ES3C2 Mechanical Design
Module Leader: Mr P.J. Kimber
Module Information
Scope
This 15 CATS module is one of the third year modules for:
| Core: | Optional: |
|
|
Aims
The module provides a systematic approach to the design of mechanical systems such as engine transmissions, and explores theoretical models of common machine elements for use in making strategic decisions about the arrangements of systems.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to...
- Choose appropriate assemblies and configurations of machine components for purpose.
- Select appropriate types of machine components for particular conditions of use.
- Use theoretical models of behaviour to decide the key dimensions and material choices for machine components.
- Use modern CAD analysis and optimisation tools to develop robust designs of machine elements and assemblies.
- Manage a complex design task at the product, sub-assembly and component levels of detail
- Make judgements of the accuracy of analytical and numerical models of machine elements.
- Select analytical or numerical models of precision appropriate to the progressive stages of a machine design’s evolution.
Syllabus
1. Design Characteristics of Mechanical systems
Corner power: max effort/min flow and max flow/min effort conditions: example of car transmission
Strength and stiffness requirements for primary function: limiting conditions
Reserve Analysis:
Static and dynamic loading: design factors for fatigue, stress concentration
Environmental conditions: thermal, chemical, electromagnetic, hydrostatic, etc.
Loss analysis
Types of loss and estimating efficiencies
Matching power source and materials characteristics to load characteristics: hydraulic systems
Design Study: e.g. a conveyor belt.
2. Computer-based Concurrent Design
Spatial characteristics of mechanical elements
Parametric study: relationship of critical design dimensions to corner power
Using size/number/arrangement/geometry analysis for spatial arrangement, Housing layout.
Bounded design: spatial envelopes and constraints, object relationships
Interface criteria between objects: linking devices: couplings, fits, safety elements
Assembly Tracking Design File: checking for inference, housing design criteria
3. Design Analysis
Using FE methods - introduction and pitfalls
Some formal optimisation methods
Parametric studies: spring design, using spreadsheet
4. Design of Transmissions
Shafts and shaft elements
Bearing Selection criteria
Gears and gear systems
Other transmission elements: Brakes and Clutches
Teaching Methods
This module includes 20 hours of lectures, 3 hours of examples classes and 3 hours of laboratory sessions.
Required self-study: 104 hours plus 20 hours CAD time
Assessment
A 15 CATS module: 70% examined via a 2 hour paper
- Answer 4 Questions chosen from 6
and 30% assessed consisting of a design project report.
Links to:
Recommended Textbook:
Galyer, J.F., Metrology for Engineers, 5th ed., Cassell, 1990
