Module Code - Title:
ME4818
-
MECHANICAL DESIGN
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To expose the student to the practical application of design, materials, mechanics and strength of materials theory. The work will focus on the appropriate use of Standards, Charts and Design Guides illustrating the oft times empirical nature of applied engineering tasks. Underpinning each topic will be constant reference to the evolution of the practices and their relationship to current theory. In particular, there will be constant reference to the life and reliability to be expected from solutions.
Syllabus:
[Integration of machine elements into design.] Overview of common engineering materials and their functional properties. Review of steels and heat treatment processes relevant to transmission design. Practical aspects of stress analysis as used in industrial applications. Stability of design elements. Aspects of component life, cost and reliability.
Introduction to bearings, types and selection criteria. Rolling Contact Bearing selection using catalogue data. Shaft
design as an example of a simple component. Shaft couplings and keys. Flat, V, Wedge and Polyvee belts and chain
drives. Review of the history of gear design showing the relationship to fatigue theory. Advantages of helical and spiral bevel gears in relation to noise, wear and strength. Clutches and brakes - selection considerations. Electric motors - types
and control options. Starters and protection devices.
[Design for Fatigue Life] Use of fatigue data, load and environment
factors in design and selection.
[Pressure vessel design.] Use of standards. Materials and life considerations. Corrosion
protection. Safety and the work environment. Testing and certification.
[Hydrostatic Transmission Systems.] Design of circuits for simple tasks. Linear and rotary actuation devices. Pump and motor types and selection, Circuit safety and calculation considerations. Control and speed circuits and devices.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
1. Given a range of previously learnt theory, be able to apply this to advanced mechanical engineering problems
2. Develop the ability to use previously published Charts and Data Sheets for a range of mechanical engineering elements (eg Springs, bearings, bolts) and apply this ability to suitable mechanical engineering problems
3. Develop competence to work in an engineering project team on an assigned mechanical engineering design project
4. Develop the ability to prepare a technical paper to specified journal specifications with appropriate research and referencing.
5. Develop skills in the presentation of technical data from project findings
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
The students will further develop their professionla engineering skills, develop advanced level presentation capability and a thorough understanding of key design approaches.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
NONE
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Students will be taught through Lectures and Tutorials and through an advanced project.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Appropriate research elements from the CABER research will be introduced in a timely fashion
Prime Texts:
Shigley JE, Mischke, CR and Budynas RG (2006)
Mechanical Engineering Design
, McGraw Hill
Mott (2000)
Machine Elements in Mechanical Design;
, Merrill
Juvinal (2003)
Fundamentals of Machine Component Design;
, Wiley
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
Ronan.Grimes@ul.ie