Outline

Overview

Aim: For students to experience a realistic the design process and to develop good engineering skills. Course Objectives- To develop an understanding of: 1) The need for and use of standard drawings in the communication and definition of parts and assemblies to AS1100; 2) Efficient use of a CAD package; 3) Creativity; 4) The design process from initial idea to finished product; 5) Methods used to analyse designs; 6) Appreciation and analysis of standard components; 7) An understanding of power transmission elements.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	MECH1560 or MTRX1701 or ENGG1800
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	AERO2460 or BMET2400
Assumed knowledge ?	(ENGG1801 or ENGG1810 or INFO1110) and (AMME1802 or ENGG1802); HSC Maths and Physics
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Qing Li, qing.li@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Practical skill	Assignment A Part 1 - Freehand Pictorial Sketch Freehand Pictorial Sketch and Early Feedback Task.	2.5%	Week 03 Due date: 11 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 01 Apr 2026	As noted in the Assignment sheet.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 3 Quiz Quiz is based on the Lecture and Tutorial content from the previous three weeks.	0.5%	Week 03 Due date: 13 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 15 Mar 2026	20 minutes.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	SolidWorks Tasks 1 to 4 Completing the set SolidWorks Laboratory Tasks.	0%	Week 04 Due date: 22 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 19 Apr 2026	Approximately 4 to 5 hours.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Assignment A Part 2 - Engineering Drawing and Tolerancing Detail / Assembly Drawing and Tolerancing.	15%	Week 05 Due date: 25 Mar 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 15 Apr 2026	Maximum of 20 pages in total.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 6 Quiz Quiz is based on the Lecture and Tutorial content from the previous three weeks.	0.5%	Week 06 Due date: 02 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 13 Apr 2026	20 minutes.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	SolidWorks Tasks 5 to 8 Completing the set SolidWorks Laboratory Tasks.	0%	Week 08 Due date: 26 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 17 May 2026	Approximately 3 hours.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Assignment B - Component Analysis Component Analysis.	25%	Week 08 Due date: 22 Apr 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 13 May 2026	Maximum of 20 pages in total.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 9 Quiz Quiz is based on the Lecture and Tutorial content from the previous three weeks.	0.5%	Week 09 Due date: 01 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 03 May 2026	20 minutes.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 11 Quiz Quiz is based on the Lecture and Tutorial content from the previous two weeks.	0.5%	Week 11 Due date: 15 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 17 May 2026	20 minutes.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Assignment C - Systems Engineering - Design, Build and Test Project Systems Engineering - Design, Build and Test Project.	25%	Week 11 Due date: 15 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 05 Jun 2026	Maximum of 30 pages in total.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 13 Quiz Quiz is based on the Lecture and Tutorial content from the previous two weeks.	0.5%	Week 13 Due date: 29 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 31 May 2026	20 minutes.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	SolidWorks Tasks 9 to 13 Completing the set SolidWorks Laboratory Tasks.	0%	Week 13 Due date: 31 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 21 Jun 2026	Approximately 3 to 4 hours.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Assignment D - Systems Engineering - Power Transmission Element Design Systems Engineering - Power Transmission Analysis.	25%	Week 13 Due date: 29 May 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 19 Jun 2026	Maximum of 20 pages in total.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Assesment of Tutorial Engagement Assessment of engagement in Tutorials / Preparatory Assignment work.	5%	Weekly	2 hours.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Assignment A Part 1 and 2: Freehand sketch and Engineering Drawing Assignment. Drawings are to be submitted as PDF files combined with any calculations required.
Assignment B: Design and creativity assignment incorporating design creativity, applied forces and stress analysis. The assignment is to be submitted as a report.
Assignment C: Systems Engineering – design and build exercise. The group assignment is to be submitted as a report combined with a final result obtained from the design and build exercise.
Assignment D: Systems Engineering - Power Transmission Element Design. The assignment is submitted as a report which clearly states answers combined with a well-commented spreadsheet or script (Matlab or Python).

