Si Units 11th Edition 9813158980 · 9789813158986 By Richard G. Budynas, Keith J. Nisbett © 2020 | Published: November 4, 2020

          Print copy: 9789813158986 McGraw Hill Website:

         https://www.mheducation.com.au/shigley-s-mechanical-engineering-design-11th-edition-si-units-9789813158986-aus

          

          eBook: 9789814923156

          https://www.vitalsource.com/en-au/products/shigley-39-s-mechanical-engineering-design-in-si-richard-g-budynas-j-keith-v9789814923156

         The above text is more relevant for the Engineering Analysis component of MECH2400 9400 and MECH3460.

 

  • Engineering Analysis with SolidWorks Simulation 2021

         Paul M. Kurowski SDC Publications

         https://www.sdcpublications.com/Textbooks/Engineering-Analysis-SOLIDWORKS-Simulation-2021/ISBN/978-1-63057-383-6/

        ISBN-13: 978-1-63057-383-6

        ISBN-10: 1-63057-383-3

 

  • Motion Simulation and Mechanism Design with SolidWorks Motion 2021

         Kuang-Hua Chang SDC Publications

         https://www.sdcpublications.com/Textbooks/Motion-Simulation-Mechanism-Design-SOLIDWORKS/ISBN/978-1-63057-388-1/

        ISBN-13: 978-1-63057-388-1

        ISBN-10: 1-63057-388-4

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Be able to combine a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) as a tool in the design process.
  • LO2. Be able to design a basic space frame to meet requirements such as strength and rigidity.
  • LO3. Be able to design a bolted joint to carry loads using analytical methods.
  • LO4. Be able to calculate the size of a welded joint to carry loads using analytical methods.
  • LO5. Be able to design for fatigue life prediction for a designed component using analytical methods.
  • LO6. Be able to design rotating power shafts to carry specified steady and alternating bending moments and torques using reference equations.
  • LO7. Gain skills in the use of a numerical solver to arrive at the optimal dimensions of a component, given its loads and sufficient boundary conditions.
  • LO8. Be able to optimise a spring design by varying spring design parameters using numerical methods.
  • LO9. Be able to use a System Engineering approach to a complex analysis-focused group Project.
  • LO10. Become familiar with a kinematic and dynamic component machine element (e.g. a cam) and be able to incorporate it into a mechanical design paradigm.
  • LO11. Be able to design gears for strength within the learning framework of AGMA.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Peer review and USS feedback have been incorporated into the 2024 delivery of MECH9460.

To be advised.

Additional costs

Not applicable.

Site visit guidelines

Not applicable.

Work, health and safety

Not additional WHS requirements are applicable.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.