43019 Design in Mechanical and Mechatronic Systems
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particular session, location and mode of offering is the authoritative source
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Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Subject level:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate
Result type: Grade, no marksRequisite(s): 41066 Mechanical Systems Design Studio 1 OR 41067 Mechanical Systems Design Studio 2 OR 41068 Robotics Studio 1 OR 41069 Robotics Studio 2 OR 48650 Mechanical Design 2 OR 48623 Mechatronics 2
Anti-requisite(s): 48670 Mechanical and Mechatronic Design
Description
Modern engineers do much more than apply technical knowledge to solve problems. Engineering requires a broad understanding of the problems being solved, the stakeholders, diligent project management, communication and team work.
In this studio students are tasked with solving a real-world, genuine problem through an engineered solution. Students are expected to apply engineering design principles and methodologies to analyse the project requirements and lead their project through to completion.
The subject aims to enhance and polish students' capabilities to apply engineering design processes. While the emphasis is on realistic engineering-team/client/boss interactions, needs exploration, project development and delivery, this subject also draws heavily on the technical expertise the students have developed up until this stage of the course.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Develop well engineered solutions that solve genuine, real-world problems using design methodologies. (C.1) |
|---|---|
| 2. | Actively engage with stakeholders to analyse and evaluate project/client needs, constraints, priorities, risks, and the true need for an engineered solution. (B.1) |
| 3. | Actively shape the direction of an engineering project to achieve desired outcomes. (C.1) |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs):
- Socially Responsible: FEIT graduates identify, engage, interpret and analyse stakeholder needs and cultural perspectives, establish priorities and goals, and identify constraints, uncertainties and risks (social, ethical, cultural, legislative, environmental, economics etc.) to define the system requirements. (B.1)
- Design Oriented: FEIT graduates apply problem solving, design and decision-making methodologies to develop components, systems and processes to meet specified requirements. (C.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies
This subject contributes to the development of the following Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies:
- 1.3 In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline. 1.4 Discernment of knowledge development and research directions within the engineering discipline.
- 1.5. Knowledge of engineering design practice and contextual factors impacting the engineering discipline.
- 1.6. Understanding of the scope, principles, norms, accountabilities and bounds of sustainable engineering practice in the specific discipline.
- 2.1. Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
- 2.2. Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.
- 2.3. Application of systematic engineering synthesis and design processes.
- 2.4. Application of systematic approaches to the conduct and management of engineering projects.
- 3.2. Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains.
- 3.3. Creative, innovative and pro-active demeanour.
- 3.4. Professional use and management of information.
- 3.5. Orderly management of self, and professional conduct.
- 3.6. Effective team membership and team leadership.
Teaching and learning strategies
The subject revolves around project-based activities in a studio environment. Students are organised into teams and work in collaboration on an engineering project which they complete throughout the session whilst applying the design principles that are taught. Students are required to control the shape of their project, work with the project stakeholders, set project deliverables and see the project through to completion.
The subject utilizes an agile methodology and is structured as a series of “sprints”, with four sprints over the session. Each sprint starts with a planning session by the team and their tutor. Goals for the sprint are defined and tasks allocated to team members. At the conclusion of each sprint the outcomes are discussed, contributions are analysed and reflections are made. Goals are then set by the team for the next sprint. This process continues until the project is delivered at end of session.
Each team is required to implement a suitable design process for their project. Learning materials regarding modern design processes such as human-centered design, systems design, and others are provided online. Each team is provided a tutor to provide feedback, support and guidance to the team as they shape the direction of their project
Content (topics)
Studio challenges will vary. Details will be provided on?Canvas.
Students are provided with design process resources to apply to their projects when appropriate.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Project Execution
| Intent: | Students demonstrate their ability to execute the project, contributing to the teamwork using an agile methodology. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): B.1 and C.1 |
| Type: | Demonstration |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 60% |
Assessment task 2: Client Delivery
| Intent: | To successfully meet client needs as agreed upon at the start of the design process. |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses the following subject learning objectives (SLOs): 1, 2 and 3 This assessment task contributes to the development of the following Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILOs): B.1 and C.1 |
| Type: | Project |
| Groupwork: | Group, group and individually assessed |
| Weight: | 40% |
Minimum requirements
In Assignment #1, students are required to “meet expectations” or “exceed expectations” in at least 2 of the 4 sprints.
In Assignment #2, students are required to receive feedback from the client that they are not dissatisfied with the project outcomes and their interaction with the students.