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 guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

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 University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

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 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. 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

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Ongoing	Non-contact independent work doing research, homework, and working on assignments, group meetings, and prior readings across multiple weeks.	Self-directed learning (70 hr)
Week 01	1. Freehand Sketching; 2. Orthogonal Projections	Lecture (2 hr)
	1. Freehand Sketching; 2. Orthogonal Projections	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Lesson 1 Parts	Practical (1 hr)
Week 02	Detail and Assembly Drawing Requirements to AS1100 Parts 101 and 201	Lecture (2 hr)
	Detail and Assembly Drawing Requirements to AS1100 Parts 101 and 201	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Lesson 2 Assemblies and Lesson 3 Drawings	Practical (1 hr)
Week 03	Tolerancing - Dimensional and Geometric	Lecture (2 hr)
	Tolerancing - Dimensional and Geometric	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Introduction to SolidWorks	Practical (1 hr)
Week 04	1. Specifications + Drawing Analysis; 2. Revision	Lecture (2 hr)
	1. Specifications + Drawing Analysis; 2. Revision	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Advanced Drawings	Practical (1 hr)
Week 05	1. Design and Creativity; 2. Applied Stress - Beams	Lecture (2 hr)
	1. Design and Creativity; 2. Applied Stress - Beams	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Assembly Mates	Practical (1 hr)
Week 06	1. Design of Bolted Connections - Structural to AS4100; 2. Revision	Lecture (2 hr)
	1. Design of Bolted Connections - Structural to AS4100; 2. Revision	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Toolbox	Practical (1 hr)
Week 07	Bearings - Plain + Rolling element	Lecture (2 hr)
	Bearings - Plain + Rolling element	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Design Tables	Practical (1 hr)
Week 08	1. Spring Design to BS EN 13906-1; 2. Revision	Lecture (2 hr)
	1. Spring Design to BS EN 13906-1; 2. Revision	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Sketch Blocks	Practical (1 hr)
Week 09	Power Transmission - Geometry of gears	Lecture (2 hr)
	Power Transmission - Geometry of gears	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Fillets	Practical (1 hr)
Week 10	Power Transmission - Design of Rotating Steel Shafts to AS1403; 2. Revision	Lecture (2 hr)
	Power Transmission - Design of Rotating Steel Shafts to AS1403; 2. Revision	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Revolves and Sweeps	Practical (1 hr)
Week 11	Power Transmission - Keys and Shrink Fits + Couplings	Lecture (2 hr)
	Power Transmission - Keys and Shrink Fits + Couplings	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Pattern Features and Lofts	Practical (1 hr)
Week 12	Power Transmission - Flat Belt + V Belt + Tooth Belt + Chain Drives + Systems Engineering	Lecture (2 hr)
	Power Transmission - Flat Belt + V Belt + Tooth Belt + Chain Drives + Systems Engineering	Tutorial (2 hr)
	SolidWorks - Surfaces	Practical (1 hr)
Week 13	SolidWorks - Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Static Analysis - Analysis of a Part + Super Tutorial	Lecture (2 hr)
	Systems Engineering - Super Tutorial	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Introduction to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Static Analysis using SolidWorks Simulation - Tutorial Analysis of a Part	Practical (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance at Tutorials will be recorded using SRES.

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.

Engineering Drawing + Sketchbook A.W. Boundy. 8th Edition. McGraw Hill Australia. 2011. Australia. https://www.mheducation.com.au/catalog/product/view/id/147689/s/9780071016766-aus-engineering-drawing-sketchbook/

The text is relevant for the Engineering Drawing component of MECH2400 9400 and MECH3460 8460 9460.

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 Systems Engineering component of MECH2400 9400 and MECH3460.

Learning outcomes

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.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

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

LO1. Use freehand pictorial sketching methods, generate and interpret engineering drawings to AS1100 Parts 101 and 201.
LO2. Introduce and develop skills to calculate and or interpret dimensional and geometric tolerances.
LO3. Write basic engineering reports which combine engineering graphics and calculations.
LO4. Work on individual and group Projects solving introductory System Engineering problems.
LO5. Use basic skills in creativity and idea generation methods.
LO6. Perform basic stress and deflection analysis using referenced equations and Australian and International standards.
LO7. Design, build and test designs to performance specifications with a Systems Engineering approach.
LO8. Design power transmission components and combine them using a Systems Engineering approach.
LO9. Develop skills in the use of a CAD system - SolidWorks.

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
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

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

Additional online quizzes will be introduced to reinforce the learning outcomes of the Lectures and Tutorials. Additional Academic staff will be involved in 2026 to improve the student experience.

Additional information

Additional costs

Students may need to purchase: 1. Pencils, an eraser, an enclosed sharpener, and some blank A4 paper. 2. Materials for the Design and Build exercise as part of Assignment C (<$20).

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

MECH2400: Mechanical Systems Design 1

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links