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Unit of study_

MTRX1701: Introduction to Mechatronic Engineering

This unit of study aims to introduce students to the fundamental principles that underlie the study of mechatronic engineering. It lays the foundation for later studies, including advanced mechatronic engineering, computing, control and system design courses. The subject also provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of a range of machining and manufacturing processes required to make mechanical components. Introduction to Mechatronic Engineering (60%): (a) Introduction to mechatronics and to the structure of the BE in Mechatronic Engineering. (b) Systems Modelling and Control - Fundamental concepts which underlie the modelling and control of dynamic systems. (c) Design Process - The process of design synthesis as an important part of engineering. (d) Actuators - Components that exert effort to accomplish a given task. (e) Sensors - Components that take measurements of the environment. (f) Computers - Hardware and software components that, when combined, allow a system to be controlled. (g) Advanced Topics - Case studies relating to the application of mechatronic engineering principles. Manufacturing Technology (40%): An overview of a range of processes related to the design and manufacture of aerospace components is provided through hands-on experience. Manufacturing Technology practical work is undertaken in: (a) Hand tools, Machining, and Soldering - an introduction to basic manufacturing processes used to fabricate mechatronic engineering hardware. Safety requirements: All students are required to provide their own personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with the workshop safety rules provided in class. Students who fail to do this will not be permitted to enter the workshops. In particular, approved industrial footwear must be worn, and long hair must be protected by a hair net. Safety glasses must be worn at all times. (b) Solid Modelling - the use of computer aided design (CAD) tools to model geometry and create engineering drawings of engineering components. (c) Microcontrollers - ubiquitous in modern engineered products - will be introduced through experiential learning with development kits.

Code MTRX1701
Academic unit Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
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None
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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MECH1560 or ENGG1800 or AERO1560 or CIVL1900 or CHNG1108 or BMET1960 or ENGG1960 or ELEC1004 or ELEC1005

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

  • LO1. Analyze and formulate requirements for a mechatronic system based on a specification.
  • LO2. Undertake independent research and analysis and to think creatively about engineering problems.
  • LO3. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the norms of professional practice and of common workshop skills - hand tool use, machining, hand soldering, CAD and microcontroller applications.
  • LO4. Apply a systematic approach to the design process for mechatronic systems.
  • LO5. Think creatively and independently about new design problems.
  • LO6. Appreciate the fundamental components that make up typical mechatronic systems, including sensors, actuators, electronic and computing systems.
  • LO7. Understand the general principles involved in computer-controlled machinery.
  • LO8. Demonstrate a basic understanding of system modelling and approaches to control.