This module develops an understanding of the basic principles associated with engineering. Examples can be used to explain these principles without this knowledge being applied to a specific component, product or system.
Content: Engineering Studies Preliminary course
Engineering application module 1: Engineering fundamentals
30 hours indicative time
This module develops an understanding of the basic principles associated with engineering. Examples can be used to explain these principles without this knowledge being applied to a specific component, product or system.
A student:
P1.2 explains the relationship between properties, structure, uses and applications of materials in engineering
P2.1 describes the types of materials, components and processes and explains their implications for engineering development
P3.1 uses mathematical, scientific and graphical methods to solve problems of engineering practice
P3.3 applies graphics as a communication tool
P4.1 describes developments in technology and their impact on engineering products
P4.2 describes the influence of technological change on engineering and its effect on people
P4.3 identifies the social, environmental and cultural implications of technological change in engineering.
Areas of engineering practice
• nature and range of the work of engineers
One of the great attractions of engineering work is the huge variety of tasks and environments in which engineers find themselves working.
From designing programs at a computer terminal, to overseeing maintenance operations for major structures like aircraft, ships, heavy earth moving equipment, mobile cranes and offshore oil platforms – there are many ways to be an engineer.
A great deal of engineering work is done with the aid of computers. This can range from design, testing, the control of systems, the direction of equipment and the analysis of the properties of materials.
outline historical uses and appropriateness of materials in the design and production of engineering projects
• steel- from around 1760
• concrete- from the mid 1800’s
• polymers- late 1960’s
• aluminum- early 1920’s
• composite materials- 2000’s
• effect of engineering innovation on people’s lives
demonstrate an understanding of the historical developments of engineering
Engineering mechanics
• mass and force
• scalar and vector quantities
• simple machines
• levers, inclined plane, screws, wheel and axle, pulley systems and gears
