Building on knowledge of structures and equilibrium of forces gained in previous units, this unit will allow students to analyse the effects of axial, bending, shear, torsional and thermal loading on mechanical structures and elements using mathematical techniques and computer simulations. In particular, any object subjected to a load, whether it is a force or a thermal load, will experience a stress and a strain. Understanding how a load causes stress and strain is essential for solving engineering problems. Being able to determine the maximum stress and strain and their locations, is imperative for evaluating and optimising designs.

Unit details

Location:
Footscray Park
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
NEM3203

Prerequisites

NEC2102 - Solid Mechanics

NEM2101 - Mechanical Engineering Design

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Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Collaborate on and investigate real-world engineering problems of stress and strain;  
  2. Formulate and evaluate solutions to engineering problems of 3-dimensional stress and strain, especially fundamental problems of elasticity in mechanical engineering;  
  3. Analyse and interpret problems relating to stress and strain, their results and significance; and  
  4. Present clear and coherent exposition of mechanical engineering knowledge.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Portfolio Evidence of Competency 25%
Test FEA Skills Audit - Stress analysis test 15%
Test Test (hurdle) 50%
Case Study Presentation 10%
The case study is undertaken by groups; it assesses a student's ability to problem solve and interact in a team situation. The test focuses upon the individual student's ability to demonstrate his or her in-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline and apply established engineering methods to complex engineering problems, as defined in Engineers Australia competencies 1.3 and 2.1. As the test is the one clear way by which these competencies can be assessed on an individual basis, students must achieve a minimum mark of 50% in the test (and 50% in the overall unit assessment) in order to pass the unit.

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As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

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